Nebraska State Fair
Lincoln, Nebraska
Aug 24 - September 3rd, 2007
Nebraska has lots of wonderful communities to visit, explore, and learn about their local history and attractions.
City names are followed by the zip, county, and population in purple. The distance from Omaha is in black. Mileages shown are road miles from Omaha's downtown Post Office to the community downtown U.S. Post Office. Some mileages are approximate.
Addresses in blue (often in parenthesis) will open a map link in another browser.
The cities are listed starting at Omaha and working out. To list cities alphabetically, click here.
Louisiana Territory
Click to enlarge
Dundee (Zip*, Douglas, Pop: part of Omaha) (4 miles) 
Dundee was annexed into Omaha in 1917. It was the wealthy housing district of early Omaha so understandably, it was a prime choice for annexation. Many of Omaha's early founders, builders, business people, built their life's dream home in the area. It has maintained its dignity as a respectable community and one you surely want to visit. Dundee celebrates Dundee Days around the third week of September.
Some places you might want to check out in the Dundee area.
The Dundee Dinner Theatre is located at (5021 Underwood Ave.
). Showtimes are 8 P.M. Thursdays through Saturday,. Tickets are $13.50 to $24.95. 402-558-8535.
The Cornerstone Mansion built by Charles and Bertha Offutt* is located at (140 N. 39th St.). The mansion has been turned into an elaborate bed and breakfast. Of all the places you could possibly stay while visiting Omaha, this is the place that you will never forget about. The mansion is directly across the street from the Joslyn Castle, which was completed nine years later. You can call the folks at the Cornerstone Mansion at 402-558-7600.
The Joslyn Castle built by Sarah and George Joslyn* is located at (3902 Davenport Street.). The home certainly qualifies as a castle in appearance, though it was not originally built as a castle. It was built to be the final home of the family of George Joslyn, a successful newspaper business man, who made a fortune supplying "ready print" for other Midwestern newspapers. The home was damaged during the 1913 Easter Sunday tornado, however it was restored to its earlier grandeur. 
South Omaha (Zip*, Douglas, Pop: part of Omaha) (5 miles)
South Omaha was annexed into Omaha in 1917.
In some ways, South Omaha is older than Omaha. A. D. Jones, a Council Bluffs resident was one of the first to cross the Missouri and mark off plots on the western side of the river. This was done before Nebraska even became a territory. The venture occurred with the constant threat of encounters with the natives who were starting to guard the area with an even more watchful eye, suspicious of likely intentions of the white settlers, especially in lieu of attempts to entice them to move to Kansas. Even before the territory was opened for settlement. A. D. Jones was appointed postmaster and immediately with the help of a Mr. Whitted, constructed a claim cabin of logs on the northeast portion of the Kountze place in South Omaha. The building was completed on the 28th of May, two days before the act creating the Territory of Nebraska. The building referred to as a "shanty" had a wide shingle with lead pencil lettering in the ordinary chirography of the times hung on it that appropriately indicated the building's purpose, reading, "Postoffice by A.D. Jones". It is said that the sign attracted as much by the quaintness of style as the information it communicated. The building was the first actual dwelling-house erected in the new country, afterward the great city of Omaha.*
The El Museo Latino is located in South Omaha
(4701 S. 25th St.). It features exhibits of many forms of Latino art. The museum is open 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. 2 P.M. to 5 P.M. on Tuesday.
Florence (Zip*, Douglas, Pop: part of Omaha) (7 miles)
Florence is important because it was one of the earliest settlements west of the Missouri River. Especially important is the time that the Mormons stayed on an Indian reservation in the area. There is so much to tell about Florence, that it has its own page. More info.
Bellevue (Zip*, Sarpy, Pop: 44,047) (12 miles)
Bellevue is Omaha's closest neighbor since it is hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. Bellevue is so special, it has its own page. Click here.
