Historic Sites Tour and Reception

Commemorating History: The Ellar Day Legacy

Join us on September 12th, 2026 as we mark the 139th anniversary of the tragic events that defined the lives and deaths of Ellar Day and Joseph W. Dixon. This special event invites you to step back in time and explore the haunting history behind Marcy S. Wood’s novel, The Notorious Murder of Ellar Day.

The Walking Tour: Immerse yourself in the setting of the novel with a guided walking tour of landmark buildings central to the story. We will trace the path of history—from the Beaumont Hotel to the site of Joe Dixon’s final hours—visiting many of the key locations featured in the book.

The Reception: The evening concludes at Cassidy’s Cafe & Antiques. Guests will enjoy a curated selection of appetizers and a mock/cocktail reception, providing the perfect atmosphere to toast the lives that ended too soon.

Ticket Choices:

Premium Ticket - $45.00 includes one signed paperback copy of The Notorious Murder of Ellar Day, The Articles chapbook, the Historic sites tour, reception with appetizers and two complimentary drink tickets, and a literary loot bag. Books will be provided at the check-in prior to the event or at the reception. (Applies to one [1] individual).

General admission - $15.00 includes the Historic sites tour and reception with appetizers and one complimentary drink ticket, and a booklover's gift set (no book included). Perfect as an add-on for couples who purchased a Premium ticket, or already own a copy of the book. Copies of the book may be purchased through Ouray Books.

Important Information

• Date: September 12th, 2026, 3-5 pm
• Start Location: Tour departs at 3 pm from Ouray Books, corner of 6th Avenue and Main Street, Ouray.
• End Location: Cassidy's Cafe and Antiques. 480 Main Street, Ouray.
• Reservations: Please note that space is limited for both the book signing and the tour/reception. Ensure your spot by RSVP'ing and purchasing your tickets early.
• Purchasing Books: Books purchased with event tickets will be provided at the start of the tour. Paperback copies of The Notorious Murder of Ellar Day will be available for purchase on-site, courtesy of Ouray Books.
• Tour Stops: Benton Building: Solid Muldoon Newsroom; Ouray County Courthouse: jail house/calaboose; St. John's Episcopal Church; Beaumont Hotel lobby; Cassidy's Cafe: Wright Building.

All welcome! Advance reading not required.

Join us at 2:30 pm for the FREE event book discussion and meet & greet: Ellar Day at Ouray Books. Reservations appreciated. Space is limited. 18+. Please note: alcohol will be available for consumption at the event for those over 21.