COMING EVENTS
Father's Day 5k
June 14 | Rueter-Hess Reservoir | 8:00 pm
Bring the whole clan to celebrate Dad for the inaugural Dash Across the Dam Father’s Day 5K on Father’s Day weekend! Extend your stay with a free post-race day pass (per car), available as an add-on during registration. This pass offers continued access to the premises (excluding personal watercraft and fishing) on race day.
Parker Days
June 12-15 | Downtown
Gear up for the ultimate summer vibes at the 49th Annual Parker Days Festival! Dive into a weekend filled with vibrant music, delectable food, and endless fun from June 12th to 15th. And there's a bonus - carnival rides kick off a day early on June 12th! Save the date and be part of the excitement.
Summer Concert Series
Thursdays | 20115 Mainstreet | 6:30 - 8:00 pm
The lineup for this year's free concert series.
June 5 - The Elegant Plums July 10 - Hand Turkey
June 19 - Pearl Jam Tribute July 17 - The Pickpockets
June 26 - Cactus Cat July 24 - Rhett Haney
July 3 - Thumpin' July 31 - Groove 'N Motion
Bike To Work Day
June 25 | 17301 E. Lincoln Ave. | 6:00 - 9:00 am
The Town hosts another Bike to Work Day breakfast station. The NEW LOCATION, 17301 E. Lincoln Ave. (about a half mile south from the previous spot) will be up and running from 6 to 9 a.m. T-shirts for the first 250 cyclists. Flippin' Flapjacks will be serving pancakes. Nutrition bars, fresh bananas, and water refill stations will also be available.
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PARKER’S
Shopping H FOOD H EXHIBITS H MUSIC H RIDES H FAMILY FUN
FUN THINGS TO DO:
• Live Music, Festival Food, Shopping
• Street Performers, Free Kids Crafts
• Carnival Rides, Water Bubbles
• Bungy, Nerf Terf, Inflatables
TURF PROS SOLUTION
EAST MUSIC Stage
Music All Day — Highlights
Friday presented by 6:00 pm: BLINKER FLUID BAND
8:15 pm: HILLBILLY DEMONS
Saturday presented by 5:30 pm: CHRIS DANIELS & THE KINGS
8:15 pm: THE WALKER WILLIAMS BAND
Sunday presented by 3:30 pm: THE THREADBARONS
6:00 pm: JEWEL & THE ROUGH
CORE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Community Stage
Entertainment ALL Day supported by Allegro Music
THURSDAY, JUNE 12 1 pm – 10:30 pm: Carnival Only
FRIDAY, JUNE 13 Fri 1 pm – 10:30 pm:
SATURDAY, JUNE 14 Sat 10 am – 10:30 pm
SUNDAY, JUNE 15 Sun 10 am – 8:30 pm
MAIN STAGE – Music All Day — Highlights
Friday, June 13 presented by
6:30 pm: TEN YEARS GONE
8:30 pm: PATRICK & THE LVB
Saturday, June 14 presented by
6:00 pm: GLITTER IN THE AIR
8:30 pm: LAST MEN ON EARTH
Sunday, June 15 presented by 4:00 pm: DUEY & UNBROKEN
6:30 pm: THOSE CRAZY NIGHTS
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:
CARNIVAL RIDES & GAMES: presented by
BUY DISCOUNTED UNLIMITED CARNIVAL RIDE WRISTBANDS ONLINE
Sold online through 12 noon Wed. June 11
Single-Day Unlimited Carnival Rides: $40 each
Good any one day during the festival
4-Day MEGA Unlimited Carnival Rides: $95 each
Good all 4 days of the festival
PURCHASE DURING THE FESTIVAL
Single-Day Unlimited Carnival Rides: $45 each
TICKETS FOR INDIVIDUAL RIDES
Food, Beverage & Ride Tickets may be purchased at Festival Ticket Booths.
AROUND TOWN
Mother's Day 5k
Racers had a beautiful day celebrating Mom at the inaugural Miles Over the Meadow Mother's Day 5K & Family Fun Trek. Photos are up in an album of race participants running through sunny Tallman Meadow Park. To see the pictures, visit the Parks and Rec Facebook page. The Family Fun Trek was a one-mile walk designed for all ages and abilities!