City of Bellevue
Chamber of Commerce
Papillion (Zip*, Sarpy, Pop: 13,759) (15 miles)
To the west of Bellevue is Papillion, also reachable by going south on 84th street in Omaha. To get there from Omaha, you pass right through LaVista and Ralston (off to the side). Papillion is the county seat for Sarpy County. The name of the city is not pronounced like the French word for butterfly as you may be familiar with from the 1970s movie. Our neighbor's name is pronounced Peh (as in ugh) - pill - yun. The Papillion water tower verifies that roots are the same with the beautiful butterfly mural on the side. I would just love to see that thing lift off and flutter around a bit, come down and suck up a lake or two, then go back to refill the tank.
Papillion
Pronounced Peh - Pill - ion
Ft. Calhoun (68023, Washington, Pop: 648) (15 miles)
To the north of Omaha in Washington County is Ft. Calhoun, another important historical community. Ft. Calhoun is the area's third name.
Ft. Calhoun is where Lewis and Clark first met with the chiefs of the "Indian Territory" on their way to the Pacific Northwest. They met with the Oto/Otoe/Missouri Indians. The meeting place was dubbed Council Bluff (notice no s on the end), Council Bluffs, and Camp Councile Bluff. The area around Ft. Calhoun was called Council Bluff after the expedition. The Indian Agency there was called Council Bluffs Indian Agency. The agency was moved to the Bellevue area in 1823 and it too was called Council Bluffs. Later, the name was used to refer to the surrounding area on both sides of the Missouri. and even later adopted by the citizens of Kanesville following the exodus of the Mormon community.
Fort Atkinson, the first military barracks west of the Missouri was built in 1821* to help protect early settlers and fur traders. It is believed by some, and even documented*, that Ft. Atkinson occupied the same location as the initial council with local natives by Lewis and Clark. Ft. Atkinson was evacuated around 1827 or 1828 by Col. Leavenworth. Some time later the same barracks were again used by the U.S. Military. While Nebraska was still a territory, the barracks were commissioned Fort Calhoun (1858*) after John Caldwell Calhoun, who had passed away a few years earlier(1850). The name was adopted by the surrounding community as it sprang up.
The Fort Atkinson State Historical Park located in Fort Calhoun (7th and Madison St.) has a section dedicated to the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The center is open daily 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. (later, daylight permitting until 8 P.M. ) 402-468-5611
There are some historic markers around the community to check out as well. Because Ft. Calhoun is so close, there is no reason a history buff in Omaha shouldn't make it there for this alone. Once there, you will see what a wonderful community Ft. Calhoun is.
The Washington County Historical Association preserves historical artifacts and history in several exhibits all around Washington County, including preservation of the town hall of the once thriving town known as Fontenelle. It is a good idea to read what they have done on their website or call them at 402-468-5740.
The nearby 3,200 acre Boyer-Chute National Wildlife Refuge was set aside to restore essential wildlife habitat. You can use the refuge for hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and fishing activities. 402-642-4121.
Plattsmouth (68048, Cass, Pop: 6,295) (19 miles)
To the south of Bellevue is Plattsmouth (in Cass County), also a historic territory in Nebraska's history, first settled by the early fur traders in the area, due to its easy access to both the Missouri and the mouth of the Platte River, a slow meandering river that weaves itself into Nebraska's interior, all the way to Nebraska's western edge and Scottsbluff, although no one has made it that far in the last 100 years. The river was a safer method of travel through Indian territory since you could see further away before being ambushed (you had time to reach for the long rifle). The mouth of the Platte River empties into the Missouri near Plattsmouth. I have no idea how the town got its name.
Since Plattsmouth is so rich in history, there are several historic places to visit such as their museum, some preserved homes and stores. Another opportunity to see how the simple life was in early Nebraska.
Cass County is also alive with Theatre and the performing arts. Cass County residents don't have too far to travel to enjoy some local music or a stage play.
Visit Cass County
Tourism
Richfield (68054, Sarpy, Pop: just a few folks) (20 miles)
To the south of Papillion is Richfield, also in Sarpy County. I mention Richfield because, well, it's important. We used to go to the the Richfield Cafe there to eat a great dinner at in as rural an area as you possibly can. Like, how rural? Population, I don't think anyone keeps track, however, just about anyone can count them up to see what the current total is. That rural. The cafe burned down in 1989 so now we go there for the annual Richfield Run. The next run is on Sunday October 6th, 2002. Travel south on 84th to Capehart Road, go west and turn south on 102nd Street. It will lead you right into town. The run is put on by John Petersen, the same person that owned the cafe. The run raises funds for the Make A Wish Foundation and the Sarpy County Fraternal Order of Police. For more information, please contact: John Petersen at 402-895-2574
Springfield (68059, Sarpy, Pop: 1,426) (26 miles)
To the west of Papillion, and slightly south is Springfield, also in Sarpy County. I mention Springfield because it's bigger than Richfield, a lot bigger.
