5 Things Wyoming Was First At

Those who don't know Wyoming might think of it as a small, conservative, backwards state. They don't realize how many times the Cowboy State has led the way.

Wyoming has a lot of national firsts. 

Women’s Suffrage (1869): Wyoming was the first U.S. territory (and later state) to grant women the right to vote and hold public office, earning it the nickname the "Equality State".

Yellowstone National Park (1872): Yellowstone was established as the world's first national park.

Shoshone National Forest (1891): Shoshone was designated as the first national forest in the United States.

Devils Tower (1906): Devils Tower became the nation's first national monument, proclaimed by President Theodore Roosevelt.

Nellie Tayloe Ross (1924/1925): Ross was elected as the first female governor in the history of the United States.

That's a short list of firsts for Wyoming. Traditionally, the state likes to stay out of the noise and mess made by bigger states.

man in red jacket standing beside white horse during daytime

This goes along with Wyoming's "Cowboy Code," which has 10 principles. These are old, tried-and-true principles, but Wyoming is the first state to have such a code.

Live each day with courage: Face hardships and challenges with a steady and brave mindset.

Take pride in your work: Care about the quality of the job you do.

Always finish what you start: See tasks through to the end regardless of difficulty.

Do what has to be done: Step up and handle responsibilities without making excuses.

Be tough, but fair: Stay strong and resilient while treating others with justice and respect.

When you make a promise, keep it: Honor your word and commitments.

Ride for the brand: Show loyalty to the team, family, company, or community you represent.

Talk less, say more: Value meaningful actions and concise, honest communication over empty words.

Remember that some things are not for sale: Maintain personal integrity, honor, and values that cannot be bought.

Know where to draw the line: Understand your personal and moral boundaries and stick to them.