It's a 'Gritty' Exhibit

The Washakie Museum is holding a reception for the exhibit of the early years of Worland's hometown newspaper, the Worland Grit. The newspapers, dating from 1905-1939 were recently donated to the museum by the Northern Wyoming Daily News, Worland's current daily newspaper. On display are Grit papers that feature such stories as -- when a competing paper came to town, the merger of these two papers under the Worland Grit name, and the feature story of when the Grit became the town's current publication. Other feature stories: Chautauqua, a big event that was held every year; bootlegging; the railroad coming to town; a governor's contentious race; and ads that advertise house aprons and the first ever auto show. There is also a period room with the Worland Grit's printing press from this era, along with a pot belly stove, turtle, pig, and composing table. Photographs of the newsroom from this era have been blown up to mural size and placed on the walls. A display case features cameras and other small items used during the era. The exhibit runs through November 9th. The gallery was repainted in red and black specifically for this exhibit. Museum Director Cheryl Reichelt says, "the history contained within the pages of this publication is fascinating and phenomenal. They represent a different kind of writing style, and a very different kind of life."

Washakie Museum hours are 9-5, Monday through Friday, and 10-4, Saturday. FMI call (307) 347-4784 or visit the website at www.washakiemuseum.com