History of Casper, Wyoming The city was initially called Caspar, after Lieutenant Caspar Collins, who oversaw Fort Caspar in 1864 and was killed by the Native Americans in 1865. However, a misspelling of his name in a local newspaper prompted the locals to change the town name to Casper. Officials established the tent town of Casper in June 1888, and settlers began arriving via the Chicago and North-western Railway. This influx of people encouraged the town's occupants to erect more buildings to form the townsite as the population grew. By the 1890s, the oil industry was in full swing after discovering this black gold in the Salt Creek Oil Fields north of Casper, which ushered in the town's oil business. As a result, the city of Casper justly earned its nickname, 'The Oily City.' Casper's economy has relied heavily on the production of oil, natural gasses, manufacturing, mining, and ranching since the turn of the 21st century. However, the main economic dependency is on the service industry in modern times. The late 1970s brought urban renewal to Casper, and in 1988 the development of the Historic Preservation Commission helped preserve the town's history. Authorities consequently listed it as a National Downtown Historic District on October 17, 2016.

We all know that Casper is renowned for its stunning scenery and never-ending outdoor opportunities. But did you know that Casper is also the place to be for year-round arts, food, beer festivals, and cultural events?

Here are a few of the wonderful activities you can do in Casper:

Fremont Canyon: This hidden gem is about four miles from the Pathfinder Dam, a prime fishing location with high rock walls on either side of the river. From kayaking to rock climbing, you can do it all in the splendor of nature.

Nicolaysen Art Museum: Over the 25,000 square feet of galleries, classrooms, and hands-on art studios, you get to experience visual art from the central Rockies and high plains to its fullest.

Scarlow’s Art & Coffee: What better way to relax and unwind than in this beautiful modern gallery? Drink your Illy Coffee with a side order of local and national artwork. Huddled away in downtown Casper, this place should be on your shortlist.