Casper has a long and storied history, spanning all the way back to prehistoric times. For interested residents and visitors, Casper’s many historic sites provide exciting destinations that allow a visitor a glimpse into the past. Here are our favorite three historic sites that showcase Casper’s incredible history.
Independence Rock
Sitting about 50 miles southwest of Casper is a large mound of granite jutting out of the ground. This landmark was a popular spot for emigrants who were headed west during the beginning days of America. They carved their name into the granite surface, which stands a staggering 136 feet high and spans 24.81 acres. Surrounded on all sides by dramatic landscape, it’s a great place to get a feel for the sacrifice and struggle made by these early settlers who made their way to their new home hundreds of miles away. Check out the many different names carved into the stone surface or just appreciate the richness of history that surrounds you at this picturesque historic site.
Independence Rock is located on Highway 220. Thanks to its enormous size, it’s hard to miss.
Bishop House
The M.L. Bishop House museum was built in 1907 and is on the National Registry of Historic Places. The Bishop family were integral to the development and success of Casper. They established themselves in Casper in the 1890s after M.L. Bishop was appointed postmaster to the burgeoning community. He was also the founder of one of the town’s first religious communities, earning him an even more prominent role in Casper history.
Bishop House remains almost exactly the same as it was when it was constructed and is one of the best ways to step back in time and see how this influential family lived. The Bishops lived in the home for more than 100 years, and it is the only house museum in Casper.
The Bishop House museum is located at 818 E 2nd St. and is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. It’s operated by the Cadoma Foundation.
Tate Museum
The Tate Museum is one of only a handful of geology and paleontology museums in Wyoming and, as such, is a must-visit for visitors wanting to know more about the ancient past. Wyoming played an important role in the Earth’s past, and the museum shows the richness of life that inhabited the area thousands of years ago.
Favorite exhibits at the Tate Museum include Dee the Mammoth, a complete mammoth skeleton dated at over 11,600 years old. There are also over 3,000 fossils and minerals on display. Lectures are held regularly, and the museum staff is very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions!
The Tate Museum is located at 125 College Dr. on the grounds of Casper College; look for the life-size bronze T. Rex outside to find it.
There are many other historic sites in Casper to explore, but these three serve as some of the best introductions to the rich and varied history of the area.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/igboo/1602458243/sizes/l
Image via Flickr by .Larry Page
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