Wyoming Brand Research: Research: Step Four

The next step is to find the registration in the state brand books.  

What are these?

• In 1909 the Wyoming Livestock Board was created to oversee the registration of all brands across the state.  The board created two brand records – 1.) the state brand book; and 2.) bill of sale.

What information do they contain?

• The brand book is the official register of brands.  It notes the name of the owner, a description and placement of the brand on the animal, and date of recording.  
• The bill of sale documents the transfer of ownership or sale of brands.  Unfortunately, the indexes may not differentiate between brand record and bill of sale, so researchers may have to check both records.

Where do I find them?

• The Wyoming State Archives has the original state brand books from 1909 to 1972 and bill of sale books from 1912 to 1973, and microfilm of both records from 1909 to 1954.  The Wyoming Livestock Board has brand and bills of sale books after 1972-1973.

How do I use them?

• The microfilm is available in the Archives’ reference room.  Researchers can view the original books upon request with the Wyoming State Archives or Wyoming Livestock Board.