denver

Text Box: History: Prior to 1876, Denver was called Dry Pond. When Colorado was admitted into the union, Dry Pond changed to Denver in hopes that the progressive-sounding name might attract railroad builders. The Rock Spring Campground, which began in the early 1830s, is considered the oldest continuous camp meeting in the United States.

Landmarks: East Lincoln High School hosts many important community events throughout the year. Race fans can check out East Lincoln Speedway on Saturday nights (www.eastlincolnspeedway.com).

What the Locals Know: Churches are the center of social life. Whether you want to worship, play bingo, hunt for bargains at a yard sale, see a concert or get involved in local politics, there are several that can help you find a niche.

Notables: Outdoorsman Hank Parker and his son, NASCAR driver Hank Parker, Jr., both hail from Denver. Other famous names in racing that have called Denver home include Dick Trickle, Phil Parsons, John Reiser and Matt McCall.

On the Job: Denver is home to many racing teams and racing-related businesses, including Howard-Boss Motorsports, Front Row Motorsports, Andrew Rogers Racing and Reiser Enterprises. Blum Inc. and the Wireway/Husky Corp. keep a good portion of Denver’s residents busy.

Chow: Untouchables Pizza, at the corner of highways 16 and 150, is a favorite hangout for the younger set. Details: 704-483-9737, www.untouchablespizza.com. Stacy’s on N.C. 16 at Campground Road is also family-friendly. Details: 704-483-5811.

See the Sights: Voted the Charlotte area’s prettiest golf course by Charlotte Taste Magazine, Verdict Ridge is off Kidville Road. www.verdictridge.com.

You’re from Denver if … Someone asks you how to get to Cornelius and you say it’s “across the river.” (Newcomers will say it’s “across the lake.”)

Don’t Miss … Denver Days, a fall festival featuring rides, games and music. Details: www.denvernc.com/denverdays.htm.