The Hairy History of the West: From Rattlesnake Ropes to Victorian Memorial Wreaths

What is something nearly every person grows, throws away daily, and rarely thinks twice about? Hair.

Hair artist and researcher Zen Hansen explores the remarkable roles human and horsehair have historically played in our society. Hair was both practical and deeply personal. On the western frontier, hair was braided into ropes believed to ward off rattlesnakes, crafted into bridles and lariats, and even bartered in prisons. At the same time, pioneer women transformed shed hair into mourning wreaths, watch chains, and keepsakes that preserved memory and connection to their friends, communities, and loved ones.

As Wyoming celebrates its 250th anniversary, this program invites us to reconsider a material that quietly shaped both ingenuity and sentiment.

You may never look at your hair the same way again.

When: Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 6-7 PM

Where: Alice Hardie Stevens Center
603 E. Ivinson Ave
Laramie, WY 82070

Tickets: Free

To sign up, please email or call:
lpmassistdir@outlook.com
(307) 742-4448

For more info, please see the Visit Laramie website: https://www.visitlaramie.org/event/special-presentation-with-zen-hansen/38948/