Day 1 – Along the Route Hitchcock County (00 miles) – This County was named for Phineas Warrener Hitchcock (1831-1881), United States Senator from at the time of the county’s organization in 1873. Swanson Lake (4.2 Miles) – Beware landlubbers, the look out has spotted a body of water from the crow’s nest. Keep your cutlasses and boarding axes handy. This is the first pirates cove that we will go by. Look for a Bilander or Brigantine on the water. (6.2 miles) – Gear drop only. If you want, turn left (west) for one quarter mile and visit the North Shore Marina. It is sure to have a pint of grog or Captain Morgan’s to get you through our first day’s voyage. O6.2 Miles - Turn right (east) on Highway 34 mateys!. (12.2 miles) – This narrow canyon, feeding into the valley, was the location of the final inter- tribal battle in Nebraska. It also includes the remains of an important prehistoric archeological site. On the annual summer bison hunt to the Republican valley in early August 1873, the Pawnee (traveling from the Genoa area) established a camp near present-day Trenton. On August 5, the Pawnee broke camp, traveled down river several miles, and then turned north up a canyon. During the bison hunt the Pawnee were attacked by over 1,000 Brule and warriors. Roughly 70-100 Pawnee were killed or wounded compared to only six Sioux casualties. Cavalry, while patrolling from Fort McPherson, kept the death toll from being greater. The Massacre Canyon incident was the final communal bison hunt for the Pawnee, and within three years, the entire tribe moved to a permanent reservation in . A 35 foot granite monument commemorates the site. On the monument are the faces of (Sioux) and Ruling-His-Son (Pawnee). Psychologists have a word for the symbolism of this monument. The archeological site is a notable example of Woodland Tradition, which flourished along the Republican River and its tributaries from approximately A.D. 500-1000. This site appears to be the remains of a small village containing hearths, storage or refuse pits, and a burial area. Obviously the inhabitant’s did not send their dead to Davey Jones’ Locker! Why doesn’t Nebraska have one Historical Site to honor its pirates? (12.2 Miles) – Full SAG stop will be at Massacre Canyon Visitors Center. Restrooms are available. Watch when walking in the grass, there are rattlesnakes about! Culbertson (Pop. 594 – 19.5 miles) – This town was founded as a trading post during the summer of 1873 by W. F. Taylor. He named it for a famous Indian agent and fur trader, Major Alexander Culbertson. Culbertson became one of Nebraska’s first pioneer irrigation centers. Speaking of irrigation, Culbertson has the most bars per capita of any town along the route. Irrigate yourself! Pirate’s rum was made from fermented molasses or cane sugar. The first death in Culbertson occurred in 1874, when a skunk bit a traveler on the nose. The closest doctor was in Indianola and could offer little help. The man soon went mad and had to be tied to a tree where he finally died of hydrophobia. Don’t go nosing around for skunks or we could have one sick pirate! If so, like Black Bart, the BRAN Crew will tie you to the yardarm! The second postmaster in town was Mrs. Kelly. She went by the name “Old Ironsides” and delivered the mail on horseback. Do you think back then they knew pirates would eventually come to this area? South of town on Highway 17, is the Stone Church that is a state historical site. The building was first built of sod in 1892. In 1900, stones replaced the sod. Services discontinued in 1957 and the Stone Church Community Association restored the building in 1975. (19.5 Miles) – The SAG stop will be set up in town.

Red Willow County (25.6 miles) – This County, named for the Red Willow Creek is really a mistranslation of the Sioux word Chanshasha Walpala, literally Red Dogwood Creek. The shrub was abundant along the creek banks. (30.0 Miles) – SAG will be set up by Fastenal Distribution or Southwest Implement in McCook. Plan on lunch at any of McCook’s many fine establishments. McCook (Pop. 8,112 – 30.00 miles)- McCook was named in honor of Alexander McDowell McCook, a major in the Civil War. McCook had a very unusual family. His father and eight brothers all served as officers in the Civil War.

On your port side is one ot the nation’s top 75 public golf courses according to Golf Digest, Heritage Hills Golf Course.

Does a peg leg work for a woodie? Every pirate has irons. Captain Hook was a golfer. Enjoy McCook’s beautiful architecture: McCook Carnegie Library (423 Norris Ave.) –Designed by Willis A. Maren, from Denver, the library is a turn-of-the-century Spanish Revival style. Andrew Carnegie provided the funds for the library in December 1905, but the library was not dedicated until February 1908. H. P. Sutton House (602 Norris Ave.) – Frank Lloyd Wright designed this house. This is the only building designed by Wright in Nebraska and the first Frank Lloyd Wright home built west of the Mississippi River. Wright started designing it in 1905, but it was not completed until 1908. The “prairie style” design took open space inside the home and expanded it outdoors through porches and terraces. Senator George W. Norris House (706 Norris Ave) – Norris was one of America’s most prominent statesmen. He helped establish Nebraska’s unicameral government. His efforts resulted in legislation that brought about the Tennessee Valley Authority and the Rural Electrification Act. His home has been restored and is a state and national historical site. Kelly Park –(1205 East 3rd) The park is the home of McCook Community College. It is a picturesque setting with tennis courts and pools. Nearby is a nine-hole golf course.

(37.7 Miles) – Look for the SAG across from Southwest High School (on Road 718).

