National Register Listing

Bath Row

a.k.a. Theodore Bath Historic District

155, 157, and 159 N. Sixth St. and 611 University Ave., Laramie, WY
The Bath Row historic district includes four buildings that retain integrity. (constructed in 1883). These structures were built by the Bath family, important contributors to Laramie's early settlement period. Known for their fine stone buildings and business activities, the Baths were involved in merchandising, hotel ownership, early ranching, and the construction and rental of housing for railroad workers. This, in a town with a population of only 2,000, makes it easy to understand just how much power they wielded. These buildings are excellent examples of a type, period, and method of construction used in Laramie's early settlement period, which was in large part determined by the Baths who set the standards upon which much of the local building traditions were based. Representing the largest concentration of Bath stone buildings remaining in the city, all four retain integrity of setting, design, location, materials, workmanship, feeling and association. Additionally constructed as rental units for railroad workers, the stone structures are representative of the arrival and continuing influence of the transcontinental railroad in Wyoming. The railroad provided a means of shipping beeves to mid-western markets, brought eastern goods to burgeoning western communities and settlers to the high plains. The presence of permanent railroad facilities and workers insured the growth and prosperity of several communities in southern Wyoming and dramatically influenced the broad patterns of Wyoming's political, cultural and economic history. Though nine houses and a barn were initially constructed, only these four retain integrity and serve to provide a clear example of Laramie's early stone buildings. The others along the row (not included within the boundaries) demonstrate the personal tastes and trends which later became popular and the fate suffered by a vast majority of Laramie's remaining stone buildings.
Local significance of the district:
Exploration/settlement; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The famous geologist and explorer John Wesley Powell led an expedition down the Green and Colorado rivers, which run through Wyoming, in 1869.
Wyoming random facts
Albany County in Wyoming has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Arapaho and Cheyenne tribes, who established their presence in the area long before the arrival of Europeans. These tribes relied on the region's abundant wildlife and water resources for sustenance and trade.

The first European explorers to venture into the area were members of the French Canadian fur trade, who arrived in the early 19th century. However, it was not until the mid-19th century that permanent settlement began to take shape in Albany County. The discovery of gold in the nearby South Pass region attracted miners and fortune-seekers, leading to an influx of settlers into the area.

The establishment of the Overland Trail, a major route for westward migration, further contributed to the growth of Albany County. The county's main town, Laramie, was founded in 1868 as a crucial stop along the Union Pacific Railroad. Laramie quickly developed into a vibrant community with the construction of schools, businesses, and government institutions.

Albany County's history also includes its role in the expansion of higher education in Wyoming. The University of Wyoming, founded in Laramie in 1886, became the state's first institution of higher learning. Today, the university remains a prominent institution and contributes significantly to the county's cultural and economic development.

Over the years, Albany County has evolved from its early mining and railroad roots into a diverse and thriving community. With its natural beauty, rich history, and robust economy, the county continues to attract residents and visitors alike to experience its unique culture and explore the great outdoors.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Albany County, Wyoming.

  • 1868 - Albany County was established on December 16, 1868, by the Dakota Legislature.
  • 1869 - Laramie, the county seat of Albany County, was founded on May 4, 1869.
  • 1870 - The University of Wyoming, the state's only four-year public university, was established in Laramie.
  • 1872 - The Union Pacific Railroad reached Laramie, providing increased transportation and commerce opportunities for Albany County.
  • 1875 - Territorial reform created Wyoming Territory, with Albany County as one of its original five counties.
  • 1886 - The Wyoming Territorial Prison was opened in Laramie, serving as a territorial penitentiary.
  • 1891 - The Wyoming Statehood Act was signed, making Wyoming the 44th state of the United States with Albany County as one of its counties.
  • 1905 - The University of Wyoming moved to its current campus location in Laramie.
  • 1921 - The Grand Encampment Museum was established to preserve the history and heritage of the mining and ranching communities in the area.
  • 1930 - Medicine Bow National Forest was established, providing recreational opportunities and protecting natural resources in Albany County.
  • 1962 - The Albany County Courthouse, an iconic Laramie landmark, was completed.
  • 1978 - The Wyoming Infrared Observatory, an astronomical observatory, was dedicated, enhancing scientific research in the region.