Long before modern Rock Springs took shape, people from around the world journeyed to Southwest Wyoming to work in the booming coal fields. Their stories—rich, complex, and often difficult—helped build the foundation of the community we know today. This fall, Rock Springs unveiled a powerful new monument that brings those stories into clearer view.
Standing more than seven feet tall, the bronze statue Requiem reflects the strength and resilience of the many cultures that once lived and worked in the historic Chinatown district. The figure of a miner, holding the remnants of a ceremonial dragon flag, honors the diverse groups whose labor fueled the region and shaped its identity.
Visitors can find the monument at the intersection of Bridger Avenue, M Street, and Pilot Butte Avenue in Rock Springs, WY, near the site of the original Chinatown, where a small plaque once served as the only reminder of the 1885 tragedy. Today, this striking new installation offers a more visible and meaningful place to pause, reflect, and learn about the people who helped carve a life from Wyoming’s rugged landscape.
To explore more of this important chapter in Rock Springs’ past, you can visit the nearby museums, archaeological exhibits, and interpretive programs that help piece together life in the early mining camps. Together, they offer a deeper understanding of the region’s immigrant history and the enduring contributions of those who came here seeking opportunity.
Rock Springs continues to honor its multicultural roots—and now, with the addition of Requiem, visitors can experience a vibrant new landmark that preserves these stories for generations to come.
To learn more, visit the Rock Springs Historical Museum.