Located in the City Park of Indianola is the grave of a Pawnee Indian woman who died of wounds received at the battle between the Sioux and Pawnee tribes at Massacre Canyon just east of Trenton. Originally, she was buried northwest of town on a bluff overlook- ing Coon Creek. In the 1970s, it became obvious that erosion would eventually destroy her gravesite and the citizens of Indianola financed the reburial of her remains in the City Park. On March 27, 2004, a fire that started in the town’s only grocery store destroyed the store and the city offices. (48.0 Miles) – Look for the SAG stop by the three oil tanks.

Bartley (Pop 355 – 49.1 Miles) – This town was named for Reverend Allen Bartley, a Methodist Episcopal minister who founded Mallalieu University here. In its third year of operation, the University’s Governing Board met and voted to direct funding to another Methodist University also in its infancy, called “Wesleyan” in Lincoln. The rest is history. Did you know that early property owners had to sign a statement agreeing to neither make nor sell liquor? They were down right inhospitable to pirates!

Medicine Creek Reservoir (54.7 Miles) – Ten miles north is Medicine Creek Reservoir and Harry Strunk Lake. The lake has 2,000 acres sur- rounded by 6,000 acres of wildlife habitat. Rumor has it Capitan Kidd buried his booty there. Treasure maps are available for sale at the BRAN Pirate Headquarters. Camping at the lake is available for Pirates with RVs. Furnas County (54.2 miles) - This County was named for Robert W. Furnas (1824-1905). He was the Gover- nor of Nebraska when the County was established in 1873. Laddies and lassies, it is a short voyage into Cam- bridge. It’s time to break out the Jolly Roger!

Day 2 – Along the Route Holbrook (Pop. 225 – 8.7 Miles) – Formerly known as “Burton’s Bend,” the town was founded in 1870 by Issac “Ben” Burton who was an Indian trader and hide dealer. The great herds of buffalo that roamed the area provided for the local economy. The town’s name was changed after the railway came. (8.8 Miles) – SAG Stop set up one block east of D & D repair. Restrooms and water are available in town.

Arapahoe (Pop. 1,028 – 14.4 Miles) - Welcome to the home of “Cowboy” Ron Ems. Arapahoe has been the start point for two BRAN rides. It is a town with a rich history. On May 19, 1871 a party of men known as the “Arapahoe Town Company” led by Captain E. B. Murphy, an ex-Army officer and pioneer of the prairies, left Plattsmouth, Nebraska with a dream in their heart. — they were going to establish a town in the Repub- lican River Valley. The name had already been chosen, Arapahoe, as a small band of that Indian tribe had wintered in the valley. The Arapahoe House, operated by Louis Clute, was situated on the intersection of the east-west and north-south wagon roads. It prospered from a large stagecoach trade and was the biggest and best hotel in the Republican River Valley. Many celebrities including Buffalo Bill Cody were among its patrons. The hotel burned in 1899. In Arapahoe try visiting: Lady of Fatima (West Hwy 6 & 34) - At St. Germanus Catholic Church is this famous grotto built by Father Henry Denis, a Polish Priest who, as a prisoner of war in the Dachau Nazi concentration camp, promised to erect a monument in thanksgiving of being liberated. He built the shrine while pastor at St Gemanus with donations collected from all over the United States. This shrine is based upon the Blessed Virgin Mary appearing to three children who were herding their father’s sheep in Fatima, Portugal, telling them to pray the rosary everyday for the conversion of Russia. Furnas County Historical Museum (South end of Nebraska Avenue) - This building used to be home of Finch’s Store. Now it houses the museum and displays of old furniture, household items, tools, and clothes. Just south is a rebuilt log cabin. City Park (Can’t miss it) - Founded in 1871 when the town was platted, this tree lined park includes a swimming pool and solarium. Built with Works Progress Administration (WPA) help in the 1930s, its a great place to relax. Homestead Historical Marker (Hwy 6 & 34) - This marks the spot of the first homestead and the first cow in Furnas Country. Built by John Nilson on May 1, 1871, the town grew around this site. O21.3 Miles – Turn right (south) on Highway 136 (Heritage Highway) Edison (Pop. 154 – 21.3 Miles) – Edison was named for the son of R.H. Rohr a local rancher and store owner who had a son named “Eddy”. In earlier times, many Indians passed through the area on their annual migration from their winter to summer hunting grounds. Sometimes they would set up their teepees in an encampment near the town and stay for a considerable time. They used the healing mud and water of Turkey Creek to care for wounded warriors. After one battle, one Indian squaw found her way to the Osborn home, where she just sat by the stove. Later, more Indians also came, causing some concern as to their intent. Finally, one of the Osborn children put a bullet in the stove, which of course exploded. The Indians ran from the house and never came back. Pirates employed the same tactics. Sometimes they threw stink pots usually filled with burning sulfur (and sometimes plant gums or rotten fish) on the decks of the ships they wanted to board. This crude form of tear gas would overwhelm the ship’s crews desire to fight. Who wants to fight when they are vomiting? (21.3 Miles) – SAG Stop on Main Street in Edison.

