National Historic Trails Interpretive Center facts for kids
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| Established | 2002 |
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| Location | 1501 North Poplar Street Casper, Wyoming, United States |
| Type | Interpretive Center |
The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center (NHTIC) is a special place in Casper, Wyoming. It's like a museum that teaches you all about the famous old trails of America. These trails were used by pioneers and explorers long ago. The center is about 11,000 square feet in size. It sits northwest of Casper, right near Interstate 25.
This center is run by a team effort. The Bureau of Land Management, the City of Casper, and the National Historic Trails Center Foundation all work together. You can find cool exhibits, watch videos, and join special events here. The best part is, it's free to visit!
Contents
History of the Center
How the Center Started
The idea for this amazing center in Casper began with a small group of people. They formed a committee to protect and share the history of the trails. This group eventually became a non-profit organization. It was called the National Historic Trails Center Foundation (NHTCF).
Building the Center
In 1992, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) joined forces with the NHTCF. They decided to work together on the project. The BLM promised to pay half of the estimated $10 million cost. The city of Casper also helped by giving 10 acres of land for the center.
In 1994, people in Casper voted for a special tax. This tax helped pay for the center's exhibits. The Wyoming State Legislature also passed a law to help fund the center that same year. By 1997, all the plans for the center were ready. President Bill Clinton signed a bill to support building and running the center.
Opening Day
Construction on the center began on June 21, 1999. It officially opened its doors to visitors on August 9, 2002. Since then, it has been teaching people about the important history of America's trails.
What You Can See: Exhibits
The center has many interesting things to see. It has exhibits that are always there. It also hosts special exhibits that travel from other places.
Permanent Trail Exhibits
The main exhibits focus on four important trails. These trails all pass through Wyoming. They are:
- The Oregon Trail: This trail was used by pioneers traveling west to Oregon.
- The Mormon Pioneer Trail: This trail was used by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They traveled to Utah.
- The California Trail: Many people used this trail to go to California, especially during the Gold Rush.
- The Pony Express Trail: This trail was used by brave riders who delivered mail very quickly across the country.
Remember, it costs nothing to enter the center and explore these exhibits!
More Places to Learn
- Mormon Trail Center at Winter Quarters
- National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
- Oregon-California Trails Association
- List of Registered Historic Places in Wyoming
Online Resources
- National Historic Trails Interpretive Center - official website
