Deep in the heart of Wyoming, in the town of Douglas, a legendary creature was born—not in the wild, but in a taxidermy shop. The jackalope, a whimsical fusion of a jackrabbit and antelope, has become an enduring symbol of Douglas and a must-see attraction for visitors.
The Origins of the Jackalope
The jackalope’s origins trace back to 1932, when Douglas Herrick (1920–2003) and his brother returned from a jackrabbit hunting trip. As the story goes, Herrick tossed a rabbit carcass into their taxidermy shop, where it landed next to a set of deer antlers. The odd pairing sparked an idea, and soon, the first-ever jackalope mount was crafted.
Their creation quickly gained attention, and the first jackalope was sold for $10 to Roy Ball, who proudly displayed it in Douglas' La Bonte Hotel—though the mount mysteriously disappeared in 1977.
Jackalope Hunting Licenses & the Myth Grows
As the jackalope’s fame spread, Douglas embraced its status as the "Jackalope Capital of the World." The Douglas Chamber of Commerce began issuing Jackalope Hunting Licenses, which remain a popular souvenir among tourists. But be warned—hunting is only allowed on June 31 (a date that doesn’t exist), between midnight and 2 a.m.. To qualify for a license, hunters must have an IQ between 50 and 72, making it an exclusive club for those willing to play along with the town’s playful tradition.
A Jackalope-Sized Celebration
Douglas pays tribute to its mythical mascot every year with the Jackalope Days Celebration, held in early June. This family-friendly event brings the community together for parades, games, and a nod to the quirky creature that put Douglas on the map.
Visitors to Douglas can also marvel at the town’s larger-than-life 8-foot jackalope statue, a perfect photo opportunity for believers and skeptics alike.
Experience the Legend for Yourself
Whether you’re hunting for folklore, looking for unique souvenirs, or just passing through, Douglas, Wyoming, is the ultimate destination for jackalope enthusiasts. Stop by, grab your official hunting license, and celebrate the legend that started right here in Converse County.
