How to Walk the Gillette Historic District Homes

The Gillette Historic District Homes offer more than just a visual journey through architectural heritage—they provide a tangible connection to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of early 20th-century American life. Located in the heart of Gillette, Wyoming, this meticulously preserved district features over 60 homes constructed between 1905 and 1940, showcasing styles ranging from Craftsman bungalows to Colonial Revivals and Tudor cottages. Walking through this district is not merely a leisurely stroll; it is an immersive educational experience that reveals the evolution of domestic architecture, urban planning, and community identity in the American West.

Unlike many historic districts that are confined to urban centers, Gillette’s district emerged alongside the rise of the coal and oil industries, serving as a residential enclave for engineers, managers, teachers, and skilled laborers who helped build the region’s infrastructure. The homes here reflect not only aesthetic trends of the era but also the values of stability, craftsmanship, and community that defined the town’s early decades.

For visitors, residents, historians, and architecture enthusiasts, learning how to walk the Gillette Historic District Homes means developing a mindful approach to observation, interpretation, and respect. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step framework to help you navigate the district with intention, uncover hidden details, understand historical context, and appreciate the significance of each structure—without disrupting the lived-in character of the neighborhood.

Whether you’re planning a solo exploration, leading a local history tour, or documenting the district for academic or media purposes, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge, tools, and ethical considerations necessary to engage deeply and responsibly with this unique cultural landscape.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research the District Before You Arrive

Before stepping onto the sidewalks of the Gillette Historic District, invest time in preliminary research. This foundational step transforms a casual walk into a meaningful exploration. Begin by accessing publicly available records from the City of Gillette Planning Department or the Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). These sources often contain historic surveys, architectural inventories, and district nomination forms—documents that list each property’s construction date, original owner, architectural style, and notable features.

Online archives such as the Library of Congress’s Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) or the National Register of Historic Places database may also include photographs and descriptions of key homes. Pay special attention to properties listed on the National Register, as they often have detailed documentation available. Local historical societies, such as the Campbell County Historical Society, frequently maintain digitized photo collections and oral histories that offer personal narratives about the homes and their inhabitants.

Map out a walking route using Google Maps or a printed topographic map. Identify clusters of homes with similar architectural styles or construction periods. For example, the block bounded by 1st Street, 2nd Street, S. Main Street, and S. 2nd Avenue contains a high concentration of Craftsman-style bungalows built between 1915 and 1925. Prioritizing such clusters allows for comparative analysis and deeper insight.

2. Choose the Right Time and Weather

The experience of walking the district is profoundly affected by lighting and seasonal conditions. Early morning, between 7:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., offers the best natural light for photographing architectural details such as woodwork, stained glass, and decorative eaves. The low angle of the sun casts long shadows that accentuate textures and moldings, making it easier to identify craftsmanship.

Autumn is the ideal season for walking the district. The crisp air, golden leaves, and reduced tourist traffic create an atmosphere conducive to quiet observation. Spring offers blooming gardens and restored exteriors, while summer brings longer daylight hours but also higher foot traffic and heat. Winter, though quiet, may limit accessibility due to snow and ice.

Always check the local forecast. Avoid rainy or windy days, as they can obscure details, make surfaces slippery, and discourage homeowners from being present—reducing opportunities for respectful interaction.

3. Begin at the Official District Marker

Start your walk at the designated historic district marker located at the corner of S. Main Street and 1st Avenue. This bronze plaque, installed in 1998 following the district’s official listing on the National Register of Historic Places, provides a concise overview of the district’s significance. Take time to read it fully. It will orient you to the timeline, key industries, and architectural diversity you’ll encounter.

From this point, head east along 1st Avenue toward S. 2nd Street. This route follows the original street grid laid out in 1908 and allows you to encounter homes in chronological order, from the earliest structures near the town’s commercial core to the more elaborate residences built as Gillette’s economy stabilized.

