EJE Bridge over Shell Creek

Cty. Rd. CN9-57, Shell, WY
Another truss configuration that received extensive use on Wyoming's highways and roads during the first three decades of this century was the Warren truss. Patented by two British engineers four years after the Pratt truss, the Warren trusses were generally overshadowed by the Pratt variations for vehicular bridges in the state until the 1920s. After that, Warren trusses - almost universally rigid-connected ponies - became the steel bridge of choice for spans in the 50'- 100' range. Like the Pratt design, several variations on the basic Warren configuration can be found among the surveyed bridges. The "pure" Warren truss featured a fairly straightforward design that transferred loads through triangulation of its members, with diagonals alternating between tension and compression and no verticals. Only three of this type exist, about which very little information can be found. A variation features straight top chords with verticals at alternating panel points. Five in this group remain in use in the county road systems, among them the oldest traceable Warren pony. The oldest and the longest for which data is available are included here.
Local significance of the structure:
Engineering; Transportation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

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.
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.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.