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THE CITY OF Lexington
FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP North Platte McCook Ogailala Lexington T he Dawson County Raceway normally opens for the FAVORITE DESSERT General contractor • Concrete drives Feed bunks • Septic tanks • Sand & gravel Ready mix • Bunker blocks • Picnic tables Arapahoe Broken Bow ElmCreek Franklin Gothenburg Holdrege Indianola Lexington season at the Dawson County Fairgrounds in May with races on eight Sundays at 6 p.m. through September. Go to www.racewaydawsoncounty.com for the full schedule. The Lexington Family Aquatic Center, located at 1002 N. Monroe St., opens annually on Memorial weekend and closes at a date later to be determined in August. Normal hours are Monday through Thursday from 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Contact the Aquatic Center during those hours at 308-324-6288. There are two outdoor pool options: a zero-depth entry pool with a 160-foot long water slide with in-pool play equipment and a splash pad, and an Olympic- style lap pool with a diving board. The Aquatic Center offers multiple bathing decks along with concessions and a bathhouse nearby. A children’s sand play area and sand volleyball court offer additional recreation options. Swimming lessons are offered during the summer and will be advertised at the aquatic center. The latest addition is the Lexington Fieldhouse, an indoor athletic facility that hosts youth and adult soccer games as well other activities. Recreation programs include basketball, volleyball, softball, baseball, tennis, soccer, and indoor/outdoor pickleball. An indoor hitting facility is located at the Optimist Recreation Complex. The Rec Complex also offers an outdoor driving range open to the public. The City of Lexington Community Activities Director coordinates the facilities multiple uses.
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Scheduling activities can be done so by contacting Ann Luther at 308-325-5277. The Lexington Area of Chamber of Commerce hosts many annual events each year! For more information call 308-324- 5504. For a full schedule, visit www.lexcoc. com or follow us on facebook. The Grand Generation Center, 407 E. Sixth, Lexington, provides many recreational activities, including dancing, strength training, quilting, cards and pool for area seniors. Fans of home-grown produce will want to check out the Lexington Farmer’s Market. The Farmer’s Market is open from 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. on Saturdays and from 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. on Tuesdays from mid-June through
October. Vendor’s set up in the Bob’s True Value parking located at 1601 Plum Creek Parkway. The Dawson County Fair is set for July 3-16 at the Dawson County Fairgrounds. Lexington’s parks span more than 99 acres. Collectively they feature picnic
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basketball courts and much more. It is a shared space within Lexington Middle School at 1207 N. Grant St., 308-324-1970. Lexington’s Majestic Theatre reopened in 2015 after being renovated. It shows feature films every weekend and on Wednesdays. See what’s showing and order tickets online at lexmajestic.org. The Lexington area is a winter nesting site for an estimated 250 bald eagles. They feed primarily below the Central Nebraska Public Power District J-2 Hydroplant southeast of town. The J-2 Eagle Viewing Site is open to the public, free of charge, through February. For information, go to www.cnppid.com. Dawson County Historical Museum, 805 N. Taft, offers 30,000 square feet of exhibit rooms displaying an outstanding collection of historical and pioneer artifacts, many of which were donated by families of pioneers who traveled the trails to settle Lexington and the surrounding area. The museum complex houses many examples of china and glassware, historic clothing and quilts, furniture, farm machinery and wagons, Native American artifacts, the locally-built McCabe Baby
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6 | Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024
Biplane, a log cabin, train depot and an early rural school house built in 1888. The museum also houses on-going paleontology work on “Big Al,” a mammoth skeleton discovered north of Cozad, and features an art gallery and archives for genealogical and other historical research. Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles, located at the Lexington I-80 exit, features military vehicles and memorabilia from WW I, WW II, the Korean and Vietnam wars as well as Operation Desert Storm. Nearly all the vehicles are fully operational, and they have appeared in films, parades, festivals and at veteran’s reunions. The building also houses a gift shop, public restrooms and educational displays. The
settlement of the West was a tumultuous time and two sites of Indian raids are commemorated near Lexington. Turkey Leg Raid Site, three miles west of Lexington, is the place where a Union Pacific Train was derailed and attacked by Indians. Plum Creek Massacre Cemetery, 14 miles southeast of Lexington, is where the victims of an Indian raid on a wagon train are buried. An Oregon Trail marker and a Mormon Pioneer Trail marker are located south of Lexington. The Lexington area is a winter nesting site for an estimated 250 bald eagles. They feed primarily below the Central Nebraska Public Power District J-2 Hydroplant southeast of town. The J-2 Eagle Viewing Site is open to the public,
free of charge, through February. For information, go to www.cnppid.com. The Dawson County Courthouse is a historic courthouse building located at 700 North Washington Street, between 7th and 8th streets in Lexington. The building houses the County District Court of the 11th Judicial District. It was built during 1913-14 and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. The county was created in 1860 and Lexington was selected as the county seat in 1871 when the county was organized. The first courthouse was a two story brick structure built by Otto Hanson in 1873 to 1874. The second and present courthouse was constructed in 1913 to 1914.
Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024 | 7
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8 | Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024 Gothenburg I t’s easy to overlook the intangibles of a city – intangibles like community spirit, the pro-business environment and the involvement of people who give thousands upon thousands of hours of their time and talents as volunteers. Our intangibles helped create an All-America City that THE CITY OF Gothenburg
has been recognized in 1991, 1993 and 2019. Gothenburg can also boast tangible accomplishments underscored by attitudes that make this community a winner. A rich heritage and friendly people await Gothenburg visitors as well as prospective businesses and residents. Gothenburg has deep roots in agriculture and livestock production, in addition to a diversified business and industry base that includes retail, trucking, manufacturing and ag-related industry. The city and its residents are committed to progress and work cooperatively with Dawson County to provide strong community infrastructure, winning economic development incentives and superior quality-of-life features. Being located along Interstate 80, U.S. Highway 30 and the Union Pacific Railroad makes Gothenburg an ideal area for future growth and development. Gothenburg is 185 miles west of Lincoln, 239 miles west of Omaha and 301 miles east of Denver. Although agriculture is still the economic mainstay for the area, industrial growth has continued through the recruiting of Fortune 500 companies such as Parker-Hannifin, Bayer Crop
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Science and Frito-Lay/PepsiCo. Those big names are flanked by home-grown partners such as Country Partners Cooperative, Gothenburg Health, Fresh Seasons Market and Gothenburg Feed Products. Together our businesses create in excess of 500 jobs. Gothenburg has approximately 3,500 residents and is a charming city with tree- lined streets, lovely homes, manicured lawns, specialty shops, an active business district, green parks, exercise trails and a quality of life desired by many. Opportunities for business, families, adults, children and the elderly are abundant. Gothenburg, Nebraska, is perfect for those who dream of the benefits of living, working and playing in a small town. Clean water, crisp air and natural resources, along with man-made amenities, give credibility to Gothenburg’s promise for an uncompromising lifestyle for people of all ages and walks of life. The people of Gothenburg honor their legacy with values that include a strong work ethic, time for recreation and a place to grow and appreciate life. There is a collective pride in improving and maintaining public and private property. There is also a collective ambition to provide new and innovative economic
station for campers’ convenience, as well as showers and restrooms. Campers can also enjoy the various walking trails and horseshoe pits. A shelter, numerous picnic tables and several outdoor grills and campfire spots, along with playground equipment and plenty of shade, make this a comfortable picnic spot. A bridge provides a crossover to the Lake Helen walking trail. Fishing is permitted at the lake and the canal trailrace below with a valid Nebraska fishing license. Excellent fishing can also be found at nearby interstate lakes, Tri-County lakes, Jeffrey Reservoir, Midway Lake and Johnson Reservoir. Hunting pheasant, deer, grouse, squirrel, rabbit, quail, duck and geese is also widely available in and around Gothenburg.
