DOUGLAS
Ayres Natural Bridge Park at 100 Page 13
Dinos
Page 10 Dinosaurs AND GLENROCK ACTIVITIES GUIDE Railroad Museum Page 10
Rodeo Page 14
Page 18 Jackalopes WYOMING CONVERSECOUNTYTOURISM.COM JACKALOPE Situated on the banks of the North Platte River, Douglas is known for the world-famous jackalope, a cross between a jackrabbit and an antelope. Jackalope Square, home to a larger- than-life jackalope statue, provides a one-of-a kind photo backdrop. Post your photos with #JackalopeCity!
Read more about the Legend of the Jackalope on page 18.
VISITOR CENTER NORTH 307-358-2950 121 Brownfield Rd. PLATTE RIVER Winter Hours A walk along Douglas’ 9 a.m.-4 p.m. expansive pathway system is always Monday-Saturday enjoyable, especially in the morning and Closed Sunday evening hours when the wildlife is most prevalent. The concrete sidewalk — perfect for walking, running Summer Hours and bicycling — follows the North Platte River. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday If you enjoy taking photographs, be sure to bring 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday your camera. There’s an abundance of wildlife, Closed Sunday including numerous species of birds, that live along the pathway.
NORTH PLATTE RIVER A concrete pathway runs adjacent to the North Platte River where it makes its way through the Douglas community. JACKALOPE DAYS 2020 Located east of the Celebrate Jackalope Days in Douglas July 11-14. Events downtown area, it’s perfect include a car show, vendors, live entertainment, a street for walking, jogging, dance, beer garden and much more! Go to jackalope. skating, biking and wildlife org for more information. watching!
2 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK DOWNTOWN DOUGLAS Boutique shops, book stores and FIND ADVENTURE IN historic buildings line the streets of downtown Douglas. They’re within easy walking distance of Jackalope Square.
Dining options in DOUGLAS#Jackalope the downtown area include pizza, City cafes, and a Japanese restaurant.
EVENING ENTERTAINMENT WATER PARK Downtown Douglas is the perfect place to wind Water lovers and thrill seekers are encouraged to down at the end of the day. Enjoy a tasty burger and visit the towering slides at Douglas’ water park. challenge your family to a game of bowling at House Located at the edge of Washington Park, the of Pinz, enjoy a cold one at Headstrong Brewery or grab a pizza at Friendz Pizzeria! facilities include a smaller slide and water games for younger children. Older visitors will enjoy the two “The Yard,” at historic Hotel LaBonte offers shuffle large slides. board, ping pong, darts, pool, electronic games and a big-screen TV. GOLF COURSE On the community’s southern edge, an 18-hole golf Movies are shown nightly at the historic Princess course offers a fun-filled and scenic outing. Golfers Theater. Movie goers enjoy a modern screen and enjoy the vistas of the Laramie Mountain Range on sound, yet appreciate the nostalgic feeling the century- the southern skyline. The course is ranked as one of old theater delivers. Just up the street Headstrong the top in Wyoming! The club house is known for its Brewery is the perfect place to gather with friends and fun atmosphere and great food. enjoy a cold micro-brew.
MEET SIR BARTON Sir Barton, America’s first triple crown winner, lived out his final years on a ranch near Douglas. A statue commemorating the speedy stallion stands in Washington Park located east of the downtown area.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 3 RIDE INTO HISTORIC
ImportantGLENROCK chapters in American DEER CREEK MUSEUM history are told in Glenrock From the emigrant trails to the Pony Express and the and across the surrounding telegraph, Glenrock’s history is heavily intertwined with some of the most colorful chapters in American history. countryside. It’s the early day tale That story is told at the community’s Deer Creek Museum. of the West we know today. Very near the museum, travelers can see the Rock in the Glen. The rock serves as the community’s namesake and was a register for emigrants who traveled through this area along the historic trails.
VISITOR INFO GLENROCK TOWN HALL 307-436-9294 219 S. 3rd St. Hours Open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri.
TRAIN BRIDGE ROCK IN THE GLEN A 1911 bridge, built by Rock in the Glen, the American Bridge accessed very near the Company, is reminiscent Deer Creek Museum, of the railroad that once served as a register for ran through Glenrock. travelers on the pioneer Today the rail ballast, trails that passed through including the bridge, here. It is also the serves as a walking Glenrock community’s path through the namesake. community.
