Highlands Ranch, part of Douglas County, is known as one of the fastest growing communities in the nation. Highlands Ranch grew from the Colorado plains through a series of settlements starting in 1859, with most homesteaders arriving in the 1880s. The homesteads were eventually unified into one grand ranch and mansion. The 1980s began the transformation from a ranch to a community when Mission Viejo started building a master planned community. Today, Shea Homes has almost completed the build out of the area. The people, businesses, and organizations of Highlands Ranch have come together to create an enjoyable community and lifestyle that around 100,000 people call home.
I was glad to see this series finally cover a locale that has experienced explosive transformation over the past thirty years. The history focuses primarily on the ranching years from the late 1800's to the mid-1970's. Having served as a docent for tours, I can say this narrative effectively brings together every principal fact and period we know about. The deeper history is followed by dozens of photographs showcasing the commercials and community additions that have occurred in the last couple decades.
How my for now home town came about and the unfortunate direction it may go (please no more expansion) but I love that the historical society made this wonderful book.