Touch A Truck
The construction zone became a fun zone at the Touch A Truck vehicle showcase. Attendees explored 10 vehicles, drove the stormwater pipe inspection rover, played games, and met Engineering and Public Works Department staff during a beautiful day in O'Brien Park. An extra special recognition to Town staff who planned and hosted this National Public Works Week event.
Memorial Day Remembrance
Memorial Day, originally declared Decoration Day, was first observed as a national holiday on May 30, 1868, as a day to lay flowers on the graves of soldiers who died during the Civil War. Honoring Our Hometown Heroes — The 2025 Veterans Memorial Banner Program will be displayed at Living Wheel Park through July 4 in recognition of local veterans’ dedication to our country.
H2O'Brien Pool Open
• H2O'Brien Pool features two 182’ water slides, a zero depth entry with a large, state-of-the-art water play structure, and a lap pool.
• The Discovery Park Play Fountain is an approximately 900 square foot water feature with programmable water jets. This spray fountain operates 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily weather permitting, with an LED light display beginning at 5 p.m. each evening.
PHOTOS: TOWN OF PARKER
Teeth - Dental Implants - Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Visit coloradooralsurgery.com for more
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- Lauren
“We had an amazing experience at Colorado Oral Surgery! They treated my child with so much kindness and respect from the moment we walked in. The entire team was professional and compassionate, making sure my child was comfortable every step of the way. The procedure was incredibly fast, and everything went so smoothly. I couldn’t be more grateful for how well they took care of us. If we ever need oral surgery services again, this will definitely be our first choice! Highly recommend!”
- Norma
L. Lurcott, DDS • Michael A. Hale, DDS • Aaron T. Liddell, MD, DMD, FACS Matthew K. Alleman, DMD, FACS • Travis J. Hamilton, MD, DMD
Gregg
Diplomates, American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
CELEBRATING FATHERS
BY AMBER TUELLER
The influence of a good man in a child’s life is invaluable. In recent generations, our society has shifted its focus to include dads more consciously. These changes range from Dads 'n' doughnuts in the elementary schools to a huge increase in companies granting paternity leave, something that was fairly unheard of even 15 years ago. This shift has occurred partially to allow for a wide variety of families – with dads often being the primary parent in a home. I believe another reason for this push is a greater recognition of the need for fathers to be involved. They have such an impact on their families in helping to shape values, self-esteem, work ethic, and fun.
Fathers not only affect the lives of their own children, but so many around them. They can
influence their children’s friends; youth in their church community; kids in the neighborhood; teenagers they work with; and students at school who benefit from their volunteering and teaching. Coaches get very close to their teams and have a positive impact on the youth they work with. Fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and cousins have an impact on those in their extended families. Younger fathers look up to older fathers and the positive cycle continues. There is certainly a greater ripple from each man than at first seems obvious. Remember the reach you can have in your own homes and in the community.
As part of this month’s issue, we want to say Happy Father’s Day and thank you for lifting those around you!
In the interest of providing the 50 best dining options in Douglas County, we must be able to personally recommend each listing. The guide is subject to change. If you have a suggestion for inclusion on the list, email us at contribute@tuellers.com.
KEY
Based on a typical dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax or tip.
$ ............................ Under $20 $$ ............................. $20-$30
$$$ ......................... Over $35 (EC) Editors Choice (N) New
Asian fusion
DANCING NOODLE
A small, family owned, dinein and take-out restaurant that serves authentic homestyle Thai food.
10841 S. Crossroads Dr., Suite 10, Parker 303-805-3880 $$
INDOCHINE
A local go-to for quality home-style cuisine. This Parker fixture is known for a fresh, creative menu.
19751 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-851-8559 $$
ITO SUSHI ASIAN BISTRO
Asian fusion restaurant known for quality ingredients and fresh fish daily.
2240 Mercantile St #100, Castle Rock 720-749-6777 $$ (N)
JOHN HOLLY’S Chinese and Thai dishes that are nothing less than the culinary equivalent of an exotic adventure.
9232 Park Meadows Dr, Lone Tree 303-768-9088 $$
THE GUIDE
THE BEST PLACES TO DINE IN DOUGLAS COUNTY
FOGO DE CHÃO
Located in the Park Meadows Mall, off a beautiful outdoor courtyard setting. This Brazilian steakhouse is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience. Try the full churrasco (shoo-hah-sko) to enjoy delicious meat cuts brought right to your table! And don’t forget the guarana!
