American Heritage Center
American Heritage Center located on the campus of the University of Wyoming in Laramie.
The American Heritage Center (AHC) at the University of Wyoming (UW) is a public research institution and serves as the university's repository for manuscripts, rare books, and archives. With a particular emphasis on Wyoming and the Rocky Mountain West, as well as select national topics such as environment and conservation, mining and petroleum industries, air and rail transportation, and popular entertainment, the AHC's collections provide a wealth of resources for students and scholars from around the world conducting research.
Established in 1945, the AHC houses an extensive collection of over 90,000 cubic feet (roughly 17 miles of cubic-foot increments) of materials and more than 50,000 rare books. Its holdings attract between six and seven thousand researchers annually, and the Center offers fellowships and travel grants to support their research endeavors. Additionally, the AHC administers a teaching and research grant program that funds UW faculty in developing new courses based on primary sources found within the AHC.
The AHC is committed to promoting scholarly and popular engagement with its collections, and as such, it organizes a diverse array of programs and activities. These include lectures, exhibits, and other events designed to foster a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the materials held within the Center. The AHC's outreach program extends to undergraduates and students in grades 6-12, exemplified by its organization and hosting of the Wyoming History Day program, which aligns with National History Day.
Within the AHC, the Toppan Library serves as the repository for the UW's rare book collection, documenting the evolution of the book from medieval manuscripts to modern printed works. The AHC and the University of Wyoming Art Museum are both housed in the Centennial Complex, which opened its doors to the public in 1993. Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Antoine Predock, the Complex takes its name from the university's centennial anniversary in 1986, and it stands as a hub of cultural and educational exploration on campus.
Access to the AHC is free and available to all, making it an invaluable resource for researchers, students, and history enthusiasts alike.