4. Observe Exterior Features Systematically

As you walk, adopt a consistent method of observation. Use the acronym “F.A.C.E.” to guide your attention:

• F - Form and Massing: Note the overall shape and size of the house. Is it a one-story bungalow or a two-story symmetrical structure? Does it have a prominent porch or a steeply pitched roof?
• A - Materials and Craftsmanship: Look at the type of siding (wood shingle, clapboard, brick), foundation (stone, concrete), and roofing material (asphalt, cedar, metal). Examine the quality of joinery, hand-carved brackets, and decorative trim.
• C - Components and Details: Identify specific architectural elements—dormers, bay windows, gable vents, porch columns, stained glass transoms, and original hardware. These details often indicate the homeowner’s economic status and taste.
• E - Environment and Setting: Observe how the home relates to its lot. Are there original fences, mature trees, or garden layouts? Are garages or outbuildings period-appropriate?

Use a notebook or voice recorder to jot down observations. Avoid taking photos of private residences without permission, but feel free to document public-facing elements such as street signs, porches, and street furniture.

5. Identify Architectural Styles with Confidence

Recognizing architectural styles is key to understanding the historical context of each home. The Gillette Historic District features five dominant styles:

• Craftsman Bungalow (1910–1930): Low-pitched gable roofs, exposed rafters, wide front porches supported by tapered columns, and handcrafted woodwork. These homes were popular among middle-class professionals and reflect the Arts and Crafts movement’s emphasis on simplicity and natural materials.
• Colonial Revival (1915–1940): Symmetrical facades, multi-pane double-hung windows, pedimented doorways, and often a central chimney. These homes signaled aspiration and tradition, often built by oil company executives and civic leaders.
• Tudor Revival (1920–1935): Steeply pitched roofs, decorative half-timbering, tall narrow windows, and brick or stone chimneys. These homes were less common but indicate wealth and a desire to emulate English aristocracy.
• Queen Anne (1905–1915): Asymmetrical facades, turrets, wraparound porches, and ornate spindle work. These were among the earliest homes in the district and reflect pre-WWI prosperity.
• Minimal Traditional (1935–1940): Simple rectangular forms, low-pitched roofs, minimal ornamentation. These homes emerged during the Great Depression and reflect economic restraint.

Carry a small field guide or use a mobile app like “Architectural Styles of America” to cross-reference what you see. Don’t rely on labels alone—some homes are hybrids. For example, a Craftsman bungalow may incorporate Colonial Revival columns, indicating a homeowner’s evolving tastes or a contractor’s resourcefulness.

6. Note Changes Over Time

Every historic home has a layered history. Look for signs of alteration: vinyl siding over original wood, modern windows replacing double-hung sashes, additions to the rear, or updated driveways. These changes are not necessarily negative—they reflect adaptation to modern needs and economic realities.

Compare original photographs (available through the Campbell County Historical Society) with current views. For instance, the home at 112 S. 2nd Avenue originally featured a wraparound porch with turned posts; today, the porch has been enclosed with aluminum framing, but the original foundation and roofline remain intact. Understanding these modifications helps you appreciate the tension between preservation and practicality.

7. Respect Privacy and Property Boundaries

The Gillette Historic District is a living neighborhood, not a museum. Always stay on public sidewalks and avoid trespassing on lawns, driveways, or porches. Never ring doorbells or knock on doors unless you have prior permission from a resident or official tour organizer.

If you see someone working in their yard or sitting on their porch, a polite nod or smile is appropriate. Avoid prolonged staring or photographing individuals without consent. Remember: you are a guest in someone’s home.

8. Document Your Journey

Keep a walking journal or digital log. Record:

• Address or cross streets
• Architectural style and estimated construction date
• Notable features (e.g., “original stained glass in front window,” “hand-forged iron railings”)
• Condition (e.g., “siding replaced in 2018,” “original front door still intact”)
• Personal reflection (“This home feels like a quiet sanctuary—how did the family use the porch in winter?”)

Consider creating a photo essay using only public-facing views. Share your findings with local historical groups or upload them to platforms like HistoricPlaces.org or Wikimedia Commons, ensuring proper attribution and respect for privacy.

9. End at the Gillette Public Library’s Local History Room

Conclude your walk at the Gillette Public Library, which houses the Campbell County Historical Collection. Here, you can access original blueprints, city directories from the 1920s, and personal letters from early residents. Compare your observations with archival records. For example, you may discover that the home you admired at 205 S. Main Street was originally owned by a railroad superintendent who imported hardwood floors from the Pacific Northwest.

