Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
• California Historical Landmark # 953.
• Boasting 11 acres of exhibits and colorful Eastern Sierra history in over 50 structures.
• A popular, charming venue that can be rented for weddings and other special events.
• A true historical gem that pays tribute to the spirit of railroad men, miners, packers, and other Eastern Sierra pioneers—even the mule, man’s best friend among pack animals!
Laws is the location of the Bishop Creek Railroad Depot, which grew into a sizable settlement after the first train steamed into the station on April 1, 1883. By 1900, Southern Pacific Lines had taken over the Carson & Colorado Railroad and renamed the station "Laws" in honor of the railroad's Assistant Superintendent, R.J. Laws. While it was originally mainly a railroad site, Laws grew into a community center for local homesteaders, farmers, ranchers, and miners. The station and its community flourished until the railroad ceased operation.
On April 30, 1960, the narrow-gauge railroad Engine No. 9, lovingly known as the “Slim Princess,” pulled her last train into Laws coming from Keeler.
Southern Pacific subsequently donated the land, Engine No 9 with boxcars and caboose, and original railroad structures to the City of Bishop and Inyo County. Local visionaries formed the Bishop Museum & Historical Society in 1964, and area residents immediately began donating entire historic structures along with items ranging from antique pioneer furnishings, old photographs, wagons, farm equipment and mining equipment—even a working stamp mill. Laws Railroad Museum & Historical Site opened its doors to the public on April 1st, 1966 -- 83 years after the first train steamed into the station.