Entrance. There is a $10 admission, and don’t forget to get your hand stamped. Make sure that stamp has the horseshoe pointing up for good luck.
While I missed the flowers of Saratoga Race Track, Wyoming Downs has it’s mountain backdrop to offer.
It was Legislative Day at the Track honoring those who serve in public office. Governor Mark Gordon, was in attendance along with approximately 3500 others. I introduced myself to the Governor, handsome man, and advocate for racing.
Seems like racing is a family event in Wyoming with many children present.
Relaxing spot for the young ones.
What a hoot this 6 year old was, and he won the race!
More Track Photos..
Clubhouse area
Horses prepping for flight.
And we have a winner.. This female jockey is one to watch, Nakia Ramirez, as is, Jacquelyn Bobroff. Quite frankly, these two gals stole the show on this day.
There are several food vendors, adult beverage spots, and vendors at the Track for your retail pleasure. There is one racing weekend left. Opening is 11:30 a..m., with the first of eleven races beginning at 1 p.m. Wish you luck!
I would be remiss not to bid farewell to Governor Cuomo. While many have slandered, and his deeds concerning, he got US through the Pandemic, and has done amazing things for New York State. New York is a difficult apple to manage, and he with his many years of training by his father was able to transverse the road for over 10 years.
Andy, I am sad to see you go, but am hopeful this departure will bring a new chapter in your life. While Governor you rarely left the state. Dust off that passport, pay off the tribe of 11, and get on with your life. See the world and enjoy yourself. Spend time with your daughters. Hike and ski the Adirondacks, and let it all go. Apologies have been given and move on.
In Evanston, Wyoming, there is a walking park along the Bear River where runners, walkers, and bicyclists partake.
Much of the efforts for this Greenway came from Debbie Smith, who worked tirelessly to develop this nature area. She has since past, at a much too early age.
One of the Bridges over the Bear River is dedicated to Ms. Smith.
Since it was a stellar evening decided to walk the path toward the Bear River State Park.
Beavers are busy at this pond.
More views along the way.
Flowers along the path.
Arrived at Bear River State Park and as the sign says..
And guess who I saw tonight after 5 visits to the Park.
The Elusive Elk
What beautiful creatures and those antlers, there are no words. Here I thought my night perfect only to have another prize cross my path. a moose.
We chatted awhile and as I spoke the Moose watched me as she chewed on greens. Said my farewells to return to my abode only to capture this sunset.
Their brochure states, “abundant wildlife, such as bison and elk, afford rare viewing opportunities, and give visitors a taste of wild Wyoming. ” How true.. Start at the Visitor Center – here helpful folks give tourism information and stop at the museum. Give a donation to the Park.
The Museum
Then drive to the Bison Viewing
There also is an Elk Viewing area, but sorry folks after 3 visits at various times was unable to locate them.
Trails are plenty through the Park and breath taking. Make sure to monitor where you are going when taking in the grandeur as I got lost. Ha! Ha!
What a visit. And if I ever see an Elk will pass it on….
This Fort was developed by President James Buchanan in 1858 after rumors that Mormons were planning to develop their own country in this region. With the development of the Fort the Mormons retreated, and a handshake agreement was established between the two groups. That said, let’s take a look at the Fort.
The Fort was one of the main hubs of westward expansion. Here several hundred soldiers were housed. When the Fort was established William and Mary Carter traveled with the soldiers to develop a trading post on the property.
The Carter Store
Here the Carter’s raised several children and became prosperous selling goods to soldiers, railroad workers, cattlemen, and those traveling westward. Mr. Carter became an influential citizen and a Judge. The family entertained prominent people from President Chester Alan Arthur to Mark Twain, and Jay Gould. Mrs. Carter continued to run the store upon her husband’s demise.
Outbuildings included a school for the Carter children and others.
Their store was a stop on the Pony Express
Fort Bridger
While barracks no longer exist on the property signage designates where the soldiers resided. The Brig survived.
Here soldiers worked 24 hour shifts.
Beds were head down to ensure soldiers would not fall asleep.
The commissary and storage buildings also remain. The Fort museum is in the commissary building.
Homes were developed for officers of the Fort. They remain standing, however, at one point they were dismantled, and sold, but later reassembled and used as hotels.
Parlor
Kitchen
Main Bedroom
Dining Room
One of the buildings on the property was allocated for single officers.
Bedroom
Dining Area
Due to the influx of tourism on the Lincoln Highway motels were built. One remains on the property for visit.