JUNZ
A favorite sushi place in town with a unique blend of Japanese and French at its very best.
11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd., Parker
720-851-1005 $$
BAKERY/DESSERTs
LA PETITE CREPERIE
The locals favorite spot to grab made-to-order crepes. Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong. Proudly serving farm to table fresh.
19751 Mainstreet, Parker
720-638-9722 $ (EC)
PARIS BAGUETTE
Popular Korean chain that brings expertly crafted baked goods through a warm and welcoming bakery cafe' experience that delivers joy to everyone.
18374 Cottonwood Dr., Parker
720-500-5555 $ (N)
POULETTE BAKESHOP
New artisan bakers taking Parker by storm. Order early, they sell out every day! 19585 Hess Road, Parker 303-955-5647 $ (N)
BARBEQUE
BIG JIMS
Don’t be fooled by this being a food truck; if you like southern BBQ, this is your place. 10685 S Parker Rd, Parker $$$
GQUE BBQ
Award-winning food. Try the wood-smoked ribs, brisket, pork, or garlic potatoes. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree 303-729-2506 $$
HICKORY HOUSE
The Parker tradition. Known for their baby back ribs, but don’t miss the pulled pork and barbeque chicken. 10335 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-9742 $$
OLD WEST BBQ
A hidden gem with familyfriendly pricing. Don’t miss out on their breakfast burritos. 107 Wolfensberger Rd., Castle Rock 303-660-6340 $
BREW PUB
20 MILE TAP HOUSE
Best known for their burgers and wings. Make sure to catch Trivia Tuesdays. 12543 N Hwy 83, Parker 303-841-6782 $$
GREAT DIVIDE BREWERY & ROADHOUSE
Destination locale with an informal ambiance offering hearty comfort classics 215 Wilcox St Suite G, Castle Rock 303-955-5788 $$ - $$$ (N)
ROCKYARD BREWING CO.
Douglas County’s longest running brew pub. Steaks, burgers, pizza and soup! 880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock 303-814-9273 $$
TAILGATE TAVERN & GRILL
Your neighborhood tavern for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Sports bar with live music not to miss on the weekends. 19552 E. Mainstreet, Parker 303-841-7179 $$
THE LIBRARY CO. BAR & KITCHEN
Offering great food & amazing drinks in a relaxed and warm atmosphere. Clear and simple menu options. 3911 Ambrosia St., Suite 101, Castle Rock 720-389-5986 $$
ITalian
CRANELLI’S
Comfort Italian food in a rustic, cozy, casual familyoriented format.
10047 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree 303-799-3661 $$
DANIELLE’S SCRATCH KITCHEN
Stylish, energetic eatery offering elevated Italian fare with an emphasis on great customer service.
872 Happy Canyon Rd. Suite 100, Castle Rock 303-524-9788 $$$
PORTOFINO
Authentic Italian eatery featuring pizza, pasta, calzones and heros. The local “go-to” for fresh Italian. 10920 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-841-9900 $$
SCILEPPI’S
A modern Italian restaurant focused on family recipes and premium ingredients. 210 Third St., Castle Rock 303-688-9000 $$
VIA BACI
Neapolitan pizzas join modern Italian fare at this casual eatery featuring a full bar & patio. 10005 Commons St, Lone Tree 303-790-0828 $$
MEXICAN
ADRIANNA’S
Intimate Mexican eatery for authentic cuisine in a relaxed ambiance. Great for parties. 7272 E Hwy 86, Franktown 303-663-7800 $$
CASA MARIACHI
Unassuming local joint serving up straight-forward Mexican plates.
9771 S Parker Rd, Parker 720-842-5105 $$
LA LOMA
Upscale-rustic atmosphere known for traditional Mexican meals.
6361 Promenade Pkw, Castle Rock 303-632-9900 $$ (N)
LAS POTRANCES
Casual Mexican restaurant full of real Mexican culture, Mexican Food, Fresh Drinks, and Friendly Hospitality. 19600 Solar Cir, Parker 303-840-0325 $$ (N)
LOS DOS POTRILLOS
Elegant family-owned eatery. There’s a combo dish to please everyone.
6370 Promenade Pkwy., Castle Rock
720-769-5474 $$
LOS VOLCANES
Don’t miss the Carnitas! And bring your appetite for the large portions.