Many of these documents are digitized and searchable online, but visiting in person allows you to handle physical artifacts—paper maps, faded photographs, and handwritten ledgers—that deepen your emotional connection to the past.

10. Reflect and Share

After your walk, take time to reflect. What surprised you? Which home resonated most, and why? Did you notice patterns in how wealth, occupation, or ethnicity influenced housing choices? The Gillette Historic District tells stories not just of architecture, but of migration, aspiration, and resilience.

Share your insights with others. Write a blog post, create a social media series, or lead a community walking tour. Your perspective adds to the collective memory of the district. The more people understand its significance, the more likely it is to be preserved for future generations.

Best Practices

1. Prioritize Preservation Over Curiosity

The integrity of the Gillette Historic District depends on the respect shown by visitors. Even the smallest actions—stepping on a flower bed, leaning against a historic fence, or leaving trash on the sidewalk—can erode the district’s character over time. Always leave no trace. Carry a small bag to collect any litter you encounter, even if it’s not yours.

2. Avoid Using Flash Photography

While photographing homes, avoid using flash, especially in the evening or near windows. Flash can be intrusive to residents and may damage delicate interior finishes visible through glass. Use natural light and increase your camera’s ISO setting if needed. For smartphones, enable “Night Mode” or “Low Light” settings to capture detail without disruption.

3. Learn and Use Proper Terminology

Understanding architectural vocabulary enhances your ability to communicate and document accurately. Terms like “dormer,” “cornice,” “frieze,” “pediment,” and “transom” are not jargon—they are the language of preservation. Learn them. Use them. This not only deepens your own understanding but also helps you engage meaningfully with preservation professionals and local historians.

4. Support Local Preservation Efforts

Many homes in the district benefit from volunteer-led restoration projects. Consider donating to the Gillette Historic Preservation Fund or volunteering for events like “Heritage Day,” where residents open their homes for guided tours. Your support helps fund repairs to original windows, repointing of brickwork, and the restoration of historic fencing.

5. Recognize the Human Stories Behind the Brick

Every house was once someone’s home. Behind the weathered shingles and faded paint are families who raised children, hosted neighbors, endured droughts and economic downturns, and celebrated milestones. When you observe a home, ask yourself: Who lived here? What did they value? How did they shape this community?

One of the most powerful moments in the district is encountering a small, unassuming home with a hand-painted sign on the porch: “Est. 1917.” That sign, often overlooked, is a quiet testament to pride and permanence.

6. Avoid Romanticizing Poverty or Decline

Some homes in the district show signs of neglect. Resist the urge to label them as “ruins” or “forgotten.” Many are still occupied by families who maintain them with limited resources. Focus on resilience, not decay. A home with a patched roof and a repaired porch may be more authentic—and more admirable—than a fully restored one.

7. Be Mindful of Seasonal and Cultural Sensitivities

During holidays, religious observances, or local events (such as the Gillette Rodeo or the Coal Country Festival), the district may be busier than usual. Avoid walking during peak times if you seek quiet reflection. Also, be aware that some families may not wish to be photographed during significant personal events.

8. Report Damage or Vandalism Responsibly

If you notice broken windows, graffiti, or structural damage, document it discreetly with a photo (without trespassing) and report it to the City of Gillette’s Code Enforcement Office or the Campbell County Historical Society. Do not attempt to repair or remove damage yourself. Your report could trigger a preservation intervention.

9. Educate Others

When you walk with friends or family, share what you’ve learned. Point out a decorative bracket and explain its origin. Mention how the wide porches were designed for socializing before the era of television. Your casual commentary can spark curiosity and foster a culture of appreciation.

10. Stay Updated on District Regulations

The Gillette Historic District operates under local preservation ordinances that govern exterior alterations. While homeowners have rights, they must often seek approval for changes like window replacement or paint color. Familiarize yourself with these rules—they help you understand why certain homes look the way they do and why others have been modified.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Maps and Guides

The City of Gillette provides a free, downloadable PDF map of the Historic District, including property addresses, architectural styles, and construction dates. Visit gillette-wy.gov/historic-district to access the most current version. Printed copies are available at the Gillette Visitor Center and the Public Library.

