County of laramie

History & Founding

Laramie County, nestled in southeastern Wyoming, owes its existence to the westward expansion of the United States. Established in 1867, it was carved from Albany County and named in honor of Jacques LaRamie, a French fur trapper who explored the region in 1841. LaRamie, along with his companions, Pierre Trudeau and Étienne Provost, were tasked with finding a route to the Sweetwater River. Their journals, detailing their experiences, became crucial for later explorers and settlers. Interestingly, LaRamie’s party was briefly held captive by Native Americans, a testament to the complex and often tense relationship between settlers and indigenous populations during that era. The county’s creation reflected Wyoming’s rapid development as a territory and later a state, playing a vital role in the burgeoning cattle industry and the expansion of the railroad.

Geography & Landscape

The county’s geography is strikingly diverse. Covering 2,686 square miles, it sits on the high plains, gradually rising towards the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The terrain is primarily rolling grasslands, interspersed with cottonwood forests along the Laramie River and Willow Creek. These waterways are crucial for irrigation and provide habitat for wildlife. The climate is characterized by semi-arid conditions, with cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers. Average annual precipitation is relatively low, but significant snowfall contributes to the area's water resources. The dramatic backdrop of the Laramie Range, a subrange of the Rockies, defines the western horizon and contributes to the county’s scenic beauty.

Economy & Communities

The county’s economic landscape is a blend of agriculture, industry, and services. Cheyenne, the county seat and largest city, anchors the region’s urban center. Other significant communities include Pine Bluffs, Torrington, Wheatland, and LaGrange. Agriculture remains important, with cattle ranching and dryland farming (primarily wheat, alfalfa, and hay) contributing to the economy. Cheyenne’s location on the Union Pacific Railroad has fostered significant industrial activity, including manufacturing and distribution. Major employers include the Wyoming Department of Transportation, the Cheyenne Regional Airport, and various manufacturing companies. While Cheyenne has a distinctly urban feel, the surrounding areas retain a more rural character, contributing to a varied and dynamic regional economy.

Points of Interest

Laramie County offers a wealth of attractions for residents and visitors alike. Curt Gowdy State Park, with its reservoir and extensive trail system, is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Historic sites like the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens and the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum provide glimpses into the region’s rich heritage. Cheyenne Frontier Days, a world-renowned rodeo and celebration, draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. The Wyoming State Museum in Cheyenne showcases the state’s history and culture. A unique fact about the county is that Cheyenne served as the capital of Wyoming Territory before becoming the state capital in 1890. The county also boasts a strong arts community, with numerous galleries and performance venues contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.