Since coming to Wyoming, I’ve taken great pride in learning as much as I can about the history, customs, and traditions that true Wyomingites hold in high regard. I wanted to let everyone know that I was serious about living in Wyoming.
I’ve traveled throughout this state continuously to see as many museums, towns, landmarks, and historic sites as I can, and this started the day I arrived in Casper. My first adventure was heading up Casper Mountain and Fort Caspar, then to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center to take in Casper’s rich history. Again, that was on day one.
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After being here a few days, I’d learned that even though people who had lived here for a long period of time hadn’t gone to any of those spots. Even though they see Casper Mountain every day, or have gone to the Ford Wyoming Center for concerts or sporting events, and passed right by the Trail Center, they just haven’t been. If that’s the case with you, I encourage you to do so; you’ll be amazed.
When I was at the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, I learned so much about how important Casper and Wyoming, in general, were to the development of the Western United States. Sure, I’d heard of the Oregon Trail. I grew up in the 80s and played the game. I’d heard of the Mormon Trail; I lived just across the river from Nauvoo, Illinois. I’d heard of the California Trail; I had just moved from there. The thought of living in a location that’s smack dab in the middle of the Pony Express Trail blew my mind.
What I didn’t know was the stories, historical markers, how many decisions were made, and what the families went through to seek better lives. When I came to Wyoming, that changed, and I continue to learn daily. Within the first couple of weeks, I hit the road to Independence Rock, and that’s where the reality of what folks went through on their journey to the west.
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If you’ve never explored, experienced, or even gone to the National Historic Trails Center, you should take the family. It’s incredible and may spark a series of adventures that help bring you closer to Wyoming’s history.
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