The Denver-Pacific Railroad completed tracks from Cheyenne to the future site of Lucerne in 1869. A few years later, a siding was established here for loading bales of “Lucerne”, or alfalfa, which was grown extensively in this area. This siding was also referred to by several other names: North Greeley, Alfalfa, or Lawn. In 1892, a plat for the town was filed, a Post Office opened, and the town was named Lucerne.
A two-story general store built in 1892 by George Duvall, also housed the Post Office. A beet dump serving Greeley’s Great Western Sugar factory was here from 1902 – 1985. Lucerne lies in the heart of a rich agricultural district where cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, sugar beets, and pinto beans remain important crops. The historic Union Colony Canal Number Two, a.k.a. “The Farmer’s Ditch”, transects the town, providing water for surrounding farms.
A popular destination beginning in the 1960s, was the Farm Fare Restaurant, west of Lucerne and across U.S. Highway 85. After receiving a liquor license in 1964, its' new owners added the Red Steer Lounge, and later a motel, the Red Coach Inn. With a reputation for good food, the restaurant’s clientele included local clubs, cattle buyers, farmers, and ranchers. Local dance bands - country-western, polka, and Cajan - entertained here over the years. The building is now a Cowboy Church.