25.2 Miles - Railroad Crossing

Oxford (Pop. 876 – 31.0 Miles) - Located in the scenic Republican River Valley in south central Nebraska, Oxford is a thriving community offering opportunities for new businesses and manufacturing. Front-end technology and economic development incen- tives make Oxford an attractive place for relocation. The low cost of living and almost non-existent crime rate contribute to the excellent place for pirates to settle. Turkey Days are held in Oxford each summer on the second weekend in June. The four day celebration includes a parade, carnival, contests and many private contests! The dates for 2009 are June 11, 12, and 13. Did you know that on April 8, 2009, the crew of the Maeserk Alabama became the first Americans to fight pirates in over 200 years? The unarmed container ship heading for port in Kenya carrying food aid for Uganda and Somalia was the first American vessel to be captured in a wave of pirate attacks off the Horn of Africa. They would have been smart to fly the yellow jack (flag) to ward off the pirates. The yellow jack signifies illness on board (yellow fever) and scares a pirate away. The US Navy reminded us what happens to unruly pirates. (31.4 Miles) – SAG Stop set up at corner of Highways 136/46 at abandoned service station.

O31.4 miles – Turn right (south) on Highway 46. P39.1 miles – Turn left (east) on Highway 89. Harlan County (39.6 miles) – Welcome to the county dominated by a lake! (41.5 Miles) – SAG Stop at grain elevator pull off road.

Stamford (Pop. 202 – 41.5 miles) – The population may be 202, but the sign below it tells the story — 201 nuts and 1 squirrel. Stamford was another town made famous by an early gristmill. The mill, owned by George Zulauf operated on the banks of the Sappa Creek. The dam has a rock bottom and 10 foot shelf. It provided the residents fine grain flour and breakfast foods until it burned down in 1919. Stamford has had its share of misfortunes. Major fires struck the town in 1901, 1907, 1909 and 1913, in addition, floods repeatedly struck until 1963 and the watershed district cut a new channel for the Sappa Creek. Stamford is one tough town! 45.6 Miles - Railroad Crossing

Orleans (Pop. 425 – 48.6 miles) – Orleans was named by Gen. Victor Vifquain, a Belgian who settled in Saline County and was interested in moving to this part of Nebraska. It was believed the name came from Orleans, Massachusetts, or Orleans, France. Originally, Vifquain planned to call the town Napoleon, located on a 320-acre site near present-day Orleans. Orleans was the burial place of Maj. Alexander Culbertson, an early day fur trapper and trader. He was a partner and agent of the powerful Upper Missouri Outfit and established a number of their trading posts. When he was 30 years old he married 15-year old Natawista Iksina – or Medicine Snake Woman, daughter of a Blackfoot Indian chief. She was helpful to her husband in dealing with the Indians. He was known to have a parrot perched on his shoulder. After nearly 30 years on the frontier, Culbertson retired with a sizeable fortune, estimated at $300,000. He went to Peoria, Illinois, in the latter 1850’s, and, as so often happens, soon lost his fortune and went bankrupt. Culbertson came to Orleans to live with a daughter, Julia, (Mrs. George H. Roberts). His wife Natawisa went to live with her people in Canada. He died in Orleans August 27, 1879 at the age of 70. A monument recapping his story is placed on his grave. Orleans used to have a successful cooperative creamery, which made butter, ice cream and ice. It had branches in Crawford, NE and Denver, Co. It eventually went out of business. Each October, Orleans hosts Applefest, a three-day event featuring entertainment, crafts, antique and art shows and games. 48.5 Miles) – SAG Stop on Main Street across from the Republican Valley Bank.

O49.1 Miles – Turn right (south) on Highway 89. (57.4 Miles) – SAG Stop at field road just before intersection of Highway 183 and 136. P 59.6 Miles – Turn left (north) on Highway 183. Harlan County Reservoir (61.6 Miles) – Argh! Look for galleons on the water. This is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ project covering 31,000 acres, with 13,250 acres of water surface. Harlan County Lake is Nebraska’s second largest lake. It is considered some of the best fishing in Nebraska. This may not be the Barbary Coast but Harlan County Lake is about nine miles long and has 75 miles of shoreline. The Corps maintains six established campgrounds, with the entire project open to public access. Truly, a pirate’s paradise, Harlan County is also home to excellent pheasant, quail, dove, goose, turkey, whitetail and mule deer hunt- ing. During the winter months, hundreds of bald eagles stop over at the lake on their annual migration. Day 3 – Along the Route (8.1 miles) – SAG stop will be in Republican City on the road at The Island. Sounds like maybe Treasure Island. Republican City (Pop. 209 - 8.1 miles) – Republican City is the only town in the world with this name. French traders in the late 1700’s named the Indians along the nearby river, the Republican Pawnee in the mistaken belief they had a republic-type govern- ment. This is a town that was on the move. After the flood of 1935, the Corp of Engineers began the process of building the dam across the valley. The town had to be moved 2 miles north and 2 miles east of the former site. The move occurred in 1951-52. Shortly, thereafter, a gas stove exploded in the new shopping center causing extensive damage and major remodeling. Republican City is also site of the Theatre of the American West, a repertory dinner theatre that attracts professional tour companies to Harlan County each year. There are a number of places to stop and refresh in Republican City. Did you know that a pirate’s plunder was always divided amongst the crew? Franklin County (9.8 miles) – Welcome to the county named for Benjamin Franklin! Franklin’s experimentation with a key tied to a kite tail lead to the first down linked satellite transmission of data. It is best to not be up in a crows nest when it’s lightning! (16.9 Miles) – SAG Stop at Giddens Bar, Keno, Café (and mostly bar).

