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Contact: Casey J. Osback, 307-837-2221 ext. 3011
(Fort Laramie, WY) On Saturday, December 9, 2023, Fort Laramie National Historic Site will host the annual “Christmas on the Frontier” program. This program will highlight the holiday spirit of the 19th century on the grounds of this world-recognized historic site! Festivities begin at 1:00 p.m. and will conclude at 4:00 p.m. The location of the program will be in the 1874 Cavalry Barracks Mess Hall. At 4:00 p.m., Casey Osback, Chief of Interpretation & Visitor Services, will be available to guide visitors through the historic buildings and park grounds. Many of the buildings will have lanterns in the windows to celebrate the holiday spirit!Christmas was a favorite among laundresses, soldiers, officers, and their families. Two Christmas stories highlighted in the book entitled, Regular Army O! Soldiering on the Western Frontier 1865-1891, written by former National Park Service (NPS) Historian and former Fort Laramie NHS employee Douglas C. McChristian, are of special note: “I never saw more Xmas giving than there has been here [Fort Washakie]. The men have bought without limit. The Thomas children were loaded with beautiful things by the men of their father’s company and laundress children too had no end of things.” Another story that is truly reflective of the Christmas spirit is linked to the history of Fort Robinson: “Two members from Robinson [Fort Robinson, Nebraska] drove a wagon some one hundred and twenty-five miles to Sidney [Fort Sidney, Nebraska], the nearest rail connection, to take delivery of Christmas goods. During the return trip, however, the men encountered a blizzard that drove temperatures to nearly forty degrees below zero. Nevertheless, the two soldiers persevered in their mission, managing to return safely with the gifts to please the children on Christmas Eve.”
As in years past, we are looking forward to our local musicians playing their music at the Grand Old Post on the Laramie! This year, we are excited to have students from Trail Elementary joining us to sing Christmas songs! Additional musicians include the Wyo-Ring Handbell Choir and Torrington Fiddlers Association. Refreshments will be provided in the visitor center by the Fort Laramie Historical Association (FLHA) throughout the event. In addition, nearly every item in the bookstore and gift shop will be discounted 20% off the regular price. This is a great opportunity to purchase those perfect Christmas gifts for friends and family! Join us for this fun-filled family event!
Admission to the park is free.
Last updated: November 4, 2023