04/08/2026
"On This Day" April 7, 1827
Benjamin Franklin Wadsworth
Today we remember Benjamin Franklin Wadsworth, born April 7, 1827 — an early settler whose influence helped shape the community that would become Arvada.
In 1870, the U.S. Post Office asked Wadsworth to name the growing settlement to distinguish it from other communities along Ralston Creek. His wife, Mary Ann Wadsworth, chose the name “Arvada,” honoring her brother-in-law, Hiram Arvada Haskin — giving our city the name we know today.
Wadsworth was among the early settlers in the area, contributing to Arvada’s agricultural roots and community development. His name lives on today in familiar landmarks like Wadsworth Boulevard, a lasting reminder of his impact on the region.
A respected member of the early agricultural community, Wadsworth’s legacy lives on not only in name, but in the roots of Arvada itself.
He passed away on April 12, 1893, but his story remains part of our shared history.
Attached are his photo, plus photo of the original Wadsworth cabin/earliest post office and another Residence where he lived off Grandview Ave
📜 Take a moment today to reflect on those who helped build our community.