Blair (Zip*, Washington, Pop: 6,860) (26 miles)
To the north of Ft. Calhoun, is Blair, where a large number of contest entries end up (ever hear of J.D. Blair Company?). The community was not connected with the contest judging organization beforehand, only that the company looked for a location to process contest and sweepstakes entries and Blair was an easy choice to exclude from winning any prizes. Wouldn't it look suspicious if a local won?. They don't seem to be upset and aren't interested in entering contests anyway, they know the odds are high, and don't bother. Other than the contest/sweepstakes enterprise, Blair is a farming community with easy access to the Missouri. It is quite a ride by river, but a great place to visit no matter how you get there.
Blair had a great jump on other Nebraska cities along the Missouri when U.S. Highway 30 brought traffic along the first paved transcontinental highway back in 1915. The highway follows the Platte River for much of its way across the state.
The Cottonwood Marina on the Missouri River is probably the most popular river stopping places for boaters. Throughout the summer, the hotspot has concerts featuring everything from local talent to big-name draws. Go there on an empty stomach, otherwise you will hate yourself later.
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge (1434 316th Lane.)
Blair and Missouri Valley, Iowa claim DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, however Iowa gets true credit. The refuge is open for boating, hiking, and picnicking. The Visitor's Center has ongoing programs of education, some with guided tours. The steamboat Bertrand excavation has produced several artifacts on display at the visitor's center. 712-642-4121
Ashland (68003, Saunders, Pop: 2,168) (29 miles)
Ashland is 3 miles from Interstate 80 at exit 426. Several attractions are close by.
The Willow Point Art Gallery & Wildlife Museum has changing shows complimenting the wonderful resident displays that bring the outdoors indoors. Hours: 10 A.M. to 6 P.M., Monday through Saturday, 12 P.M. to 4 P.M. Sunday, 402-944-3613 800-861-4260
The Denman and Mary Mallory Kounze Memorial Theatre
(Interstate 80 and Exit 426, Ashland) puts on several different plays for summer performances through August. Admission: $6, adults, $4 children 12 and under, 402-483-1278
The Strategic Air and Space Museum (previously known as SAC Museum) is right next to the Interstate. (Interstate 80 and Exit 426). A kid's dream and an adult's wonderland of aircraft exhibits featuring films and tour information. See the famous Blackbird (SR-71) up close, still the world speed record holder. Hours: 9 A.M. to 5 P.M., daily, closed major holidays, Admission: $6 adults (13 years of age and older), $5 seniors, $3 children, children under 5 free. Group tour rate are available. 402-827-3100
The Lee G. Simmons Conservation Center and Wildlife Safari
(Interstate 80 and Exit 426, Ashland) is part of the Omaha Zoo family. Several plains wildlife examples are on display, the most famous being buffalo in a drive through park. A concession stand, gift shop, and nature center are near the entrance. Hours: 9:30 A.M. to 5 P.M., April through October, Weekends November through March, Admission: $10 per car, $5 if member of zoo. 402-944-9453
John Caldwell Calhoun
U.S. Vice President
Fremont (Zip*, Dodge, Pop: 24,429) (39 miles)
To the west, and slightly north of Omaha, and Elkhorn is Fremont. Fremont got its start due to it being next to the Platte River. The land is pretty much the same elevation for a good distance around the Platte River there making it easy for lakes to form. Fremont has lakes, dozens of them. We call them the Fremont Lakes. Since Fremont is not too far from Omaha, the lakes are a favorite recreational spot. When you get to Fremont, you are in the heart of farmland.
