In 1978, the village of Hideaway Park was incorporated and renamed Winter Park. According to Penny Rafferty Hamilton, a longtime local and author, the name change was influenced by the city of Denver. When Denver became interested in developing a mountain park system to promote winter sports to tourists and residents, it started the development of the neighboring Winter Park Ski Area at West Portal. With the assistance of Denver Mayor, Benjamin F. Stapleton, the town changed its name to Winter Park. (Colorado Place Names, by George R. Eichler).

Later, the town’s main park – Hideaway Park – was named as a tribute to the original village. A plaque commemorating the Graves Family is located in the park at an area affectionately referred to as ‘Helen’s Spot’.

Although a lot has changed since Doc and his family first settled in Winter Park, the Town still maintains its unique, small-town charm and natural beauty. What once was a community with a few mountain cabins is now adorned with shops, restaurants and lodging facilities, its close vicinity to Denver making it a popular destination for tourists and Front Range residents.

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