Highland(s) and West Highlands*, also known as Northwest Denver, have a confusing history. Highland (no s) was founded by land promoter General William Larimer in 1858 on the bluffs across the South Platte river from the new city of Denver. Within a year, houses were being built. In 1859, Denver, Highland, and Auraria across Cherry Creek merged. Highland is today bounded by Federal Boulevard, 38th Avenue, I-25, 23rd Avenue. West Highland, originally the area west of Zuni angling to Lowell Blvd., was developed by railroad barons led by Dr. William Bell, an Irishman. His "Highland Park" was modeled after Scottish villages. In 1875, the village of Highlands (with s) was incorporated. In 1890, Highland Park was annexed to Highland, and the western boundary extended to Sheridan Blvd. For many years after its founding, the prosperous and well-developed city of Highland was pressured by Denver to be annexed. Highland wanted nothing to do with the dirty and sinful city. It was only after the Silver Panic of 1893, which had a devastating effect on the citizens of both towns, and Denver's unwillingness to allow the construction of a badly-needed viaduct between the two cities, that Highland finally agreed to the annexation. Scattered among the mansions of the well-to-do are the two-story Queen Annes built for the middle class. These modest homes featured peaked roofs and gingerbread detail. Classic 1920's bungalows followed. Strewn about the area are frame farm houses built when the residents shared the area with local Indians. The world-famous Elitch Gardens amusement park was opened in 1890 by John and Mary Elitch in an apple orchard at 38th & Tennyson with lush flower beds, a zoological garden and vaudeville acts. After John's early death, Mary expanded the entertainment at the Gardens and established the theater company where many of Hollywood's greats performed. Many prominent businessmen, authors, doctors and other notables, including Harriet G. R. Wright, who was elected to two years in the legislature in 1899 and Mayor Stapleton until 1923 have made their homes in Highlands over the years. Over the years, the area was populated by English, German, Scots, Welsh and Cornish, Irish, Italians, and later, Hispanics. The area declined between the end of World War II and the end of the 20th Century. Today, Highland and West Highland is enjoying a resurgence with new families moving in to take advantage of the proximity to the central city and the neighborhood's many and diverse cultural and culinary opportunities. *Denver City Government and local historians refer to the two neighborhoods as Highland and West Highland. The Merchants' Association of the 32nd & Lowell district is the West Highlands Merchant Association. THIS INFORMATION HAS BEEN PROVIDED BY: Neighborhood Glimpses