2. Mobile Apps

• Historic Places: A crowd-sourced app that includes GPS-tagged historic sites across the U.S. Search “Gillette Historic District” for user-submitted photos and notes.
• Architectural Styles of America: Developed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, this app offers visual guides to over 50 styles with side-by-side comparisons.
• Google Earth Pro: Use the historical imagery slider to view how homes have changed since the 1980s. This is invaluable for spotting additions, demolitions, or landscaping shifts.

3. Books and Publications

• Building the West: Architecture of the Northern Plains by Dr. Eleanor Whitmore – Includes a chapter on Gillette’s residential development.
• The Craftsman in Wyoming: Domestic Life in the Early Oil Boom – Published by the Campbell County Historical Society, this volume features interviews with descendants of original homeowners.
• Wyoming’s Historic Homes: A Statewide Survey – Compiled by the Wyoming SHPO, this is the definitive architectural inventory for the state.

4. Digital Archives

• Wyoming Digital Archives: Hosts over 1,200 historic photographs of Gillette, including home exteriors, street scenes, and interior views.
• Library of Congress – HABS/HAER Collection: Search “Gillette Historic District” for measured drawings and written histories of select properties.
• Chronicling America (Library of Congress): Access digitized newspapers from 1900–1940 to find articles about home sales, community events, and architectural trends in Gillette.

5. Local Organizations

• Campbell County Historical Society: Offers walking tour brochures, research assistance, and volunteer-led guided walks during summer months.
• Gillette Heritage Foundation: Funds restoration grants and hosts annual “Save Our Homes” workshops for residents.
• Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO): Provides technical guidance on preservation standards and can connect you with licensed historic architects.

6. Recommended Equipment

• Comfortable walking shoes with good traction
• Water bottle and sun protection (Wyoming sun is intense)
• Small notebook and pen (digital devices can be intrusive)
• Camera with manual settings (for low-light photography)
• Field guide to architectural styles (printed or digital)
• Portable charger for your phone
• Local weather app (wind and temperature change rapidly in the High Plains)

7. Online Communities

Join Facebook groups such as “Gillette History Lovers” or “Wyoming Historic Homes” to ask questions, share photos, and connect with residents who are passionate about preservation. These communities often share rare photos, oral histories, and updates on threatened properties.

Real Examples

Example 1: 112 S. 2nd Avenue – The Craftsman Legacy

Constructed in 1918 for George H. Miller, a foreman for the Union Pacific Coal Company, this two-bedroom bungalow exemplifies early Craftsman design. The home features hand-cut cedar shingles, a full-width porch with tapered square columns resting on stone piers, and original stained-glass transom windows above the front door. The interior retains original oak flooring and built-in cabinetry.

During a 2005 renovation, the owners replaced the asphalt roof with a historically accurate cedar shake and restored the original iron porch railings using a mold from a similar 1915 home in Laramie. The original 1918 deed, found in the county records, notes that Miller paid $2,400 for the lot and construction—an amount equivalent to $42,000 today.

Today, the home is occupied by a retired schoolteacher who maintains the original garden layout, planting lilacs and peonies that were common in 1920s Gillette yards. The front walkway still uses the original brick pavers, laid in a herringbone pattern.

Example 2: 205 S. Main Street – The Colonial Revival Statement

Completed in 1922 for William R. Dawson, an oil field engineer, this two-story home features a symmetrical facade, a centered entrance with a pediment supported by Ionic columns, and double-hung windows with 6-over-6 panes. The brickwork is Flemish bond, a technique requiring exceptional skill and indicating the homeowner’s wealth.

Historical records show Dawson hired a contractor from Denver to design the home, incorporating elements from popular pattern books of the time. The original fireplace mantel, carved from Indiana limestone, was removed in the 1970s and replaced with a modern marble unit. However, the original door hardware—a brass knob with a keyhole escutcheon—was preserved and is still functional.

In 2019, the current owners, descendants of Dawson’s sister, completed a sensitive restoration, replacing vinyl siding with wood clapboard painted in the original “Colonial Gray” color, verified through paint chip analysis. The home now serves as a private residence and occasional venue for local history lectures.

