FORT LARAMIE – A setting steeped in history, handmade Victorian ornaments, and a group of children learning about Wyoming’s past all combined this week in a modern tradition – the annual trimming of the tree at Fort Laramie National Historic Site.
While FLNHS’ annual festive invitation to area fourth-graders is a more recent development when compared to the 1884 Post Commissary Building, it has been ongoing for more than 30 years.
“It’s a tradition,” FLNHS Ranger Joe Reasoner said Wednesday morning, as students from Southeast Elementary enjoyed post-decoration cookies and oranges.
Wyoming history is part of the fourth-grade curriculum throughout the state, which is why a class at this level from Goshen County visits the Old Fort every December – and again in May – to learn about the place they call home.
After decorating the tree, students sat on the floor of the Visitors Center and enjoyed snacks and admired their handiwork.
“It was really fun – that we got to decorate the Christmas tree,” KayDee Gladson said.
“I liked how we made the ornaments,” Haylee Ekwall said.
“I enjoyed seeing all the history that was in place … I like seeing the buildings outside,” Sophia Boyden added.
“The kids get to use their creativity,” Reasoner said. “It’s an opportunity to come out and see the historical site in the winter, the off-season, and hopefully, we inspire a curiosity. It’s kind of an introduction to the fort.”
The holiday traditions aren’t finished at FLNHS. Saturday, Dec. 8 the fort will host its annual “Christmas on the Frontier” program beginning at 1 p.m. in the mess room of the historic Cavalry Barracks. The event will feature live music, cowboy poetry, a Pony Express rider, and more.