Fremont takes its name from General John C. Frémont (1813-1890), who as a Lieutenant explored the area between the Kansas River and the Platte River in 1842. He reported his frustration with navigating the Platte River and explained the Indian name of Nebraska, meaning Shallow River. The Secretary of War liked the sound of it and so Nebraska became the name of the territory, and eventually the state. In 1856, Gen., Frémont became the first Republican candidate formed when the Whig party broke up and the Democrat party split following the introduction of the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854.
The John C. Fremont Days are celebrated in mid-July. The three-day celebration has a Rough Stock Rodeo, Living History Encampments, Heartland Auto Show, Food Courts, Craft Booths, Clowns, Music, and much more. Check the website for more information.
The Fremont Historic Visitor's Center (605 N. Broad St.) displays historic bits of area history. Hours: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday, 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Saturday; 800-727-8323
The Dodge County Historical Society in the Louis E. May Historical Museum (1643 N. Nye Ave.) has lots of exhibits on area history. The society also puts on several events, especially coinciding with John C. Frémont Days in mid July, and including the Homesteaders Fair the first Sunday in October. Hours: 1:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Wednesday through Sunday April to December, however the Museum is closed on Sundays during April, September, October, and November. Also closed January through March, and all holidays. 402-721-4515
The Fremont Area Art Association - Gallery 92 West (92 W. 6th St.) displays art in a wide range of areas. There is always something new on display. 402-721-7779 The Fremont Area Art Association partners with the Musbach Art Center at Midland Lutheran College Kimmel Gallery to help students learn about art production and art.
The Fremont Dinner Train (1835 N. Somers Ave.) has mystery theatre trips, wine tasting trips, and more. 402-727-8321 or 800-942-7245
The Fremont and Elkhorn Valley Railroad (1835 N. Somers Ave.) has sightseeing excursions from a different perspective through the Elkhorn River Valley to Nickerson and back, and to Hooper and back. 402-727-0615.
Fremont
and Dodge County
J. Sterling Morton
Territorial Governor
Nebraska City (68410, Otoe, Pop: 7,127) (44 miles)
Nebraska City was founded in 1850 by Stephen Nuskolls and incorporated in 1854, the same year as Omaha. Being on the Oregon Trail and on the edge of the Missouri River made Nebraska City an important spot to meet up, and get outfitted for the trip through the new west.
Nebraska City is almost on a parallel with Lincoln. In the 1850s, Nebraska City saw its heyday compared to the rest of the state. A ferry crossed the river there supplying the city with trade from the east and allowing for easy shipments of the fur trade to back east. The river was easily accessible for shipments to Kansas City, St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans, and then the world. Nebraska City had around 64 freight companies compared to Omaha, which had 24. With this type of business flow to the west, it is no wonder that Lincoln grew, mainly because Nebraska City was its outlet to the Missouri River and places back east. It was expected that Nebraska City would be the largest city in Nebraska; it was even a good contender to be the territorial capitol. When talk of connecting the east and west with railroad tracks, Nebraska City was a major consideration. The land next to the Platte River was already being considered since the grade change would be gradual. At the time, St. Louis was the largest city west of the Mississippi River. If a railroad was to cross the Missouri River inside the Nebraska Territory lines, it would surely connect to St. Louis to the east. Chicago was also a consideration*. A beeline from Chicago to the Platte River passed right through Omaha. Chicago had the help of Stephen Arnold Douglas, a prominent Chicago law partner of Abraham Lincoln, a congressman, and senator. His influence helped Chicago get chosen over St. Louis. As a result, Omaha grew faster than Nebraska City.
John Brown's Cave is a local attraction, the hideout used by runaway slaves as part of the Underground Railroad.
Nebraska City has a large number of apple orchards and in the fall celebrates with an apple festival called AppleJack The festival has a craft show, classic-car show, gold tournament, and lots of food! Info: 402-873-3000.
Nebraska City is the start of Arbor Day, founded by J. Sterling Morton.
Lincoln (Zip*, Lancaster, Pop: 192,322) (59 miles)
There is so much to tell about Lincoln, that it has its own web page. More info.
Brownville (68321, Nemaha, Pop: 148 (72 miles)
Brownville is located along the Missouri River south of Omaha, halfway between Nebraska City and the southeast tip of the state. Brownville is easily accessible from Interstate 29 (in Iowa), just 10 miles west on U.S. Highway 136.
The town was formed in 1854 by Richard Brown. It was soon a booming town on the Missouri River. It was even expected to be the location of the new state capitol that would take over after Omaha's territorial capitol. Groundwork started, but due to the popularity of the railroad, river towns such as Brownville became less important. Lincoln, almost a beeline to the west got the honor instead. Brownville's popularity waned a bit but a few stayed and the history is still there.
The Meriwether Lewis Museum is located in Brownville and worth the drive alone. They camped here on July 15th, 1804 on their way up the Missouri River. You can visit the encampment site from the Missouri River.
Indian Cave State park is further south, just south of Nemaha about 32 miles away from Brownville.
Brownville has a winery shop at 702 Main Street. The production facility is located where the grapes are grown just south of town near Nemaha. The farm has some amazing things to see. To store the wine, they restored/rebuilt the beautiful brick lined 1866 underground caves that were originally used in the Brownville Brewery. They didn't stop there; they also restored the insides of the 100+ year old barn that sits across Whiskey Run Creek with cedar that covers the walls as it is worked around the beams and supports of the barn. What is most significant is that the barn was moved there from 18 miles away, then placed across the creek. You might think that all of the nails would work themselves out during the 6 hour trip, except the barn was constructed without any nails at all. The 10 ton, 40 foot long by 26 foot wide by 33 foot high barn was built near the end of War War I in the old tradition. It now is a great place to see some wonderful Nebraska wines, and you can even have a party in a cave. The Whiskey Run Creek Winery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. and closed on Sundays. You can call for special hours at 402-825-4601 or visit then on the web.
The Carson House at 3rd and Main is a fun visit. The house was built in 1860. One of the best times to visit the home is on Memorial Day because they have a tea at 2 P.M. You can visit the house between Memorial Day and the second week of October. Hours are open daily from June to August but starting in May you can visit on weekends between 1 and 5 P.M. You can visit outside these times by appointment by calling 402-825-6001. The tour is $3 for adults, and $2 for students. The Tourism Office a block away at 2nd and Main has a tour guide. You can also call toll-free at 877-559-6005.
Festival of the Book: The Wine, Writers, and Song Festival is held in Brownville on the next to last weekend of April. For 2004, the festival is on April 22nd through 24th. This is the time to celebrate World Book Day. The event will have storytelling, readings by local, and well known authors, music, food, and lots of displays. 402-825-4211
Sweet Corn Daze is held in Brownville on the next to last weekend of July. For 2005, the festival is on July 23rd through 24th. Celebrate Nebraska's best sweet corn roasted, boiled, or other ways. The event will have lots of food to go along with corn, plus music, and more. 402-825-6731
A Quilt Show is also a fun time for the second weekend in August. For 2005, the show is on August 13th and 14th. The quilts are locally made and are in competition so expect some pretty impressive quilts. 402-825-4651
Brownville has two big flea market events during the year; one near the end of spring and one for the start of fall. Late May (28th and 29th) and September (24th and 25th). Hours are 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. There are literally hundreds of dealers that show up for this event. 402-825-4131 or 877-559-6005
Also in the fall is the Old Time Autumn Celebration held on the first weekend of October. For 2005, the event is on October 8th and 9th.
On the Saturday before Halloween, Brownville has a Spook-a-Rama event. Only the brave go to this because it is veerrrry scccaaaarrrry! 402-825-6491
On the first Saturday of December, Brownville has a Christmas Tour of Homes. This is not a free event; you need tickets but there is known way to get tickets.
Brownville Village Theatre has plays during the summer months. Box Office Hours - 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. daily, beginning first Monday in June. The season opens the second Saturday in June. Call 402-825-4121 for reservations, or to contact by e-mail. You may also write: Brownville Village Theatre, P.O. Box 95, Brownville, NE 68321.
Brownville Village Theatre
Brownville Information website
Seward (68434, Seward, Pop: 5,641) (77 miles)
Seward is six miles north of Interstate 80 at exit 379, approximately 20 miles west of Lincoln.
The Marxhausen Gallery is open 11 A.M. to 4 P.M. Monday through Friday, and 1 P.M. to 4 P.M. Saturday and Sunday.
Tekamah (68061, Burt, Pop: 1,852) (79 miles)
Tekamah, Nebraska is located north of Omaha, and Blair on the Missouri River, near Highway 32. Tekamah plays host to the Big Bottom Blues Festival each year unless they decide to cancel it.
The Burt County Museum is a great place to learn about Tekameh and its history. The museum is located at 319 North 13th,. Hwy 75.
Columbus (Zip*, Platte, Pop: 19,480) (85 miles)
Columbus is another one of the cities that got its start due to it being near the Platte River. The Loup River empties into the Platte at Columbus so Columbus is actually on the Loup River. The Platte River runs under the Loup River to where they join just east of downtown.
Columbus has many attractions to see. Their Columbus Days celebration is a time to get everyone out of the normal routine and relax, have some fun, enjoy the great food and festivities.
The Platte County Historical Society has made a commendable effort in preserving area history in museums, restored log cabins, and early homes in Columbus and throughout the county.
The Platte County Museum
(2916 16th St.) has several pioneer exhibits and artifacts. The museum is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Hours are 2 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Other times are available by appointment.
Columbus honors one of its famous citizens at the Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial, which has a life-size replica of the Higgins boat, the boat that landed on shores with the front flipped down so soldiers could exit in a speedy fashion. Sand collected from beaches worldwide has been added to the memorial, which also pays tribute to our country's veterans.
Columbus is where the wonderful Dorothy Lynch Salad Dressing became a state-wide sensation following Dorothy's restaurant success in Saint Paul*. A unique sweet and spicy salad dressing similar to French dressing that started and set the standard for salad dressings that go beyond the norm. If you are visiting Nebraska, make sure you stop by a grocery store and take some home. This way, you will always be tied to Nebraska so you can get more*.
The Columbus Art Gallery
(2504 14th St.) has exhibits of art, sculpture, and pottery. The gallery is open 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Monday through Friday, 5:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. Thursday, and 1:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Saturdays.
The Columbus Fairgrounds website has all the details of events and shows you will want to know about.
The Columbus Chamber of Commerce website lists several additional attractions.
City of Columbus
Chamber of Commerce
Columbus
City Website
Bancroft (68004, Cuming, Pop: 494) (89 miles)
Bancroft is on the border of the Omaha Indian Reservation at ts southwest corner along highway 51.
The John G. Neihardt State Historical Site covers Nebraska's Poet Laureate. Additionally, it has changing art exhibits. The site is open 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Saturday, and 1:30 P.M. to 5 P.M. Sunday; 888-777-4667
Decatur (68020, Burt, Pop: 641) (95 miles)
Decatur, Nebraska is located midway between Omaha and South Sioux City on the Missouri River, near Highway 51. Decatur has one of the few bridges* crossing the Missouri River.
South Sioux City (68776, Dakota, Pop: 9,677) (98 miles)
South Sioux City is part of the community that includes Sioux City, Iowa. Cities commonly evolve at a river's edge and migrate across to the other side. When that river also is the border between states, they often have entirely different names. In this case, the portion in Nebraska is directly south of the Iowa side, hence the name. South Sioux City is on the inside of a loop of the Missouri River, actually where the Missouri heads south. There are two bridges connecting the states, one to the north, one to the east. Interstate 29 on the Iowa side makes for easy access to the north and the south. The South Dakota state line is only a few miles away - South Dakota's contribution to the community is known as North Sioux City.
Tecumseh (68450, Johnson, Pop: 1,702) (98 miles)
Tecumseh, Nebraska is located on Highway 136, just off Highway 50, 20 miles south of Otoe between Brownville and Beatrice in south east Nebraska. Tecumseh is built on the Nemaha River and along the BNSF Railroad. Tecumseh takes its name from a chief of the Shawnee nation. Tecumseh was named in January 1858*.
Beatrice (68310, Gage, Pop: 12,357) (99 miles)
Beatrice is directly south of Lincoln. Built on the Big Blue River, Beatrice was settled first by fur trappers that came up from the Kansas City area on the Kansas River and then ventured off into the Big Blue River. The first Homestead Act claim was made near Beatrice by Daniel Freedman. Beatrice was named in January 1858*.
Sprangler Arlington Brugh was born near Beatrice in Filley. His family moved to Fremont for a few years but moved back to Beatrice where he got his school years education. He continued his education in Lincoln, at Doane College, and at Pomona College in southern California. When an MGM talent scout discovered Mr. Brugh, his name was changed to Robert Taylor, the actor that became known world wide.
Beatrice celebrates Homestead Days each year around the end of July or thereabouts. The celebration includes an art show, music, food booths, and historical reenactments of pioneer life. This is a fun time to enjoy Beatrice.
The celebration is tied in with the Homestead National Monument of America four miles west of Beatrice. The park is a great place to visit anytime of the year to learn about early pioneer life. It is also a great place to convert museum haters. Look it up here. The monument is open 8:30 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday, and 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Saturday and Sunday; 402-223-3514
The Gage County Historical Museum (Second and Court St.) has numerous exhibits, including some pertaining to Robert Taylor. Hours: Labor Day to Memorial Day, Monday to Friday 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. closed 1 hour at noon, Sunday 1:30 P.M. to 5 P.M. , closed holidays except July 4th, Memorial Day to Labor Day, Tuesday to Saturday, 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. closed 1 hour at noon, Sunday 1:30 P.M. to 5 P.M., Admission: Donations, except for special exhibits. 402-228-1679
Genoa (68640, Nance, Pop: 1,082) (105 miles)
Genoa is located west of Columbus at the intersection of Highway 22 (from Columbus) and Highway 39. Genoa was settled by the Mormons on their way across Nebraska.*
The Genoa Historical Museum
(402 Willard Avenue.) has exhibits on Mormon history and also a large collection of Pawnee exhibits. The museum is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Hours are 2 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Other times are available by appointment.
The 1884 Genoa U.S. Indian School Museum (209 East Webster Avenue.) is listed on the National Historical Register. The museum has renovated several classrooms already to their original appearance. Several other period artifacts complete the displays. You can visit the museum by appointment.
Norfolk (Zip*, Madison, Pop: 21,485) (113 miles)
Norfolk is in northeastern Nebraska, where highways 81/275 and 24/35 intersect. Norfolk was built next to the Elkhorn River, right in the apex of where the Elkhorn River is joined by one of the river's tributaries, from the north appropriately called the North Fork. Only the southern tip of the city borders the Elkhorn River. Norfolk is pronounced Nor - Fork. You can tell a foreigner is in town when they don't know how to say it. Norfolk as a town name comes from the original in England. Nebraska old-timers say the name comes from the reference to the North Fork of the Elkhorn River. The early settlers around the northern fork of the river were referred to the North Fork folks, shortened in speech to Nor-Fork-Folks, Nor-Forks, Nor-Folk, and at some point spelled out officially as Norfolk. Some say that in 1881 when the city was organized that the residents chose Norfork because it was the simplest compounding of North Fork. Supposedly, the post office changed the spelling of Norfork to Norfolk but I don't believe the post office has ever made a mistake. Regardless of how it was spelled, locals knew it referred to those folks up around the North Fork so the spelling went one way, and the pronunciation went the other. Mighty nice folks up there too I might add.
Johnny A. Carson
was raised in Norfolk but was not born there; Johnny was born in Corning, Iowa on October 25, 1925. Johnny's folks stayed in Corning for only a couple of years. His early years were still in Iowa before his family moved to Norfolk where he was raised. Johnny went to college in Omaha before heading to California. Johnny's stint at "The Tonight Show " ended in California on May 22, 1992 but when he started, the show was based in New York (October 2, 1962). Johnny's childhood home at 306 S. 13th Street (now officially named Johnny Carson Boulevard) in Norfolk still stands and was recently purchased and renovated to the way it looked when Johnny lived there. The home was put up for sale on e-bay during April/May of 2003. The auction ended without the reserve price being met. That tells me that a mighty fine piece of property exists in Norfolk. If you would like additional information, contact us and we will get you in touch with the owner.
The Norfolk Arts Center (305 N. 5th St.) has changing exhibits. Hours: 9 A.M. to 5 P.M., Monday through Friday, 1 P.M. to 4 P.M. Saturday and Sunday, Admission: Free. 402-371-7199
The Willetta Lueschen Bird Library
(515 Queens City Blvd.) is a bird lover paradise. Lots of reference materials on all birds exist in the library. Hours: 1 P.M. to 4:30 P.M., Monday, Wednesday, Friday through Sunday, 4 P.M. to 7 P.M. Tuesday and Thursday, 402-371-6492
The Elkhorn Valley Museum and Research Center
(515 Queen City Blvd.) collects, preserves, researches, and interprets artifacts, documents, and published materials relating to the human history of the Elkhorn Valley region of Nebraska. Hours: 10 A.M. to 4 P.M., Monday - Wednesday, 10 A.M. to 8 P.M. Thursday, 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Friday-Saturday 1 P.M. to 4 P.M. Sunday 402-371-3886
Johnny Carson home for sale on e-bay (didn't sell)
Aurora (68818, Hamilton, Pop: 3,810) (125 miles)
Aurora is slightly north (3 miles) of Interstate-80 mileage marker 332, slightly east of Grand Island.
The Egerton Explorit Center (208 16th St.) is a tribute to Nebraska's 'Doc' Eagerton, the pioneer of strobe-light photography. The center is open 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. Monday through Saturday, and 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. Sunday, Admission: adults, $5; senior citizens and AAA members, $4; students, $3.50; younger than 3 and members, free; 877-694-4032.
The Plainsman Museum (210 16th St.) covers early pioneer life. The museum is open 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Saturday, and 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. Sunday, Admission: adults, $4; senior citizens, $3; students ages 5 through 16, $2; younger than 5, free; 402-694-6531.
Grand Island (Zip*, Hall, Pop: 41,392) (149 miles)
Grand Island is our next larger neighbor to the west. A little far to be considered a close neighbor but a major Nebraska city. Grand Island is another one of the cities that got its start due to it being on the Platte River. On the Platte River? Isn't that excessive? How could it be on the river? Grand Island is named justifiably because it started as an island. A strip of land nearly three miles in width that stretched for over 40 miles and nearly 70 miles at low water times. The northern waterway was cut off eventually to prevent crop flooding. This gives the appearance that Grand Island is north of the Platte. It expanded away from the river's edge way beyond the original island's width.
The Nebraska City Cutoff, Ox Bow, and Mormon Trails passes through Grand Island. As the Mormons continued their trek west following closure of Winter Quarters near Omaha, other locations were used to camp for the winter. During the winter of 1884/85, the Mormons camped out near Grand Island. Mormon Island State Recreational Area in Grand Island is a tribute to the Mormons that camped nearby. The actual campsite is about 4 miles from the recreational area. More on Nebraska Trails.
Grand Island has an active community participating in the Arts. Like Omaha has its J. Does, Grand island has its cranes. The cranes are certainly appropriate for Grand Island as it is directly in the path of the rare Whooping Crane and the much more abundant Sandhill Crane migration as they travel north in the spring. If you haven't seen several hundred to over a thousand sandhill cranes at the same time, you are in for a rare experience. In all, more than 500,000 pass through the state; the Platte River is an important stopover for the birds. Grand Island is north of I-80, Hastings is south of I-80. I-80 runs almost parallel to the Platte River in the area between the Grand Island/Hastings exit (281) and Kearney. The stretch is right in the middle of the migration path so there are several spots that will allow for excellent viewing of this majestic sight. Don't plan on stopping on I-80, that is a for-sure ticket. Check out the many side roads and especially the nature centers as they provide a much better view anyway.
Crane Meadows Nature Center is located six miles west of Grand Island. You can view the sandhill crane migration (late February to early April) up close from blinds. There are several miles of hiking trails along the Platte River, plus you can walk across the Platte River without getting your feet wet! Of course the river is shallow with lots of sandbars in the middle but in this case you walk on a pedestrian bridge. The center is a great place to visit all year long but the springtime is so popular you will need to get reservations. (308) 382-1820
You will want to visit the