Facts for Kids

Gillette is a city known as the "Energy Capital of the Nation" because it produces a lot of energy from coal, oil, and natural gas! 💡

Located in Campbell County, Wyoming, it has a population of about 32,000 people. This friendly city offers great outdoor adventures, beautiful parks, and a strong sense of community. Gillette was founded in the late 1800s and is surrounded by stunning mountains and wide-open spaces. It’s a great place for kids to grow up and learn about nature and science! 🏞

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In Gillette, about 91% of the people are White, with other Races like Hispanic, Native American, and Black making up the rest. 👨

‍👩‍👦 The city has a mix of families, young people, and seniors, creating a vibrant community. In recent years, Gillette has attracted more people from different backgrounds, making it an even more diverse place as it continues to grow. 🌈

There are some interesting people from Gillette! 🌟

For example, we have singer-songwriter and musician Marv Green, who is known for writing hit songs for famous artists. Another notable person is football star John McKeague, who played in the NFL! 🏈

These inspiring individuals remind us that Gillette can produce talent in many areas, from music to sports.

Getting around Gillette is easy! 🚗

The city has a network of roads connecting it to other cities and towns in Wyoming. The main highway, Interstate 90, runs nearby, making travel simple. For air travel, Gillette has the Gillette-Campbell County Airport. ✈

️ This small airport connects to larger cities so that families can explore other places. Biking and walking are also popular ways to enjoy the scenic views of Gillette!

Gillette has a rich culture that celebrates art and community! 🎨

Every summer, the city hosts the "Buckin' Horse Sale" which features rodeo events, concerts, and a parade! 🐎

There are also local museums, art galleries, and annual festivals where families can enjoy food, music, and activities together. Gillette loves to celebrate its western heritage, with many events inspired by cowboys and local history! 🎊

Gillette started as a small railroad town in 1891, named after Edward Gillette, a railroad surveyor. 🚂

The town quickly grew because the railroad brought in many workers and families. By the 1900s, mining became popular in the area when coal deposits were discovered. Many miners and their families settled in Gillette, making it an important place in the energy industry! Today, history lovers can visit local museums and learn all about Gillette's past. 🏛

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Gillette's economy is powered by energy! ⚡

The city is a major coal-producing area in the United States. In addition to coal, oil and natural gas are also key industries, providing jobs for many residents. 🛢

️ Local businesses and retail shops contribute to the economy as well, serving the community. The energy industry plays an important role in keeping the lights on for many people across the country!

Gillette is home to many parks and outdoor activities! 🌳

Some popular places are the Campbell County Recreation Center and Energy Park. These spots offer playgrounds, sports fields, trails, and places to picnic! 🏕

️ In winter, people can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing nearby. Also, many special events like fairs and concerts happen in the parks throughout the year, making it a fun place for families! 🎉

Gillette has a strong educational system with many public and private schools. 🏫

There are over a dozen K-12 schools in the area, such as Campbell County High School and Twin Spruce Junior High School. The schools focus on math, science, and the arts! 🎨

Many students enjoy extracurricular activities like sports, music, and drama. Additionally, Gillette has a branch of the Western Wyoming Community College for those who want to continue their education after high school. 🎓

Gillette is located in northeastern Wyoming, near the Black Hills and the Powder River Basin. 🏔

️ The city sits at an elevation of about 4,500 feet and is known for its wide-open spaces. The climate here has hot summers and cold winters, perfect for various outdoor activities year-round! 🌞❄️ Summers can be warm, with temperatures reaching up to 90°F (32°C), while winter can be chilly, often dropping to 10°F (-12°C) or lower.

Gillette is governed by a mayor and a city council that help make important decisions for the community. 🏛

️ They work together to make Gillette a great place to live and grow! The council meets regularly to discuss topics like parks, schools, and public safety. Citizens can also participate by attending council meetings or sharing their ideas, making Gillette a place where everyone’s voice matters! 🗣

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