For more than six decades the Sheridan Inn in Sheridan, Wyoming, was home to a dedicated employee known as Miss Kate. Born Catherine B. Arnold, she arrived at the inn in 1901 at age 22 and served in a variety of roles—seamstress, desk clerk, hostess, housekeeper, and caretaker for the inn’s families. Such long‑term service was common in the early 20th‑century hospitality industry, and Miss Kate’s many skills made her an indispensable part of the inn’s daily life.
Final wishes fulfilled inside the walls
When Miss Kate passed away in 1968, she chose a unique final resting place. Rather than a traditional grave, she requested that her cremated remains be placed and sealed within the wall of her third‑floor room. The inn honored her wish, and the sealed ashes have remained there for more than five decades.
Continuing presence reported by staff and guests
Over the years, employees and visitors have reported feeling a lingering presence in the hallway near Miss Kate’s former room. Some claim to have seen a faint figure walking the corridors, while others describe a comforting sense of being watched over. According to local lore, Miss Kate’s spirit is not trapped or confused; she chose to stay where she loved the most—inside the historic inn.
Historical backdrop of the Sheridan Inn
The Sheridan Inn itself is a landmark of Wyoming history. In the early 1900s, Buffalo Bill Cody used the inn’s wraparound porch to stage auditions for his famed Wild West show. The building remains a popular destination for tourists interested in the Old West, and the ghost story adds an extra layer of intrigue for those exploring the site.
Preserving local heritage
Sheridan’s community values its historic sites, and the inn’s management continues to preserve both the physical structure and the stories that give it character. The tale of Miss Kate serves as a reminder of the personal histories that shape local landmarks, reinforcing the town’s connection to its past while offering a unique attraction for visitors.
What visitors can expect
Guests of the Sheridan Inn can still view the third‑floor hallway where Miss Kate’s ashes rest. While the inn does not officially market the ghost story, many travelers seek out the location out of curiosity. The inn’s staff encourages respectful curiosity, noting that the spirit’s presence is a testament to a life spent in devoted service to the community.
Whether one believes in the supernatural or simply appreciates a well‑preserved piece of local history, the story of Miss Kate underscores the deep ties between Sheridan’s residents and the historic places they cherish.
Original reporting: K2 Radio (Casper) — read the source article.
