Rediscover the Winds

In this episode, we delve into the complex and controversial opening of Wind River Reservation tribal lands to white settlers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We examine the historical context behind federal land policies, the negotiations and pressures faced by the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes, and the profound consequences of land allotment and sale. We also explore how this period reshaped the landscape...

In this episode, we focus on the history of railroad ties in Fremont County. We explore the story of the birth of the Wyoming Tie and Timber Company. We look at how technology and ingenuity were key to creating successful tie drives down the Wind River. We also discuss the lives of tie hacks who lived out winters in the isolation of the Shoshone National Forest. Additionally, we look at how the tie industry changed over time and ho...

In this episode, we focus on the story of irrigation in Fremont County. We explore how people turned a desert into farmland. We look at the tensions over water rights, how the U.S. government worked to break up tribal lands, and political legislation such as the Dawes, Carey, and Reclamation Acts that all had direct impacts on irrigation. We also tell the story of the birth and subsequent troubles of the Wyoming Central Irrigation ...

Did you know the first airplane flight in the state of Wyoming occurred in Riverton?

In this episode, we tell the story of aviation in Riverton. We look at the early aviators of the 1910s. We explore the Golden Age of Aviation in the 1920s-1930s and look at how individuals used planes for recreation and entertainment. We investigate the impact of World War II on aircraft production and delve into the history of Riverton airport, no...

In this episode, we explore the story of hotels in Riverton. We look at the early hotels of the 1900s and investigate the influx of people to the area. We explore factors that led to this population increase including settlement, job opportunities, and the railroad. Additionally, we look at the growth of tourism to the area, including interest in Yellowstone National Park which greatly contributed to the growth of hotels, and later...

In this episode, we explore the story of historic lodging and the establishment of the Lander Valley and Fremont County. We trace the history of lodging in Wyoming from early stagecoach stops and roadhouses to hotels. We look at the early hotels in Lander and investigate the impact the South Pass Gold Rush had on the development of Fremont County. Further, we explore how interest in Yellowstone National Park was a significant drive...

In this episode, we look at the early hotels and dude ranches as well as the more modern motels and campgrounds. We investigate how the allure of the Old West drove people then and now to Dubois. We explore how interest in Yellowstone National Park, and later Grand Teton National Park, greatly contributed to tourism and a growth of lodging in the area. Further, we look at how hotels also became social hubs for the community with th...

In this episode, we explore the story of Boysen Dam, Reservoir and State Park. We look at how the scenic Wind River Canyon, nestled between the towns of Shoshoni and Thermopolis, is a popular spot for tourists on their way to the National Parks. We explore the story of Asmus Boysen, who built the original dam in the canyon. We investigate the challenges Boysen faced including conflicts with reservation authorities, local people, th...