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July 28, 2026
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Download official Senate Record PDFReturn to issue contextMr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Wyoming Pioneer Association. For a century, this organization has preserved Wyoming's pioneering spirit and honored the men and women who helped shape our State.
its 100th anniversary at its annual conference in Douglas, WY. This milestone celebrates 100 years of preserving Wyoming's rich heritage and ensuring that future generations remain connected to the State's remarkable past.
when the organization was first established as Wyoming's Old Timer's Association. “Old Timer” membership was reserved for individuals whose contributions helped transform the Wyoming Territory into the State of Wyoming. These soldiers, freighters, cowboys, and stockmen laid the foundation for the Cowboy State.
Timer's Association gathered annually in Douglas. On January 8, 1926, the group was officially incorporated and adopted the name of the Wyoming Pioneer Association. The association's first official meeting took place on September 15, 1926, at Douglas's historic Princess Theater. Under the leadership of its inaugural president John Hunton, the group dedicated itself to preserving Wyoming's pioneer legacy.
on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds to serve as a permanent gathering place. As membership steadily grew, the annual meeting returned to the Princess Theater to accommodate its growing number of members.
In 1956, the Wyoming State Legislature appropriated $100,000 for the construction of the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum. The museum was dedicated on August 31, 1956, at the State fair grounds in Douglas. Today, the museum safeguards thousands of treasured artifacts, including cultural items, historic stagecoaches, and an original taxidermied jackalope. Each item in the collection celebrates a unique chapter of Wyoming's remarkable heritage.
Williams Center next to the Wyoming Pioneer Museum. The center is named after Ruthe James Williams, who was born and raised in Douglas. Upon her passing in 2008, Ruthe generously provided the resources to construct the center. Her legacy was to ensure the association would continue to have a home worthy of its growing membership and enduring mission.
preserved the stories, traditions, and values of Wyoming's Pioneers and trailblazers. Through educational programs, community outreach, and annual events, including its beloved Holiday Cheer at the Pioneer celebration, the association continues to inspire pride in Wyoming's unique heritage. The association's impact does not end with its members. Wyoming Pioneer Museum visitation grew from 4,000 patrons in 2019 to nearly 6,000 in 2022.
be possible without the unwavering dedication of its board. Through countless hours of volunteer service and steadfast commitment, these individuals work tirelessly to sustain Wyoming's cultural legacy for generations to come. The Wyoming Pioneer Association Board includes:
Doug Cooper, President
Rod Cross, 1st Vice President
Robin Cross, Treasurer
Anna Gray, Secretary
Jane Garber, Past President
Rachel Grant
Wesley Hineman
Mike Sanford
Joe Rankin
John Ralph Sullivan
Rita Russell
Tina Willis
Peg Middleton
Bob Vollman
Frank Pexton
Tim Pexton
Crystal Burgett
Shadwick Shakey
Rob Shook
Pioneer Association. This remarkable group has devoted a century to preserving Wyoming's history, honoring those who built our great State, and ensuring their stories endure for future generations. Its commitment to education, preservation, and community service exemplifies the very best of Wyoming's pioneering spirit. Please join me in congratulating the Wyoming Pioneer Association.