Bloomington (Pop. 124 – 17.9 miles) – Bloomington is home to the Lost Creek site. Hunters and farmers of the Upper Republican Phase established this small village sometime during the thirteenth century A.D. Although the Lost Creek Site was occupied by only a single culture; the duration of use appears to be fairly lengthy; and changes in artifact types and styles during the two-to-three century span of Upper Republican occupation are likely to be represented there. Franklin (Pop 1026 – 22.0 miles) – Franklin was named after Benjamin Franklin. In 1869, General Carr’s Republican River Expedition cleared the area of hostile Indians. On November 25, 1870, the Republican Land and Claim Association founded the town. In March of 1871, Governor Butler recognized the county and named Franklin as County seat. In 1874, somebody moved the County Seat to Bloomington. It returned again in 1920. Somebody was playing musical chairs with the county seat. The railroad arrived in 1879 and brought many homesteaders. Many of their descendents still abound in the area today. Franklin was home to one of the early colleges in the state. In 1881, the Congregational Church founded the Franklin Academy College. It closed in 1922 and the site is the location of the present day City Park. Franklin was home to one of the world’s most famous pirates, Tazio Fango. Everyone feared the black spot from Tazio. Around Franklin don’t miss: Dupee Music Hall (1402 P St.) – The only remaining structure of the Franklin Academy. Lincoln Hotel – Although now deserted, the hotel brings back visions of yesteryear. Golf Course –The nine-hole grass green course is popular with residents. Franklin County Historical Museum – This museum on the north edge of town contains early history especially on the Pawnee whose hunting grounds you are probably standing on. Republican River – Is home of Nebraska’ largest canoe race (2nd Sunday in July). It also features races of pirate vessels – Bilanders, Brigatines, Brigo, Dutch Hoys, Fishing Rarks, Frence Scallop’s, Tartan’s and Herring Busses. The losing ships were broadsided and sent to the deep! (33.3 Miles) – SAG Stop in Riverton next to Post 28 Ed Polka Memorial Hall (across the street from Hank’s Last Chance Saloon). Riverton (Pop. 162 – 33.3 miles) – Riverton was settled in 1870 by the Thompson Colony. Riverton is a town of bridges. There are six different bridges in town, which has to be a record for a town of 162. Hopefully the Hiway Café will be open for BRAN. They have done a great job in the past. Webster County (35.3 miles) – You are entering the County of Catherland! Inavale (Pop. Uninc – 39.4 miles) – Ok, computer historians; who is William C. Norris? He was founder and Chairman of Control Data Corporation in Minneapolis, the forerunner of Ceridian. What does this have to do with Inavale? He was born and raised here. Small spaces lead to cyber spaces. (44.2 Miles) –Avast Ye! SAG Stop at 4th Ave and Walnut St.

Red Cloud (Pop. 1131 – 45.9 Miles) - This is the only city in the United States named after Mah-pia-luta, Chief . The town, established in 1872, is the site of Red Cloud’s War Councils. Red Cloud, Nebraska is also the hometown of Willa Cather. She was a prominent author. Some of her works about Nebraska (especially the Red Cloud area) include My Antonia, Song of the Lark, The Best Years and Mrs. Harris. In and around Red Cloud be sure and visit: The Little Red School House – On the western outskirts of town sits the Little Red School House. Built in 1885, pioneers learned their 3R’s here. The schoolhouse has been completely restored. Willa Cather House (245 Cedar Street) – Cather moved, with her family, to Nebraska in 1883. She lived in this house between 1884 and 1890. During this time her most prominent literary works were written. Willa Cather Pioneer Memorial Educational Foundation (326 N. Webster St.) – This is also an art gallery and bookstore. The artwork is from Cather’s books. There are original oil paintings by John Blake Bergers. Some limited edition collector’s prints are available. Webster County Historical Museum (721 W. 4th St.) Open from 1 until 5 p.m. This museum is all about Webster County and its history.

50.9 Miles - Railroad Crossing

(54.4 Miles) – SAG stop at intersection Hwy 78 across from AMSTAR Station.

Guide Rock (Pop. 290 – 58.3 miles) – Like Republican City, is the only town in the United States with that name. The town is named for a rocky bluff 1½ miles southwest and across the river from the town site. The bluff is made up of rock and is almost 75 feet perpendicular. In Pawnee, the rock is referred to as Pa-Hur. Among those who have called Guide Rock home are Silas Garber, an early governor of Nebraska, Murray Richard who served five terms as legislator, Rear Admiral Kendall Moranville, former Commander of the Sixth Fleet (and a noted pirate hunter), and Lew Hunter, the renowned television producer. Nuckolls County (59.7 miles) – You are entering Nuckolls County named for Stephan F. Nuckolls (1825-1879) prominent Nebraska statesman and pioneer. (63.9 Miles) All Hands Hoay! - SAG stop at Road 3200. By this time of the week, does your dungbie hurt? Day 4 – Along the Route (7.6 miles) – SAG stop will be at intersection of Highway 8 and Main Street.

