Laramie, mile post 565.4 on the Laramie Sub
Laramie was named in the 1820's by an early trapper by the name of Jacques LaRamee who built a cabin at the junction of the Laramie and Platte Rivers. After he was killed in the area his name was given to Fort Laramie, Laramie Mountain Range, Laramie County, Laramie Peak, Laramie River, and the town of Laramie.
The first permanent settlement in the area was Fort Sanders built in 1866. This fort was constructed two miles south of the present day city of Laramie. In 1868, Red Cloud and his Sioux Nation finally agreed to a peace treaty with the settlers. That same year the Union Pacific Railroad began to travel across Southern Wyoming. The railroad's chief surveyor, General Grenville Dodge, chose the site and name of Laramie. At this time, the city's government began.
The railroad attracted lawless ruffians and scoundrels of all sorts. This was typical of the "end of the tracks" communities along the railroad. By then, the first passenger train came to the Laramie. Yet the city already had 23 saloons, one hotel, and no churches.
The community began to change with the opening of the Wyoming Territorial Prison in 1873. Then came the establishment of the University of Wyoming in 1886. At this time the city's main economy was the railroad, ranching, and the lumber industry. In the future however, the university became its major employer.
Today Laramie,"The Gem City of the Plains", is nestled in the valley between the Snowy Range Mountains and the Laramie Range. With its colorful Western heritage, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and outstanding outdoor recreation, the Laramie area offers a unique flavor that delights visitors from all over the world.
The downtown walking tour will help you trace the history and diversity of Laramie. Both public and private buildings reflect the influences the city received as it grew from an "end of tracks" railroad town in 1868 to the bustling city of today. Many of the buildings have been restored to their original architecture and are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Just for Railfans. There is a pedestrian bridge over the yard that gives you a great spot for photography.
Last Update 07/27/01
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