This Mock Wyoming Chess Set Brings History To Life

There is Star Wars Chess, Harry Potter Chess, but what would a Wyoming chess set look like? We imagined what each of the pieces might be. The twos sides of the board are Wyoming Settlers and Natives. Are you up for a game?

The Settlers

This side of the board pulls from the "American" western culture of cowboys, settlers, pioneers, trappers, and roughnecks.

King - Buffalo Bill Cody

William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody represents so much about Wyoming and western culture. We even named a town after him. He was a decorated military officer who was awarded the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor. He went on to become a legendary entrepreneur, politician, and showman.

Queen -Nellie Tayloe Ross

The name might not be familiar, but you should know her by her reputation. Nellie Tayloe Ross was the nation's (and Wyoming's) first female governor. She picked up after her late husband and won the office in 1925. She is a part of the reason why Wyoming is known as the Equality State.

Bishop - Blacksmith

In the early days of Wyoming's history, the blacksmith was a primary lifeline. They were able to repair broken wagon wheels to keep settlers, prospectors, and trappers moving across the prairie. These key players could make the difference between life and death.

Knight - Pony Express

Information is vital for progress that's why the legendary Pony Express is the rook. They can make tricky maneuvers to deliver valuable information promptly.

Rook - Oil Derrick

Oil drilling wasn't prevalent early in Wyoming's history, but oil has always been a part. Stories of the tar springs in Wyoming traveled fast on the Oregon Trail. In the late 1880s, the first oil drilling started. It was the Murphy Brothers (Mike and Frank) who drilled 300 feed deep into the earth. They struck it big with a discover now known as the Chugwater Formation.

Pawn - Cow

Ranch life is a key part of Wyoming's past, present, and future. That is why we chose the cow to represent the front line.

The Natives

This side of the board pulls from the indigenous cultures of Native Americans.

King - Chief Washakie

Chief Washakie is one of the most notable Shoshone leaders in the west. He hunted with Jim Bridger. He worked alongside Mormon pathfinder Brigham Young. That is why he is king of this set.

Queen - Sacajawea

It can be argued that Sacajawea is not part of Wyoming. There is so much about her history that is a mystery. One of her alleged burial sights is in Wyoming. For that reason, she represents the queen.

Bishop - Medicine Man

With its long diagonal moves, the Medicine Man can swoop in for the rescue.

Knight - Warrior riding a Mustang

The great warrior is a critical aide for any campaign. It can offer protection or mount an attack.

Rook - Bear's Lodge (aka Devils Tower)

The Cheyenne called Devils Tower Bear's Lodge or Bear's Teepee. Many native cultures have names for the monument, but one thing rings true across all cultures - the location is sacred.

Pawn - Buffalo

The American Buffalo is a symbol of the old west. For many native tribes, the buffalo was life itself. The animal fed, clothed, and gave shelter. That is why it is the pawn for this chess set.