Independence Rock, Historic landmark in Natrona County, US

Independence Rock rises as a granite formation 128 feet (39 meters) above the surrounding plains, extending 1,900 feet (579 meters) in length and 850 feet (259 meters) in width. The smooth, rounded surface of the rock clearly displays thousands of carved names and dates scattered across its accessible face.

The rock was likely named before 1830 for its position on the emigrant trail, where wagon parties aimed to arrive by July 4 to beat the mountain snows. John C. Frémont camped a mile below on August 1, 1843, and carved a large cross that emigrants blasted off on July 4, 1847. Wyoming's first Masonic Lodge meeting was held here on July 4, 1862.

Travelers carved names and messages into the granite surface to leave signs and notes for other families heading west. These personal inscriptions turned the rock into a kind of message board where people searched for traces of friends or relatives who had passed through before them.

A circular path at the base of the rock allows a walk around the formation, and information panels explain the role of the site during the emigration period. Those who wish can climb to the top of the rock, but should wear sturdy footwear and take care in wet weather or strong winds.

John C. Frémont carved a large cross into the granite, and on July 4, 1847 hundreds of California and Oregon emigrants gathered at the rock and blasted it off, some Protestants taking it for a papal symbol. On July 4, 1862 the rock hosted Wyoming's first Masonic Lodge meeting.