Founding of Laramie
Laramie was founded in the mid-19th century during the westward expansion of the United States. In 1868, the Union Pacific Railroad established a stop here, naming it after Jacques La Ramee, a French-Canadian trapper who was believed to have been killed by Native Americans in the area. The city quickly grew around the railroad, becoming a vital hub for transportation and commerce.
The Wyoming Territorial Prison
Established in 1872, the Wyoming Territorial Prison in Laramie is one of the region's most significant historical sites. It housed some of the most notorious outlaws of the Old West, including Butch Cassidy. Today, the prison stands as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the harsh realities of 19th-century prison life.
The University of Wyoming
Founded in 1886, the University of Wyoming is a cornerstone of Laramie's cultural and educational landscape. As the state's only four-year institution, it has played a critical role in the development of Wyoming's higher education system. The university's historic Old Main building, constructed in 1887, remains a prominent landmark.
The Laramie Plains
The expansive Laramie Plains surround the city, offering a rich history of Native American habitation, early ranching, and agricultural development. This area was crucial for the survival and prosperity of early settlers who utilized the fertile land for farming and livestock.
The Laramie Boomerang
Founded in 1881 by journalist and adventurer Edgar Wilson 'Bill' Nye, The Laramie Boomerang is one of the earliest newspapers in the region. It has chronicled the evolution of Laramie and Wyoming for over a century, serving as an essential record of local and state history.
The Snowy Range
Just west of Laramie lies the Snowy Range, part of the Medicine Bow Mountains. This area is historically significant for its mining activities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as its importance to the indigenous peoples who lived in and traveled through the region. Today, it is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, and fishing.
The Women's Suffrage Movement
Laramie holds a special place in the history of women's suffrage in the United States. In 1870, Louisa Swain of Laramie became the first woman in the world to cast a ballot under laws giving women full voting rights, following Wyoming's historic decision to grant women the right to vote.
The Laramie Project
The tragic murder of Matthew Shepard in 1998 brought international attention to Laramie. Shepard, a gay University of Wyoming student, was brutally attacked and left to die. His death led to widespread activism against hate crimes and inspired 'The Laramie Project,' a play and later a film that documents the reactions of Laramie residents to the tragedy and its aftermath.