Welcome to Como Bluffs Mine, a place where the ancient past meets human curiosity and industriousness. Located in the vast and rugged landscapes of Wyoming, this site is a testament to the region’s rich paleontological heritage and its role in the early days of fossil discovery in America.
The story of Como Bluffs Mine begins in the late 19th century, a time when the United States was gripped by the fervor of the Great Dinosaur Rush, also known as the Bone Wars. This period saw intense rivalry between two prominent paleontologists, Othniel Charles Marsh and Edward Drinker Cope, as they competed to discover and catalog new dinosaur species. Como Bluffs, with its rich deposits of Jurassic-era fossils, became a key battleground in this scientific rivalry.
In 1877, the first significant discoveries were made at Como Bluffs by workers of the Union Pacific Railroad, who stumbled upon large fossilized bones during their construction work. This accidental find soon attracted paleontologists from across the country, eager to unearth the secrets buried within the bluffs. Among the notable figures who visited and worked here was Othniel Charles Marsh, who employed crews to excavate the area extensively. Marsh’s efforts led to the discovery of numerous dinosaur species, including the famous Apatosaurus and Stegosaurus, forever cementing Como Bluffs’ place in paleontological history.
Over the years, Como Bluffs Mine has evolved from a site of intense scientific rivalry to a respected paleontological landmark, contributing significantly to our understanding of prehistoric life. The fossils unearthed here have provided invaluable insights into the Jurassic period, offering a glimpse into a world dominated by dinosaurs.
Today, Como Bluffs Mine stands as a reminder of a bygone era, a place where the passion for discovery and the allure of ancient secrets continue to captivate the imagination of scientists and enthusiasts alike. As you explore this historic site, imagine the excitement of those early days of discovery and the groundbreaking work that unfolded amidst these rugged bluffs.
