Pine Grove Station Site facts for kids
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Pine Grove Station Site
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| Nearest city | Rawlins, Wyoming |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1862 |
| NRHP reference No. | 78002820 (original) 100006112 (increase) |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 21, 1978 |
| Boundary increase | February 8, 2021 |
The Pine Grove Station Site was a special stopping place on the old Overland Trail in Carbon County, Wyoming. It was built near Bridger's Pass in 1862. This station was a vital spot for travelers, mail carriers, and stagecoaches moving across the American West. Today, nothing remains of the original buildings, but the site is recognized for its history.
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What Was Pine Grove Station?
Pine Grove Station was a "way station" along the Overland Trail. Think of it like a rest stop or a gas station today, but for horses and people in the 1800s. These stations were crucial for long journeys. They offered a place for travelers to rest, eat, and change horses. Mail and supplies could also be dropped off or picked up here.
Building a Stop on the Trail
The Pine Grove Station was built in 1862 by a man named Robert Foote. It cost about $1500 to build, which was a lot of money back then! The station was made of logs and was quite large. It measured about 25 feet (7.6 meters) wide and 60 feet (18.3 meters) long. Next to the main building, there was a corral. This was a fenced area where horses could be kept safely.
A Station's Short Life
Life on the Overland Trail could be dangerous. The Pine Grove Station faced challenges during its time. It was attacked and burned down twice, once in 1865 and again in 1867. These attacks were part of larger conflicts between settlers and Native American groups in the region. After the second burning, the station was not rebuilt. Over time, the remains of the buildings disappeared.
Why Is This Site Important?
Even though nothing is left of the original station, the Pine Grove Station Site is still very important. It reminds us of the brave people who traveled the Overland Trail. It also shows us how challenging life was in the American West during the 1800s. Because of its historical value, the site was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 6, 1978. This means it's recognized as a significant historical place in the United States.