4 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK DEER CREEK PARK HOTEL HIGGINS The 1850s brought Hotel Higgins, located just up the street and also on a trading post, the National Register, celebrated its grand opening appropriately named Deer on May 19, 1917 proudly offering, “steam heated Creek Station, to the area. rooms and hot and cold In 1860 and 1861 Pony running water.” To this Express Riders raced day, Hotel Higgins is a through present-day wonderful place to stay Glenrock carrying the nation’s mail at then record and dine. Their outdoor speed. In 1861 the telegraph replaced the riders and patio is the perfect place Deer Creek Station became a relay point for telegraph to spend a summer messages. Glenrock’s community park, located near evening. the union of the North Platte River and Deer Creek, is a great place to enjoy this historic area. THE PALEON Just across the street from DOWNTOWN GLENROCK the Higgins, Glenrock’s Let’s visit downtown Glenrock for more sightseeing. Paleontological Museum The Commerce Block, located at the heart of (DinosaursWyoming.com) downtown and constructed in 1917, is reminiscent is home to an amazing array of dinosaur bones and of the community’s oil boom. Thanks to the work of geological treasures. Discover more on pages 10-11! local residents, the building is the centerpiece of the downtown area and listed on the National Register HISTORIC PATHWAY of Historic Places. Glenrock’s community pathway is a great place for an evening stroll. Once the route of the railroad, the path crosses a train bridge built in 1911. Glenrock.org
RIDE THE PONY EXPRESS Glenrock made history as a communication hub. Between 1860 and 1861 riders for the infamous Pony Express changed horses here at Deer Creek Station. As technology progressed Glenrock the racing riders were replaced Paleontological Museum and Deer Creek Station became a Find out more on telegraph station. The story is told pages 10-11 in the local Deer Creek Museum.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 5 ALL ABOARD FOR A Douglas took its beginnings along the RAILROAD MUSEUM railroad tracks and The Douglas Railroad Museum RAILROAD trains continue to be an & Visitor Center is housed in the important part of the historic FE & MV Railroad Passenger Depot. The building is listed on the community’s culture and National Historic Register and is economy. They’re also surrounded by seven historic railcars, reflected in many of the including the Chicago Burlington buildings and businesses and Quincy Railroad 4-8-4 Steam across the community. Locomotive #5633. Visitors to the museum are invited to go inside many of the rail cars, including a day coach, a dining car and a sleeper, as well as a little red caboose that was opened to visitors in 2019! And ask to see the model train on display in the back room.
SAFETY FIRST MUSEUM Safety is a priority EVENTS when viewing In addition trains. Please to housing remember to fascinating keep yourself train memorabilia, the and your property Railroad Museum also clear of the hosts several special events tracks. throught the year for youths and adults. Find out more at ConverseCountyToruism.com.
6 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK ADVENTURE
RAILROADTRAIN-THEMED LUNCH! COAL TRAINS IN ACTION Two downtown restaurants in the Douglas About 18 miles north of community offer train themed menus. The Douglas on Highway 59, mile- Depot Restaurant, located at 100 S. Walnut long coal trains can be seen Street, is housed in a former train station. crossing a bridge above the The restaurant, featuring big burgers and highway. As travelers make their steaks, offers entrées with names like, “The way toward Bill, 35 miles north Trainwreck.” Those seeking a deli-style lunch of Douglas, trains frequent the are encouraged to visit the Whistle Stop north-south tracks. The Powder Mercantile located at 200 S. 3rd Street in River Basin, located north of Douglas. The restaurant’s sandwiches, salads Douglas, supplies much of the nation’s coal. and wraps carry train names like “The Roundhouse,” and “The Those who would like to see trains coming and going Smokestack.” from the coal mines are encouraged to venture further north. Forty-five miles north of Douglas, take a right on Antelope Coal Mine Road. Traveling the route delivers a birds eye view of Wyoming coal mining and trains at work.
BILL, WYOMING Penny’s Diner, at 3522 N. Highway 59 in Bill, is a great place for dinner, and is open 24 hours a day. The diner is adjacent to the Travelodge, a hotel built to accommodate railroad employees but open to the general public.
ALTERNATIVE ROUTES FOR TRAIN ENTHUSIASTS LOST SPRINGS GLENROCK, WYOMING Train enthusiasts leaving Those traveling west toward Douglas traveling east also Casper are encouraged to stop have an opportunity to see trains in Glenrock and see the 1911 in action. Stop in the community train bridge that serves as the of Lost Springs, located along entryway to the community park. Highway 18/20. From the community park, Need a break from the car? Take a stroll down trains can be seen making their way down the the community pathway, built along the former triple tracks. route of the CB&Q railroad.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 7 OUR RICH WESTERN
HERITAGEWYOMING PIONEER MUSEUM Located on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas, the Wyoming Pioneer Museum is a must see for western history enthusiasts.
Among the collections you’ll find stories of area cowboy Wild Horse Robbins and his adventures gathering wild mustangs and an outstanding collection of American Indian artifacts. Rodeo contractor Charlie Irwin’s larger than life bib-overalls are always a favorite among children visiting the museum. Equally popular is the jackalope, created right here in Douglas, Wyoming!
The museum is also home to a tepee used in the movie Dances with Wolves. If you think tepee architecture is simple, be sure to read the information on what went into building a tepee to ensure its stability and the escape of smoke from the apex. FORT FETTERMAN Venture north on Highway 93 to Fort Fetterman to learn more about the days of the Bozeman Trail. A restored officer’s quarters and an ordnance warehouse at the site are original buildings. Visitors are encouraged to walk the grounds where interpretive signs tell the story of the fort that was abandoned in 1882. HISTORIC DOUGLAS Beautiful architecture and rich history can be seen in Douglas’ historic residential area east of downtown. Take a drive through town and enjoy homes dating back to the late 1800s. A row of smaller houses, once home to railroad employees, stand along the tracks through town.
