Duck Lake Station Site facts for kids

The Duck Lake Station Site was once an important stop along the Overland Trail in Carbon County, Wyoming. Imagine a time before cars and planes, when people traveled across America by horse and wagon! This site, built in 1862, was a place where travelers could rest, get fresh horses, and find supplies.

Duck Lake Station: A Stop on the Overland Trail

The Duck Lake Station was a "way station" on the famous Overland Trail. This trail was a major route for pioneers, stagecoaches, and even the Pony Express. Way stations like Duck Lake were like mini-motels and gas stations of their time. They were crucial for long journeys across the American West.

What Was the Overland Trail?

The Overland Trail was a historic route that connected the eastern United States with the West. It was used by thousands of people heading to places like California and Oregon. Travelers faced many challenges, including harsh weather and long distances. Way stations helped make these difficult journeys possible.

Life at a Way Station

Way stations were usually built about 15 miles (24 km) apart, which was a day's journey for a stagecoach. Larger, more important stations were found every 50 miles (80 km). Duck Lake Station was a simpler kind of stop. It likely had just one room for travelers and staff. Today, only the foundations of the building remain, showing us where it once stood.

Preserving History: The National Register

The Duck Lake Station Site is a special place because it tells us about a very important time in American history. To protect its story, the site was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 6, 1978. This means it's recognized as a significant historical landmark. It helps us remember the brave people who traveled the Overland Trail and the stations that supported them.