GCBHM, as you stated, I too have loved them since I was first introduced to one. While a child, along with the others of my generation, we were constantly watching our heros on both the Big Screen and small screens, of World War 2 based series and movies, along with the hundreds of westerns.
My father actually had a nickel plated single action revolver, in .45 Colt, but it wasn't a Colt. I believe it was a Great Western, but that's not the point. I enjoyed that "Big Bore" pistol.
Getting back to 1911s, my first introduction, was during basic training. Just those few rounds for familiarization, created a yearning for one. A couple of years later, about 1974, I acquired a Remington Rand. I carried it for quite a while, as this was before expanding ammunition for handguns started to gain any steam. Like everyone else, big hole in, and big hole out, was the way to go! Still carried one for close to 20 years, of course with modern hollowpoint ammunition, until I started carrying a badge. I had already owned a Sig P220, and P226, and since my department issued the P226, 9mm, that is what I started to carry. I figured that since qualifying with that weapon system, it would be the best bet to carry it, if I ever had to use it, I would have adequate documentation of training. Over the years, I have also carried Beretta M9s, 92FS, and 96s plus a varied assortment of Smith & Wesson revolvers.
Unless a person constantly trains to brush the safety off during the draw, I feel it is a liability for EDC or personal protection, but again, that's my opinion, and we all know what they are like...
Even though the platform is over 100 years old, it's heavy steel, and low capacity, it's comforting to know it will still get the job done when needed!