Wyoming's history is incredibly unique - no other state is defined by their Wild West history like we are. Take time to explore your own backyard and get to know the one-of-a-kind monuments that have been built to commemorate the storied past of the Cowboy State.

1. The Ames Monument, Laramie

Oakes Ames and Oliver Ames, Jr., were both Union Pacific Railroad financiers, and this monument once marked the highest point on the transcontinental railroad. Both Ames brothers were accused of corruption and lost their powerful positions.

2. Sundance Kid, Sundance

Harry Longabaugh's was caught stealing a horse and jailed in the town of Sundance. After his time locked up, Longabaugh joined the Wild Bunch Gang and earned the nickname "Sundance Kid".

3. Buffalo Bill - The Scout, Cody

Buffalo Bill's Center of the West is a world-class museum that's almost impossible to explore in just one day. The first thing you'll notice when you visit is the towering statue of Bill Cody himself, depicting the showman as a young Army scout.

4. The National Museum of Wildlife Art, Jackson

No greater collection of wildlife statues exists than at this incredible museum. You'll find depictions of elk, bison, wolves and more.

5. Independence Rock

Visiting Independence Rock today is like taking a look back in time. This historic site was known as the Register of the West, and thousands of migrants carved their name into the rock when they passed it on the Oregon and California Trails.

6. Esther Hobart Morris, Cheyenne

Esther Hobart Morris was one of the most prominent figures of the suffrage movement in Wyoming, and through her hard work, is known as the "Mother of Woman Suffrage". She was appointed to be Justice of the Peace in South Pass City, in February of 1870.

7. Cowboy and His Horse, Thermopolis

This statue of a pioneer and his quarter horse was crafted by a man from Wheatland, Wyoming. The cowboy is seen sifting dirt through his hands, and the theme of the statue is stated to be "From this soil come the riches of the world."

8. Louisa Swain, Laramie

Louisa Swain made history by becoming the first woman to ever vote in a United States General Election. She voted on the morning of September 6, 1870, in Laramie. Today, her statue is on display outside of the Wyoming House for Historic Women.

If you love learning more about Wyoming history, read 11 Insane Things That Happened In Wyoming You Won’t Find in History Books.