The Wyoming State Museum lecture series continues with “Women, Churches and the Battle over Gambling in Harry Hynds’ Wyoming,” a discussion by Dr. William Moore, September 13, at 7 p.m., in the Multi-Purpose Room.
Historians have generally downplayed the influence of churches and religion in early Wyoming. While debating extensively the origins of women’s suffrage in Wyoming, historians have paid scant attention to any consequences that were the result of the enfranchisement of women.
Dr. Moore, a professor of History at the University of Wyoming, argues that the frenzied debate over gambling in early 20th century Wyoming reflects the power of both women and organized religion. In 1901, by emphasizing the power of Cheyenne gambling entrepreneur Harry Hynds, Protestant ministers in the state mobilized women voters and forced traditional male politicians to enact the McGill Anti-Gambling Act. More than a century later, that statute still sets forth the state’s basic policy toward gambling.
The lecture is free and open to the public. The Wyoming State Museum is located in the Barrett Building, 2301 Central Avenue in Cheyenne. For more information about this and other State Museum programs, please call 777-7021.
