Hall County

History of Alda, Hall County, Nebraska

Alda Nebraska in 1908

Alda, Nebraska, emerged in the late 1850s as a waypoint for westward migration along the Platte River Valley. Samuel “Pap” Lamb established a stage station named “Pawnee,” later renamed Alda in 1871 after the first child born there. The arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad spurred rapid settlement, leading to the establishment of businesses, schools, and churches. Despite setbacks like the 1893 depression and the WWII munitions plant, Alda thrived, evolving from a lonely stop to a vibrant community with a history steeped in agriculture and industry.

History of Doniphan, Hall County, Nebraska

Historic Downtown Doniphan

Doniphan, established in 1879, grew around the Union Pacific Railroad and was founded by W. J. Burger. Recognizing the settlement opportunity, Burger laid out the town, named it after Colonel John Doniphan, and fostered community development. Early settlers included farming families, and the town saw growth in education and religious life, leading to its incorporation in 1884. Despite challenges, such as a devastating fire in 1887, Doniphan thrived, incorporating modern amenities gradually. Today, the town, with a resilient spirit, hosts community events like the Fall Festival, reflecting its rich history and enduring connections among residents.

Heinrich Ahrens Family of Merrick County, Nebraska

A History of Merrick County, Nebraska to 1895

Heinrich Christopher Ahrens was born December 5, 1839, in Hanover, Germany. He married Magdalena Dierks on November 19, 1868, in Liverpool, England, en route to the United States. She was born on November 18, 1847, in Holstein, Germany. They settled near Yorkville, Illinois, where they lived for three years before traveling by horse to Shelby County, Missouri, where they remained through the winter. This trip took three weeks. In February of 1872, they homesteaded in Lake Township, Hall County, Nebraska. Their children were Alida Christine, who later married Frank Niemoth and lived in Merrick County; Helene, who died at the … Read more