Mills, WY
County: Natrona
History
Mills, Wyoming is a small town located in Natrona County. The town is named after N.K. Boswell Mills, an oil company executive who helped establish the community.
The history of Mills dates back to the early 1900s when oil was discovered in the nearby Salt Creek Oil Field, one of the largest oil fields in Wyoming. This discovery led to an oil boom in the region, attracting numerous workers and businesses. As a result, several small settlements sprung up around the oil fields to accommodate the growing population.
In 1914, N.K. Boswell Mills, an executive of the Midwest Refining Company, helped establish a company town near the Salt Creek Oil Field to provide housing and services for the oil workers. The town was originally called Midwest, named after the company, but it was later renamed Mills in honor of N.K. Boswell Mills.
Mills continued to thrive as more oil companies set up operations in the area. The town became an important hub for oil production, processing, and transportation. Many of the residents worked in the oil industry, and the town's economy revolved around it.
Over the years, the oil industry fluctuated, leading to periods of growth and decline in Mills. The town experienced its peak population during the 1950s and 1960s when the oil industry was thriving. However, during the 1980s, a significant downturn in the oil market led to a decline in population and economic activity.
Despite these challenges, Mills has remained a resilient community. Today, the town has a population of around 3,500 residents and continues to be connected to the oil industry. However, it has also diversified its economy to include other industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Mills, Wyoming, is a testament to the historical significance of the oil industry in the development of the region. It stands as a reminder of the boom and bust cycle that has shaped many communities in Wyoming and continues to be an important part of the state's history.
Attractions
Edness K. Wilkins State Park
A beautiful park offering hiking and biking trails, fishing, and picnic areas.
Nicolaysen Art Museum
A contemporary art museum showcasing rotating exhibits of various art forms.
Hogadon Ski Area
A popular destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Casper Planetarium
A family-friendly attraction featuring educational shows about astronomy and space.
Fort Caspar Museum
A historical site featuring reconstructed buildings and exhibits about the region's pioneer and military history.
The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center
A museum dedicated to educating visitors about the historical significance of the Oregon, California, Mormon Pioneer, and Pony Express Trails.
Garden Creek Archaeological Site
An archaeological site that preserves remnants of a prehistoric Native American village.
Casper Events Center
A multi-purpose venue hosting concerts, sports events, tradeshows, and more.
Eadsville Historic Site
A preserved section of the Oregon Trail where visitors can see wagon ruts and learn about the pioneers who traveled through this area.
Rotary Park
A community park offering walking trails, a playground, and picnic areas.
Climate
Mills, Wyoming has a semi-arid climate. The town experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers in Mills are typically warm and dry with temperatures ranging from the 70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (20s to low 30s Celsius). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the 100s Fahrenheit (mid 30s to low 40s Celsius). Winters are cold with temperatures dropping into the single digits and sometimes even below zero Fahrenheit (-10s to -20s Celsius). Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of around 40 inches (101 cm).
Spring and fall in Mills tend to be shorter transitional seasons. Springs bring mild weather with temperatures in the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10s to 20s Celsius) and occasional rain showers. Falls are also mild with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit (10s to 20s Celsius) and beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors.
Overall, Mills experiences a relatively dry climate, with an average annual precipitation of around 14 inches (35 cm). The region is known for its wide temperature variations between day and night, particularly in the summer when the desert-like landscape results in cooler nights. It is also worth noting that Mills, like many parts of Wyoming, can be quite windy at times due to the area's location on the leeward side of the Rocky Mountains.
Neighborhoods
Mills is a small town located in Natrona County, Wyoming. While Mills itself may not have distinct neighborhoods, it is surrounded by several larger towns and neighborhoods within its vicinity. Here are some of the nearby neighborhoods in the Mills area:
Casper
Casper is the largest city in Wyoming and is located just a few miles west of Mills. It offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, from historical districts in downtown Casper to newer, suburban areas. The city has amenities such as shopping centers, parks, schools, and recreational opportunities.
Evansville
Evansville is a town located just south of Mills. It has a mix of residential and commercial neighborhoods and offers a more rural and quiet atmosphere compared to Casper. Evansville has several parks, including the popular River's Edge Park along the North Platte River.
Bar Nunn
Bar Nunn is another town located to the north of Mills. It is a small, primarily residential community with affordable housing options and a rural feel. The town offers a few local amenities, including a community center and local parks.
Vista West
Vista West is a suburban neighborhood located west of Mills, between Mills and Casper. It offers newer residential developments and tends to have a higher-income demographic. Vista West has well-maintained streets and is known for its community parks and green spaces.
Southridge
Southridge is a newer residential area located on the south side of Casper, not far from Mills. It offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses and is known for its family-friendly environment. Southridge has easy access to amenities like schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities.
These neighborhoods provide a range of housing options and amenities for residents in the Mills area, catering to various preferences and lifestyles.