History Of Wyoming Sugar Company
1903
Surveying the Hanover Canal
In 1903, Charles F. Robertson led a survey team to the Worland area to evaluate the feasibility of constructing the Hanover Canal, which aimed to transform the arid Big Horn Basin into fertile farmland. The canal, named after Hanover, Indiana, marked the beginning of irrigation projects that would make Worland a center for agriculture. Robertson’s efforts, alongside local pioneers, laid the foundation for the area’s growth, enabling the cultivation of sugar beets and other crops, which became critical to the local economy.
1905
Pioneering Sugar Beet Cultivation in the Big Horn Basin
In 1905, J.W. Pulliam initiated a groundbreaking agricultural project in Wyoming’s Big Horn Basin by planting 600 acres of sugar beets and grain, marking the region’s first sugar beet cultivation. Enabled by the Hanover Canal System’s irrigation, this pilot project demonstrated sugar beets’ viability as a cash crop, attracting settlers and investors. By 1909, local growers were cultivating sugar beets under contract, with the harvest transported to Billings, Montana, for processing. Pulliam’s efforts paved the way for the Wyoming Sugar Company’s factory in Worland in 1916, solidifying the Big Horn Basin’s role in the sugar beet industry.
1906
The Railroad Transforms Worland
In 1906, the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad extended its line to Worland, Wyoming, marking a pivotal moment in the town’s development. The original settlement was situated west of the Big Horn River, but with the railroad’s arrival on the east side, residents recognized the economic potential and moved the entire town across the frozen river during winter to align with the new railway. This strategic relocation transformed Worland into a key hub for agriculture and commerce in the Big Horn Basin, facilitating the distribution of local products and attracting new settlers and businesses to the area.
1909
Sugar Beet Contracts Shape the Economy
By 1909, sugar beet cultivation had become a cornerstone of agriculture in the Big Horn Basin. Local growers entered contracts to produce sugar beets, fostering a reliable supply chain for the burgeoning industry. These beets were transported by rail to Billings, Montana, for processing, highlighting the importance of the newly developed infrastructure. The contractual agreements not only provided economic stability for farmers but also established the region as a vital contributor to the sugar industry, setting the stage for future growth and development.
1916
A Factory Rises in Worland
In 1916, the Wyoming Sugar Company of Ogden, Utah, announced plans to construct a beet sugar factory in Worland, marking a major milestone for the region’s agricultural industry. With 4,000 acres of sugar beets under contract, the $1 million facility was completed in just one year, a testament to the determination and vision of the community. By October 17, 1917, the factory began processing its first crop, slicing 260 tons of beets on its inaugural day. This development transformed Worland into a central hub for sugar beet production and secured its role in the rapidly growing industry.
1925
Holly Sugar Corporation acquired the Worland Factory
In 1925, the Worland sugar beet factory was acquired by the Holly Sugar Corporation, marking a significant transition in the facility’s history. This acquisition brought increased resources and expertise, enhancing the factory’s operations and solidifying its role in the regional sugar industry. Under Holly Sugar’s management, the factory expanded its capacity and efficiency, contributing to the economic growth of Worland and the surrounding Big Horn Basin.
1988
Imperial Sugar Acquires Holly Sugar
In 1988, Imperial Sugar Company acquired Holly Sugar Corporation, a major processor of sugar beets, resulting in the formation of Imperial Holly Corporation. This strategic merger expanded Imperial Sugar’s operations to include both cane and beet sugar processing, diversifying its production capabilities and strengthening its market presence. The acquisition effectively doubled the company’s size and positioned it as a leading entity in the U.S. sugar industry. This marked a pivotal chapter in Imperial’s history, enabling further growth and solidifying its role in the national sugar market.
2002
Local Investors Revitalize Worland's Sugar Industry
In 2002, facing the potential closure of the Worland sugar factory by Imperial Sugar, a coalition of local growers, business owners, employees, and citizens united to preserve this vital economic asset. Pooling resources, they formed the Wyoming Sugar Company and purchased the factory, ensuring its continued operation. This community-driven initiative not only safeguarded local employment but also reinforced the region’s agricultural heritage. By 2009, the company transitioned to complete grower ownership, further solidifying its commitment to the area’s economic sustainability.
2009
Transition to Full Grower Ownership
By 2009, Wyoming Sugar Company achieved a significant milestone by becoming entirely grower-owned. All non-grower investors were bought out, receiving their initial investments plus returns, resulting in a cooperative fully controlled by local sugar beet growers. This transition strengthened the company’s commitment to the region’s agricultural community and ensured that decision-making aligned closely with the interests of those directly involved in sugar beet cultivation.
2018
Strategic Alliances and Structural Transformation
In February 2018, Wyoming Sugar Company joined United Sugars Corporation, a national marketing cooperative that includes American Crystal Sugar Company, Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative, and United States Sugar Corporation. This partnership enhanced Wyoming Sugar’s market reach and distribution capabilities. Subsequently, on September 1, 2018, Wyoming Sugar transitioned from a Limited Liability Company to a grower-owned cooperative, reinforcing its commitment to local agricultural producers and aligning its organizational structure with its cooperative principles.