The Cokeville area in Lincoln county, Wyoming shares a fascinating history. Cokeville was not originally a Mormon settlement, but was settled gradually by many groups and individuals who saw opportunities on the banks of Smiths (named after noted mountain manJedediah Smith) Fork and the Bear River.
Despite some local folklore, Cokeville was not named for a caffeinated beverage, but was named for “coke,” a substance formed when coal or oil is heated. Veins of coal and other minerals, including copper, gold, silver were discovered in the area during its early days.
An oft-repeated story presents an interesting twist on how the community was named. According to the legend, when the railroad delivered signposts to the rail stops, there was a mix-up: the sign for Sage was actually erected at what was supposed to be Cokeville, and vice versa. Later, when the mistake was discovered, instead of relocating the sign posts, the names of the communities were swapped. So, according to local legend, Cokeville should have been ‘Sage,’ and was named by accident. It’s a fascinating tale- true or not.
Cokeville was settled and influenced by many diverse groups and individuals.Seeing the rich grassland, cattlemen and sheepmen flocked (pun intended) to the area to graze their livestock. Religious groups came in significant numbers. Some came to construct and operate the railroad. Business men, bankers and merchants moved in to conduct business in the newly-settled area; numerous others came for their own very personal reasons.
Ranching, farming and ag-related business have always been important economic forces in the area. Cokeville grew quickly as cattle and sheep ranches were established along the Bear and Smiths Fork rivers. According to Errol Jack Lloyd, “As the ranches in the area increased in size… the need for a central shipping point became a matter of necessity. The Oregon Short Line Railroad…purchased nine acres of land in the township of Cokeville. Shortly after buying the ground, the Oregon Short Line began construction.” During its heyday, Cokeville was known as ‘The Sheep Capital of the World.’ In 1917, 586 car loads of sheep, cattle, hogs, grain, hay and phosphate shipped from the Cokeville station.
Mines were established throughout the area- coal mines near Sage, phosphorus mines near Raymond- all promising unlimited potential, each new strike sure to become the motherlode of wealth and prosperity. A modern dairy and cheese plant operated in the area. Optimism grew with each new venture, as the fledgling settlement grew to a town.
In 1910, the town incorporated and the Cokeville Register newspaper began publication. Lloyd continues, “By 1915 the business district included “a hotel, bank, newspaper office, meat market, harness shop, drug store, several pool halls, three saloons, two general mercantile stores, an implement house, lumber yard, two restaurants, two barber shops, confectionery store, blacksmith shop and other businesses along its business district” as the town boomed.
After World War I, the local economy shifted, leaving cattle and wool markets in dire straits. Lofty dreams died as harsh realities settled in. The mines, at best marginally profitable, closed one-by-one. The dairy and cheese plant also closed, and jobs became scarce. Storefronts closed as the boom-town turned to bust. Many left, following their dreams to their next destination.But, those who stayed created their own legacy. Cokeville High School is known for excellence in many areas. Pine Creek Ski Area opened east of the town, earning a solid reputation by those “in the know.” Many residents commute through the region, working in mines, factories and other businesses.
You won’t find a lot of glitz or neon in Cokeville, but those who live here know of its many charms and amenities. Majestic mountains rise from almost within the city limits, providing unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation. You name the outdoor activity- chances are you can experience it within a few short miles of Cokeville.
All in all, Cokeville is a pretty great place to visit…and an even better place to raise a family, boasting old-fashioned values many long for today. It’s stated pretty well in the state motto, “Wyoming, what America once was.” Enjoy your time in our wonderful little town.
Sources: History of Cokeville, Wyoming, by Errol Jack Lloyd, a thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in History, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 1970; Wikipedia searches September 2024; Wyoming Place Names, by Mae Urbanek, Mountain Press Publishing Company, Missoula, Montana, copyright 1988, 4th Printing, May 2004; canceringwithconfidence.org 2024.
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