The West’s History Told Here!
Converse County and the towns of Douglas and Glenrock are full of history to uncover. This historic itinerary will take you back in time to discover an old military fort, pioneer trails and even a World War II POW camp. Let's get started!
Travel Tip: The Wyoming Pioneer Museum offers walking tour information for downtown Douglas and two area cemeteries.
Look no further!Western History Enthusiasts
Camp Douglas
This massive POW camp was constructed to hold captured soldiers from the frontline of the war. During World War II it help prisoners from both Italy and Germany. Today you can still see the old Officers Club and various artifacts representing the lives of those or worked or where held captive at this site. You can view elaborate painted murals and artwork preserved today and depicting images of life in the American West.
Stop One
Wyoming Pioneer Museum
Among the collections you’ll find stories of area cowboy Wild Horse Robbins and his adventures on the range and an outstanding collection of American Indian artifacts. Rodeo contractor Charlie Irwin’s larger than life bib-overalls are always a favorite among children visiting the museum.
Stop Two
Fort Fetterman
Walk the grounds where interpretive signs tell the story of the fort that was abandoned in 1882. A restored officer’s quarters and an ordnance warehouse are original buildings. They stand among the many visible foundations of the Fort and Fetterman City. These two buildings house interpretive exhibits and artifacts of the Fort’s history, Fetterman City, and its Indian predecessors.
Stop Three
Historic Downtown Douglas
Beautiful architecture and rich history can be seen in Douglas’ historic residential area east of the downtown area. Take a drive through town and enjoy homes dating back to the late 1800s. A row of smaller houses, once home to railroad employees, stand along the tracks through town.
Stop Four
Deer Creek Museum
From the emigrant trails to the Pony Express and the telegraph, Glenrock area history is heavily intertwined with key milestones in American history. The Deer Creek Museum archives include old voting records, early building permits, historic maps of the pioneer trails and personal accounts of past events by area residents.
Stop Five
Pioneer Trails
As you make your way across Converse County, keep an eye out for historic trail markers. Five pioneer era trails came through the county including the Oregon, Mormon Pioneer, Pony Express, California and Bozeman trails.
Stop Six