RIVERTON, Wyo. — The Wyoming Historical Society announced today a new initiative to collect and preserve the numerous stories and firsthand accounts of the wildfires that have ravaged Wyoming this year and last.
The society stated that it is interested in preserving firsthand accounts, personal stories, photographs, and other materials from those involved in the recent fires.
“From the expansive Elk Fire and House Draw Fire of 2024 to the ongoing Red Canyon, Sleeper Ranch and Spring Creek Fires of 2025, these events have profoundly affected communities, landscapes and the lives of countless individuals across our state,” according to a release from the society.
The society hopes to preserve those on-the-ground accounts from a more personal and detailed perspective, capturing not only the big picture, but also the emotions that those fires elicited in people.
Though not limited to the following, the society is looking especially for voices from these types of people:
Firefighters and emergency responders
Individuals evacuated or otherwise displaced
Landowners and lessees
Ranchers and agricultural workers
Medical doctors and first responders
Veterinarians
Government agents and officials
Volunteers and community support members
Anyone whose life has been touched by the fires
According to Aley Philp, Executive Director of the Wyoming Historical Society, there are human stories buried among the important, but sometimes cold and impersonal, acreage numbers and containment percentages.
“We believe it is crucial to collect these personal narratives and visual records now to ensure that the experiences of our citizens are preserved as a vital part of Wyoming’s rich and complex history for current and future generations,” according to the news release.
Interested parties can send their photos and narratives to the society at [email protected]. The society requests that submissions use a specific email format.
The society requests that submissions use the email heading “WY FIRE (FIRE NAME) (YEAR).”
Photos submitted should also include caption information.
Submissions may also be mailed to PO Box 33, Riverton, Wyoming 82501.
“The Wyoming Historical Society sends its unwavering support and heartfelt care to everyone affected by these devastating wildfires,” the press release reads.