WALKING TOURS THE BIG BOYS The Wyoming Runnin’ with the Pioneer Museum Big Boys, a bronze offers walking tour by Wyoming information for artist Jerry Palen downtown Douglas, that features a the community’s jackrabbit racing historic housing antelope, stands at district, and two area the entryway to the cemeteries. Wyoming Pioneer Museum.
8 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK PIONEER TRAILS POW CAMP DOUGLAS As you make your way across POW Camp Douglas housed Italian Converse County, keep an and German prisoners of war eye out for historic trail during World War II. The officers’ markers. Five pioneer club is the last remaining building era trails came through from the camp. Much effort is the county including the going into conserving the historic Oregon, Mormon Pioneer, building and better protecting the Pony Express, California and large murals painted by Italian Bozeman trails. Glenrock was POWs. Discover more once home to Deer Creek Station, about Camp Douglas an important stop along the trails on pages 22-23. in early years and a telegraph relay point following the demise of the Pony Express.
PIONEER MUSEUM 307-358-9288 400 W. Center
(Memorial Day- Labor Day) Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
(Winter Months) Call Museum or visit us on Facebook
FORT FETTERMAN Each year on the Fourth of July crowds gather at Fort Fetterman to enjoy pioneer-era games, re-enactments and historical tours. The blacksmith demonstrations are always a favorite. Teepee from Dances With Wolves at the Pioneer Museum ACTIVITIES GUIDE 9 DIG FOR DINOSAURS AT THE GLENROCK PALEON MAKE TRACKS FOR THE PALEON called the “Bone Biddies,” volunteer “The Paleon is an unusual place,” said their time to support the professional Scott Persons, University of Alberta paleontologists who manage the museum paleontologist in a January 2016 news and its collections. While the Bone article. “It’s not a big museum, but Biddies are helping prepare museum it doesn’t have to be because it’s got discoveries for exhibit, they become the badlands for a experts on the collections. backyard. The working They love to guide visitors museum has dinosaurs on a tour of the museum, on display, but also sharing their in-depth provides opportunities to knowledge of all things experience paleontology prehistoric. in action.” Persons says before he visited the If you’re looking for a Glenrock Paleon as a hands-on experience, 13-year-old, dinosaurs were just images the Glenrock Paleon offers dinosaur in a book. enthusiasts a unique opportunity to take part in a dig. Inquiries can be made It’s not unusual for the local dinosaur online at DinosaursWyoming.com or by museum and the people who spend their calling the museum at 307-436-2667. time there to spark an interest among The digs are a wonderful opportunity aspiring paleontologists, both young and to create a one-of-a-kind memory with old. A group of women, affectionately your family!
TAKE A TOUR A variety of tours for youths and adults are available at the Glenrock Paleon. Contact the museum to learn more about a special tour.
10 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK Dinosaurs Wyoming.com GLENROCK PALEON 307-436-2667 506 W. Birch (June-August) Tue.-Sat. If you dig dinosaurs, then you’re going to love 11 a.m.-4 p.m. the Glenrock Paleontological Museum. It’s not the biggest dinosaur museum you’ll ever come (September-May) Thursday-Sat. across, but it may be the best. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Adults $5 12-Under FREE
DAUNTING BONE BIDDIES DOOR MAN With an active dig An allosaur, a program in place, carnivore from exhibits at the the Jurassic Glenrock Paleon period, guards frequently grow and the entryway change. Volunteers to the Paleon called the Bone Museum. Biddies guided tours and help prepare the displays.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 11 OUTDOORS EXCITEMENT STARTS HERE
CAMPING AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES SPORTSMEN There’s no finer place to pitch your tent than in beautiful Converse AND WOMEN County! Mountain lovers enjoy the countryside that spans the Laramie Outdoorsmen and women Range south of Douglas and Glenrock. Thousands of acres, as well as are also drawn to the numerous well-maintained campgrounds, are managed by the U.S. county’s abundant wildlife. Forest Service. Converse County is home to elk, antelope, black bear Camping amidst wide-open vistas exists in and numerous smaller the Thunder Basin National Grassland north creatures. Hunting licenses of Douglas. While there aren’t any improved are administered by the campgrounds, camping is allowed. The Forest Wyoming Game and Fish Service has additional information on trails and with additional information prime locations for outdoor recreation. available at wgfd.wyo.gov.
GLENDO STATE PARK Glendo State Park, home to Glendo Reservoir, is just 30 miles from Douglas. There is ample room at the park for camping, fishing, mountain biking and recreation on the water.
12 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK AYRES NATURAL BRIDGE PARK AT 100
By the time members of the 1870 Geological Survey stopped at the site, scores of westbound emigrants had already visited the unique natural bridge southwest of Douglas. But it wasn’t until 1919 — a century ago — that the son of LARAMIE PEAK rancher Alvah Ayres donated the bridge and Laramie Peak, the 150 acres surrounding it to Converse County. highest peak on Converse County’s southern Crafted by the hands of Mother Nature, Natural Bridge, located just south of the PACK A PICNIC horizon, is 10,272 feet Be sure to pack a lunch tall. Pioneers passing Oregon Trail, is one of only three natural bridges in the United States with water when traveling to Natural through the area in the Bridge. It’s a wonderful 1800s used the Peak as beneath. Considered one of Wyoming’s first place for a picnic. a guidepost. Laramie tourist attractions, scenery seekers enjoy this Children enjoy playing Peak was the first “Rocky breathtaking wonder that includes a picnic in the shallow water of Mountain” they saw from area, hiking paths, a sand volleyball court, LaPrele Creek as it flows vantage points as far fishing areas and horseshoe pits. The site is beneath the bridge. away as Scottsbluff, Neb. open April through October.