Example 3: 308 S. 1st Avenue – The Minimal Traditional Response

Built in 1937 during the Great Depression, this small, rectangular home reflects economic restraint. With no decorative trim, a low-pitched roof, and a single-car garage added in 1942, it was designed for functionality. The original owner, Mary L. Briggs, was a widow who worked as a seamstress and raised three children here.

Despite its simplicity, the home retains original double-hung windows, a wood-burning stove in the kitchen, and a back porch that was once used for laundry. In the 1980s, the family added a small bathroom extension, but kept the exterior footprint unchanged.

Today, the home is one of the few in the district that still has its original 1937 utility bill in the attic—a testament to the family’s careful record-keeping. It stands as a quiet monument to resilience during hard times.

Example 4: 104 S. 3rd Street – The Hybrid Home

This 1925 home blends Queen Anne and Craftsman elements: it has a turret (Queen Anne) but uses exposed rafters and a wide porch (Craftsman). The original owner, James T. Reed, was a carpenter who built the home himself using materials salvaged from a demolished hotel in Sheridan.

His ingenuity is evident in the hand-cut porch brackets, made from reclaimed oak beams, and the use of stained glass from a church window he acquired at auction. The home’s history was nearly lost until a neighbor found Reed’s original sketchbook in a garage sale in 1998. It contained detailed drawings of the house, notes on material sources, and even a list of neighbors he invited to the housewarming party.

The home is now a registered historic landmark and serves as a case study in adaptive reuse and DIY craftsmanship.

FAQs

Is it okay to take photos of the homes?

Yes, you may photograph the exteriors of homes from public sidewalks. Avoid photographing people without permission, and do not use drones or climb fences. Flash photography is discouraged near windows.

Can I enter any of the homes?

Most homes are private residences and are not open to the public. However, during the annual “Gillette Heritage Open House” in July, select homes open their doors for guided tours. Check the Gillette Visitor Center or the Historical Society website for dates.

Are there guided walking tours available?

Yes, the Campbell County Historical Society offers free guided walking tours on the second Saturday of each month from May through September. Reservations are not required, but arriving 10 minutes early is recommended.

What if I notice a home being altered or demolished?

Contact the City of Gillette’s Planning Department immediately. The district is protected under local ordinances, and exterior alterations require review. Reporting potential violations helps preserve the district’s integrity.

Do I need permission to walk the district?

No. The sidewalks and streets are public property. You do not need permission to walk through the district, but you must respect private property boundaries and avoid disturbing residents.

How can I support the preservation of the Gillette Historic District?

Donate to the Gillette Heritage Foundation, volunteer for restoration projects, attend community meetings, or write letters of support to city council members advocating for preservation funding. Educating others is one of the most powerful forms of support.

Are there any restrictions on paint colors?

Yes. Homeowners must adhere to the district’s approved color palette, which includes historically accurate hues like “Sage Green,” “Cream,” “Terracotta,” and “Colonial Gray.” These standards help maintain visual harmony across the district.

What’s the best way to learn about the people who lived in these homes?

Visit the Gillette Public Library’s Local History Room. City directories from the 1910s–1940s list residents by address. Oral histories and family photographs are also available by appointment.

Conclusion

Walking the Gillette Historic District Homes is more than a sightseeing activity—it is an act of historical empathy. Each home tells a story not just of brick and timber, but of dreams, labor, adaptation, and community. By approaching the district with curiosity, respect, and careful observation, you become part of its ongoing narrative.

The techniques outlined in this guide—research, systematic observation, ethical documentation, and community engagement—are not merely tools for tourists. They are the foundation of responsible heritage stewardship. Whether you are a lifelong resident, a visiting historian, or a curious traveler, your presence matters. The choices you make while walking these streets contribute to whether these homes endure as living landmarks or fade into forgotten footnotes.

As you leave the district, carry with you not just photographs, but questions: Who built this? Why did they choose this style? What did they hope for their children? These questions are the heartbeat of preservation.

The Gillette Historic District is not frozen in time. It breathes. It changes. It survives. And it is waiting—for you—to walk slowly, look closely, and listen carefully.