Ezra Meeker made his first trip along the Oregon Trail in 1852. There was nothing special about this trip. But what Meeker did fifty years later was note worthy. Meeker packed up his wagon, hooked it to two good oxen and made the return trip east on the Oregon Trail, when he was 76 years old.
Along the way he engaged in speaking opportunities to promote preservation of the Trail. He convinced Teddy Roosevelt to set aside money for the Trail Preservation, wrote a book, and became a national celebrity.
Although his mode of transportation had changed, Meeker made the trip again in 1910, to Oregon... by car, train and plane at over 80 years of age. And continued to promote the Oregon trail until his death at 98 years of age.
To learn more about Ezra Meeker be sure to look for his book and others in stock at the TRADING POST during your next visit.
Chimney Rock was designated a National Historical Site on August 9, 1956. Chimney Rock and 80 acres surrounding the land mark were donated to the state by Mrs. Rozel Frank Durnal, preserving it for all the citizens of Nebraska. The site is maintained by the Nebraska State Historical Society. The Ethel and Christopher J. Abbott Visitors Center was constructed and opened in 1994. The Visitor Center offers hands on opportunities to "pack your wagon" and a video presentation that tells the story of the giant migration west. The Visitor Center, which is opened year round, has between 30,000 and 35,000 visitors annually. Still living at the base of Chimney Rock is Judy Durnal, a descendant of Rozel Frank Durnal.
Call us at 308-631-4478 ~ or email us at settlersle@gmail.com
Located on the road to Chimney Rock (Hwy 92 & County Road 75) three miles south of Bayard, NE.