Empowering communities in the South Big Horn Basin to safeguard their history, traditions, ecosystems and culture.
Empowering communities in the South Big Horn Basin to safeguard their history, traditions, ecosystems and culture.
At Basin Heritage Initiative, we strive to empower local communities through education and engagement. Our programs and projects are focused on supporting opportunities for communities to come together through their shared history, culture, traditions and ecosystems. Sometimes there needs to be guidance in what exactly the culture of a small town is. What makes our tiny communities wonderful and what can we do to ensure those traditions, natural habitats, and way of life can continue to thrive? These are questions our board and committee members ask themselves daily. These are the questions we hope to engage with in the community to create spaces where voices can be heard, history can be shared and a future can be built. To know where we are going, we need to fully understand what we have been. By fostering opportunities for citizens and youth of our communities to understand the rich heritage and history, we can be powerful co-creators in what type of community we want to leave for future generations.
The Basin Heritage Initiative is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty of Basin and its surrounding communities within South Big Horn County. We aim ensure that the stories of our past continue to inspire future generations.
Basin Heritage Initiative was founded in 2025 by four people who care significantly about the people of South Big Horn Basin and all the ways we can ensure our communities thrive, while preserving our unique heritage.
This big desolate lot, formerly had the Eagles lodge building on it. Now it sits empty and is owned by South Big Horn County Water District. The Water District is graciously allowing Basin Heritage Initiative to create the Basin Heritage Commons in this space, ensuring this future public space to be a long standing pride of Basin, Wyoming.
At Basin Heritage Commons, the true foundation of this space isn’t just the land—it’s the people. The stories, values, and legacies of Basin’s families and neighbors are the very heart of our history and culture. By purchasing an engraved brick or paver, you’re not only helping build the walkways and gardens of the Commons—you’re weaving your own story into its landscape. Whether it’s your family name, a message of hope, or a tribute to someone you love, each inscription becomes a visible thread in the fabric of our community. It’s a lasting way to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the generations yet to walk these paths.
Basin Heritage Initiative want's to give a big thank you to South Big Horn County Conservation District and their generous pledge for the donation of all the beautiful plants and informational plaques that will be in this wonderful space. From pollinators, native grasses, wild flowers, lilacs and ornamental bushes.
We also wish to thank the Town of Basin and Basin Chamber of Commerce's Beautification Committee and all our members for being on our committee board of the design, name and mission of the Basin Heritage Commons.
There is a great ability to set impactful change in motion when you have a great group of people working together for the good of all.