Fremont County Pioneer Museum and the Museum of the American West
A Step Back in Time
Written By: Sarah Reish
What can I say other than we always enjoy museums and learning more about the history of the surrounding areas we visit. This adventure was no different and the Lander area is rich with history - as is the Wind River Reservation.
Fremont County Pioneer Museum
Our first stop was the FCPM which showcases a stunning look deep into the history of what the pioneers experienced and lived. From their day-to-day lives to the educational system and medical practices of the era - there is even a bank. Each curated gallery or display showcased in stunning detail how things were done and what it would have been like to experience certain elements of life.
A Pioneer in Wyoming
The museum took us into the life of early Wyoming settlers. Children to adults alike we received a look into the lives they lived through the items curated in the museum. We saw their clothing, home-lives, the travel methods. So many items telling the story of how Wyoming was developed into the state it is today.
A Chief in Wyoming
Chief Washakie played a major role in the settling of Wyoming and the upstairs gallery celebrates the man and the role he played. From befriending Jim Bridger to Jim Bridger marrying his daughter. Chief Washakie apposed the war party attacks and was a leader in signing treaties. He even donated land for an episcopal boarding school. Make sure you take the time to visit his gallery and learn more about the role he played in settling the west.
Museum of the American West
This museum is incredible, but go on a nice day. This is an outdoor museum that consists of roughly 10 to 12 historic buildings. These are historic buildings that were moved onto location from right there in the Lander area. Each is set up portraying what a building, home or business, from the era would have looked and functioned like.
The life of a pioneer
From a child attending school, to a mother shopping at the mercantile. A man storing his wagon at the livery then visiting the saloon and trappers cabin. Walking up to each building and stepping inside is a journey back in time, you can almost picture what it was like. This charming museum outdid itself when it comes to creating a memorable experience for its visitors.
Experience the west like never before
If you want to experience the west, then you are in for a treat. Youth are welcome to attend “school”. Coordinate with the museum and your child can attend the school for part of the day, there are even period clothing/costumes they can wear to experience what life would have been like for them, as a child, during the time Wyoming was being settled. The church has even hosted weddings and the small pioneer town has played host to many destination and themed wedding. The livery is massive with wood flooring and makes the perfect area for a reception or the outdoor pavilion for those looking for an outdoor experience.
We did not get to enjoy this part of the museum as it is still winter hours but be sure to watch for the summer schedule for the Native American Indian Dances performed at the MAW site.
Who would enjoy the museums?
Anyone and everyone. If you are looking for an experience and to really understand Wyoming’s history and being settled then stop by these museums. Side-by-side, you can hit to birds with one stone. There is an elevator in the FCPM and the Museum of the American West offers ramps.
The details:
• FCPM
• Open year round
• Mon - Sat 9 am - 5 Pm
• Be sure to follow the rules and take photos only where allowed.
• Museum of the American West
• May 1 - October 31
• Mon - Sat 9 am - 4 pm
• Admission is free but they accept donations
Hit the road
Get out to Lander and explore their amazing museums. Again, they are situated right next to each other so you can visit them both at the same time. Be sure to take photos, where allowed, and post them on social media. Be sure to tag us @LiveWYldMag and use #LiveWYld