10471 S. Parker Rd., Parker 303-841-0160 $$
new american
CASTLE CAFE
Set in a former 1890s hotel. Plating hearty American fare like pan-fried chicken & burgers.
403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock 303-814-2233 $$
VALERIE'S BREWHOUSE
Uniquely fun sports bar with a creative menu of brats and dogs.
971 Park St., Castle Rock 303-660-2399 $
CRAVE
A favorite gourmet burger joint. Imaginative menu with amazing handcrafted shakes. 3982 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock 303-814-2829 $$
DOUG'S DAY DINER
American breakfast cafe where everything is made from scratch.
18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-476-7162 $$
MANNA
A casual sit-down destination with a menu that reflects Colorado’s growing season. 2350 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock 720-455-3664 $
PARKER GARAGE
The Parker landmark located right downtown offers a locally-sourced menu. Great service and large portions. 19420 Mainstreet, Parker 720-389-8105 $$ (EC)
PEGASUS
A local favorite for breakfast or lunch. American, Greek or Mexican dishes.
313 Jerry St., Castle Rock 303-688-6746 $$
RORY’S
Comfort food and baked goods at their finest. Don’t see it on the menu? Ask for it!
11020 S Pikes Peak Dr., Parker 720-708-2889 $$
SIERRA
High-end, wood-fired kitchen with a warm ambiance, preparing select American dishes. 10680 Cabela Dr., Lone Tree 303-662-8800 $$
TRIBE AT RIVERWALK
Upscale, yet casual dining experience with a one-of-akind menu. Don't miss the brunch.
115 Wilcox Street, Castle Rock 303-362-0904 $$$ (N)
WEST MAIN TAPROOM
A modern and open venue that boasts thoughtful and honest cuisine. A haven for the gluten-free crowd. 18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-826-3689 $$
PIZZA
ANTONIO’S
A traditional family-style Italian pizza restaurant with a Brooklyn flair. 12947 S Parker Rd., Parker 720-851-5300 $
ARTISAN
Delicious Neapolitan-style pizza that makes each dish an individual work of art! And don’t forget dessert. 12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker 303-840-0518 $
COLORADOUGH
A refreshing take on madefrom-scratch pizza. So fresh they don’t even have a freezer! 17860 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-386-3333 $$
LIL’ RICCI’S
New York pizzas & other red sauce staples in a low-key setting. Can’t miss the garlic knots. 16526 Keystone Blvd, Parker 303-220-7422 $$
PARRY’S
NY-style pizza, wings, & casual Italian eats, in kidfriendly quarters. 5650 Allen Way, Castle Rock 303-814-8686 $$
STEAKHOUSE
DUKE’S
Rustic restaurant featuring beef & seafood dishes, plus a sports tavern with an Irish vibe.
363 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines
303-814-2487 $$$
FOGO DE CHAO
Upscale Brasilian steakhouse with all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside. Guaraná is a must, and try the Creme de Papaya. 8419 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-481-4001 $$$ (EC)
PERRY’S
Chops, seafood, wine, & cocktails served in an upscale setting with a lounge & live jazz. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree
303-792-2571 $$$
TEXAS ROADHOUSE
Texas-themed steakhouse with a great menu and wonderful atmosphere. 11205 S. Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-5848 $$
TRAPPER’S CHOP HOUSE
Upscale hideaway local favorite featuring their signature Volcanic Hot Rock sear-it-yourself experience. 19308 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-248-2132 $$$
UNIQUE
VISTAVINO MODERN
Quaint Tuscan grill made fresh from local fare. Every dish is a winner!
611 Wilcox St., Castle Rock 303-814-2487 $$
Culinary Chronicles
Triple B (Bourbon, Brews & Burgers) has been on our list to try for some time. These are three of my husband’s favorite things! However, we were reluctant to try it with our littles, since we called and learned there was no kids’ menu! Fortunately, we found ourselves in a position to eat there without having to feed our tiny mouths on a Monday night.
The restaurant is tucked into a strip mall off Lincoln Ave. and Keystone Blvd. The atmosphere was chill, with a few people at the U-shaped, TV-lined bar. Groups of friends and after-work crews were comfortably sprinkled among the other high-top tables. The decor is a calming mix of greys and blues, while the walls display a timeline of Bourbon history.
