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Wyoming was the location of the world's first commercial oil well, which was drilled in 1859 near present-day Casper.
About Big Horn County
Big Horn County Timeline
Big Horn County, Wyoming has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was first inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Crow and Shoshone people. These tribes relied on the region's vast resources for hunting, fishing, and gathering.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, European explorers began to venture into the area. The Crow Tribe, known for their expertise in horse breeding, developed a significant trade network with these explorers and fur trappers. This trade helped shape the region's economy and cultural landscape.
In 1869, the completion of the transcontinental railroad brought significant changes to the area. It led to an influx of settlers and the establishment of towns, including Basin and Lovell. These towns became centers of agriculture, mining, and ranching, which contributed to the growth and development of Big Horn County.
During the early 20th century, Big Horn County experienced both prosperity and challenges. The discovery of oil and gas reserves brought economic booms to the region, leading to increased population and infrastructure development. However, the Great Depression of the 1930s greatly impacted the county's economy, causing widespread poverty and unemployment.
Today, Big Horn County is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant communities. It continues to be a place where residents and visitors can explore the area's natural beauty, learn about its history, and enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreational activities.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, European explorers began to venture into the area. The Crow Tribe, known for their expertise in horse breeding, developed a significant trade network with these explorers and fur trappers. This trade helped shape the region's economy and cultural landscape.
In 1869, the completion of the transcontinental railroad brought significant changes to the area. It led to an influx of settlers and the establishment of towns, including Basin and Lovell. These towns became centers of agriculture, mining, and ranching, which contributed to the growth and development of Big Horn County.
During the early 20th century, Big Horn County experienced both prosperity and challenges. The discovery of oil and gas reserves brought economic booms to the region, leading to increased population and infrastructure development. However, the Great Depression of the 1930s greatly impacted the county's economy, causing widespread poverty and unemployment.
Today, Big Horn County is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant communities. It continues to be a place where residents and visitors can explore the area's natural beauty, learn about its history, and enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreational activities.
Big Horn County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Big Horn County, Wyoming.
- 1875 - Big Horn County is established as part of Wyoming Territory.
- 1880 - First post office is established in Basin.
- 1890 - Ranching becomes the primary industry in the area.
- 1901 - The town of Burlington is incorporated.
- 1901 - The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad is completed.
- 1903 - The town of Greybull is established.
- 1909 - Big Horn County Courthouse is built in Basin.
- 1951 - The Yellowtail Dam and Reservoir are completed.
- 1961 - The Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark is designated.
- 2010 - Big Horn County has a population of over 11,000 people.