Archives Research Reveals Rich History of Greek Settlers and Their Lasting Cultural Impact in Wyoming

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – July 30, 2025 – The Wyoming State Archives Speaker Series presents "Greeks in Wyoming: Immigration, Community, and Cultural Preservation," featuring historian Dr. Patrick Pace, who will explore the fascinating story of Wyoming's early Greek immigrants and their remarkable ability to maintain cultural identity while integrating into broader Wyoming society. The presentation will occur on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

 

Drawing from his doctoral dissertation research, Pace will examine how Wyoming's Greek immigrant community established social, business, and religious institutions that helped preserve their cultural heritage for over a century. His presentation will highlight the unique balance these settlers achieved between integration and cultural preservation, setting them apart from other immigrant communities that more fully assimilated into American society.

 

"The Greek immigrant experience in Wyoming tells a compelling story of cultural resilience," said Pace, whose research specializes in U.S. immigration history. "Through their institutions and community networks, these settlers managed to retain their distinctive cultural flavor while becoming integral parts of Wyoming's broader community fabric."

 

Pace will also demonstrate how local historical repositories, including the Wyoming State Archives, have been instrumental in uncovering this rich historical tapestry, highlighting the vital role archives play in preserving the stories of immigrant communities.

 

Attendees can join in person at the Wyoming State Museum classroom at 2301 Central Avenue in Cheyenne or participate virtually through Eventbrite registration at eventbrite.com/o/wyoming-state-archives-49902991693. Virtual and in-person participants can engage with questions during the presentation. This event is free and open to the public.

 

Pace holds a PhD in History from Liberty University, with additional graduate work in Theology and a Graduate Certificate in Public Policy. His research focuses on U.S. immigration history, with sub-specialties in nationalism, American colonial and revolutionary history, early twentieth-century American history, and American religious history.

 

A former affiliate faculty member in History at Colorado Christian University, Pace previously served as a pastor in Los Angeles for fifteen years and has extensive experience in higher education public safety. Originally from Los Angeles, he has called Wyoming home for eleven years, along with his wife, Melanie, and their two sons. His current research includes the history of U.S. immigration laws and early twentieth-century Wyoming proprietorships.

 

The Wyoming State Archives Speaker Series hosts presentations on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m., featuring both in-person and virtual attendance options. For the complete events calendar and upcoming topics, visit wyoarchives.wyo.gov/index.php/about-archives/events.

 

The Wyoming State Archives collects, manages, and preserves Wyoming state public records with long-term administrative, legal, and historical value. These records document both our state's history and the activities of Wyoming Government offices. The Archives also acquires non-government records that enhance understanding of Wyoming's rich heritage.

 

For more information or special assistance requests, contact Wyoming State Archivist Sara Davis at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 307-777-7826. The Wyoming State Archives is fully accessible according to Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines.

 

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Figure 1: Event graphic for the Wyoming State Archives Speaker Series "Greeks in Wyoming: Immigration, Community, and Cultural Preservation."

 

Contact: Sara Davis, 307-777-7826; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.