Summer Hours: Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sundays 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm
We're proud of the history in Johnson County and like so many communities across the nation, joined in the semiquincentennial celebrations honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States of America's declaration of independence. The Johnson County History Walk and its series of informational signs along Clear Creek are the result of the 2026 efforts.
The Johnson County Semiquincentennial Committee was formed with collaboration and input from the following:
Johnson County Commissioners
The City of Buffalo
Bighorn Kennel Club
Buffalo Senior Center
Hoofprints of the Past Museum
Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum
Johnson County Historical Society
Johnson County Tourism Association
Veterans Home of Wyoming
Each sign along the History Walk has a QR code to access more information about the topic. Those pages can be found below.
Johnson County Resolution No. 744
Creating the Johnson County Semiquincentennial Committee
WHEREAS, on July 4, 1776, the United States of America declared its independence, laying the foundation for the freedoms and liberties we hold dear today; and
WHEREAS, the year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of this monumental occasion,an opportunity to reflect upon our nation's history, honor the sacrifices made by generations past, and celebrate the achievements and shared values that continue to inspire us; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting that the residents of Johnson County come together to commemorate this milestone in a meaningful and memorable manner, engaging citizens of all ages in reflection, education, and community activities that honor our collective heritage; and
WHEREAS, a County Semiquincentennial Committee would be instrumental in coordinating, organizing, and promoting commemorative events, educational programs, and celebrations within Johnson County to highlight our community's role in the nation's history and the ongoing contributions of its residents;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Johnson County Commission hereby establishes the Johnson County Semiquincentennial Committee (the"Committee") for the purpose of planning, coordinating, and organizing activities commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States;and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Committee shall consist of members, appointed by the County Commission, representing an array of community organizations,historical societies, educational institutions, students, civic groups, and other stakeholders to ensure an appropriate, community-wide celebration; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Committee shall have the authority to:
1) Develop a schedule of commemorative events, programs, and activities to beheld throughout Johnson County leading up to and during the year 2026.
2) Collaborate with local, state, and federal organizations to align with other national and regional Semiquincentennial celebrations.
3) Promote educational opportunities and materials to enhance public awareness of American history, with a particular focus on the local contributions of Johnson County residents.
4) Seek grants, partnerships and sponsorships to support Semiquincentennial activities and to ensure community accessibility to events and programs.
5) Provide regular updates to the County Commission and offer recommendations for additional actions to enhance the county's observance of this historic anniversary.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Johnson County Commission supports the Committee's endeavors and encourages all county residents, businesses, and organizations to join in the celebration of our nation's 250th anniversary.
PROCLAIMED this February 18 of 2025, by the Johnson County Commission. With this proclamation, Johnson County proudly takes steps to honor America's Semiquincentennial and celebrate the enduring spirit of freedom,unity, and progress that defines the nation.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
JOHNSON COUNTY, WYOMING
William J. Novotny, III, Chairman
Jeff Shelley, Vice Chairman
Steve Kozisek, Commissioner
Attest:
Jackie Camino, County Clerk
Built in 1909, the front entrance to the museum is a historic Carnegie library building. Originally one of 16 in the state, it was used as the local library until the mid 1980s when the library moved to a new facility. It then became the store and offices of the museum and in 2006 was connected to the museum building.
Wyoming's state flag was designed by a Buffalo resident: Verna Keays. Adopted by the state in 1917, Verna's design features a striking bison image with the great seal of the State of Wyoming emblazoned across its body. The museum houses one of the earliest official flags purchased by the state.
Safeguarding the museum’s collection of horse-drawn vehicles, the Carriage House was added to the property in 1998. The Carriage House is located on the south side of the original museum building.
Located in front of the museum is the Jenkins Family log cabin. The cabin was built in 1916 by Marshall D. Jenkins, north of the town of Kaycee, Wyoming.
In 1925 Jenkins sold his homestead patents, including the cabin, and moved his family to Midwest, Wyoming. In 1982 Polly Jenkins purchased her childhood home and moved it to Story, Wyoming. The log cabin reached its final destination at the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum in 2006 when the family donated the homestead cabin and its contents.
The Crow Tipi, installed during the summer of 2022, is a traditional canvas lodge. Donated by the Birdinground family in honor of Clifford Birdinground, the tipi is representative of those used in the past and today.
To read more about the History and Meaning of the Tipi, visit this link to the Little Bighorn College
The Northern Cheyenne Tipi is a canvas reproduction of a traditional tipi. The colorful and striking modern art featured on the tipi is the work of Lakota artist James Starkey/Defender Eagle. Collaborating with Northern Cheyenne artist Billford Curley, the two men including the water bird as the meeting place of Cheyenne and Lakota warriors. Also depicted is The Girl Who Saved Her Brother and Spotted Wolf.
The Nate Champion statue, created by local Buffalo Artist D. Michael Thomas, was placed by the museum’s entrance in 2009.
Nathan D. Champion is famous for his last stand at the KC Ranch on April 9, 1892 during the Johnson County Cattle War. He was pitted against many well-armed assailants but single-handedly held them at bay before they set fire to the cabin where he was staying. He was shot down as soon as he emerged from the cabin. His defiant seven-hour stand gave the county residents time to halt the Invaders at the TA Ranch.
Copyright © 2024 · Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum - Site by Next Drop Design