Legendary Locals of Rawlins

Founded as a railroad town in 1868, Rawlins was smack in the middle of the Wild West that attracted so many adventure-seekers from the East, such as Clare Espy, who rode into town alone at 12 years old and became a successful cowboy. When the town outgrew its outlaw days and was ready to be incorporated, its people chose a leader in Isaac Miller, a Danish man who exemplified the story of the American dream. Being in the first state to allow women the right to vote, Rawlins has had its share of women's firsts. Lillian Heath was Wyoming's first female physician, and Valerie Nelson is its first female railroad engineer. The boom and bust cycle of the area saw many residents come and go, but some families, like the Frances and Espys, have been here since the beginning and continue to be well respected. Rawlins is facing another boom with several incoming energy projects. While Rawlins's future is exciting, this volume takes a look at its past and the people who have made the town what it is today.