Who was the man whose name adorns not only our town library, but also the indoor/outdoor recreation complex?
Philip S. Miller started his humble beginnings in Peoria, Illinois in 1895. Shortly thereafter, his father, a butcher by trade, moved the family to Denver to open his own meat market. Following in his father’s footsteps, Philip worked as a butcher for several years and helped expand his family’s business with the assistance of some business partners. Eventually they were able to open shops in both Kiowa and Castle Rock.
After a falling out with his partners, he consolidated the markets into one and moved with his new wife, ‘Jerry’ Stewart, to the ‘big town’ of Castle Rock. There, he operated his butcher shop, and later changed the name to the ‘Castle Rock Meat Market.’ Wanting a change, they sold the market to enter into the coal and feed business. This was short-lived, and the Millers bought back the meat business, but sold it again as they entered The Great Depression.
Miller was an active member of the town’s original Board of Trustees. During this time, he was instrumental in implementing a sewer system and municipal electricity system for the residents of Castle Rock. He later retired from politics, but used his connections with investors to help open the town’s first bank: The Bank of Douglas County. Shortly after, the Millers decided to purchase a ranch for cattle, and also an insurance business. Today, our town can thank the success of both of these businesses for their legacy and continued generosity.
It is hard to measure their numerous philanthropic generosities for Castle Rock. Not only did the Miller’s bank greatly help the community by providing loans for local businesses, they also went on to donate the water rights of 204 acres of their ranch, a gift that provides nearly 100 million gallons of water for the town. And through their living trust, their continued support can be seen for the Town of Castle Rock, the Douglas County Fair and Rodeo, and the Douglas County Library System for years to come.
So next time you hear or see the name Philip S. Miller, think a note of ‘thanks’ for the Miller’s contributions to helping make the Town of Castle Rock the awesome place we live.
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