Hardy (Pop. 179 – 7.6 miles) - Hardy was named for a Burlington Railroad official who lived in Massachusetts. There are a couple of cafes to eat at in town. You are now less than one mile from the border. Pirates had to be hardy. Life at sea was one great bore. There were weeks of boredom searching for prey, with only intermittent excitement when ships were boarded and plundered. Fights among the crew were common. Food preservation was a challenge. Hard task (long-lasting biscuits) and a few crackle fruit (eggs) was all there was to eat. On long voyages, scurvy was a problem. However, there was always bottled beer because water became salty and undrinkable. Sea turtle meat kept the pirates fit for boardings. Thayer County (13.3 miles) – Thayer County is dissected by one of the nations oldest highways – U.S. 81. This 1,700-mile highway stretches from Winnipeg, Canada to Tierra Del Fuego at the southern tip of Chile. You will cross it at Chester. (16.3 miles) – SAG will be set up at Byron Road just behind the cemetery.

Byron (Pop. 144 – 16.3 miles) – Finally a town with a touch of class, Byron was named for the prominent English poet George Noel Gordon Lord Byron (1788 to 1824). Who said BRAN riders were uncultured! Byron is one mile off the route. The word pirate was spelled pyrate by the Brits! (24.2 miles) – SAG will be set up in Chester City Park. Chester (Pop. 294 – 24.3 miles) – Chester is the final resting-place of “Little Boy Blue.” The young boy, whose lifeless body was found in a roadside ditch on Christmas Eve 1985, was adopted by the town of Chester. Town residents arranged a funeral; tomb- stone and final resting place for “Little Boy Blue.” It wasn’t until long after his body was discovered that the boy’s identify became known. The town of Chester showed great concern and humanity in this all too uncaring world. Chester is where six-man football originated. When Stephen Epler was the high school coach in the 1930’s he initiated the game. Just recently the last six-man football game was played in Nebraska. Hubbell (Pop. 73 – 30.6 miles) – Hubbell was the scene of a great get rich quick hoax. Promoters from outside the county leased land near Hubbell and proceeded to bore for coal. On April 1, 1890 (note the date) word was sent out; “…coal was found at Hubbell in paying qualities.” The town went wild. Everyone wanted a piece of the action. When a shaft was sunk to the depth indicated, not a particle of coal was found. Later on it was determined that coal from the test hole was “salted.” The short-lived boom was over. Sounds like technology stocks; doesn’t it. (34.9 miles) – SAG will be set up just after Rose (Leavitt) Creek at a pull off road before the curve.

Jefferson County (38.7 miles) – Welcome to the county named for our famous President Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826). Reynolds (Pop. 88 – 40.4 miles) – If you’re smart, you’ll have your picture taken in front of the Reynolds’s Rapp Lounge sign. What a name for a bar! Some of the buildings in town were not really built here. They are from Rose Creek City, which used to be by the Thayer-Jefferson County line, which, you passed about 2.3 miles back. When the Republican Valley Railroad laid its tracks on William Menay’s land in Reynolds, it signaled the demise of Rose Creek City. The general store, grocery store, drug store, school, church and many residences were all moved here. (44.0 miles) – SAG will be set up at Thompson’s on the road with “Road Closed” sign.

Gage County (44.5 miles) – This County was named for William D. Gage (1803-1885) Methodist Minister who was Chaplain of the First Territorial Assembly. Fairbury (Pop. 4,262 – 53.3 miles) - In the mid 1860’s, two gentlemen anticipated that a railroad might come through Nebraska and be built in the Little Blue River Valley so they laid claim to 160 acres in Jefferson County. Each donated 80 acres for a town site and the city of Fairbury was platted in 1869. In 1871, Fairbury became the county seat of Jefferson County and in 1873 the first court- house was built. It withstood three major fires and presently houses a restaurant and keno parlor. The construction of the present courthouse began in 1891 with completion the following year. Woodford G. McDowell and James B. Mattingly named Fairbury for their homes in Chicago. Fairbury was a Russian-German colony. The town is known for the “Dairy Goat Journal” a magazine dedicated to goat farming. In and around Fairbury if time allows+++: Fairbury City Museum (12th & Elm) – Take a walk through the past as you visit the various exhibit rooms displaying artifacts and mementos of turn of the century Jefferson County including the Campbell Bros. Circus. Open daily 1 – 5 p.m. Campbell Brothers Circus Mural (Downtown at 5th & E St.) – The 2-story by ½ block large mural depicts scenes that are reminis- cent of yesteryear’s circus. Fairbury Downtown District – Founded in 1869, the downtown district is situated around the century old county courthouse, which was built on the town square. The district is a 10-block area consisting of 97 buildings now on the National Register of Historic Places. Miles of brick streets with elevated sidewalks are constructed over defunct coal chutes. Frontier Fun Park (Fairbury City Park) – First park of its kind in Nebraska. Built of lumber, the $82,000, 10,500 square foot playground has an 18” deep fiber surface, which makes it handicap accessible throughout. Area heritage is reflected in the Rock Island train depot, frontier town, cowboy hat bouncer,bucking bronco, covered wagon, teepee, and woolly mammoth slide. Open dawn to 11 p.m.

Rock Creek Station James Butler “Wild Bill” Hickcock began his career as a famous gunfighter at Rock Creek Station when he shot David McCandles and two other men in cold blood. McCandles is considered Jefferson Country’s first farmer and true pioneer. On Tuesday, February 7, 1984, his great-great-great- grandson, Bruce McCandles, Jr. was a pioneer in outer space when he became the first human to fly through space without a lifeline from the space shuttle Challenger. (54.8 miles) – SAG will be set up at 571 Avenue just east of cemetery and fairground approximately 1.5 miles. (65.9 miles) – SAG will be set up SW 142 Road. Watch out for picaroons! (74.5 miles) – SAG stop at field road just before junction with Highway 102. Day 5 – Along the Route Liberty (Pop. 86 – 11.7 Miles) – This town sits on what was once the (1854-81). In its heyday it had 469 residents (1890). Today it is a small village. However, it has produced some big names including legislators J.R. Buffontog (1895) and G.R. Fonohe (1897). Additionally, U.S. Senator Kenneth Wherry and former New York Times editor Raymond McCaw were both raised in Liberty. (11.8 miles) – SAG stop just after the turn on Webster.

