Community Overview

Exploring Our Community

Douglas, Wyoming, is a charming and picturesque city located in the central part of the state, offering a blend of small-town warmth and breathtaking natural beauty. As you approach Douglas by air or road, you’ll be greeted by the expansive plains and rolling hills characteristic of Wyoming’s high desert landscape. The North Platte River, which runs through the city, provides a serene backdrop, while nearby natural landmarks such as the Medicine Bow National Forest and the Laramie Mountains offer opportunities for outdoor adventures just a short drive away.

Douglas is part of Converse County, known for its vast open spaces, ranching heritage, and proximity to some of Wyoming’s most beautiful landscapes. The city is located within driving distance of the state’s capital, Cheyenne, and Casper, the state's second-largest city. This makes Douglas an ideal location for those seeking a quieter lifestyle while maintaining easy access to larger urban centers for additional amenities.

Douglas is perhaps best known for its role in Wyoming’s energy industry, particularly in coal, oil, and gas production. The city has also gained national recognition for its annual Wyoming State Fair, which attracts visitors from all over the state and beyond. The fair showcases Wyoming’s agricultural and ranching traditions, featuring rodeos, livestock shows, and concerts that highlight the region’s deep-rooted culture.

The climate in Douglas is typical of Wyoming's semi-arid environment, with cold winters and warm, sunny summers. The area enjoys about 220 days of sunshine per year, providing residents with ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities throughout all four seasons.

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History Unveiled: A Journey Through Time

Douglas, Wyoming, has a rich and storied history that reflects the development of the American West. Founded in 1886 as a railroad town during the expansion of the Fremont, Elkhorn, and Missouri Valley Railroad, Douglas quickly became an important hub for trade and transportation in central Wyoming. The town was named after Stephen A. Douglas, a prominent Illinois senator known for his debates with Abraham Lincoln.

In the early years, Douglas served as a vital stop for cattle ranchers driving their herds to the Union Pacific Railroad for shipment to eastern markets. This established the area as a center for agriculture, ranching, and livestock, industries that remain integral to the local economy today.

The city gained additional prominence during World War II when the U.S. Army established the Douglas Prisoner of War Camp, one of the largest POW camps in the country. The camp housed thousands of German and Italian prisoners and played a significant role in the town’s wartime history. Following the war, Douglas experienced a surge in population and economic growth, largely driven by the energy sector’s development in the region.

Today, Douglas continues to honor its Western heritage through annual events like the Wyoming State Fair, which has been held in the city since 1905. The fairgrounds, located in Douglas, serve as a reminder of the city’s long-standing agricultural roots and its importance to Wyoming’s cultural fabric.

Population & Demographics: Understanding Our Diverse Community

Douglas, Wyoming, may be a small town, but its population reflects the unique blend of rural and industrial influences that define the region. With an estimated population of around 6,000 residents, Douglas is part of the broader Converse County, which has a total population of approximately 14,000 people. Despite its modest size, Douglas serves as a vital community for many people working in Wyoming’s energy and agricultural sectors.

The population of Douglas is diverse, with residents hailing from various parts of the U.S. and even internationally, drawn by employment opportunities in industries such as coal, oil, and gas extraction. In addition to its energy sector, the city’s agricultural heritage attracts ranchers and farmers who have deep family roots in the region. The town celebrates its cowboy culture through events like the Wyoming State Fair, which helps maintain a strong sense of community and tradition.

Douglas is also becoming increasingly attractive to families due to its relatively low crime rate, high quality of life, and access to outdoor recreational activities. The median household income in Douglas is higher than the state average, largely driven by the high-paying jobs in the energy sector. This provides a solid economic foundation for the community and supports local businesses and services.

Residents of Douglas enjoy a close-knit, friendly atmosphere where neighbors know each other, and community involvement is common. The city’s public schools reflect this sense of community, offering personalized attention to students, while the local economy supports a growing number of jobs in healthcare, retail, and education—sectors that provide opportunities for the spouses of incoming professionals.