Willis House (Grand Encampment, Wyoming) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Willis House
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The Willis House, August 2012
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 Location in Wyoming
Location in the United States
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| Location | 621 Winchell Avenue Encampment, Wyoming United States |
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| Area | 0.4 acres (0.16 ha) |
| Built | 1908 |
| Architect | Ball, Harry |
| Architectural style | Late 19th And Early 20th Century American Movements |
| NRHP reference No. | 01000300 |
| Added to NRHP | March 29, 2001 |
The Willis House is an old and important house in Encampment, Wyoming, United States. It's so special that it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it's recognized for its history and unique features. This house tells a story about the early days of Encampment, especially during a time when many people moved there for mining.
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A Home in a Mining Town
The Willis House was built around 1908. It became home to Lydia M. Willis and her husband, S.L. "Jerry" Willis. Lydia had moved to Wyoming with her children after the American Civil War. They settled in Encampment because it was a busy place.
The Copper Boom in Encampment
Encampment was at the heart of a big "copper mining boom" in the early 1900s. This meant lots of people came to the town hoping to find copper. Miners needed places to live and things to do, so towns like Encampment grew very quickly. The Willis House was built during this exciting time.
Changes Over Time
When the copper mining boom ended, many people left Encampment. The Willis family also moved away sometime after 1916. The house then changed owners many times.
In 1931, a rancher and merchant named Charles Deo Terwilliger bought the house. He had made money selling supplies to miners in other places. Charles and his wife, Laura, bought the Willis House for $800. They turned it into a boarding house, which is like a small hotel, especially for teachers. The house stayed in the Terwilliger family for many years.
A Historic Landmark
Because of its interesting past and connection to the history of Encampment, the Willis House was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 29, 2001. This helps protect the house and reminds everyone of its importance.