O 11.9 Miles – Turn right (south) on Webster Street (Spur 34A). P 14.9 Miles – Turn left (east) on Highway 8. Pawnee County (15.9 Miles) was formed in 1854. It was named after the Pawnee Native American tribe. (22.0 miles) – SAG will be set up at Highway 8 and Highway 89 across from stop sign. (29.8 miles) – Potential SAG stop on farm road.

36.7 Miles - Railroad Crossing Pawnee City (Pop. 1,033 - 37 miles) is the county seat of Pawnee County. The town is situated near the center of the county. Legend tells us that the town is on the exact spot where the largest village of the Pawnee Indians was located. The name Pawnee was supposedly derived from the word pony, the Indians being known as ‘the tribe of many ponies.” Pawnee County was laid out in 1855. Probably the first settlers to set foot on the present town site were James O’Laughlin, Charles McDonald, Arthur McDonald and Larry the Cable Guy. In and around Pawnee City be sure and visit: Pawnee City Museum – This site consists of seven areas of land, which now displays sixteen buildings. Housed in these buildings are many early day artifacts, displays, photographs, cars, household furnishings, tools and early store contents. Each year school children spend a day in “Country School” where they learn a little about school in a one room building. The site comes to life the second weekend in June as the Pawnee City Pioneer Panorama is in full swing. Pawnee County Court House – Listed on the National Historic Register this building is constructed of white limestone. On four holidays, over 200 flags are displayed on the Avenue of Flags. E. F. Hempstead Home (14th & H) – Large Queen Anne style home built in 1887-88. Hempstead came to Nebraska from Illinois in 1836 and founded the Pawnee Electric Life Company and the Nebraska State Bank. Pedal Power, if we’re lucky might be open for a fascinating look at P 37.1 Miles – Turn left (north) on Highway 50. Use caution because of no shoulders. 39.7 Miles - Railroad Crossing O 40.5 Miles – Turn right (east) on Highway 65. (43.8 miles) –SAG stop set up at Purina Chow Building – chow down. Table Rock (Pop. 264 – 43.9 miles) – Any town named Table Rock must be named after a rock shaped like a table. The rock is on the banks of the Nemaha River, a short distance from town. Look for the Table Rock Museum. Seven buildings make up the museum including the 1893 Opera House. Constructed by local merchant G. R. Martin, the brick commercial building housed retail establish- ments on the first level and the opera house on the second floor. Two complete operational sets of original state scenery remain. The building is now owned by the Table Rock Historical Society and is preserved as a museum. Recently restored, the old Table Rock Hotel offers a restaurant and senior citizen center, with party rooms available. Working saw mills might also be of interest. Other attractions in Table Rock include a stone house at 6th and Luzerne Streets, pioneer graves at the cemetery, Indian petro glyphs at the Table Rock Wildlife Management Area east of town and a stone house and schoolhouse southeast of town. Richardson County (49.4 Miles) – This County was named for William A. Richardson of Illinois who served as Nebraska’s Third Territorial Governor. He was no powder monkey! Day 6 – Along the Route O .5 Miles – Turn right (east) on Highway 4. P 5.9 Miles – Turn left (north) on Highway 75. (5.9 miles) – SAG will be set up at junctions of Highway 73 and Highway 75 across from stop sign on dirt road. 9.9 Miles – Turn right (east) on Highway 63. O 13.3 Miles - Railroad Crossing

(13.3 miles) – SAG will be set up in Stella across from Stella Community Church.

Stella (Pop. 248 – 13.3 Miles) – Stella was named by J.W. Clark of Covington, KY who donated 40 acres of land in order to get the Missouri Pacific Railroad to lay tracks from Atchison, KS to Omaha, NE. He named the town for his young daughter. On July 23, 2008, pirates captured Stella! That is Stella Maris – a Japanese-owned bulk carrier that was captured by Somali pirates near Calula, a port in Somalia’s northern region of Puntland. The scallywags got their booty! Shubert (Pop. 252 – 18.2miles) – Henry Shubert purchased this town site in 1869 from the Deroin family. In 1883 the town was platted. No story of Shubert would be complete without telling about the $1 church. In 1935, the Nebraska Methodist Episcopal Church Conference Board sold the 128-year-old Mount Zion Baptist Church and one acre of land for $125. After WWII, the church came into disrepair. In 1983, the Morehead family sold the church for $1. Volunteers spent a year restoring the church. Since 1988, it has had an honored place on the National Register of Historic Places. Did pirates go to church? You bet, also went to brothels and other places when they were on land. P 19.0 Miles – Turn left (north) on Highway 67. Nemaha County (21.1 miles) – This County took it’s name from the Nemaha River, which is an Otoe Indian name meaning Miry Water River. A neighboring County in Kansas has the same name. (21.2 miles) – SAG will be set up ¼ mile north of Road at NDOR gravel pull off.