opportunities for existing residents as well as newcomers. People in Gothenburg enjoy all the benefits a small town has to offer. That includes a variety of sports, as well as outdoor and leisure activities. Local parks provide a popular place for family gatherings and community festivals. History buffs can find a wealth of information at the Pony Express Station and the Gothenburg Historical Museum. Historic homes grace the streetscape, offering a picture of various architectural styles. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the town’s many historical homes along Lake Avenue, the major thoroughfare. Recreation opportunities abound. Whether its tennis, volleyball, baseball, swimming, water sports, hunting or fishing, you can find it in Gothenburg. Amateur or pro, you can golf at our nationally ranked 18-hole public Wild Horse Golf Club. Cowboy hats and boots are also a regular sight at the annual July rodeo. Gothenburg’s Lake Helen and Lafayette Park provide travelers respite. Both are located on the north edge of town. Lafayette Park Campground has 32 water and electrical hookups for overnight camping, as well as a number of tent spaces. All are on grass. There is a dump
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The Gothenburg Historical Museum, located across the street from the Pony Express Station Museum at 15th and Avenue D, welcomes visitors at no charge May through September, every Wednesday through Saturday. An Oregon Trail marker is located one mile south of Gothenburg along the old Lincoln Highway and another attraction is the Swedish Crosses Cemetery, 2 miles north and 2 miles west of the city. A Swedish blacksmith made the three crosses for his grandchildren who died in the 1880s. The Gothenburg Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center is located at 1001 Lake Avenue and is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 308-537- 3505 or visit www.gothenburgdelivers.com. Park your horse, your car or your RV. Stay for a day, a week or for as long as you like. The door is always open and the welcome sign is out. Gothenburg is more than just a place… it’s a state of mind.
Located on the west shore of Lake Helen, the Veterans War Memorial is a reminder of sacrifices made by veterans and their families of all wars. The names listed commemorate local residents who gave their lives in World War I, World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War. They served that we might enjoy freedom. Gothenburg has two city parks in addition to Lake Helen. Ehmen Park, which has been named a state arboretum, and E.G. West Park include swings, picnic areas, playground equipment, two lighted tennis courts and one unlighted court. Known as the “Pony Express Capital of Nebraska,” Gothenburg boasts two Pony Express stations. One is still located on its original site on the Lower 96 Ranch, 4 miles south of Gothenburg. The second station was located on the Upper 96 Ranch, 24 miles west of the Lower 96 Ranch. It was rebuilt in Ehmen Park, where it remains today and is a main attraction for over 20,000 tourists annually. The station is open seven days a week.
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Cozad C ozad has the geographic distinction of being founded on the 100th Meridian. It lies in Dawson County in south-central Nebraska, along U.S. Highway 30 and Nebraska Highway 21 and just under a mile north of Interstate 80. The community is located 247 miles west of Omaha and 317 miles east of Denver. Cozad is proud of its location at the 100th Meridian. In fact, the town was founded in the 1870s after John J. Cozad became intrigued by a sign along the railroad tracks marking the “100th Meridian,” the spot where scientists claim that the “humid East meets the arid West.” Cozad decided to build a town on the very spot. Cozad built a hotel from which to conduct his business, while offering settlers a place to stay when they first arrived on the plains. His hotel, the Hendee Hotel, was restored in 1984 and underwent a major restoration project. THE CITY OF Cozad
Cozad’s son, Robert, would become the world-renowned artist Robert Henri (pronounced ‘hen-rye’), who was author of the book, “The Art Spirit.” Muny Park, 1401 O St., has a Legion baseball field, horseshoe courts, volleyball courts, playground equipment, Frisbee golf, a picnic shelter and picnic tables, outdoor grill, public restrooms, RV electrical hookups, RV dump station, three soccer fields, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and a hard surface exercise trail just over a half mile long. Veteran’s Memorial Park, formerly
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called Central Park at 9th and F Streets, has playground equipment, public restrooms, a picnic shelter and picnic tables. A veteran’s memorial is the focal point of the park, used for Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day celebrations in the community with American flags flying on the Avenue of Flags. It also includes part of the Robert Henri Museum Historical Walkway. Centennial Park, 18th and H Streets, offers a water park, playground equipment and picnic tables; Frenchy Memorial Park, Seventh and A Streets, has playground equipment, picnic tables and an outdoor grill; Bellamy Park, Second Street and Meridian Avenue features softball fields; Sportsman Field at 19th and B Streets has tennis courts, public restrooms, playground equipment and a Little League ball field; while Stuckey Park, W. 16th Street between K and M Streets, also has a Little League ball field and a softball field.
