The city of Sheridan is the county seat and the center of activity for Sheridan County. The original 40-acre town site of Sheridan was planned on the back of a piece of wrapping appear by John D. Loucks in the spring of 1882. The town was approved and incorporated in 1884. With the coming of the railroad, the opening of many coalmines, and the settling of the ranch lands, Sheridan quickly grew to a populated town of 1,559 people by 1900. The early wood frame, false front buildings were replaced by sturdier structures of brick and stone between 1900 and 1920. Nearly half of the buildings located in downtown Sheridan were built during this time period. The architecture of Historic Downtown Sheridan is typical of early western towns and is characterized by mixed elements from different classical styles. These elements are combined in individual buildings to produce what is known as the "Plains Style". Downtown Sheridan is filled with many buildings now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Conveniently located adjacent to I-90, the City of Sheridan is also 30 miles from the Interstate 90/25 intersection; 125 miles southeast of Billings, Montana; 240 miles west of Rapid City, South Dakota and 440 miles north of Denver, Colorado. Over 70 retail businesses including specialty shops, restaurants, and western stores offer opportunities for any shopper. All motels in the region offer quality accommodations at reasonable rates. Fine dining establishments and unique shops are available for residents or travelers.