FISH WITH US! Abundant fishing opportunities exist The U.S. across the county. In addition to the Forest public fishing available on U.S. Forest Service Service property and along the office at North Platte River, guided 2250 E. trips are available. Fishing Richards in Douglas licenses are administered can provide travelers maps by the Wyoming Game and details. They can be and Fish, and available at reached at 307-358-4690 several local retailers. or www.fs.fed.us.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 13 Each August, the Wyoming State Fair is a celebration of all things Wyoming. From the grandstand events to the show ring, year-in and year-out this event provides an outstanding source of education and entertainment.
marks the Wyoming State Fair’s 108th The ranch rodeo is a favorite among fair 2020celebration! Taking center stage in attendees. Cowboys and cowgirls from across the grandstands this year will be a demolition derby Wyoming compete in events that mirror and rodeos. Some of the nation’s top rodeo athletes Wyoming ranch activities. They will be vying for will compete in bronc riding, roping, barrel racing, recognition as Wyoming’s top ranch rodeo team. bull riding and more! Also, visit the grandstands From the bronc riding to the roping, this rodeo during the Fair to see ranch horses at work. keeps spectators on the edge of their seats! ENJOY HORSES, RODEOS AND THE 108th WYOMING STATE FAIR YEAR-ROUND EVENTS The Wyoming State Fairgrounds is a busy place all times of year. With ample arenas and numerous horse stalls, the grounds are a favorite destination among equine enthusiasts. Several horse shows, and a gathering of Wyoming youth enrolled in the 4-H horse program, are just a couple of the events planned for Summer 2020. Event details can be found on the Converse County Tourism Board’s website (ConverseCountyTourism.com) and Facebook page.
14 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK WYStateFair.com WYOMING STATE FAIR 307-358-2398 400 W. Center
Along the midway you’ll find even more action The fair’s closing Saturday is always a community with clowns, a carnival, fair-time cuisine and favorite! Championship shows will be taking abundant entertainment. Amidst the exhibit halls place across the grounds and the Wyoming State and in the livestock show rings, Wyoming’s best Fair parade will wind through the downtown area. will compete for prizes and the top spot in the state show. Wyoming businesses also join the Find us on Download action by providing commercial exhibits. Facebook our App ENJOY HORSES, RODEOS AND THE 108th WYOMING STATE FAIR 2020 Wyoming State Fair Event Highlights Aug. 8 • 5pm – Ranch Rodeo Aug. 12 • 7pm – Octane Addictions Motorsports Aug. 13 • 7pm – Concert, Performer to be announced Aug. 14 • 7pm – PRCA Rodeo Aug. 15 • 7pm – Demolition Derby
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 15 Shutterbugs dream of days filled with good lighting, great content and artistic inspiration. Let’s “snap” our way across Converse County, capturing nature’s beauty, man’s creativity and our nation’s history. PHOTOGRAPH
ESTERBROOK SCENIC CONVERSE COUNTY Our excursion begins in Esterbook, a mountain community nestled near the base of Laramie Peak. If you’re looking to get an early start, consider renting the Whistle Stop Cabin, which provides accommodations for up to eight. GLENROCK We’re off to Glenrock where we’ll enjoy photographing a train bridge built in 1911 and a historic downtown building. Built by the American Bridge Company of New York, the bridge serves as the gateway to Glenrock’s community park. In the downtown area, residents have worked hard to restore the Commerce Block. The building, listed on the National Historic Register, dates back to 1917 when it was built at a cost of $50,000.
PHOTOGRAPHERS APPRECIATE CONVERSE COUNTY! Whether you’re photographing wildlife, The Laramie Range, with scenery, or the perfect wedding, Laramie Peak towering to over Converse County offers unmatched 10,000 feet, is the feature of southern variety. Converse County. Diverse wildlife, mountain streams and a wide variety of Northern Converse County features flora and fauna can be found in this area. the expansive Thunder Basin National Grassland. From the beautiful sage Photographers traveling to both areas grouse to majestic elk, a wide variety can obtain maps at the local office of the of wildlife calls the area home. U.S. Forest Service.
16 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK PHOTOGRAPH SCENIC CONVERSE COUNTY LARAMIE PEAK NATURAL BRIDGE Towering on the horizon at over 10,000 feet, Laramie Natural Bridge is a great location to enjoy Peak provides a spectacular photo backdrop. The flowers photography and a picnic lunch. It is considered in the meadow around Esterbrook add a sprinkling of one of Wyoming’s first tourist attractions, drawing color each summer. Esterbrook Church is a trail weary pioneers seeking reprieve from rigors popular destination among photographers. endured along the Oregon Trail. LaPrele Creek The church’s altar is a large picture flows beneath the rock formation, creating one of window, framing beautiful Laramie only three rock archways in the nation that span Peak. Dating back to the 1940s, water. The angles associated with the natural rock repairs were recently made archway will challenge even the most experienced to the historic church. photographer, but the rewards are breathtaking.
