Over 500,000 immigrants/travelers passed through here to get to their destinations in search of a new life in the mid-1800’s, American history is still alive and well today, tucked away the heart of Wyoming.
Located near Sweet Water, Wyoming, this rare gem is a delight to see and worth traversing the prairies to see it. Thankfully, we don’t have to travel by Schooner or horses anymore–unless your heart so desires!
The placards along the way mark and memoralize the history of Independence Rock, a marker for the Oregon and Mormon trails to traverse the vast and ardous prairies of the wild west. The history, while relatively young by world standards, is a true establishment of American History and how the west was won over the last 2 centuries.
150 years in the making of historyIt’s an archeological site now but the inscriptions of travelers names can still be seenIndependance Rock, Wyoming The “head” of the rock looks like a sleeping dragon. Sweetwater, Wyoming and Independence Rock, carved in stone Independance Rock looks like a sleeping Trex, a landmark passage amongst the Oregon and Mormon Trail
Traversing the country in an SUV is a long trip. It is even more challenging when traveling alone with a goofy dog. Still, it is cheesecake compared to what the pioneers did to settle this country.Fueling up at easy to find gas station (thank you, GPS!) and packing snacks, finding food is a breeze–but for the settlers that came long before me, it wasn’t easy, safe or simple!
We who are, um, more advanced in years recall playing the game “The Oregon Trail.” It had limited graphics. The features went “ping” when a shot was missed at hunting. The game never highlighted the intense journey. It never truly reflected on the scary, long haul it took on body and soul. This was in the quest to cross the nation in search of space, freedom, and expansion.
The history at the Archway Bridge and museum shares the story of the pioneers. It reveals the truth behind their journey, reflecting in the sculptures and museum. There is much more to express, but it’s too much for here. I think you should visit it and see for yourself. I wouldn’t want to spoil a wonderful opportunity. The Buffalo is nice, and the covered wagon is stationary!
The Museum offers some wonderful postcards. It also has a mail depository. You can share the adventures with your friends and family! Another perk, a pressed penny machine (I call them squished pennies as they are elongated in a squished fashion with a cool design imprinted of the location!)
