[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 132 (Thursday, July 31, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S4989]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               100TH ANNIVERSARY OF FORT LARAMIE, WYOMING

  Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise today to celebrate the centennial 
of the town of Fort Laramie, WY.
  The town of Fort Laramie has a remarkable history, serving as a 
gateway to the American West. Located in southeastern Wyoming in Goshen 
County, Fort Laramie sits at the convergence of the Laramie and North 
Platte Rivers. This vibrant Western community is home to 215 residents.
  The history of the area truly highlights Wyoming's Western heritage. 
In 1834, William Sublette and Robert Campbell established Fort William, 
a trading post for fur traders. As the settlement grew in popularity, 
it expanded and attracted other travelers, including emigrants, 
missionaries, and homesteaders.
  From 1841 to 1890, the area served as an important military outpost. 
Renamed Fort Laramie by the U.S. Army, the post played a pivotal role 
during the Westward expansion. The fort served as an integral resource 
for settlers, traders, and the U.S. military throughout the Western 
Territories. As an important stop for people traveling to Oregon, Utah, 
and California, it was the largest and best known military posts on the 
Northern Plains, earning the nickname the ``Grand Old Post.''
  In 1890, the Army decommissioned the fort and sold the land and 
buildings to local residents. In its absence, the settled town of Fort 
Laramie continued to grow. With homesteaders continuing to move into 
the area and the addition of a railroad extension from Cheyenne, Fort 
Laramie became a bustling community. It was officially incorporated in 
1925.
  While the town of Fort Laramie developed independently of the 
military fort, the community recognized the historical significance of 
the site and pushed for its preservation. The State of Wyoming bought 
the land from local residents and donated it back to the Federal 
Government in 1937.
  Today, it is recognized as the Fort Laramie National Historic Site. 
National Park Service employees and volunteers keep the site open year-
round for visitors. Through displays and tours, they document and 
explain the incredible history of people in the area from the years of 
early American Indian inhabitants through the military era. One of its 
largest events, the old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration, features 
costumed re-enactments, kids' activities, and artillery demonstrations.
  Fort Laramie continues to be a small town with big character. Friends 
and neighbors pride themselves on caring for each other. Visitors are 
greeted with Wyoming hospitality while experiencing Main Street's 
authentic charm. The area also offers the opportunity to visit the 
Confluence Trail, the historic U.S. Army iron bridge where the Laramie 
and North Platte Rivers meet and Oregon Trail ruts.
  Today, the Town of Fort Laramie is led by a distinguished group of 
officials, including:

       Ryon Brown, Mayor
       Alicia Tanner, Council Member
       Chris Sachanandani, Council Member
       Jason Curtsinger, Council Member
       Jacob Ellis, Council Member
       Tristica Short, Clerk
       Wai Logan, Treasurer
       Pete Howes, Volunteer Fire Department Chief
       Michael Doan, Emergency Management Coordinator
       Neal Stone, Municipal Judge
       Michael Staiger, Chief of Police

  On August 30, 2025, the town's officials, residents, and visitors 
will celebrate its 100th anniversary. The community festival will 
include a 5K walk/run, children's games and activities, as well as 
plenty of vendors in the heart of downtown. It is a fitting way to 
honor the town's impressive history while celebrating its bright 
future.
  It is an honor to recognize this special anniversary. I applaud the 
community leaders and volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to 
celebrate Fort Laramie's rich Western heritage. What a terrific 
opportunity to share their town and centennial celebration with others. 
Congratulations to the town of Fort Laramie on its 100th anniversary.

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