Hartville, Wyoming, may be small in population—roughly 50 to 60 people today—but it proudly claims the distinction of being the state’s oldest incorporated town. While other settlements sprang up earlier, Hartville was officially incorporated in 1900, giving it the legal status that cements its place in Wyoming history.
Early Settlement and Ancient Roots
The area that would become Hartville was first inhabited by Clovis peoples, and archaeological evidence shows Paleoindian activity as far back as 12,840 to 13,000 years ago, when ancient hunters mined and quarried stone at the site. European‑American settlers arrived in the 1870s, establishing a modest community that served nearby ranches and miners.
How Hartville Got Its Name
The town was named after Colonel Verling K. Hart, an Army officer stationed at Fort Laramie in the 1880s. Colonel Hart and a friend each held a copper mining claim in the area; they settled the naming dispute with a simple coin toss, and Hart’s name prevailed.
Peak and Decline
At the turn of the 20th century, Hartville’s population swelled to 776 residents, reflecting the boom associated with the historic Sunrise iron‑ore mine nearby. As mining activity waned and transportation routes shifted, the town’s numbers gradually declined, leaving the quiet community we see today.
What Remains Today
Visitors to Hartville can still experience a slice of frontier history. The Miners and Stockmen’s Steakhouse & Spirits, billed as the oldest bar and business in Wyoming, offers a classic dining experience and serves as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike. The surrounding landscape—rolling plains and open sky—provides a scenic backdrop for a leisurely drive through eastern Wyoming.
Why Hartville Matters
Beyond its historical claim, Hartville exemplifies the enduring spirit of small‑town America. Its story reflects the perseverance of families and workers who built communities in harsh frontier conditions, a narrative that resonates with traditional family values and the importance of preserving local heritage.
For those interested in Wyoming’s past or simply seeking a quiet stop off the highway, Hartville offers a modest yet meaningful glimpse into the state’s earliest days of organized settlement.
Original reporting: K2 Radio (Casper) — read the source article.
