Wyoming National Guard Armory

Wyoming National Guard Armory. . December 18, 1967 brought 40 years of the Wyoming National Guard in Lusk to a close. Built in 1927, this National Guard Armory was constructed on land donated by the local American Legion chapter. , Special legislation authorized the funding for construction of the Armory. The cost was $15,000. Originally planned to only house a medical detachment, the design was revised to enlarge the structure to adequately serve a troop of cavalry or infantry. , The Armory was constructed of brick and tile, and featured two stories and a basement. Amusement features included a bowling alley, pool room and a shooting gallery. Other amenities included shower baths, officers' rooms and a large meeting hall on the top floor. , The Armory first housed a medical attachment, later Headquarters Detachment of Second Squadron, 115th Cavalry, Headquarters of Platoon Troop K 115th Cavalry, Company C of 116th Quartermaster Regiment and 186th Quartermaster Depot Supply. , The only time in 40 years the Armory wasn't occupied by the National Guard was when the local National Guard was called to serve in Iran in world war two. , A Wyoming State Guard served here during their absence. The State Guard was later deactivated, which led to the formation of a Post War National Guard in 1946. , This building was also used by the Wyoming Civil Air Patrol for meetings and as a training location. , The Armory building has served the community in many other ways. In the 1950’s the upper story was used as a roller skating rink. The 1960's and '70's found the upstairs being used to dance the night away to local bands such as Crimson Blues and the Tone Benders. A room on the main floor served as an art studio and classroom for local artists. In 1969 the Armory was leased to the Niobrara Historical Society for use as a museum and in 2003 deeded to Niobrara County. , [photo caption] , Undated photo shows the National Guard Armory building as originally constructed.