Distinctive Destinations

Wyoming Frontier Prison

  • Address 500 West Walnut St.
    Rawlins, Wyoming 82301
  • Hours
    Monday–Thursday
    9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.​
    Monday–Thursday
    1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.​
  • Phone 307-324-4422

Visit Wyoming Frontier Prison

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The 80 year history of Wyoming’s first state penitentiary, now known as the Wyoming Frontier Prison, is as colorful and elaborate as the plot of a classic western movie. The cornerstone of the prison was laid in 1888, but due to funding issues and Wyoming’s notorious weather, the doors wouldn’t open for thirteen years. In December of 1901, the prison opened and consisted of 104 cells (Cell Block A), no electricity or running water, and very inadequate heating.

Throughout the prison’s operation, approximately 13,500 people were incarcerated, including 11 women. Overcrowding was an almost constant concern, and the first of several additions to the penitentiary was completed in 1904, adding 32 cells to the west end of the original cell block (Cell Block A). Women were housed in the prison until 1909. The addition of the second cell block (Cell Block B) in 1950 temporarily relieved the overcrowding, and also included solitary confinement cells, a much more efficient heating system, and hot running water which wouldn’t be installed in the original cell block for another 28 years. A maximum security addition (Cell Block C) was completed in 1966, adding 36 cells and was reserved for serious discipline cases.

The prison used two forms of execution. The first two executions were carried out using the “traveling” Julien Gallows which were used to hang Tom Horn in Cheyenne in 1903. In 1916, the penitentiary completed the addition of a “death house” which consisted of six cells to house inmates on death row, and a unique indoor version of the Julien Gallows. The building also housed the gas chamber when it was chosen to replace hanging as Wyoming’s execution method of choice in 1936. Ultimately 14 death sentences were carried out; nine men were hanged, and five were executed in the gas chamber by the use of hydrocyanic acid gas.

Memorial Day to Labor Day: Open daily with nine tours available each day.

Winter tour hours: Monday–Thursday 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

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