10 Surprising Firsts That Wyoming Can Proudly Claim

When you think of Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Jackson Hole are usually the first things that come to mind. However, many other aspects of Wyoming are just as notable. Interestingly, many of these have had a significant impact on our country. There are so many concepts and things invented in Wyoming that may take you by surprise. Keep reading to discover fascinating moments in Wyoming history – from trailblazing women’s rights to national parks and monuments that shaped the country.

1. Wyoming Opened America’s First Public County Library

Not many people know that the concept of county libraries was invented in Wyoming, but Albany County made history in 1887! The Albany County Public Library became the first county library system in America. Now, we can't imagine life without them. When you visit, be sure to stop by the Albany County Public Library in Laramie, where free parking is available nearby.

2. Wyoming Is Home to America’s First National Park

In 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the act that designated Yellowstone as a national park. It became the nation's first national park. Funny enough, Wyoming didn't become a state until almost 20 years later, in 1890.

3. Wyoming Is Home to the World’s First National Monument

Speaking of wonderful things invented in Wyoming, we're also responsible for the National Monument designation. In 1906, Teddy Roosevelt designated Devils Tower as the world's first national monument. Devils Tower National Monument is about 33 miles northeast of Moorcroft and includes accessible trails and parking for visitors.

4. Wyoming Is Home to the First Business West of the Missouri River

The business was a trading post located at the confluence of the Laramie and North Platte Rivers. This business was a fur trading post established by William Sublette and Robert Campbell. Fort Laramie is now located at this spot, and you can visit to see history preserved. Today, Fort Laramie National Historic Site offers guided tours and paved walkways for easy access.

5. Wyoming Was the First State to Grant Women the Right to Vote

Wyoming granted women the right to vote in 1869. This was done in part to attract more single women to the area because the pioneers were struggling to grow the population way out here on the range. Wyoming's determination to keep women voting is part of what delayed our official declaration of statehood. Learn more about Wyoming’s pioneering women’s suffrage history on the Wyoming State Archives website.

6. Wyoming Is Home to America’s First National Forest

The Shoshone National Forest is located in Cody and was established in 1891. The terrain ranges from meadows to rugged mountains, offering beautiful views along the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway. Visitors can explore nearby Yellowstone’s East Entrance or take a scenic drive through the Beartooth Highway.

7. Wyoming Is Home to the Very First JCPenney Store

James Cash Penney opened the first JCPenney store in Kemmerer in 1902. Today, it is still an operating retail store! The store, located at 722 Center Street in Kemmerer, is open year-round and includes a small museum display.

8. Wyoming Elected the Nation’s First Female Governor

Nellie Tayloe Ross became the first woman governor in the United States. She was the governor of Wyoming from 1925 to 1927. Ross later became the first woman to serve as director of the U.S. Mint, continuing her trailblazing career.

9. Wyoming Is Home to the Nation’s Only Monument Honoring a Prostitute

This monument, built in honor of a prostitute, is located south of Lusk. The memorial, known as the Old Mother FeatherLegs Shepard Monument, was built in 1964. This unique monument recognizes a complex piece of local history and commemorates a woman known for her generosity during the frontier era.

10. Wyoming Is Home to America’s Only Building Made of Dinosaur Bones

Fossil Cabin was built in 1932 and is located near Medicine Bow in Carbon County. This is one of the quirkiest spots in the Cowboy State, and it's so worth a visit. You can find the Fossil Cabin off U.S. Highway 30, with interpretive signs nearby.

How many of these did you already know about? What are some other things invented in Wyoming that we should add to this list? What are some of your favorite things from Wyoming? Let us know via this nomination page.

These incredible concepts, the best Wyoming inventions, and the "firsts" in our state's history are all part of what makes Wyoming an absolutely amazing place to explore. Ready to see these fascinating Wyoming firsts for yourself? Plan your route with the Only In Your State Itinerary Planner and start your Cowboy State adventure today!