Discover Story

Quaint and quiet

Population: 828 (plus many deer and wild turkeys) (2010 U.S. Census)
Elevation: 5,036 ft.

Diving back into the forest, one may find the cozy comforts of Story, Wyoming. Outdoor options abound in the unincorporated town just 18 miles from Sheridan, including access to the Bighorn National Forest, Story Centennial Park and several historical monuments like the Wagon Box Battle Monument. 

The library, woman’s club and other service-focused organizations open avenues for all ages to get involved in the community.

The Penrose Trail will take you up into the Bighorns on a steep, multi-use dirt path. Down the road, visitors can enjoy the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s Story Fish Hatchery and visitor center, where several species of fish eggs are harvested, raised, sent and released into the wild. 

Several community gatherings invite locals and visitors in for a great bite to eat and laughs with neighbors and new friends. 

Pack a fishing pole or rock-climbing gear and head for the hills and flowing waters, breathing in the fresh mountain air. 

 

HISTORY

Story was first platted by a horse trader named Marshall Wolf, who was going to name the town after himself but was dismayed to find that Wolf, Wyoming already existed nearby. The town was instead named after Charles B. Story, a rancher who was instrumental in getting a post office established – the first building in what had until then been a town made up of only tent structures.

 

MORE ABOUT STORY TODAY

Nestled in the pines between North and South Piney Creeks, this wooded bedroom community has long been a favorite summer retreat of locals and visitors alike. Abundant wildlife and peaceful scenery are a part of everyday life in Story.

Story is home to the Ft. Phil Kearny State Historic Site, site of the Wagon Box Fight and site of the Battle of the Hundred in the Hands. Fort Phil Kearny was built in 1866 as one of three military posts established along the Bozeman Trail, providing a cutoff from the Oregon Trail. It is here on August 2,1867, that a detachment of 32 men and officers under the command of Captain James Powell expected to be massacred by hundreds of Red Cloud’s braves. However, the men had one advantage — they had cover behind a corral of 14 wagon boxes and new rifles which could fire rapidly and repeatedly. Over the eight hours of battle, they were able to repulse the many attacks of Red Cloud’s warriors.

After a visit to Ft. Phil Kearny, grab a meal at the Wagon Box or Tunnel Inn before a trip to the Fish Hatchery, or enjoy a wooded hike from one of the area trails.

 

Content by The Sheridan Press
The Sheridan Press has served Sheridan County, Wyoming, since 1887. The award-winning independent newspaper offers print and online news delivery platforms to the thriving community, which boasts a college; a lively arts, culture, and music scene; a bustling downtown; and many other amenities, including unlimited outdoor recreational opportunities. To subscribe to The Sheridan Press, click here