100th Meridian Park along U.S. Hwy. 30 and Meridian Avenue contains historical information on the 100th Meridian, as well as the former Union Pacific Depot and a caboose. At the Community Wellness Center a variety of health and fitness classes are offered with a gymnasium, walking track and weight room available. For more information call 308-784-5100. Cozad has seven playgrounds that have tennis courts, basketball courts, Frisbee golf, ball diamonds, rest-rooms and standard playground equipment. Rounding out the year’s events is the annual Hay Days celebration. Features include a carnival downtown, Saturday morning parade, window displays, kid’s games, art show, food booths and crafts. Private racquetball and indoor tennis courts are available through the Dawson County Racquet Club. There is excellent fishing at Gallagher State Recreation Area, southeast of town; Midway Lake, southwest of town, the sandpits near Platte River and at various canals and reservoirs. Fishing licenses can be purchased at area retail outlets, bait and tackle shops and convenience stores. Boating is also fun at Gallagher State Recreation Area, Midway Lake and Johnson Lake — all within 10 to 25 miles of Cozad.
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Quality deer, quail, pheasant, ducks, geese, rabbit and grouse hunting options make Cozad a popular hunting area. Hunting licenses can be purchased at area retail outlets, bait and tackle shops and convenience stores. Annual celebrations include the Pony Express Re-ride at the Pony Express Station in Veteran’s Memorial Park in June; Music Mondays on the Rialto Square, Farmer-Businessman Ag Appreciation BBQ and Farm Family of the Year Award in August; Hay Days in September; Spook Night in downtown Cozad in October; Holidays at the Henri, Old Fashioned Christmas, Winter Wonderland Parade with Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in December. Check the Cozad Chamber website for updates on these and other events. The Grand Generation Center, 410 W. Ninth Street, has been serving area seniors since 1988. The center serves noon meals Monday through Friday. Activities include crafts, card playing, dancing, bingo and other activities. Another attraction is the 100th Meridian Museum, which was completed in 1994. The museum became the permanent home for the Cozad Touring Coach, which now can be viewed by the public. The famous touring coach carried President Taft during his visits to Yellowstone National Park. Make plans to explore our Barn Quilts of Dawson County Trail, winner of the 2021 Rising Star Award, with a walking tour of downtown Cozad and a driving tour to see all of them on display throughout rural and residential Cozad. There is the 50 States Barn Quilt Display that is known for a great photo op when visiting Cozad. “Cozad Creates” icons are on display throughout Cozad created by Nebraska artist’s along with Rhakenna’s Wings for photo opportunities. For more information regarding Cozad’s Outdoor Art, visit www.barnquiltsdc.com or email cozadtourism@gmail.com. The Cozad Area Chamber of Commerce is located at 209 W. 8th St. and may be reached at 308-784-3930 or visit www. cozadchamber.com. Cozad’s major economic activities are farming, feeding and raising cattle; manufacturing, services and tourism. The city’s service sector includes a variety of restaurants, motels and retail stores.
