As the county seat of Platte County, the town of Wheatland, Wyoming, has a rich and diverse history. This history is commemorated at the Laramie Peak Museum, which is home to an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, and other mementos. Let’s explore the many things to see and do at this prestigious institution.
Native Life Exhibit
Before the first European settlers arrived in what is now Platte County, the land was inhabited by the Lakota Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes. In the Native Life Exhibit, you can learn about how these tribes lived before they came in contact with European settlers. You can view several artifacts uncovered by archeological excavations. Eventually, fur traders would make their way into southeastern Wyoming and trade with tribe members. Clothing and household items introduced by the traders were integrated into the lives of the Platte River tribes, and this integration is also explored at the Laramie Peak Museum.
The Irrigation District
In 1883, Wheatland became the home of the United States’ first and largest private irrigation district. Headed by Francis E. Warren, then governor of the Territory of Wyoming, this project’s mission was to entice more settlers to the area to establish homes and businesses. By 1911, several farms were thriving in the irrigation district, and Wheatland was chosen as the seat of the newly formed Platte County. The Platte County Courthouse was established in Wheatland in 1917.
Without the ambitious irrigation project, Wheatland wouldn’t be the town it is today. Laramie Peak Museum is home to an impressive collection of photographs, documents, and other mementos related to the formation of the irrigation district.
1890s Classroom
Younger museum guests will enjoy a visit to the 1890s classroom, which features authentic desks and learning materials from Wheatland’s first schoolhouse. Even the potbelly stove that was used to heat the one-room facility is on display. Kids can draw on the chalkboard, ring the school bell, and see what a school day was like in Wheatland’s early days.
Rodeo Culture
The rodeo plays a significant part in the lives of Wheatland residents. Every August, the town hosts the Platte County Fair and Rodeo. Posters, ribbons, costumes, and other mementos from past rodeos are on display at the Laramie Peak Museum. The museum also pays tribute to Steamboat, the Wheatland-born horse that was the model for the bucking horse famously featured on Wyoming license plates. Steamboat was also the model for the University of Wyoming’s logo.
Events
Throughout the year, Laramie Peak Museum hosts several events celebrating the history and culture of Platte County. Popular events include lectures presented by authors, artists, and scholars from all over Wyoming. Another favorite is the Christmas Open House. During this event, guests can admire the museum Christmas tree and the Christmas Village, complete with a working train set. A special collection of toys is also on display. Because the museum is a nonprofit organization, it also holds several fundraisers and raffles. Participants have the chance to win items such as homemade quilts and Wyoming-themed gifts.
As you can see, there’s a lot to see and do at the Laramie Peak Museum. Plan a visit today for an experience the entire family will enjoy.
Image via pexels.com
Connect with us
