First, let me say that there's something about the early mornings in this flat part of the country --- with no trees or hills in the way, the sun can be blindingly beautiful even before 6 AM. I can understand how some people from this heartland say they feel claustrophobic in the forested rolling hills of New England.
Returning to our trek today -- even when there appears to be nothing of interest along our route, our AAA tour books help us see the repetitive scenery in a different light. To wit:
1. The town of Kimball (population 2,500) has a Titan intercontinental missile on display in one of its municipal parks --- apparently, the town was surrounded by missile silos during the Cold War.
2. Ogalalla, Nebraska (population 4,700) was once known as "The Gomorrah of the Plains". In the 1860's, Ogalalla was a cattle-shipping town on the Union Pacific Rail line. Cowboys from Texas would "let off steam" after their cattle drives, and the results were often somewhat violent.
1. The town of Kimball (population 2,500) has a Titan intercontinental missile on display in one of its municipal parks --- apparently, the town was surrounded by missile silos during the Cold War.
2. Ogalalla, Nebraska (population 4,700) was once known as "The Gomorrah of the Plains". In the 1860's, Ogalalla was a cattle-shipping town on the Union Pacific Rail line. Cowboys from Texas would "let off steam" after their cattle drives, and the results were often somewhat violent.
3. Cozad was named after John J. Cozad, who had visions of making the town a showpiece on the 100th meridian of longitude. The plan never came to fruition, but the town does have a 100th Meridian Museum displaying local artifacts. (The picture of our GPS as we drove through proves the town's longitudinal claims)
4. Much of Nebraska's history is wrapped up with the Oregon and Mormon Trails, and also with the Union Pacific Railroad, which was established across the area in the 1860's. North Platte commemorates the railroad history with the Golden Spike Tower - located at the 2,850 acre Union Pacific rail yard -- "one of the largest railroad yards in the world".
4. Much of Nebraska's history is wrapped up with the Oregon and Mormon Trails, and also with the Union Pacific Railroad, which was established across the area in the 1860's. North Platte commemorates the railroad history with the Golden Spike Tower - located at the 2,850 acre Union Pacific rail yard -- "one of the largest railroad yards in the world".
On the other hand, the AAA guide didn't tell us about the town of Sidney, and the fact that it's the location of the flagship store for Cabella's. Visible from miles away on I-80, the store doesn't lack for visitors and tourists like us.
The selection of hunting and camping merchandise is overwhelming.....doesn't every woman need a pink camouflage armchair?
One last view of Nebraska....
One last view of Nebraska....
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