Brooks Lake Lodge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Brooks Lake Lodge
|
|
 Location in Wyoming
Location in the United States
|
|
| Nearest city | Dubois, Wyoming |
|---|---|
| Area | 22.5 acres (9.1 ha) |
| Built | 1922 |
| Architectural style | Bungalow/craftsman, Western Craftsman |
| NRHP reference No. | 82004333 |
| Added to NRHP | September 29, 1982 |
The Brooks Lake Lodge is a historic and beautiful place in Fremont County, Wyoming. It is close to the town of Dubois. This special retreat was built in 1922. It was made to welcome travelers heading to Yellowstone National Park. Many of these visitors came from central Wyoming on U.S. Route 287. The buildings are mostly made of logs. They have a cool style called "Craftsman."
Contents
What is Brooks Lake Lodge Like?
The main building at Brooks Lake Lodge is called the lodge. It's shaped a bit like a cross. The main part is about 97 feet long and 34 feet wide. It has other sections that stick out. Even though it looks like it has two floors, it's actually just one story tall. The roof has a pointed shape, called a gabled roof. It is held up by strong log beams.
Inside the Lodge
Inside the lodge, the biggest room is the dining room. It has a cozy stone fireplace at one end. Right behind it is another fireplace that faces into the lounge area. Around these main spaces, you'll find rooms for guests and other useful areas.
Other Buildings at the Lodge
When it was first built, there were many other buildings. These included guest cabins where people could stay. There was also a gas station, a barn, a stable for horses, and sheds. In 1922, there were 15 guest cabins ready for visitors.
History of Brooks Lake Lodge
The Brooks Lake Hotel was built in 1922. It was part of a plan to offer places for tourists to stay. These tourists were traveling with the Lander-Yellowstone Transportation Company. The hotel was run by the Amoretti Hotel and Camp Company.
The Amoretti Company
Eugene Amoretti was a businessman from Lander. People said he was the first European person born in South Pass City in 1871. The Brooks Lake hotel was one of two hotels Amoretti ran on the road to Yellowstone. The other one was in Moran.
Building and Early Success
The hotel was built very quickly. Construction started in April 1922 and was finished by July 1 of the same year. Back then, it cost $6 per person each day, or $35 for a whole week. The hotel did very well for a few years.
Changes Over Time
By 1926, buses started taking different routes. This meant fewer people stopped at the hotel. So, in 1926, an investor named Jim Gratiot took over. He renamed it the Diamond G Ranch. It became a dude ranch, offering guests a fun Western experience. This new idea worked well for many years, even after World War II. However, business slowed down again in the 1950s. For a while, the Morton Salt Company used it as a fun place for their employees.
Modern Day and Recognition
Today, the property has been updated. It now operates as a fancy resort. Brooks Lake Lodge was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 29, 1982. This means it is recognized as an important historical site.
Recent Events
On July 28, 2019, a fire caused some damage to the lodge. Luckily, the main lodge building was saved. However, the roof and the dining area needed repairs.
