The community known as Little America in Wyoming takes its name from a significant motel, which itself was inspired by a famous polar expedition.
The Origin of the Name
The name "Little America" for the community stems directly from the Little America motel. This motel was intentionally built in a remote area, designed to serve as a crucial haven for travelers crossing the vast landscapes of the American West.
A Remote Haven Inspired by Exploration
The concept behind the motel's naming was drawn from the renowned Little America base camp established in Antarctica. This polar base was set up in 1928 by the famous American naval officer and polar explorer, Richard E. Byrd. Just as Byrd's base provided a vital refuge and operational center in the isolated and harsh Antarctic environment, the motel aimed to offer a similar sense of security, comfort, and respite to those journeying through a remote and often challenging part of the United States. The community subsequently grew around this landmark motel, adopting its distinctive name.
