If you wander the high plains of Wyoming and happen upon an old glass soda bottle, take a closer look before discarding it. A bottle stamped with the name Chief Washakie and a distinctive Wyoming product logo is more than a relic; it is a sought‑after piece of regional memorabilia.
History of the Chief Washakie Beverage
The drink originated in the early 1940s and reached its peak production during the 1950s. Bottled in Thermopolis, Wyoming, the beverage was marketed under the Chief Washakie label, honoring the famed Eastern Shoshone leader who played a pivotal role in Hot Springs County history. The Worland Bottling Co., located in nearby Worland, handled much of the production and distribution, sending the bottles across the region.
What the Bottle Looks Like
The collectible bottle is made of clear glass and holds roughly ten ounces of liquid. Its most striking features are the bold red lettering that reads “CHIEF WASHAKIE” and the classic Wyoming product emblem. The design is simple yet unmistakable, making it easy for collectors to identify.
Collector Value and Market
Recent online listings show that a well‑preserved Chief Washakie soda bottle can fetch anywhere from $25 to more than $100 on auction sites such as eBay. The price depends on several factors: overall condition, the specific town variant (Thermopolis versus Worland), and the quality of the paint on the label. Rarer variants in excellent condition command the higher end of that range.
Finding a Bottle
Enthusiasts have reported discovering these bottles in unexpected places. One Facebook user shared a photo of a bottle found while camping in the Thermopolis area, prompting a flurry of comments from fellow collectors. Another user posted a video showing the bottle’s details, helping newcomers verify authenticity.
Why It Matters to Wyoming Heritage
Beyond its monetary value, the Chief Washakie bottle serves as a tangible link to Wyoming’s mid‑century commercial history and to the legacy of Chief Washakie himself—a respected warrior, diplomat, and leader of the Eastern Shoshone Tribe. Preserving and recognizing such artifacts reinforces community pride and highlights the state’s unique cultural tapestry.
Tips for Potential Collectors
- Inspect the glass for chips or cracks; even minor damage can reduce value.
- Check the label for fading or peeling paint; crisp lettering is a strong selling point.
- Research the bottle’s origin—Thermopolis and Worland variants differ slightly in label design.
- Consider joining local collector groups or online forums to stay informed about market trends.
Whether you stumble upon a bottle during a hike, find one at a garage sale, or spot it on an online marketplace, the Chief Washakie soda bottle offers a small but meaningful glimpse into Wyoming’s past. Holding onto such pieces helps keep the story of the state’s early entrepreneurs and its honored Native American leaders alive for future generations.
Original reporting: K2 Radio (Casper) — read the source article.
