Library Exhibit Celebrates Douglas County’s Food and Farming Heritage

For immediate release: July 29, 2026

Douglas County Libraries invites visitors to explore the county’s culinary and agricultural history in its new freestanding exhibit, From the Archives: The Well-fed West – The Story of Food, Farming and Community in Douglas County. The exhibit is on display August 1-September 13 at DCL’s Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree and Parker locations.

Curated by Douglas County Libraries Archives and Local History, the Well-fed West features stories of the places, people and traditions that helped feed and nourish Douglas County for generations, from Indigenous foragers and early homesteads to bustling creameries, soda fountains, community picnics, and favorite local saloons and eateries. Visitors will discover surprising stories, memorable characters, and interesting history along the way.

The free exhibit is on display for a limited time at libraries in Castle Rock (100 S. Wilcox Street), Highlands Ranch (9292 S. Ridgeline Blvd.), Lone Tree (10055 Library Way) and Parker (20105 East Mainstreet). Open during normal library operating hours, and no registration required. Learn more at DCL.org.

Douglas County Libraries elevates our community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery and connection.

The 20 Mile House and Barn in Parker served as a roadside stop and post office en route to the Pike’s Peak region.

Community picnics brought Douglas County residents together from as early as the late 19th century. Pictured: Picnic-goers at the Melvin picnic grounds near Parker, circa 1890-1910.

The ranching and dairying industries were well-suited to the region’s climate and landscape.

By the late 19th century, dairy farming had become a cornerstone of Douglas County’s economy, with creameries such as the Creamery at Parker operating across the county.

The Van Lopik Drug Store cart was well-known for advertising ice cream.