14 | Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024
Lake Johnson WELCOME TO Johnson Lake O ne of the most popular recreation sites in central Nebraska is Johnson Lake. Excellent camping, fishing and water sports are hallmarks of this ever popular area 10 miles south of Lexington. Though relatively small at 68 acres, this State Recreational Area packs a lot of outdoor fun and provides three access points to the 2,068-acre lake. Johnson Lake offers great boating and skiing and excellent angling for a variety of fish, including walleye, white bass and wipers. Campers will find electrical hookups, non-pad sites, showers, modern restrooms, dump station, water, picnic tables, grills, shelters, vault toilets, boat ramp, fish cleaning stations, swimming beach and accessible fishing piers. Johnson Lake campground offers a main campground on the southeast side of the lake, for camper pads with electrical hook- ups and non-designated campsites. The campground is shady and located close to shower facilities. It has a sandy beach area and plenty of picnic areas.
The Inlet campground located on the west side of the lake has camper pads with electrical hook-ups and non-designated campsites. It has a boat ramp and excellent bank fishing as well as a handicap pier.
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For those who don’t want to rough it in tents, Medo’s offers cabins with two double beds in each cabin. For reservations call 308-785-2298. CraZy Marv’s RV & Cabin Retreat is located by the Inlet. This new location features two small bunk cabins, one large three bedroom, two bathroom cabin and camping spaces with full hook-ups. There is also a newly remodeled rental hall which has a capacity of 299 people, bait shop and bike rental. For more information call 308-325-0760. More than 900 families have built homes and cabins adjoining the lake. The Johnson Lake Hike and Bike Trail is a loop surrounding the lake. The trail is complemented with gazebos, rest areas, trailhead signs and parking areas. A variety of businesses are scattered around the lake, including a convenience store and gas station, brewery and restaurants with fare ranging from pizza to burgers to seafood. Gallagher Canyon lies west of the lake and Elwood Reservoir south of the
lake. Listed as a primitive camping area by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, there are picnic tables, grills and two outhouses. As it is an open area campers are invited to park where they want. To camp at Gallagher a park permit is required and there is a fee for each day you camp. Self-registration for both the fees and permits is available at the campsite. Elwood Reservoir, just south of Johnson Lake and about 12 miles south of Lexington, is another popular spot for fishing. It also offers RV camping with full hook-ups, tent camping and cabin rentals. Call 308- 440-4993 for reservations. The Johnson Lake Yacht Club sponsors an annual invitational regatta with entries from several surrounding states. During the spring and fall the lake is a resting place for thousands of ducks, geese, pelicans and eagles migrating along the nation’s central flyway. Johnson Lake Trails The Johnson Lake Trail project was first talked about in the early 2000’s
and the dream took shape in the years that followed. The first segment was built in 2005 and additional trail added as funding and easements were acquired. Today the trail has over 8 miles of off-road concrete pathway. The 10.3 mile circle around the lake includes segments of shared roadway on the dam and near the inlet to the lake. The trail is designed to allow users to experience some of the various environs around the lake. There are segments that pass through shady tree stands, follow the edge of farm fields, follow canals, or pass through nature areas. The ultimate goal is to complete the trail forming a safe and assessable circle for non-motorized recreation and transportation. The Johnson Lake Trail is much more than just a concrete pathway. Spaced along the trail are gazebos, pergolas, and rest areas for users to enjoy. There are three Little Free Libraries and two bike repair stations along the trail. Trees, shrubs, a pollinator habitat area, and flowers have been added to provide shade and color to the trail corridor. In 2020 the trail was recognized
16 | Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024
states, and even foreign countries. The interdenominational ministry began in 1962 with 14 persons gathered at a cabin on Sandy Point for an informal service with a Methodist minister preaching from a rocking chair. As others heard of the services, interest and enthusiasm grew. For the remainder of that summer, services were held in the former Camp Fire Girl’s cabin on Mallard Beach with between 80 and 85 attending. In 1963 the present chapel was purchased from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Eustis and moved to the southeast corner of the lake, across from the Johnson Lake dam. Since the first service there on June 2, 1963, the chapel has served 142,880 people. Services begin Memorial Day weekend and run through Labor Day weekend, and start at 8:30 a.m. each Sunday. Various lay leaders conduct the services. Each week different musicians share their message in song. In addition to the regular Sunday services, the chapel has been the site of numerous weddings, memorials, funerals and other special occasions and meetings. The Chapel of the Lake is supervised by a chapel committee comprised of Judy Wixson, Dick Bullis, Tom and Rhea Musil, Wally and Kenny Fox. Anyone wishing to use the chapel from mid-May to mid-September should contact Wixson at 308-785- 2287. The chapel is self-supporting through weekly collections, donations and memorials. It is the hope that the Chapel will be able to open Memorial weekend - May 30 and continue each Sunday until Labor Day weekend - September 5.