My husband ordered the "The Distinguished Gentleman" burger, served with champagne onion rings that were some of the best we have had in Parker. The burger itself had brie, bacon, caramelized onions, fig jam, greens, and a brioche bun. Definitely something we would eat again! I chose the "The Aloha" with a grilled chicken breast and a generous side of sweet potato waffle fries. The teriyaki bourbon glaze on my chicken was the perfect blend of tangy and sweet. I would buy a bottle if they offered it.
On a side note, we could bring the kids in for dinner as their “Shareables” menu section features chicken strips, pretzel bites, and mini burgers. There would be something for everyone after all!
We also learned that Bourbon, Brews & Burgers has a brunch offering with an interesting variety of dishes and some delicious-sounding brunch cocktails. We are looking forward to trying these on our next visit!
Denise Woods is a freelance writer.
BBB | 16522 Keystone Blvd Suite H Parker
The great outdoors is calling. No matter if you are a complete camping novice or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, Colorado has some of the best camping around. With many affordable and family-friendly locations to camp in Colorado (some just down the road) you really have no reason to not get outdoors! Here are some of our favorites.
Chatfield Reservoir
When visitors see the beautiful rolling foothills and abundant wildlife, they can’t believe the park is located just outside the Denver metro area. Their campground has full service sites available offering water, sewer, and electric hookups or sites with electric only. Over thirty sites have detached tent pads. cpw.state.co.us
Eleven Mile
With nine separate campground areas, Eleven Mile provides a very wide range of outdoor experiences. From full hookup sites with electricity to more secluded nonelectric back country sites, you will find a great place to enjoy the outdoors. cpw.state.co.us
Cherry Creek Reservoir
Easy to get to and with yearround camping available, Cherry Creek is a great place for a quick weekend trip or longer excursion. Their campground boasts deluxe full hook-up sites as well as basic tent sites. Showers and laundry facilities are also available. cpw. state.co.us
Jellystone Park™
Right down the road in Larkspur (located north of Monument and south of Castle Rock right off I-25) is a fun Yogi Bear™ themed, family-oriented, petfriendly private RV park and campground. In addition to camping they have many guest activities including disc golf! jellystonelarkspur.com
Must Follow Camping Tips From Our Readers
Change your clothes (especially your socks) before you get into the sleeping bag. Fresh dry clothes will keep you warmer at night while you sleep.
At night, put your food in the car...not your tent. Critters love a midnight snack and you don’t want them waking you up to eat.
Dry ice in the bottom of your cooler will keep your ice from melting and help stop the “food soup” that your cooler usually ends up with.
Put a magnesium spark tool and dryer lint in a zipper lock style plastic bag to keep it dry. Very light and handy when matches aren’t available
Make a “camping box” and fill it with everything you need - plates, cups, matches, toilet paper, etc. Makes packing for your trip easy...it’s already done!
GOING ON A FUN
Family Hike
Colorado offers some of the best hiking and outdoor fun to be found. Many of these amazing hikes are right in our own back yards. No matter your skill level, from taking a stroll on a paved trail to roughing it with lots of boulders and hangs, you can find some fun hikes. Pack up the family and head out to enjoy our wonderful environment. Here are some of our reader’s favorite places to enjoy a fun family hike.
CASTLEWOOD CANYON
Conveniently located right here in Douglas County, Castlewood Canyon boasts some of the best nature watching around. A great number of critters and birds populate the area and can easily be seen on your family hike. In addition, Castlewood has a variety of trail types ranging from mild paved walking trails to moderately technical trails. If you are feeling adventurous, Castlewood also has rock climbing available with skills areas for beginners to advanced. cpw.state.co.us
CHATFIELD STATE PARK
Just up the road is Chatfield State Park. Known for its reservoir, Chatfield also has awesome hiking and paved trails that include biking, hiking and even horseback riding. In addition, Chatfield also boasts a really cool RC Plane airport for those remote controlled plane enthusiasts. The trail system at Chatfield also connects to other systems so you can reach it completely on trails, if you are one of those super long runner or biker types.
cpw.state.co.us
ROXBOROUGH STATE PARK
Tucked at the base of the foothills is a beautiful display of red rock formations and vast amounts of wildlife known as Roxborough State Park.