Cars were parked in the open area between the units.
An interior view.
Generator used for electricity.
Bathrooms were primitive.
While these motels are now defunct and replaced by travel trailers the remnants of this era endure.
Found this Lincoln motel in Evanston.
This one has a Spanish motif.
The Lincoln Highway.
The tour is a fun visit for all ages. Tours are given by park staff at 10 and 2.
John Richard Waggener, a 5th generation Wyoming man, recently wrote this book on the building of 1-80 and the history of this 77 mile stretch.
During this hour long talk Mr. Waggener enlighted a group of 40 seniors on the I-80 road development and perils. The idea for the road began in 1956, however, locals fought back fearing loss of their businesses as the road was constructed away from small towns. After much battle the federal government prevailed, and construction of the road began in 1966 with a 1970 opening. Opened October 3, 1970, and closed October 7, 1970, due to snow.
Good came from a bad situation with several innovations born from these challenges. The Wyoming Fence which held back the snow is known and used worldwide.
And for when the road is impassable, a gate closure.
What an upgrade from when some poor soul stood in the road with a sign to warn others to go no further.
Having driven this route found this talk fascinating. All proceeds from the sale of the book go to the Uinta Historical Society. Great Christmas gift for locals and engineers.
What a treasure trove was found on this tour. Let’s start with local history.
The Blyth & Fargo Store was established in 1872 lasted over 100 years. This general store was akin to Walmart’s selling everything for shoppers needs. The store display depicted below shows Jimmy “Scotty” Anderson at work. He was with the store over 49 years retiring at 65, and living to 98.
Display of women’s attire of the era.
World War I and II Exhibit
Uniforms
A note of interest… camouflage began in World War I when the French began a unit of camofleurs. Vehicles and weapons were painted and masked with leaves and netting to disguise these items.
Soldiers back pack and other items
Those interested in the World Wars would find many items to intrigue and learn from. While aware of the women’s efforts on the home front never thought of their actions beyond rolling bandages, and making military artillery. Wasn’t that enough! However, these ladies also made slippers and scarves for those serving. Note the Red Cross directions.
The animals who served was a compelling exhibit. In World War I approximately 1000 horses were transported across the Atlantic to serve with many raised in Wyoming. Over half a million horses were involved in this War. It was the last time in history horses were used.
World War II was the first time dogs served.
More than 50,000 dogs served in World War II. They worked well in chaotic circumstances, delivered messages, and carried gear saving thousands of human lives.
The British implemented explosive rats. Devices with detonators were attached to these animals to carry out sabotage.
A Remarkable Woman- Tribute to Marjorie Stewart Joyner Exhibit
This African American woman created the first hair straightener/curling iron machine. She received a patent in 1928 for her device and was the first African American woman to receive such.
While she never received monetary compensation from her invention, (her employer received the monies), she later went on to develop other products in the hair and cosmetic industry. She was a strong fund raiser and donator for African American scholarships.
Children’s Museum
Kids will love this spot. Could just see them running through the area trying all the exhibits with their parents.
This is a sampling of what is available at the museum. Come see for yourself.
The town of Evanston came to be with the arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad. It was named for a civil engineer of the railroad, James Evans. With water and lumber near it became an easy refueling spot for locomotives. While trains no longer stop here railroad offices remain and the Town has refurbished the area making it a pleasant spot for locals to visit. Many events occur here with Thursday night summer concerts and farmers markets being two of them.
Portable Music Stage
Historic Library Building
Renovated Train Station
And this amazing tribute to the Chinese who helped build the railroad..
You never know what you will find when you travel. What a beautiful garden.
What a fun time. Attended every night. Here’s some of the activities.
The Shows..
A juggler/comedian- juggled knives while on a roller, however, the scariest thing for me was when he asked who was vaccinated. Only 5 raised their hands, and the audience boo’ed us. The County has a 29% vaccination rate.
The Hypnotist
Funny to watch the hypnotized. Gave me an appetite, and…
on to the food vendors – Yum..
Missing a picture of Carl’s rib truck – tasty, as was the sides..
Then the FFA, (Future Farmer’s of America), Building – what talent
Interesting recycle of farm items. What ingenuity!
Future Farmer’s under 10 – Lego construction
Flags made from horseshoes
Another great piece of furniture
A spinning display. There also was a tour of a farm greenhouse off site which I had to miss. May stop by. Growing vegetables in a greenhouse is the future.
Young Retiree Needs a Life 