DOUGLAS End the day in Douglas, strolling along the North Platte River. The evening hours provide a chance to capture waterfowl and wildlife as the evening light interacts with the water. Two parking areas, one along Riverbend Drive and the other along West Yellowstone, serve as access points to the pathway.
PLATTE RIVER PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW Area photographers can enter their best work in the annual Platte River Photography Show, a juried event hosted each winter by the local Visitors Center.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 17 In 1934, Douglas taxidermists Ralph and Doug Herrick, through the combination of a jackrabbit and deer antlers, created the first ever jackalope. JACKALOPE’S INCREDIBLE JOURNEY While you are in Douglas remember to visit the Wyoming Pioneer Museum or the local Visitors Center for a FREE Jackalope coin. The coin, a limited edition collectors item, is good for discounts at participating businesses. Complete details at ConverseCountyTourism.com.
JACKALOPE SQUARE South 3rd Street • Douglas The square is ADA-accessible and features a grill, picnic shelters, picnic tables and public restrooms.
JACKALOPE SQUARE Jackalope Square was dedicated on July 10, 1990 in celebration of Wyoming’s Centennial. The Square serves as a gathering point for the community and is home to the world’s largest jackalope (a great photo backdrop) and a gazebo that offers a wonderful place for picnics!
18 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK JACKALOPE’S INCREDIBLE JOURNEY ver 80 years later the legends and lies • It’s only legal to hunt Oassociated with the creature have continually jackalope between sunrise grown and Douglas, Wyoming has earned a solid and sunset on June 31 of reputation as the “Jackalope City.” each year.
Local citizens grasped the moniker with pride, • The first recorded sighting erecting an eight-foot Jackalope in the community of a jackalope was by Roy Ball, an center, fittingly named Jackalope Square. The occasionally sober trapper, who giant jackalope was the largest on record until a staggered into Wyoming territory local resident stood a 13-foot jackalope silhouette around 1829. on a hill outside of town. • Jackalope only mate during On July 10, 1990, citizens across Wyoming held flashes of lightning celebrations for Wyoming’s 100th anniversary common to violent of statehood. Douglas residents chose to thunderstorms. commemorate the occasion by dedicating Jackalope Square in the city’s center. Public restrooms, a • The nocturnal, and quite large, saber tooth jackalope gazebo and an expansive lawn surround the eight- is thought to be the predecessor species to the modern foot jackalope that stands along center street jackalope. on the main route through downtown. Farmers markets, Christmas caroling and more are held • Two of the favorite sports of Douglas residents are in the downtown park. Each June, Jackalope convincing gullible tourists that the jackalope does Square serves as the headquarters for the annual exist and reinforcing the beliefs of those who already Jackalope Days celebration. think the horned rabbit is real.
Guests in the Douglas community are • A member of a famous motorcycle gang once visited encouraged to visit the local Train the Douglas community and told Herrick that he Museum where they can obtain their wanted to catch some of the elusive jackalope very own jackalope hunting license. and begin raising them. Herrick told him that his The licenses are filled with some little timing was a little off and that his visit happened known, and mostly unbelievable, facts to fall at a time when the jackalope had shed their about jackalope. Here are a few of our antlers for the year. You may find the same to be favorites: true during your visit.
GREAT ANNUAL EVENTS Jackalope Square is the site for many great annual events in the Douglas community. Wonderful homegrown HERRICK produce and other products can be JACKALOPE found at the Jackalope Square Farmers One of the original Markets in the summer, and each June Herrick jackalopes Douglas is host to the Jackalope Days can be seen at celebration, which includes a car show, the Wyoming live entertainment, a street dance and Pioneer Museum much more. in Douglas.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 19 isitors to Fort Fetterman — only 11 miles Vnorthwest of Douglas — are encouraged to walk the grounds where interpretive signs tell the story of the fort that was abandoned in 1882.
A restored officer’s quarters and an ordnance warehouse are original buildings. They stand among the many visible foundations of the Fort and Fetterman City. These two buildings house interpretive exhibits and artifacts of the Fort’s history, Fetterman City, and its Indian predecessors. On July 31, 1867, the post was named Fort The visitor is encouraged to walk the interpretive Fetterman in honor of Captain William J. Fetterman, trail where signs describe the historic site and lead to who was killed in a fight with Indians near Fort Phil a gazebo overlooking Crook’s Camp and the Indian Kearny December 21, 1866. country to the north. The site provides several picnic areas and a shelter for group or individual use. During the mid-1870s, Fort Fetterman reached its pinnacle of importance when Fort Fetterman Day is held at the site every July 4, and it became the jumping-off features fun and entertainment for families. place for several major military expeditions. HISTORY Fort Fetterman was established as a military post on July 19, 1867 — due to the hazardous conditions that existed on the Northern Plains at the close of the Civil War. Civilization was advancing across the frontier along the line of the Union Pacific Railroad, and the fort was needed as a major supply point for the army operating against the Indians.
CELEBRATE JULY 4 AT FORT FETTERMAN You won’t regret visiting historic Fort Fettterman this coming July 4 to celebrate the annual Fort Fetterman Day. Enjoy a scrumptious pancake breakfast, a flag raising ceremony, historic demonstrations highlighting Wyoming’s frontier days, fascinating exhibits and much more!
