Historical Markers in
Teton County, Wyoming

11,000 Summers in the Tetons A Changing Landscape A Lake Named Jenny A National Park Takes Root A New Era A Once Vibrant Community A Spiritual Heart in the Park Biscuit Basin Buried Alive Capturing Dudes Capturing Nature in a Box Cascade Canyon Cattle King of Wyoming Cattleman's Bridge Chance Encounter Dick Turpin Earthquake’s Offspring Elijah Nicholas "Uncle Nick" Wilson Elk Antler Arches Elk Migration Excelsior Geyser Explore Teton Country Fault Scarp Fire and Ice Foundations of a Community Fountain Paint Pot From Rancher to Conservationist Gathering Geologic Drama Grand Prismatic Spring: Prism of Light, Spectrum of Life Grand Teton National Park Granite Hot Springs Swimming Pool In The Early Days Jackson Hole Jackson Lake Lodge Jenny Lake John Colter John Colter Leading the Way Life on the Edge Making it Last Meandering Snake Menor’s Ferry Moose Habitat Mount Moran Nez Perce War Potholes Shrinking Teton Glaciers Staying Cool Stephen Leek's Camera Conservation Stephen Tyng Mather Teton County Veterans Memorial Teton Fault Tetons Inspiring Creativity The Art of Making Mountains The Bold Trappers The Cathedral Group The Clubhouse The Crandall Studio The Great Divide The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem The Gros Ventre Slide The Jackson State Bank The Jackson Town Square The Maud Noble Cabin The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar The Park’s First Visitor Area The Square as it appeared in 1936 The Teton Range Trumpeter Swans Valley View Walk Back in Time Walk to the Murie Ranch Water Filter Welcome to Teton Pass What’s in a Name? Wildland Romance Winter Range on the National Elk Refuge Young, Restless, and Still Rising "John Hoback , Guide of Astorians" “Mean and Menor”
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Wyoming random facts
Teton County, Wyoming, located in the western part of the state, has a rich and complex history. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, Blackfeet, and Crow. European explorers, including John Colter and Jim Bridger, arrived in the early 19th century, attracted by the abundance of wildlife and natural beauty. However, it was not until the late 1800s that permanent settlement began.

In 1893, the town of Jackson was established as the county seat of the newly formed Teton County. The area's economy was initially based on fur trading and ranching, but the discovery of gold in nearby South Pass City brought an influx of prospectors hoping to strike it rich. However, the gold rush was short-lived, and Teton County saw little development until the early 20th century.

The construction of the Teton Dam in the 1960s brought significant changes to the county's landscape and economy. The dam generated hydroelectric power and created a reservoir, which provided irrigation for local farms and water for the growing population. However, the dam's tragic failure in 1976 resulted in devastating flooding downstream, causing widespread damage and loss of life.

Today, Teton County is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the majestic Teton Range and Yellowstone National Park drawing millions of visitors each year. The economy has shifted towards tourism and outdoor recreation, with world-class skiing, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The county has also become a destination for affluent residents seeking a picturesque mountain lifestyle, leading to a significant increase in real estate prices and a corresponding affordability challenge for local residents. Despite the changes and challenges, Teton County remains a vibrant place with a diverse history that continues to shape its present and future.

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

  • 1829: Teton County is visited by early fur traders and mountain men.
  • 1872: Yellowstone National Park is established, including parts of Teton County.
  • 1888: Teton County is officially organized.
  • 1916: Grand Teton National Park is established, expanding the protected area in Teton County.
  • 1923: Jackson Lake Dam is completed, creating Jackson Lake Reservoir.
  • 1949: The Jackson Hole Ski Resort opens, becoming a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
  • 1950: The Jackson Hole Airport is constructed, improving transportation accessibility to the county.
  • 1956: The National Elk Refuge is established, providing winter habitat for thousands of elk.
  • 1970: Teton Village is developed, offering luxury accommodations, dining, and recreation facilities.
  • 1997: The National Museum of Wildlife Art opens, showcasing important wildlife art collections.