Weston County is located in northeastern Wyoming, bordering South Dakota to the east. Established in 1890, the county was named after John Weston, a geologist and surveyor. The county covers approximately 2,400 square miles of varied terrain, including rolling prairies, hills, and parts of the Black Hills. Weston County is sparsely populated, with a population of around 6,800 residents as of the latest census. The region has a rich history in ranching and mining, with coal and uranium mining being particularly significant to its development in the early 20th century.
Weston County has two incorporated municipalities: Newcastle, the county seat, and Upton, along with several unincorporated communities. These cities serve as the primary hubs for commerce, transportation, and services in the county. Despite its small population, the county’s scenic landscapes and proximity to the Black Hills make it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Cities and Towns in Weston County
Newcastle
Overview of Geography and History
Newcastle, the largest city and the county seat of Weston County, is located in the western foothills of the Black Hills in northeastern Wyoming. The city’s geography includes a mixture of rolling plains and forested hills, providing a scenic backdrop for residents and visitors. Newcastle was founded in 1889, shortly before Weston County itself was established. Its origins are tied to the extension of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad, which helped spur the development of coal mines in the area. Coal mining, ranching, and later uranium mining have all contributed to the local economy over the years.
Newcastle has preserved much of its historical charm, with several buildings dating back to its early days. The city has become a gateway for tourists exploring the Black Hills and other nearby attractions like Devils Tower and the Black Hills National Forest.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to the Black Hills”
- Area: 2.56 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,300
- Elevation: 4,344 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82701
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Newcastle is well-connected by both road and rail. U.S. Highway 85 runs north-south through the city, providing a major route to South Dakota and connecting with I-90. Wyoming Highway 16 also passes through, offering a scenic route westward to Buffalo, Wyoming. The closest major airport is Rapid City Regional Airport in South Dakota, about 85 miles east of Newcastle, which offers regional flights and connections to larger airports. The city’s history with the railroad remains, as it still has rail lines used primarily for freight transport.
Famous People
- James G. Watt: Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior (1981-1983)
Upton
Overview of Geography and History
Upton, often referred to as the “Best Town on Earth,” is a small town located about 20 miles northwest of Newcastle. It is nestled on the western edge of the Black Hills and enjoys a similar landscape of rolling hills, prairies, and nearby forests. Upton was founded in the early 1890s, as the railroad expanded into the region, bringing settlers and miners looking for work in the nearby coal mines. Although its economy has historically relied on mining and agriculture, Upton today is a quiet, rural town known for its strong sense of community and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Over the years, Upton has become a local hub for hunting, fishing, and exploring the nearby Black Hills. The town’s small population has remained steady, reflecting its rural character and appeal as a peaceful place to live.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Best Town on Earth”
- Area: 1.69 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100
- Elevation: 4,272 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82730
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Upton is connected to the surrounding region primarily by road. Wyoming Highway 116 runs through the town, connecting it to Newcastle to the south and Sundance to the north. U.S. Highway 16 also runs nearby, offering access to cities like Buffalo and Gillette. For air travel, residents often use the Gillette-Campbell County Airport, located about 60 miles west of Upton, or the larger Rapid City Regional Airport in South Dakota. Like Newcastle, Upton has a rail line that primarily serves freight purposes, maintaining its historical connection to the region’s coal industry.
Famous People
- Bradford Washburn: Renowned mountaineer, cartographer, and photographer.
Osage (Unincorporated)
Overview of Geography and History
Osage is a small unincorporated community located just west of Newcastle. Its geography is typical of the region, with rolling hills, prairies, and a rural landscape dominated by ranching and agriculture. Osage has its roots in the coal mining industry, which flourished in the early 20th century. Unlike Newcastle and Upton, Osage never grew into a large town, but it has remained an important local settlement due to its proximity to Newcastle and access to regional transportation routes.
Osage’s history is closely linked to the development of Weston County and the coal industry. In recent years, it has become a quieter community, known for its rural setting and local ranching activities.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: Not officially designated
- Population: Approximately 200
- Elevation: 4,298 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82723
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Osage is situated along U.S. Highway 16, which provides easy access to both Newcastle and the town of Upton. This highway also connects to larger regional routes, making travel to nearby states like South Dakota and Montana relatively straightforward. While Osage does not have an airport, residents can reach Rapid City Regional Airport in about 90 minutes by car. Local travel is generally by road, with no direct rail service in Osage itself, although nearby Newcastle continues to serve as a hub for freight transport via rail.
Famous People
- None notable at present