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Crook County, located in northeastern Wyoming, is a region rich in history and natural beauty. From the majestic Black Hills to the rolling prairies, the county is home to several fascinating facts that have contributed to its unique history. Here are seven interesting things you should know about Crook County and its past:
1. Devils Tower National Monument: Devils Tower, located in the northeastern part of the county, is the first national monument in the United States. The monolith is a volcanic rock formation that stands over 1,200 feet tall and is a sacred site for many Native American tribes. The monument attracts thousands of visitors each year and is a popular spot for hikers and rock climbers.
2. Sundance: Crook County is the birthplace of one of the most infamous outlaws in American history, Harry Alonzo Longabaugh, better known as the Sundance Kid. He earned his nickname after being arrested for stealing a horse in Sundance, Wyoming, in 1887. Sundance also became the namesake for the Sundance Kid film and the Sundance Film Festival.
3. Origin of the name: Crook County was named after Brigadier General George Crook, a renowned military figure who fought in the Indian Wars of the late 19th century. Crook gained notoriety for his victories against the Sioux and Cheyenne confederacy and was one of the most respected officers of his time.
4. The Bozeman Trail: In the mid-1860s, the Bozeman Trail was a popular route for gold seekers and settlers heading to Montana. The trail cut through Crook County and the surrounding area and was a frequent target of Native American attacks. The U.S. military eventually built forts along the trail to protect travelers, but tensions between the Native Americans and settlers continued.
5. The Powder River Expedition: In 1865, General Patrick E. Connor led a military campaign against the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes in what became known as the Powder River Expedition. The campaign was a failure, and the Native Americans came out victorious. The Powder River Expedition marked one of the first major battles between the U.S. military and the Plains Indians.
6. The Fossil Butte National Monument: Fossil Butte National Monument, located in Crook County, is home to one of the world's richest fossil deposits from the Eocene Epoch, around 50 million years ago. The site contains a vast array of ancient plant and animal species, including some of the earliest mammals, birds, and fish.
7. The Campbell County War: In the early 1900s, a dispute over the location of the new county seat between Sundance and Moorcroft sparked a heated conflict known as the Campbell County War. The dispute ended with the creation of two separate counties, Crook and Campbell, and the construction of two new courthouses.
In conclusion, Crook County has a rich and colorful history that spans back centuries. From the majestic Devils Tower to the infamous Sundance Kid and the battles between Native Americans and settlers, Crook County's past has contributed to its unique and fascinating character.
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