20 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK DISCOVER HISTORIC FORT
ButFETTERMAN with the movement of Native American populations Venture north on Highway 93 to to the Reservations, the Fort was no longer needed. Fort Fetterman to learn more about When the military abandoned the fort in 1882, it the days of the Bozeman Trail. did not die immediately. A an outfitting point for area ranchers and for community grew up wagon trains. The boom was short- at the post and, lived, however, and in 1886, the after 1882, town of Douglas was founded a it was short distance to the south. The old fort, in a state of decay, lost out as a town and declined rapidly. Most of the buildings were sold, dismantled or moved to other locations.
FORT FETTERMAN North of Douglas 307-358-9288 Open Tue.-Sat. during the summer months
For visitor information call the Wyoming Pioneer Museum, which manages the site.
MORE THAN JUST THE HISTORIC FORT! Visitors to the Fort Fetterman State Historic Site will find much more beyond the fort itself of interest. The area features many historic markers and beautiful vistas that add to the richness of the story of Fort Fetterman.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 21 POW CAMP DOUGLAS 115 S. Riverbend Douglas 307-358-9288
Contact the Wyoming Pioneer Museum for more information.
uring World War II, Douglas was home to the spring of 1943 to the winter of 1946. During the Dthe primary prisoner of war (POW) camp for camp’s use it was larger than the town of Douglas. Wyoming. There were 17 satellite camps throughout Wyoming. One prisoner at the camp was quoted saying, “We never had it so good.” For many of the prisoners, it Construction of the camp began early in 1942; the was the first time since being drafted that they had first prisoners to arrive at the camp were 412 Italians clean clothes, a warm bed, good food and health care. on Aug. 28, 1943. The federal government paid Prisoners at the camp ranged from 14 to 80 years old. $23,955 for the land comprising the camp. Total cost for constructing the camp was $1.1 million. The camp was fully self-sufficient with a 150- bed hospital, mess halls, kitchens, a motor pool, a The camp was over a square mile in size and comprised cemetery, a newspaper, a bank and a fire department. of 180 buildings, which housed up to 2,000 Italian and There was a canine corps that patrolled the 3,000 German POWs and 500 army personnel from compound 24 hours a day.
VIDEO PRESENTATION If you make a stop at POW Camp Douglas to learn more about this World War II site, you’ll appreciate the short video presentation that plays regularly in the Officers Club. At just over 10 minutes, the film provides a good overview of the history of the 687-acre camp, which was actually larger than the surrounding town of Douglas.
22 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK EXPERIENCE CAMP DOUGLAS OFFICERS’ CLUB officers’ club, depicting scenes from The only building standing today is the mythical American West and the Officers’ Club, which is now the copying the work of artists William Camp Douglas Officers’ Club State Henry Jackson and Charles Russell: Historic Site. Thanks to a dedicated cowboys, Indians, wagon trains, group of local volunteers and leaders, cattle drives, a stockade fort, and the building is being preserved and more. in 2015 opened to visitors under the management of the Wyoming Pioneer Museum. The murals reveal a vision of the West created by three Italians who had most likely only POW MURALS seen the fabled American West through a train The large murals at POW Camp Douglas, many window as prisoners. The artists are only known of which can be seen in these images, were by their signatures on the 16 murals they created painted directly on the celotex walls of the — V. Finotti, E. Tarquinio and F. DeRossi.
ARTIFACTS ON DISPLAY POW Camp Douglas features a plethora of interesting relics from both the prisoners at the camp and those who guarded them. In addition to the many murals painted by Italian prisoners, many other works of art are on display, as well as military uniforms and equipment.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 23 CONVERSE COUNTY DOUGLAS WATER PARK S.Center Street CityofDouglasWY.com Open 12-5 p.m. during the summer months Also open 6-8 p.m. in July