Definitely worth the drive, Roxborough has a wide variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. The family will have a great time wandering through the many picturesque areas and watching the wildlife. Be sure to bring your camera. cpw.state.co.us
WATERTON CANYON
If you are a dirt hiker or off road biker, then you won’t want to miss Waterton Canyon. Located on the west side of Douglas County, Waterton has a great six-mile dirt road that goes up the canyon and is perfect for your hike or ride. If you want to get more technical, many more advanced trails connect that will offer great challenges while you take in the ample wildlife of the area.
cpw.state.co.us
HIDDEN MESA OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL
Ride or hike this 1224-acre open space buffer between Castle Rock and Franktown. Embark on this soft-surface trail from the trailhead at the old homestead at Parker Road. Follow the farm lane as it crosses over Cherry Creek and then winds up to the top of the mesa where it loops around viewpoints, rock outcroppings, grass and shrublands, as well as pines and junipers. douglas.co.us
Douglas County Outdoors
With the summer sun finally beginning to make regular appearances, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy the beautiful area we all call home here in Douglas County. With the abundance of hiking and biking trails, dog parks, playgrounds and parks, and picturesque open space, there is no lack of adventure to be had this summer. Douglas County Outdoors has made it easy to plan summer excursions with their interactive map of recreational opportunities in Douglas County. Simply go to experience.arcgis.com and let a map of activities unfold at your fingertips.
A map on the right of the screen shows you exactly where everything is located, so you can pick by proximity to your own backyard or if you have a specific plan in mind. Use the tabs at the top of the page to narrow your search. You can view the county as a whole or narrow down your search by regions within the
county lines. Check out trails, equestrian areas, picnic facilities, playgrounds and more. A graphic of each will appear to the left of the map. Click on any for more information about that specific location.
For example, if you want to check out Castlewood Canyon State Park, click on the photo link and find out that you can go bird watching, hiking, rock climbing and much more (there is a link for more details). There’s even a phone number to Colorado State Parks for more information listed.
The best family outings are often those that don’t cost a dime. Make sure to bookmark the Douglas County Outdoors Interactive Map and take off for a hike, a bike ride or a picnic in some of the prettiest places on earth –that just happen to be in our own backyard!
Did You Know?
Parker Edition - There may be some things you don’t know about our little spot in the world. Here are a few fun facts:
Parker is 20 miles from Denver (or at least what was considered Denver in 1864: the corner of Colfax Avenue and Colorado Boulevard). When Parker was first founded, stagecoaches came through this area. The 687-mile stagecoach trip from Fort Riley, Kansas, required changing mules or horses on a regular basis. From south of Denver into “modern Denver,” the miles were marked by stagecoach stops at the 20, 17, 11, 9, and 4-mile points.
Parker, known then as Pine Grove, was a stop for freighters and stagecoaches. Over 100 million pounds of freight passed over the trails before railroads came to Colorado. In addition to changing horses, the mile houses were also stops to have oxen re-shoed. Travelers could also find meals and a place to stay the night. The Pine Grove stop, run by James Sample Parker, was known as the 20-Mile House. That is why we have lots of things named “Twenty Mile” around town!
Parker was also a stop on the railroad from 1882 to 1933. In June of 1881, James Parker sold a right-of-way to the railway, ensuring the tracks traveled directly through Parker before swinging southeast, thus guaranteeing the town's survival. The rail stop was at first designated as “Parker’s,” but was then simplified to “Parker." Our town was now no longer called Pine Grove; there was another Pine Grove in Colorado and the post office suggested a name change.
Most of the original town was situated on land owned by George Parker, not by James Sample Parker, who most people consider the town’s namesake. George Parker filed a timber claim in the early 1870s on land currently situated east of Highway 83. James, George’s brother, purchased the 20-Mile House property in 1870, but didn’t live there until 1874. Incidentally, neither brother advocated naming the town “Parker." James actually wanted it to be named Edithville, after his daughter.
The original Pine Grove Schoolhouse was located across the street from the 20-Mile House (where Hobby Lobby now is). It was built in 1875 by James so his daughter, Edith, then six years old, would not have to travel by horseback to the Fonder School, located near current Ponderosa High. James supplied the school with desks, books, and even paid the teacher’s salary. The school served the community until 1915, when a second school, now the Mainstreet Center, was built.
