History of Gardening in Athmar Park

Hello, Athmar Park neighbors and gardening enthusiasts!

Diving into the rich history of gardening and farming in Athmar Park. Our community's roots are deeply intertwined with agriculture, and it's fascinating to see how we've evolved over the years.

Early Agricultural Beginnings

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area now known as Athmar Park was primarily agricultural land. The fertile grounds along the South Platte River were ideal for farming, and our neighborhood was dotted with celery farms and wheat fields.  This agricultural heritage laid the foundation for the community we cherish today.​

Transition to Residential Development

Beginning in 1902, portions of this land were annexed by the city of Denver. However, it wasn't until 1949 that developer Raymond Erb fully transformed the area into residential subdivisions. This development was spurred by the post-World War II housing boom, leading to the construction of many homes that still stand today. ​

The 1965 South Platte River Flood

A significant event in our neighborhood's history was the devastating flood of June 16, 1965. The South Platte River overflowed, causing extensive damage to parts of southwest Denver, including Athmar Park. This disaster prompted community efforts to rebuild and led to the construction of the Chatfield Reservoir to prevent future flooding. ​

Community Gardening and Green Initiatives

In recent years, Athmar Park has seen a resurgence in community gardening and green initiatives:​

• The Veg Yard: Established as an urban farm in our neighborhood, The Veg Yard aims to increase access to nutritious, locally grown vegetables. By transforming lawns into productive gardens, they offer Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares to residents, fostering a reconnection with our food system.

• Tennessee Trail Project: This initiative transformed underutilized land beneath power lines into a vibrant walking trail adorned with murals, children's book pages, and public gardens. Such projects not only beautify our community but also enhance safety and promote outdoor activities. ​

• Food Forest Initiative: Denver Urban Gardens launched the Etkin Family Food Forest Initiative to convert unused areas into thriving urban forests. These food forests, planted with fruits, berries, and nuts, aim to provide sustainable food sources and green spaces for communities, aligning with our neighborhood's commitment to sustainability. ​

  
  

Looking Ahead

Our neighborhood's journey from fertile farmlands to a thriving residential community with a renewed focus on green initiatives showcases our resilience and adaptability. As we continue to embrace our agricultural roots through community gardens and sustainability projects, Athmar Park stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its residents.

Let's keep nurturing our community's green spaces and honoring the rich history that has shaped our beloved neighborhood. Happy gardening!

Note: For more detailed accounts and historical documents, consider exploring local archives and the Denver Public Library's resources.