Buford, Wyoming – a tiny settlement that once made headlines for being the nation’s smallest incorporated town, now has an official population of zero. The change follows the sale of the house behind the town’s lone gas station and the departure of the last resident who had lived there for decades.
From One to None
For many years, Buford was known for its single‑person population. Don Sammons, the owner of the town’s only gas station, lived in a small house behind the pumps and declared himself mayor. The town sign proudly displayed a population of “1,” and the story attracted international attention, including a feature by the BBC.
That era ended when Sammons married, moved away, and the property changed hands. The new owner attempted to keep the “one‑person town” narrative alive, but no one was willing to move into the remote location. As a result, the official census now lists Buford’s population as zero.
What Remains in Buford
Although no one officially resides within the town limits, the surrounding area still contains private homes and ranches. Those residences are not counted as part of Buford because they lie outside the town’s legal boundaries.
The gas station continues to operate and remains a popular stop for travelers crossing the state. It often offers the lowest gasoline prices in Wyoming, a distinction it has held for many years. Visitors are encouraged to refuel there, even if they do not need to, as a way to experience the unique atmosphere of the former one‑person town.
Historical Roots
Buford’s origins date back to 1866, when it was established as a military camp and tent settlement during the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad. Over the decades, the town’s population fluctuated, but it never grew beyond a handful of residents. The recent designation of a zero‑population count marks the latest chapter in its long, quiet history.
While the town no longer has any official inhabitants, its legacy endures in the stories of travelers, historians, and the few locals who still pass through the area. The gas station’s sign, the historic building, and the memory of a town that once held the title of America’s smallest community continue to draw curiosity.
Looking Ahead
The property behind the gas station is slated for renovation, and there are plans for new occupants to move in. Whether the town will eventually regain a resident and reclaim a population count remains uncertain. For now, Buford stands as a unique footnote in Wyoming’s rich frontier history—a place where the concept of a town can exist without any people officially calling it home.
Original reporting: K2 Radio (Casper) — read the source article.
