Statewide

History of Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska

Birdseye View, Grand Island

Grand Island’s existence is deeply tied to transportation, beginning with its settlement by German immigrants in 1857 along the Platte River Road. Their foresight in choosing this location led to the arrival of major railroads, transforming it into a central hub. The city’s population grew rapidly, supported by agriculture and manufacturing benefiting from this connectivity. Grand Island also adapted to new transportation modes, including highways and aviation. The community has faced natural challenges like floods and tornadoes but has thrived, contributing notable figures to history. Today, it remains a vibrant regional center, preserving its heritage at the Stuhr Museum.

History of Cairo, Hall County, Nebraska

Street scene in Cairo

Cairo, Nebraska, emerged in the Platte Valley as a railroad necessity in 1886 when the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad established water stops. Named humorously by surveyors for its desert-like landscape, Cairo became a cultural melting pot with diverse settlers enduring frontier hardships. The Lincoln Land Company facilitated its growth, transforming a cornfield into a bustling town with schools, churches, and commerce.

Nebraska Community Histories

1880 Map of Nebraska showing the Union Pacific Land Grant

The community histories presented here are not exhaustive, but rather concise accounts that highlight the essential details of a community’s origin and early development. They may describe how a town was founded and named, when its post office and schools were organized, which churches and businesses first served its people, and what events—such as fires, floods, or the coming of the railroad—left a mark on its growth and its people.

Biography of Peter Carey of Peru

A Biographical and genealogical history of southeastern Nebraska

Peter Carey, born January 12, 1838, in Pike County, Illinois, was one of the oldest and best-known residents of Peru, Nebraska. He had been a familiar figure in the town for thirty-five years, known for his work as the pioneer drayman and as a dedicated mail carrier. A Civil War veteran, Carey served with distinction in the 2nd Illinois Cavalry. After the war, he moved to Peru in 1869 and became deeply involved in the community, serving on the town board and as city marshal. Married to Susan Debuque in 1888, Carey was also an adoptive father to Ezra Peter Carey.

Biography of Thomas B. Skeen of Auburn

A Biographical and genealogical history of southeastern Nebraska

Thomas B. Skeen, born January 19, 1838, in Buchanan County, Missouri, is one of Nemaha County, Nebraska’s oldest residents. His family, originating from England and later Scotland, emigrated to America, with his father, Alexander D. Skeen, settling in Nebraska in 1854. Thomas experienced pioneer life, including interactions with Native Americans and participating in the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush. He married Eunice Harger in 1860, and they had several children. Thomas became a successful freighter and landowner, eventually operating a flouring mill and engaging in the cattle-feeding business. He moved to Auburn in 1888, where he continued farming and became a prominent local figure. Active in the Methodist Episcopal Church and a Master Mason, Thomas’s life exemplified diligence, perseverance, and community involvement.

Biography of William White of Beatrice

A Biographical and genealogical history of southeastern Nebraska

William White, a long-time resident of Beatrice, Nebraska, was born on May 8, 1845, in Greene County, Tennessee. He hailed from an esteemed southern family; his father, Abraham White, and mother, Nancy Jennings, were both Tennessee natives. During the Civil War, William enlisted in Company G, Fourth East Tennessee Volunteer Infantry on November 7, 1862, and served bravely under Colonel Patterson and Captain West. Post-war, he managed the family farm until 1874 before moving to Illinois and then to Nebraska. William settled in Beatrice after a few years in Pawnee City and successfully ran a hotel. He suffered from chronic rheumatism due to wartime diseases. William married Mary J. White in 1866, and they had three children: Lydia, Josie, and Ella Hill.