Wyoming’s Frontier Prison

The number of outlaws in the Wild West required law and order. Rawlins, Wyoming, is home to Wyoming’s first state penitentiary, now known as the Wyoming Frontier Prison. The prison opened in December 1901 with 104 cells, no electricity or running water, and inadequate heating. More cells were added over the years, including solitary confinement, maximum security, and execution “death houses”. Approximately 13,500 people were incarcerated here through 1981, including 11 women – 14 death sentences were carried out through hanging and a gas chamber. You’ll find guided tours, exhibits, a museum, and a gift shop at the prison. What’s more, the Rawlins Interpretive Trail will lead you to the old prison cemetery.