Wyoming Women’s History House | Laramie

The Wyoming Women’s History House is a museum located in Laramie, Wyoming, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of women in the state.

It is situated within a historic residential structure.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is a two-story Queen Anne style Victorian house constructed primarily of wood. It features a prominent wraparound porch with decorative spindle work. The exterior is painted in a combination of white and a muted green. The roof is gabled with dormer windows.

Location & Access Logistics

The Wyoming Women’s History House is located at 407 Ivinson Avenue in Laramie, Wyoming. This is approximately 0.5km South of the Laramie city center. Parking is available on-street along Ivinson Avenue and surrounding residential streets. The Laramie Intermodal Transit Center, serving local bus routes, is located approximately 1km North.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was built in 1893 for Judge John H. Hayford and his wife, Mary. It was later purchased by the University of Wyoming and served various purposes before being acquired by the Wyoming Women’s History House organization. The architectural style is representative of late 19th-century residential construction in the American West.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exhibits focus on the contributions of Wyoming women in politics, education, arts, and industry. Visitors can view artifacts, photographs, and documents. The house itself is preserved to reflect its historical period. Guided tours are available by appointment.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the first floor. Limited shaded areas are present on the porch. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good within the building. No on-site food vendors are present; options are available in the nearby downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography of the exterior is during daylight hours, particularly in the morning when the East-facing facade receives direct sunlight. The museum is open year-round, with typical operating hours from Tuesday to Saturday. No specific tide or weather conditions are critical for access.

Facts & Legends

The house is known for its association with early women's suffrage movements in Wyoming, which was the first territory in the United States to grant women the right to vote in 1869.

Nearby Landmarks

• University of Wyoming Art Museum (0.8km North)
• Wyoming State Penitentiary (1.2km West)
• Laramie Plains Museum (0.3km North)
• Historic Downtown Laramie (0.5km North)