4 Mile House, a Hidden Relic of the Westward Wagon Trail

The 4 Mile House, located in the suburbs of Glendale, is a historical gem that often goes unnoticed by many people driving by in their busy lives. However, if we pause and take a moment to appreciate the significance it once had, we can uncover clues from the past that shed light on our modern-day existence.

The 4 Mile House is now a museum and historic park that welcomes history seekers and school groups alike to learn about its rich past as the 'last stop before Denver' along the Cherokee wagon trail. It's a place where visitors can step back in time and imagine the arduous journey that weary travelers once made as they traversed the rugged terrain in search of a better life.

The history of the 4 Mile House dates back to 1860 when it was purchased by Mary Cawker, a savvy businesswoman of her time. She had the vision to turn the property into an inn and trading post to cater to the needs of stagecoach travelers passing along the wagon trail. The 4 Mile House was aptly named as it represented the last stop before Denver, with a series of mile houses established along the trail, each named after the distance from the city center. In total, there were six of these mile houses, but today only the 4 Mile House and the Seventeen Mile House stand as reminders of this bygone era.

The 4 Mile House quickly became a popular resting place for weary travelers on their way to Denver. It provided them with a much-needed respite from their long and tiring journey, offering food, lodging, and supplies for their onward travel. The inn was a bustling hub of activity, serving as a meeting point for travelers, traders, and locals alike. It was a place where stories were shared, friendships were forged, and business deals were made.

Over the years, the 4 Mile House changed hands multiple times, with different owners adding their unique touches to the property. However, it continued to operate as an inn and trading post, playing a vital role in the development of the region. The 4 Mile House was not only a place to rest and replenish, but it also served as a center for trade and commerce, connecting the growing communities of the area.

The 4 Mile House remained a vital stop along the Cherokee wagon trail until 1870 when the advent of railroad travel into Denver brought about a significant change. The railroad offered a faster and more efficient means of transportation, effectively halting the need for stagecoach travel. With the decline of stagecoach travel, the 4 Mile House also saw a decline in its operations, and it eventually fell into disuse.

However, the story of the 4 Mile House did not end there. In the years that followed, efforts were made to restore and preserve this historical landmark. In 1975, the property was acquired by the City of Glendale, which embarked on a mission to restore the 4 Mile House to its former glory. Today, the 4 Mile House stands as a testament to the perseverance and dedication of those who recognized its historical significance and worked tirelessly to preserve it for future generations.

Visiting the 4 Mile House today is like taking a step back in time. As you walk through the carefully preserved rooms of the inn, you can imagine the hustle and bustle that once filled the air. The creaking floorboards, the smell of wood smoke from the fireplace, and the old-world charm of the furnishings all transport you to a bygone era.

The 4 Mile House is not just a museum, but also a living history experience. The historic park surrounding the property provides visitors with a glimpse into the daily life of the past, with demonstrations of traditional crafts, gardening, and farming practices that were common during the 1800s.

Credit: Whitacre, Roger, Denver Public Library Special Collections

Visit the 4 Mile Historic Park's website for more information. 

Rocky Mountain PBS has an excellent documentary on the 4 Mile House, if you care to learn more about this hidden gem.