POW CAMP DOUGLAS WYOMING 115 S. Riverbend • 307-358-9288 PIONEER MUSEUM Wyoming State Find out more on pages 22-23 Fairgrounds 400 W. Center St. 307-358-9288 Labor Day to Memorial Day 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday Winter Months Call or visit us on Facebook Find out more on pages 8-9
RAILROAD MUSEUM DOUGLAS MUNICIPAL JACKALOPE SQUARE GOLF COURSE Corner of Center AND VISITOR CENTER 64 Golf Course Rd. & Third streets 121 Brownfield Rd. • 307-358-2950 307-358-5099 Public restrooms available Jackalope.org DouglasGolfClub.com Find out more on 18-hole course pages 18-19 Find out more on pages 6-7 ADVENTURE ACROSS THE COUNTY! HISTORIC FORT FETTERMAN 752 Wyoming Highway 93 Douglas, Wyo. 307-358-9288 Inquire at the Wyoming LOST SPRINGS, WYOMING Pioneer Museum Hwy. 18/20 between Douglas and Lusk in Douglas regarding visits Trains travel triple tracks through town Antique store • Lost Bar • Post Office • Town Park Find out more on pages 20-21
24 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK QUICK CONVERSE COUNTYLOOK
GLENROCK COMMUNITY GOLF COURSE DEER CREEK MUSEUM 911 Grove St. • 307-436-5560 915 W. Birch • 307-436-2810 Summer hours: 7 a.m.-7p.m. • 9 hole course Memorial Day-Labor Day Five blind spots out of nine, giving this course a Open 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Friday-Tuesday difficulty rating of 31.4 and a slope of 95. Find out more on pages 4-5
ROCK IN THE GLEN GLENROCK PALEONTOLOGICAL MUSEUM Western edge of Glenrock 506 W. Birch • 307-436-5652 • DinosaursWyoming.com A short walking path, which begins Hours: See pages 10-11 in a parking area, leads visitors to Guided digs can be scheduled the topm of the Rock in the Glen Find out more on pages 10-11 Find out more on pages 4-5
WYOMING STATE FAIRGROUNDS ADVENTURE ACROSS THE COUNTY! 400 W. Center • Douglas, Wyo. 307-358-2398 • WYStateFair.com AYRES NATURAL Year-round events BRIDGE PARK Find out more on pages 14-15 208 Natural Bridge Rd. Douglas, Wyo. 307-358-3532 Limited camping Open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. April-October Dogs not allowed Find out more on pages 12-13
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 25 STAY AND DINE IN QUALITY LODGING DOUGLAS Hampton Inn Super 8 Motel Mabuhay 307-358-0707 307-358-6800 307-436-5468 1st Interstate Inn 1738 Muirfield Court 314 N. Russell Ave. 302 West Birch St. 307-358-2833 HamptonInn3.hilton. Super8.com The Higgins Hotel 2349 Richards St. com The Plains Motel (Historic Landmark) 307-358-4484 307-436-9212 Budget Inn Express Holiday Inn Express 628 Richards 416 West Birch St. 307-358-4780 307-358-4500 HigginsHotel.com 2310 E. Richards St. 900 W. Yellowstone Hwy. GLENROCK HiExpress.com BILL Douglas Inn Four Rooms Travelodge & Conference Center Hotel LaBonte on the Corner 307-358-0808 douglasinn (Historic Landmark) 307-436-2244 2522 N. Hwy. 59 conferencecenter.com 307-358-4343 201 S. 4th Travelodge.com 1450 Riverbend Rd. 206 E. Walnut 307-358-9790 HotelLaBonte.com ESTERBROOK Whistle Stop Four Winds Motel Sleep Inn Cabin 307-358-2322 307-358-2777 307-331-4347 615 E. Richards 508 Cortez Dr. Esterbrook 4-WindsMotel.com SleepInn.com Cabin.com
DOUGLAS The Depot GREAT DINING 100 E. Walnut Arbor Cafe at Memorial 307-358-9999 Hospital of Converse County 111 S. 5th St. Domino’s Pizza 307-358-2122 1826 E. Richards 307-624-2020 Arby’s 355 N. Russell Ave. Douglas Community Club 307-358-4400 64 Golf Course Road 307-358-5099 Blend Coffee & Company 813 E. Richards St. Four Seasons Chinese 1020 E. Richards 307-351-2805 307-358-5091
Broken Wheel Truck Stop Friendz Pizzeria 2332 E. Richards St. 120 N. 2nd St. 307-358-4446 307-358-1934
College Inn Bar Grasslands Market 103 N. 2nd 1709 Muirfield Court 307-358-9976 307-358-8020
Deanna’s Waterhole House of Pinz 811 S. 9th St. 116 N. 3rd Street 307-358-9902 307-358-2695
26 DOUGLAS AND GLENROCK CONVERSE STAY AND DINE IN COUNTY COMFORTABLE CAMPING DOUGLAS Riverside RV Park Deer Creek Village Platte River RV & Cabins RV Park & Campground Broken Arrowhead 307-358-1964 307-436-8121 307-262-9768 RV Park 920 Smylie Rd. 302 Millar Ln. 131 Shawnie Ln. 307-351-1637 321 Robin Ln. Wyoming State Memory Bridge RV Fairgrounds Park & Campground Douglas KOA 307-358-2398 307-262-3947 307-358-2164 400 W. Center St. 8 Cottonwood 168 Cold Springs Rd. Lane DouglasKOA.com GLENROCK
Manters Camp LLC Riverbend RV Park 307-351-0627 307-436-3426 1650 Cold Springs Rd. 972 Tank Farm Rd. MantersCamp.com
