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For Immediate Release:
March 3, 2006
Contact: John Wright
(202) 208-6416

Secretary Norton Gives Cheyenne Railroad Depot National Historic Landmark Designation


CHEYENNE, Wyo.-Interior Secretary Gale Norton, accompanied by Rep. Barbara Cubin and Gov. Dave Freudenthal today announced the designation of the Union Pacific Railroad Depot, located in Cheyenne, Wyo. as a National Historic Landmark. Norton made the announcement during a special ceremony at the historic depot.

"I am proud to publicly designate the Union Pacific Railroad Depot as a national historic landmark," Norton said. "This depot joins the 22 other historic landmarks with national designation around the State of Wyoming. Each of those sites represents a page of America's history; each represents an important facet of the American ideal."

Construction of the Union Pacific Railroad Depot dates back to 1886. It is one of two dominant landmarks in downtown Cheyenne, the other being the Wyoming State Capitol. Along with being the point of pride for the railroad, the city of Cheyenne and the state of Wyoming, it is the last of the grand 19th century depots remaining on the transcontinental railroad. Today, the public spaces on the first floor now house the Cheyenne Depot Museum. The building's exterior has been restored to its original condition and as a result, it has retained its architectural character in overall configuration and in its details.

Last month, Secretary Norton designated the Murie Ranch Historic District located in Moose, Wyo. as a National Historic Landmark. The Murie Ranch is the most important property associated with Adolph, Olaus and Margaret (Mardy) Murie, whose studies and advocacy help changed the way the federal government and scientific community study and manage natural lands and their wildlife populations.

The National Historic Landmark designation is the highest such recognition accorded by our nation to historic properties. These special places are the actual sites where significant historical events occurred, or where prominent Americans worked or lived, and represent the ideas that shaped our nation. Fewer than 2,500 historic places carry the title of National Historic Landmark.