History of the Society
For close to 75 years, the Wyoming Historical Society has been promoting the collection and preservation of Wyoming’s history. An independent, non-profit organization, it has over 1,300 members who reside not only in Wyoming but throughout the United States and the world, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Israel. Since its beginnings in 1953, the Society has also served as a strong advocate for Wyoming’s historical resources.
1895 – 1932
Getting off the ground
The Wyoming Historical Society has had its own growing pangs throughout the years since first being authorized by the Wyoming legislature in 1895. That effort didn’t take hold, and in 1921 the formation of a state historical society was attempted once again. Mrs. Cyrus Beard took the lead, and her efforts led to encouraging membership at $1.00 a year. In 1924 the Society began publishing what is today the Annals of Wyoming: The Wyoming History Journal.
By 1932 Wyoming again was without a statewide organization. Several county historical societies remained active at this time, but it was not until the early 1950s that a stronger effort prevailed.
October 18, 1953
A meeting in Casper
The organization as we know it today was launched thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Lola Homsher. She traveled the state discussing the importance of a Society and encouraged people to participate in an organizational effort. Her work resulted in a meeting held at the Woman’s Club House in Casper on October 18, 1953, attended by more than seventy people from all areas of Wyoming.
The attendees to the first annual meeting selected Frank Bowron of Casper as President of the new Wyoming Historical Society, adopted a constitution and by-laws, and determined its purpose.
To collect and preserve all possible data and materials including historical relics, relating to the history of Wyoming and illustrative of the progress and development of the state; to promote the study and preservation of such data and materials and to encourage in every way possible interest in Wyoming history.
Statement of purpose, adopted 1953
The first chapters
Counties, dues, and a newsletter
Shortly thereafter county chapters began to form, with the Fremont County Historical Society being the first. For dues of $3.50 per year, WHS members received copies of Annals of Wyoming and the Society’s newsletter, Wyoming History News, both published by the department.
In 2021, “state” was dropped from our official name to better promote our independent, non-profit status.
Today
What the Society does now
The WHS encourages quality teaching of Wyoming history in all schools, and is currently developing new grants, programs, and assistance for local history organizations to help with their history education programming, goals, and funding.
It continues to publish Wyoming History News, both printed and digitally; supports historical preservation and the sharing of historical knowledge in all forms; and runs a publications program to assist authors in publishing their works on Wyoming history. Membership in the WHS is open to all who support and enjoy the history of Wyoming through a qualified donation.
1895
First authorized by the legislature
1921
Second attempt, Mrs. Cyrus Beard
1924
Annals of Wyoming begins
1953
Founded in Casper
2021
“State” dropped from the name
Records and research
The Wyoming Historical Society Records were given to the American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, by the Society between 1996 and 2000. See the Guide to WHS Records, 1873–1999 (bulk 1953–1999).
As a non-profit, donor-driven organization, we do not have our own research collections. However, our Executive Board Regional Representatives are excellent first points of contact. They possess a wealth of knowledge and can direct you to the right people and resources in their regions to assist with your historical research.
Where to go next
Contact the Wyoming State Archives
Join the Wyoming Historical Society