MORE ONLINE: Discover more about local lodging and dining at ConverseCountyTourism.com
Headstrong Brewery Taco John’s Paisley Restaurant & Bar 126 N. 3rd Street 400 Teton Way 416 W. Birch St. 307-359-8801 307-358-3744 307-436-9212 (Take-out menus available) Village Inn Reid's Red Hots & Cafe LaCosta Mexican Restaurant 206 W. Birch St. 1213 Teton Way 1840 E. Richards St. 708-595-5136 307-358-2449 307-358-5600 Rock Bottom Steakhouse McDonald’s Whistlestop Mercantile 400 West Aspen St. 1090 Yellowstone Hwy. 200 S. 3rd St. 307-436-3413 307-358-9700 307-358-3663 Shoreliner Bar & Grill Pizza Hut GLENROCK 203 W. Birch St. 1830 E. Richards St. 307-436-9011 307-358-3657 Classic Café & Pizza BILL Plains Trading Post 201 S. 4th St. 629 Richards St. 307-436-2244 307-358-4484 Penny’s Diner 3522 N. Hwy. 59 Cowboy State Brewing 307-358-0808 Sapporo Japanese Steakhouse 316 S. Birch St. 206 Walnut St. 307-298-4113 307-797-1224 ORIN JUNCTION Subway Fort Diablo Orin Junction Truck Stop 1119 Yellowstone Hwy. 1136 U.S. Hwy. 87-26-20 75 US Hwy. 18 307-358-6943 307-436-2288 307-358-2870
ACTIVITIES GUIDE 27 N
Hilltop Rd To Casper (50 miles) (50 Casper To
To Fort Fetterman (8 miles)
Wyoming Law
Enforcement
Academy WY 93 on WY 59 Cemetery 2 miles north of
Pioneer WY 93
W Yellowstone Hwy (US 87 Bus) 25 Chalk Buttes Rd To Bill (35 miles)
Area maps areavailable at the Douglas Muirfield Ct
Railroad Museum, 121Railroad Rd. Brownfield WY 59 WY 94 WY Townsend Ct
Douglas
Camp Sweetwater Rd Sweetwater
Sweetwater Ct
Glen Ave Jolley Ave
Horse ► LIMITED EDITION Green River Rd River Green S Riverbend Dr Riverbend S Lone Tree Dr S h
o
Griffith Way
e
Riverbend Dr Riverbend
Northfork Dr Northfork
C
i
r Russell Ave
c
l e Russell Ave Teton Way To Esterbrook (28 miles) (28 Esterbrook To Monroe St
Carver Dr Meadow Ln
Sanford Ave Parkway Wyoming
Eastern Russell Way College Prosperity
ZY Bar Wind River Dr
Sanford Way Monterey Way Wind River Dr
R
i v
e Big Horn Dr r b
Bar-Two Dr e Cortez Dr n
Beverly Dr d Dr Meadowlark C Intermediate t Rider Park S Wind River Dr Angus Loop Elementary Leal St Douglas & Upper AREA MAPS
Flicker St Shoshone Dr Dr Eagle Douglas Bluebird Dr La Prele Dr Swallow St Pearson Rd Middle
School
North Platte River St Richards W Riverside Heritage Trail River Route River Trail Heritage
Park
Fairgrounds
Williamson Wyoming Pioneer RiverbendDr Rd Cowboy
Park State Dr Douglas Railroad Interpretive Museum at Locomotive Park & Visitor Center
W Grove St W Grant St Museum Railroad Pioneer
Cowboy Dr 1st St South Dr Paintbrush Ln
Meadowlark Ln
Jackalope
Clay St
Square
Smylie Rd Housiaux Rd
Twin Bridges Rd Wheelock Rd Center St
Robin Lane
Poplar St Brownfield Rd S 2nd St Walnut St Cedar St
Clay St
Drum St Feather St
Arrow St
Bow St Oak St
Elm St
Sierra Tomahawk Dr Railroad N 4th St S 3rd St
Tepee Ct
Robin Lane
Pine St
Ash St
Chapparal N 5th St Willow Dr Hatchet Dr S 4th St
Poplar St
Antelope Creek Dr
Charles St N 6th St
Osburn Dr
Olds Dr S 5th St N 6th St Kimball St
Hoya Cody St Laramie St
Fetterman St Hilltop Rd Hilltop N 7th St Kearny St S 6th St Washington St Birch St Hamilton St Hobbit Hole N 7th St Erwin St
Caspar Ct Adams St S 7th St Dr Pine Hilltop Ct Irvine Rd N 8th St Park Ln Washington Park Jefferson St S 8th St & Douglas Water Park Douglas Park
Bartling St
Oak Pl N 9th St Clough St Cemetery Bartling S 9th St
Wulff Rd Park
E Wulff Rd E Richards St (US 87 Business) S 10th St
Memorial Hospital of S 11th St Converse County
Golf Course Rd S 12th St
Jackson St Frontier Dr
Village Dr
Douglas Community Club
Harrison St Longview Van Buren St Dr COMMEMORATIVE STICKERS Pl
25 Grant St
Williams St Bring thisbookto thevisitors center orWyoming
Pioneer MuseuminDouglasto receive your free, Sonoma Ave Sonoma
Rec Center Douglas
Green Dr High School
Fairway Dr Fairway Douglas Primary School Madora Ave Madora
East Antelope Rd GET YOUR
To Wheatland (60 miles) Cheyenne St Thanks for visiting Laredo Dr Converse County!
Logsdon Ln Pandera Dr Mesa Dr
Park Dr Durango Dr
Yucca Dr
Adobe Ave Adobe E Richards St (US 87 Business) 87 (US St Richards E Highland Ct
Yuma Dr Cactus Ct County Road 56 Road County limited editionJackalope Stickers!
Fairway Dr
CONVERSE COUNTY TOURISM PO Box 1212 Douglas, WY 82633 ConverseCountyTourism.com Douglas Info. – 307-358-2950 Glenrock Info. – 307-436-5652 FREE