"Kanesville Town"

Kanesville is the most common name known for Council Bluffs before it took on its current name.  The name comes from Doctor Thomas L. Kane, a prominent citizen and friend of the Mormons, who did several things to further the health and well being of the church's members.  He was also instrumental in dealing with the U.S. Government to secure a place to stay, resulting in Winter Quarters.

Bishop Henry W. Miller* and his brothers were part of the earliest arrivals at the Missouri River after the exodus of Nauvoo.  The Miller brothers bought the abandoned blockhouse* for $300 and established a milling business.  Soon, the area was known as Miller's Hollow and also Miller's Hill.  While these two names seem opposing, both are documented to have been used.

As Mr. Kane's involvement became more known, the area was referred to as Kane, and eventually Kanesville.  When the Mormons moved away from the area, the local population renamed the town Council Bluffs in January 1853.

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