Nestled just north of Denver, Arvada is a city brimming with history and a deep sense of community. Here are 5 noteworthy facts.
Gold Standard
Arvada was put on the map in June of 1850 when Lewis Ralston, a prospector heading for the California gold rush, dipped his pan in an anonymous stream and found $5 in gold. Miners would come and go for the next two decades, but some would find more profit in farming the rich land for their fellow gold-seekers than they would mining gold for themselves. It was these miners-turned-farmers who would permanently settle the city in the years that followed Ralston’s first gold discovery.
Celery Capital of the World
With such fertile soil, Arvada presented a farmer’s dream. Corn, plums, cherries, melons, wheat, and a number of other crops flourished here, including celery. In the early 1900’s, the pascal celery grown in the city was regularly served at the White House during holiday meals, making them the “Celery Capital of the World” for some time.
Park Play
Arvada boasts 3,400 acres of land specifically designated for parks and recreation, including one traditional park within a 10 minute walk of every home. Other parks include undeveloped trail systems, disc golf courses, regional sports parks, and a dog park (of course!). The city also implements “Trees Across Arvada,” a program dedicated to growing community forests by offering large trees to home-owners for low costs.
Community Core
In 2001, the City Council created the Arvada Festivals Commission and appointed them the task of producing 8 family-friendly events a year. The sole focus of these events is to celebrate Arvada’s community. Lagniappe, for example, is an old tradition that celebrates the holidays and support of local businesses. Local business owners hand out gifts, the Mayor lights the town’s Christmas tree, and the Arvada Chorale performs holiday songs for onlookers.
King of King Soopers
King Soopers might have been bought out by Kroger’s, but it first got its start in 1947 by Lloyd J. King in Arvada. His goal was to provide a grocery store in his community that would give value, good quality, and personable service. King’s mission lives on through the store, which now has multiple locations throughout the Rocky Mountains.
