Cheyenne County, Jefferson Territory facts for kids
Cheyenne County was a special kind of county in a place called the Territory of Jefferson. This territory wasn't officially recognized by the United States government. Cheyenne County existed for a short time, from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.
This county covered an area that is now part of the City of Cheyenne, Wyoming. It was named after the Cheyenne Nation, a group of Native Americans who lived in that region.
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The Story of Cheyenne County
Gold Rush and New Territories
In July 1858, people found gold along the South Platte River in what was then Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory. This exciting discovery started the famous Pike's Peak Gold Rush. Many people rushed to the area, hoping to find their fortune.
However, the miners and settlers felt very far away from the governments of Kansas and Nebraska. They felt their needs weren't being met. So, they decided to create their own government.
Forming the Jefferson Territory
On October 24, 1859, the people living in the mining region voted to form their own territory. They called it the Territory of Jefferson. This new territory was not officially approved by the United States government.
About a month later, on November 28, the leaders of the Jefferson Territory created 12 counties. One of these new counties was Cheyenne County. The others included Arrappahoe County, El Paso County, and Park County.
Where Was Cheyenne County?
When Cheyenne County was created, its leaders described its boundaries. It started near the South Platte River and stretched north to Lodge Pole Creek. It also included parts of the Black Hills and other creeks like the Cache La Poudre. This area was important for the people living there at the time.
The End of Jefferson Territory
The Territory of Jefferson never became an official part of the United States. It was an "extralegal" territory, meaning it existed without federal approval.
On February 28, 1861, the United States government officially created the Territory of Colorado. Later, on July 25, 1868, the Territory of Wyoming was organized. With these new official territories, the unofficial Jefferson Territory and its counties, like Cheyenne County, no longer existed.