Nemaha (Pop. 178 – 26.2 Miles) – You are now a marathon into the day. This town was built on “second bottom land” and faces two riverfronts – The Nemaha on the south and the Missouri on the east. Plenty of water for pirate landings. P 30.4 Miles – Turn left (north) on Highway 67/136. Brownville is a nice stop to the right about 1 mile. (30.3 miles) – SAG will be set up just before the turn on Hwy 136. Facilities are available in Brownville one mile east of turn.

Brownville (Pop. 146 – 31.4 Miles) – This is pirate’s heaven if ever you’ve seen one. Originally a steamboat town of 3,000, it is now a quaint artsy village. Robert Furnas founded the first newspaper (The Advertiser) here in 1856. He served as Nebraska’s Governor from 1873 – 1874. He also was the founder and first president of the Nebraska State Historical Society. Remember earlier in the week riding through Furnas County – you got it. Who says bike riders are slow. In Brownville there is lots to see: Historical Homes – Visit the Muir House, the Carson House, the Furnas House or other old homes. The Brownville Museum - this museum has an interesting collection. Merryweather–Lewis – Imagine boarding this ship with your boarding hoobs!. Brownville Mills – Whole grains and health foods keep pirates healthy. O 33.0 Miles – Turn right (east) on Highway 67. (38.4 miles) – SAG will be ¼ mile before Peru Road. (Spur 64B), Peru will have facilities available.

Peru (Pop. 569 – 39.0 Miles) – The small village of Peru, tucked in the hills above the Missouri River, is the home of Peru State College. “The Campus of a Thousand Oaks”, is the oldest state college in Nebraska. The Nemaha Valley Seminary and Normal Institute was the forerunner to the present college. The city of Peru, incorporated in 1857, operated the school as Mount Vernon College for two years while Nebraska was a territory. Many historic buildings adorn the Peru campus. Across from the campus sits Neal Park, a lovely wooded park marking the south entrance of Peru. The four-story Col. T.J. Majors home, built from bricks made on the farmstead and timber cut on the property, draws the attention of visitors. Col. Majors was a Civil War veteran, state senator, lieutenant governor, U.S. Congressman, and political leader in the fight for Nebraska statehood. A historic cemetery includes a Memorial Walk with names and dates of early homesteader families inscribed. The walk leads to a scenic overlook with an arc of benches and symbols of veterans. The view includes three states and the Missouri River. Visitors won’t want to miss the Peru Historical Museum at 5th and California Streets, or Old Man River Days. There is a trailhead for Steamboat Trace in town. The hiking and biking trail built in 1995 by the Nemaha Natural Resources District (NRD) was purchased by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy from Burlington Northern and is currently managed by the NRD. The backbone of this 21 mile trail runs from just south of Nebraska City, through Peru to south of Brownville, just a few miles from Indian Cave State Park. O 44.6 Miles – Turn right (north) on Highway 67/75. P 45.6 Miles – Turn left (west) on Highway 67. 47.0 Miles - Railroad Crossing Coryell Park (52.0 Miles) – Originally from New York, Richard Coryell, wife Sarah and young son George set up their homestead here in 1897. In 1934, descendents of the Coryells conceived the idea of converting the Coryell homestead into a free park. The bridal home of Mr. and Mrs. L.L. Coryell, Sr., which was the birthplace of L.L. Coryell, Jr., was moved from Brock to the park and converted into a party house. This building is kept open at all times and may be used for dances, social gatherings and pirate parties of all kinds. (52.1 miles) – SAG will be set up at Brock Christian Church Road. Brock (Pop. 162 – 52.1 miles) – This hamlet located in a timber belt has had no less than seven official names — Shroaf’s Ford, Bradley’s Bridge, Pin Hook, Clinton, Dayton, Howard, Podunk and Brock. Probably the most interesting name was Podunk, NE – the mythical town that describes the ultimate in provincialism. It was finally changed to Brock in honor of a railroad official. It has a pleasant shady area to rest up and a gazebo in the park. This is going to be hard to believe but it is true. A number of years ago the Brock Schools merged with the Johnson schools. The merged Johnson-Brock kept the Johnson mascot “The Eagles”, and discarded the Brock mascot “The Pirates”. Not a swift move! Shiver me timbers! O 55.0 Miles – Turn right (north) on Highway 67/105. Otoe County (58.0 miles) – This County was named for its Native American inhabitants – the Otoe Indian Tribe. It was defined by the legislature on March 2, 1855. Talmage (Pop. 268 – 58.5 miles) – At one time Talmage was named Grant – that famous Nebraska city and start of Bran 16. The community was later named for Thomas DeWitt Talmage, railroad superintendent Missouri Pacific Railroad. Talmage’s location on the railroad made it a good shipping point for agricultural and mercantile products. Visit the caboose in the City Park. It has a pirate’s poop deck. (59.4 miles) – SAG will be on farm road. P 63.1 Miles – Turn left (west) on Highway 67/128. Lorton (Pop. 39 – 63.7 miles) – In 1881, the town of Delta was platted on the present town site. Later the Missouri Pacific Railroad came through but refused to use the name Delta because it had a station by that name in Kansas. The name Clo was given, but the post office still used Delta. In 1892, the name Lorton was chosen after a grocer from Nebraska City who sold goods in this area. Check out the paved streets here – who says gambling money (keno) doesn’t help out. Be sure to visit the Lorton Lounge for food, drink and fun. They have excellent burgers! Sand volleyball anyone? Dunbar (Pop. 237 – 69.03 miles) – Dunbar is home to the “crime of the century.” On January 11, 1887, a passenger train carrying $17,000 in silver bullion was deliberately derailed ½ mile north of Dunbar. The two men responsible for the wreck, which killed the train engineer and injured many others, were caught. One was hanged from the yardarm and the other given ten years of hard labor. Sounds a little like piracy on land. The town used to have a dance hall in the 1920s called the “Hypodrome” (for real). Today, it has the Dun-Bar! 73.1 Miles - Railroad Crossing

