Historic Miller House on National Elk Refuge Transforms into Employee Housing

The historic Miller House, situated within the National Elk Refuge, has undergone a significant transformation. It will no longer serve as an interpretive center open to the public. Instead, starting this summer, refuge employees will occupy the house in its entirety. This decision aims to address the ongoing challenge of providing sufficient employee housing for the National Elk Refuge and the broader community.

• The Miller House has a rich history and has historically provided refuge housing.
• In recent years, the downstairs portion of the house welcomed visitors while limited refuge housing continued in other sections.
• Due to low visitor numbers and the need for employee housing, the refuge has repurposed the entire Miller House.
• A new Nature Center is planned for construction at the current location of the Elk Refuge and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center in 2025.

Historical Significance of the Miller House

Construction of the Miller House commenced in 1895 and reached completion in 1898. As one of Jackson’s earliest trophy homes, it served as a hub for community gatherings, hosting the first elections in Jackson Hole, civic meetings, and social gatherings. At one point, it even functioned as a temporary U.S. post office.

Over the years, the Miller House has provided refuge housing for staff, spanning from 1914 to 1942 and then from the 1970s to 2005. In 2005, the downstairs section opened its doors to the public, while refuge staff continued to occupy the kitchen and upstairs apartment, albeit in limited capacity. However, the Miller House struggled to attract visitors, averaging a mere six daily visitors compared to the bustling Elk Refuge and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center, which welcomed approximately 650 visitors per day.

To address the ongoing challenge of employee housing, the refuge has made the proactive decision to repurpose the Miller House entirely. It will now serve as critical housing for seasonal refuge staff and volunteers, offering much-needed accommodation. Employee housing has persistently presented challenges for both the refuge and the broader community. This transformation aims to alleviate some of the difficulties while preserving the building’s historical value.

Future Plans: New Nature Center

As the Miller House transitions away from its role as a tourist attraction, the National Elk Refuge looks toward the future. Plans are underway for the construction of a new Nature Center at the current location of the Elk Refuge and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center. This modern facility, slated for completion in 2025, will better cater to visitor needs and align with the refuge’s mission.

As we witness this significant change, it is crucial to acknowledge the historical significance of the Miller House and its integral role within the community. Repurposing the building for employee housing allows the refuge to address an ongoing challenge while honoring the site’s heritage.

For further information about the National Elk Refuge and its future plans, please visit the official website and explore the available resources.