Shelburne Museum | Burlington VT

The Wyoming Frontier Prison is a former state penitentiary located in Rawlins, Wyoming. It operated from 1901 to 1981.

Visual Characteristics

The prison is constructed primarily from locally quarried sandstone, giving it a rough, grey appearance. The main cell block is a long, rectangular structure with multiple stories. It features numerous small, barred windows. The overall architectural style is utilitarian and imposing, characteristic of early 20th-century penal institutions.

Location & Access Logistics

The Wyoming Frontier Prison is situated at 500 West Walnut Street in Rawlins, Wyoming. It is approximately 1 mile west of the Rawlins city center. Access is via West Walnut Street, which is a paved road. Ample parking is available on-site. No public transport directly serves the prison; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Wyoming Frontier Prison began in 1888, but it did not open until 1901. It was built to house the state's growing inmate population. The original purpose was to serve as the primary correctional facility for Wyoming. The sandstone used in its construction was sourced from a quarry located near the site.

Key Highlights & Activities

Guided tours of the prison are available, detailing its history and former operations. Visitors can walk through the cell blocks, administrative areas, and the solitary confinement wing. Photography is permitted within designated areas during tours.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shade is present in outdoor waiting areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located within the prison grounds; visitors should plan to bring their own food or dine in Rawlins.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is mid-morning or late afternoon when the sun casts longer shadows on the sandstone walls. The best months for visiting are from May through October, offering milder weather conditions. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A persistent local legend claims that the ghost of a former inmate named "Big Ed" can be seen wandering the cell blocks. While unverified, the story contributes to the site's atmosphere. The prison was known for its harsh conditions and served as a maximum-security facility for much of its operational history.

Nearby Landmarks

• Carbon County Historical Museum (0.8km East)
• Lincoln Park (1.2km Southeast)
• Rawlins Public Library (1.5km East)
• Union Pacific Depot (1.8km East)