JACKSON, Wyo. —  Teton County, Wyoming’s youngest County, is celebrating its 100-year anniversary this year.

Like much of Wyoming’s history, the birth of Teton County was not easy, and even required a special act by the Wyoming Legislature to become an official governing organization on February 18, 1921.

According to the county, present-day Teton County used to be a part of Lincoln County which was considered too poor and had too few people to qualify for county status under the normal requirements in 1921. However, the area was considered too far, 200 miles, from the County seat in Kemmerer for residents in the Teton area to conduct business and take care of legal matters.

“The formation of Teton County illustrates Jackson Hole’s exciting and complicated history. As our community joins to commemorate this historic milestone for Teton County, it is a wonderful opportunity to not only celebrate, but learn, reflect, and think critically about what led to this momentous event, the diverse perspectives and experiences involved, and the impact it had over time,” said Morgan Jaouen, Executive Director of the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum. “Let this moment inspire us to continue addressing community needs and values.”

Teton County has formed a Centennial Celebration Committee that will plan events throughout the year to celebrate the 100-year anniversary. A community-wide, family-friendly picnic at Miller Park is being planned for late summer or early fall, depending on COVID-19 conditions. Other events being considered include monthly rotating displays with historic artifacts in the Teton County Administration Building lobby; exhibits at the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum and Teton County Library; fun facts shared by Teton County Commissioners at meetings; a concert at the Teton County Fair; and recognizing family legacies that have been here from the beginning and who have helped shape Teton County.

“We are all eager to celebrate with our friends and neighbors to learn about the past and make new connections for the future,” said Teton County Board of County Commissioners Chairwoman Natalia D. Macker. “There is rich history in our area and much for each of us to discover. As we look to the past, I encourage everyone to seek out untold stories to mark this anniversary and enrich our community’s cultural fabric.”