On Sunday, July 12, Pikes Peak Library District will be unveiling a bronze bust of philanthropist Peggy Shivers in what will be named the “Shivers Western Window Bay” on the upper level at Library 21c. This project was undertaken in partnership with the Colorado Springs Conservatory to honor Peggy Shivers’ contributions to the culture of the Pikes Peak region.
PPLD is hosting a retrospective exhibit of the works of Clarence Shivers, Peggy’s late husband, at Library 21c in July. Together they established a lasting legacy at PPLD.
In 1993, Clarence and Peggy established the African American Historical and Cultural Collection at Pikes Peak Library District. They also established the Shivers Fund at the Library, which supports a concert series and encourages young people in the arts by awarding grants and providing educational opportunities. The Shivers Fund surpassed $100,000 in 2010.
Details
Statue unveiling in Shivers Western Window Bay
Sun., July 12 at 2 p.m. – Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Drive
About Clarence & Peggy Shivers
Clarence Laudric Shivers was born October 14, 1923 in St. Louis, Missouri, and departed this life February 17, 2007. He volunteered into the military during World War II. The high score he received on the entrance exam qualified him to be accepted into the elite Tuskegee Program, where the first black military pilots were being trained. He loved flying and always said he felt “at home” the first time he sat in a cockpit.
After college, Clarence taught art at Jackson State University until recalled to military service during the Korean War, when pilots were much needed. He remained in the Air Force until his retirement in 1969 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Peggy Shivers began formal studies in vocal music in Portland, Oregon, surrounded by a rich tapestry of family, friends, and community. A lyric soprano, Peggy represented Portland State University in a touring company, as a soloist with the choir, and in stage productions. She went on to study at Ball State University, then embarked on a career in opera that would traverse the globe.
Her talent took her throughout the northwest, out into the United States and the greater world. Peggy studied with the renowned, performed with the great, and sang among the stars. She was celebrated from San Francisco to Madrid, in concert halls and embassies, opera houses and mansions.
The Shivers settled in Colorado Springs in 1979, where Clarence established a studio and continued to pursue his artistic endeavors. Peggy became an integral part of the classical music scene in the region.
In 1985, Clarence was commissioned by the Hooks Jones Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen to sculpt a life-sized statue as a memorial to the Tuskegee Airmen. It was unveiled May of 1988 and stands proudly on the grounds of the USAFA.