History

On a day when those of us that are American contemplate the history of our country, I thought it was appropriate that I share a part of Omaha's (and the surrounding communities) history, which is actually also a part of my own family history.

During the 1800s, many of the pioneers traveling west across the plains stopped at a place along the Missouri River they called Winter Quarters (now North Omaha).  There they quickly erected homes to wait out the winter. Due to exposure, poor nutrition and sanitation, hundreds died.

The burial site is now a landmark.

I noticed that a lot of Marys are buried in that cemetery.

The large white building beyond the cemetery is an LDS (Mormon) temple.

Across the river in Council Bluffs, Iowa, is another pioneer site (then called Kanesville).  A large log structure was built there in three weeks in order to accommodate 1000 people.

Above, in the middle, is my great great great grandfather.  I have pioneer ancestors on both sides of the family.  

I'm grateful for all who blazed new trails for those of us coming behind.  Happy Independence Day, America!