(73.1 miles) – SAG in Dunbar at turn on Old Highway 2.

a Be sure to scout both direction before going onto New Highway 2 P 77.4 Miles – Turn right (north) on Syracuse exit. O 77.5 Miles – Turn left (south) on Highway 50 to Syracuse. Day 7 – Along the Route Cass County (8.1 miles) – The earliest documented exploration of Nebraska mentions a location in Cass County. Pierre and Paul Mallet reached the mouth of the Platte on June 2, 1739. They went up the river for 70 miles. Later, Long’s expedition reported that Nebraska was “uninhabitable for people depending on agriculture for subsistence.” In 1854, the Government made a treaty with the Omaha and Otoe Indians in which the Indians gave up the lands bordering the Missouri River. “They received as a equivalent a stated amount of provisions and other necessities.” This consisted of pork and sugar. Cass County’s Indian history includes not only the Omaha and Otoe, but the Winnebago, recent arrivals to the state, who often walked here from their reservations in the northern part of the state to visit family and friends. The sight of these travelers stayed in the memories of many a Cass County resident for a long while, but before these tribes’ ancient Indian peoples lived here thousands of years ago. Their flint arrowheads and tools can still be found scattered over newly plowed spring fields. They are now known as the Nebraska Culture. Weeping Water (Pop. 1103 – 14.2 Miles) – These quarry lakes are the perfect high seas for pirates. The gravel trucks with pups lumber down these roads. However, the phosphate mines are the perfect pirates den. They stretch more than three 3/4’s mile underground. a Warning - Gravel Truck sightings are possible a In town is a must see: Meeshe Hardware. – Founded in 1939 this store has a little of everything a pirate would want. Need a whiffletree cockeye – no problem. This is the turning part that holds the tugs for a horse drawn buggy. It can also be used to secure a flying jib! P Turn left (west) on Highway 1. O 22.8 Miles – Turn right (north) on 13A Spur. Murdock (Pop. 269 – 23.5 Miles) – Murdock is located along the Oxbow branch of the historic Oregon Trail. It used to be a watering stop for the steam locomotives of the railroad. It is famous for Grandpa’s Woods featuring a campground and nine hole golf course. P 24.1 Miles - Turn left (north) on 310th Street. O 29.2 Miles – Turn right (east) on Highway 66. South Bend (Pop. 86 – 31.7 Miles) – South Bend is home to the Round the Bend Bar and Restaurant. The Round the Bend is home to Nebraska’s Testicle Festival. You guessed it, oysters but not from the sea. This is an event that no true pirate could pass up. Festival T-Shirts are actually worth more than BRAN T-shirts. Just past South Bend, watch for the turn off for going over the Bridge on the bike trail. No SAG support will be available on the bike trail. P 33.9 Miles - Turn left (west) on Highway 31. Sarpy County (33.9 miles) – Sarpy County, where the “cities meet the country”, is located, just south of Omaha. Sarpy County was named for Colonel Peter A. Sarpy (1804-1865) a conspicuous figure in Nebraska’s history. Although containing the oldest settlement in the State, Sarpy County was among the last of the river tier to be organized, having up to February 1, 1857, been a part of Douglas County Gretna (Pop. 2,355 – 43.2 Miles) – Originally called “Forest City” Gretna is now a bedroom community of Omaha. Home of the Gretna Dragons. Lucky D Tack Shop might just have some ship repair stop. Not long matey’s, before you are in home port. O 44.6 Miles – Turn right (south) on Highway 370. Papio-Missouri NRD Trail Head (48.1 miles) – It is a short breeze in on a paved trail to the finish of your pirate journey. Chalco Hills Recreation Area - BRAN RECEPTION (456.6 MILES) – At the end of the ride is Wehrspahn Lake (Papio Dam Site 20) located in the Chalco Hills Recreation Area. The lake is popular for fishing, boating, picnicking and hiking. The area includes a nature study area and the District’s Natural Resource Center. The center features a visitor/exhibit area and offices for the Papio NRD, USDA Soil Conservation Service (SCS) and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. You have ridden all week for it - the BRAN Gourmet Wienie Roast sponsored by the Northwest Rotary. As BRAN riders you only see the Northwest Rotarians who are along for the week on the ride. There are more Rotarians who work hard during the year on BRAN and who because of time commitments are unable to go on the ride. Some show up at the BRAN reception to help cook hot dogs, serve pop and greet the riders. Share some pirate booty to help fund Nebraska high school scholarships. Let your conscience be your guide. Showers!

Sapp Brothers, located near Chalco Recreation Area at Highway 50 and the Interstate 80, is offering FREE showers to BRAN Riders wearing their BRAN wristbands.