Dude ranches contain some of the greatest agricultural and folk architecture. This architecture came from the necessity of the farmers and ranchers who built them to house themselves, livestock, hay, other ranch materials and eventually dudes that would come and stay at the ranch. Every building and structure served a purpose and it served it well. Most were constructed using materials that were found in the area whether it be the straight growing lodge pole pines, to the sand, dirt and mud used for insulation, roofing, or foundations.

Dude ranch buildings are just as unique as those who built them. Many of the structures were erected using years and years of passed down knowledge from one family member to the next. Building such structures back then took time and patience, many ranchers poured their heart, soul, and skill into each piece of wood used.

 

Many of the builders would not have realized the aesthetic pleasure we now gain from having such structures. They would never be able to fully realize the nostalgic feelings it would bring to so many people to see the fruits of their labors still standing today. For many of the builders these structures were very simple but it is for that reason why we enjoy seeing them intertwined with the beauty of the surrounding area. Unlike mountains and forests that may be here for a very long time, these structures will eventually fall. They will be no more but a memory to those who had the great honor of seeing them before they were gone.

**Images Courtesy of the American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming

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