Sheridan, Wyoming

Sheridan, Wyoming. Sheridan is a city in and the county seat of Sheridan County, Wyoming, situated in the scenic foothills of the Bighorn Mountains. Founded in 1882 as a railroad town along the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, it was named for Union Army General Philip Sheridan. The city is a regional hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation, known for its historic downtown, the Sheridan Inn, and its proximity to the Bighorn National Forest.

History

The area was historically part of the traditional hunting grounds for the Crow, Cheyenne, and Sioux peoples. Settlement by European Americans accelerated after the establishment of Fort Phil Kearny nearby in 1866, a key post during Red Cloud's War. The modern city was platted in 1882 with the arrival of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, rapidly developing as a supply center for surrounding ranches and coal mining camps like Dietz and Kleenburn. Notable early figures include John B. Kendrick, a cattle baron who became a United States Senator and Governor of Wyoming, and William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, who was a part-owner of the famed Sheridan Inn. The city's growth was further fueled by the Sheridan County seat designation and the development of the Tongue River Railroad.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 10.99 square miles, all land. It lies in the Powder River Basin, at an elevation of approximately 3,743 feet, with the Bighorn Mountains rising dramatically to the west. The Tongue River flows just east of the city, and the area is characterized by high plains and rugged foothills. The climate is classified as semi-arid, with cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers, influenced by its proximity to the Bighorn National Forest.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 18,937. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller populations identifying as Native American, Hispanic or Latino, and other groups. The population has seen steady growth, supported by its diversified economy and quality of life. The city is part of the Sheridan, WY Micropolitan Statistical Area, which encompasses all of Sheridan County.

Economy

Historically centered on ranching, coal mining, and the railroad, Sheridan's economy has diversified significantly. Major employers include Sheridan Memorial Hospital, Sheridan College (part of the Northern Wyoming Community College District), and the Wyoming Department of Corrections at the Wyoming Honor Farm. The energy industry remains important, with activity in the nearby Powder River Basin. The downtown area, part of the Sheridan Downtown Historic District, supports a vibrant mix of retail, professional services, and tourism, bolstered by events like the Sheridan WYO Rodeo and the Big Horn Mountain Festival.

Culture and recreation

The city hosts the acclaimed Sheridan WYO Rodeo, a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event held each July. Cultural institutions include the Brinton Museum, located at the historic Bradford Brinton Memorial & Quarter Circle A Ranch, and the Trail End State Historic Site, the former home of John B. Kendrick. The Sheridan Inn, a National Historic Landmark designed by Thomas Rogers Kimball, is a celebrated local landmark. Outdoor recreation is a major draw, with immediate access to Bighorn National Forest for hiking, fishing, and skiing at Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area. The area is also known for polo, with the Big Horn Equestrian Center being a notable venue.

Government

Sheridan operates under a mayor-council government system. The city is part of Wyoming's at-large congressional district, represented in the United States House of Representatives. Local law enforcement is provided by the Sheridan Police Department, and fire protection by the Sheridan Fire Department. The city government oversees utilities, parks, and infrastructure, working in conjunction with Sheridan County officials on regional matters.