What’s In A Wyoming Name? – Casper

In 1865, a 20-year-old cavalryman, Caspar Collins, had just been promoted to second lieutenant at Fort Laramie. In late July, he was dispatched to escort a wagon train near the spot where a bridge crossed the North Platte River. Lieutenant Collins and his detachment came under attack by Indians. When he paused from the battle to pick up one of his men who was shot, Collins himself was soon gravely wounded. He gave his life to help a fellow soldier – and a name to Casper, Wyoming.