Europeans first explored Rangeley in 1760, and settlers arrived in the early 1800s to farm and harvest the abundant mountain timber. They cleared land to grow food and raise livestock. Over time, farms such as the Lamb family's Whip Willow Farm evolved to meet the changing needs of the growing community. This working farm also served Rangeley as its first tavern, post office, and lending library, as well as a dance hall and boarding house. Generations of the Hinkley and Lamb families were born, lived, and labored on this site, and like many farmers, the owners pieced together a living by taking on many other occupations to earn cash.