The history of Kaycee and the surrounding area is the story of the Old West; similarly it includes the exploits and battles of the Indians, trappers, explorers, soldiers, cowboys, and homesteaders. However, it is unique in that so much that is symbolic of Western history occurred in such a small area.
One section of the Sioux Trail
The Powder River area possesses abundant wood, water, and wildlife that were highly valued by native peoples. It was also part of a route used by native peoples to travel north and south along the Rocky Mountains. This route was known as the Sioux Trail, and was used by the earliest white men who traveled through the area. Trappers, exploration parties, missionaries, emigrants to the west, gold-seekers, and the military all passed along this route. It took many years before such travelers would turn into settlers, who were drawn by the same resources and who would develop new ones.
From the Bozeman Trail, the Dull Knife Battle, the Johnson County War, or the Hole in the Wall Fight, the Hoofprints of the Past Museum strives to tell the story of such fascinating local events.
Learn more about our local history: