Pioneer Country, Nebraska


From original homestead cabins to the architectural wonders of the State Capitol, the Land of the Pioneers is a rich and exciting land to explore. Historic attractions and events in the river towns of the east complement the prairie experience, ethnic cultures, and modern highlights found in towns and cities to the west. If variety is the spice of your life, you'll love touring this area.
Explore Pioneer Country
Paddock Hotel
In 1888 U.S. Senator Algernon Paddock built a hotel and a large opera house. That structure was destroyed by fire on August
1, 1919. Two years later a hotel company was organized, resulting in the New Paddock Hotel, which was completed in 1924.
Beatrice, NE Historic Hotels
Swedish Festival
Held the 3rd weekend in June each year.
Stromsburg looks forward to its 50th annual celebration in 2002.
Stromsburg, NE Festivals
One-room Schoolhouse
Now, nearly extinct as an educational institution, this one room school, built in 1884, stands proudly on the museum grounds - a monument to the importance the prairie pioneer placed on educating their young. Many a rural student was provided eight years of "readin','ritin', and 'rithmetic"
Superior, NE Historic SchoolhousesOld Freighters Museum
On July 20, 1804, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark set foot on the gently sloped banks of what is now known as Nebraska City and considered it an "ideal site for a future city." About 40 years later, the original Fort Kearny was built at this spot.
Nebraska City, NE Museums
Aldrich House Museum
Visit the historical home of nationally renowned author and one of Nebraska's most widely read and enjoyed authors. Bess Streeter Aldrich, author of "A Lantern in Her Hand," enjoyed a writing career that spanned more than 40 years.
Aldrich's work encompassed more than 100
Elmwood, NE MuseumsVictorian Festival Honoring Lady Vestey
The Victorian Festival Honoring Lady Vestey is held each year, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, on Memorial Day weekend to honor Superior's most famous former resident, Evelyn Brodstonte, Lady Vestey. Activites throughout the weekend emphasize the community'
Superior, NE FestivalsOld American Exchange Bank Building
The following is an abbreviated version of the bank history as first written by Richard Clements on November 18, 1983.
The American Exchange Bank was incorporated July 13, 1889 and bank business began on September 9, 1889
Elmwood, NEYork County Courthouse - NHR
York, Nebraska has been the county seat of York County since its organization in 1870. The first session of the Board of County Commissioners was held in the old pre-emption
York, NE Historic CourthousesVictor E. Wilson House
The dwelling was built for Swedish immigrant Victor E. Wilson, who was elected to the state legislature in 1909. During the teens Wilson served
Stromsburg, NE National RegisterPawnee County Bus Tour
Pawnee County has many interesting places to see which are not open except by appointment. There are animals which are of interest but again, are not easy to find except by a motorcoach tour.
Pawnee City, NE Tours
Steele City Historical District
Four old restored buildings are the main attractions here. The district has a 1900 stone blacksmith's shop in working condition, 1902 stone livery stable, 1880's stone Baptist church and brick bank museum.
Steele City Blacksmith Shop:
Steele City, NE National Register