CASPER, Wyo. — Fort Caspar Museum held Casper Collins Day on Saturday in honor of the city’s namesake, with historical reenactments, vendors, educational seminars and more.
In addition to authentic recreations of 19th century life, there were numerous vendors, food trucks, games and activities, educational talks, and more to keep attendees entertained. The festival also featured a car show and a photographer who was available to take tinplate portraits for anyone who wanted one.
“I think there’s something here for everyone,” said local historian Joanna Wickman. “This is the first time we’ve had a car show in a few years, so I’m really looking forward to it.”
The city of Casper was named for Lieutenant Casper W. Collins, who was killed while defending the fort in 1865. Shortly after his death, the post was renamed in his honor.
The city was officially settled about 22 years later and incorporated a year later. The town was originally going to be named Casper after the fort, but Wickman said the town’s name was ultimately spelled Casper because of a clerical error when the town’s name was officially registered.
Wickman said the museum always holds Caspar Collins Day on the Saturday closest to the anniversary of the July 26, 1865, skirmish in which Collins was killed.
“Everyone should know who Casper Collins is,” Wickman said. “After all, he’s the godfather of this whole city.”
“I love seeing all the families, especially the children, get excited and passionate about history,” she added.
