Confused, they built a fort of logs on Sage Creek in Wyoming. The gold rush to the Black Hills started the Cheyenne-Deadwood Stage Route in 1876.

Bullwhackers freighting salt pork and whiskey to Deadwood, armored coaches hauling gold bricks and passengers to Cheyenne, Indians, and road agents brought adventure to Hat Creek Stage station. A two story log structure was built near the fort for a telegraph station, post office, blacksmith shop, hotel and store.

This building, still standing and used as a ranch home, is two miles east and one mile south.

Source: Wyoming Recreation Commission.