for the diversity of trees and shrubs as a Nebraska State Arboretum. Trailhead signs and parking areas provide access and directions for visitors to the lake. In 2021 additional bike racks are being added at popular stopping points. The trail is open to walkers, runners, and cyclists of all ages. Pets on leases are welcome and bags are provided for cleaning up after your pet. Motorized wheelchairs and electric assist bikes are welcome. All other forms of motorized vehicles are not allowed. The trail provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of Johnson Lake. Chapel of the Lake Each summer Sunday, bells at the Chapel of the Lake ring out an invitation to worshippers. Many lake residents and visitors look forward to the unique service. Worshippers come from many communities in Nebraska, other
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Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024 | 17 Farnam F arnam is located in southwest Dawson County with Lincoln County one-half mile west and Frontier County one-half mile south. Keystone, situated two miles east of where Farnam is THE VILLAGE OF Farnam
located today, was the original site of the early settlers of Farnam who later moved to what is Farnam. Farnam was named in honor of Henry Farnam, a railroad builder and philanthropist who was born in New York in 1803. Residents worked through state and federal agencies to obtain grants to build a new fire hall and meeting room, in addition to raising money on their own. The new structure is nearly double the size of the old fire hall and includes a hazardous materials room, a lounge and enlarged community room. Farnam has contracts with Dawson County for law enforcement. The 911 emergency number goes to Frontier County at Curtis and they dispatch the information out on pagers to individuals who are on the fire department and EMT squad. Community activities each year include a community carnival each February and Founder’s Day, a weekend of activities set for June. Also in the spring is an annual Easter Egg Hunt for the smaller children. Three Brothers Vineyard and Winery owners Gary and Ricky Sue Wach, offer tastings of ten different wines at their winery and tasting room. The vineyard is open year-round with extended hours during the summer months. More information can be found on their website www.3bothersvineyard.com.
18 | Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024
Ellwood THE VILLAGE OF Ellwood T he town of Elwood, the Gosper County seat and home to Johnson Lake and the Elwood Reservoir, is surrounded by lush pastures filled with cattle and table-like irrigated fields full of grain. It is hard to imagine how the area appeared in May 1885 when the railroad and land company decided to start a town at this location. Elwood became a terminal for the railroad when a roundhouse was built on the west edge of the town. People flocked to the area and began to build homes and businesses. Soon, a clamor rose to move the Gosper County seat away from the “current” community of Homerville, an inland town that had been by-passed by the railroad, to the up-and-coming village of Elwood. Ultimately, Elwood was selected as the Gosper County seat. The buildings and homes in Homerville were moved nine miles north, across the hills to Elwood. The population of Elwood steadily rose, and then took a jump in 1940 when the town was filled with construction workers building Johnson Lake and the irrigation canal system that is now Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District. Irrigation brought with it the ability to weather droughts. Agriculture income remains the primary base of the community.
Downtown Elwood was and still is the hub of the community. From the cooperative grocery store, banks, and gas stations, to the medical clinic and insurance businesses, there is always
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Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024 | 19
at the Civic Center bandstand, and a parade every other year on “odd” years. Fall and winter months in Gosper County are full of sporting events, Husker parties and good food. The Great Elwood Chili Cook-off is a bi-annual event, held on election years. The general public is invited to show off their best chili or soup; or, if you are more into eating than cooking, we invite you to come out and try all the offerings and vote on your favorite. In December, the Elwood Chamber hosts Old Fashioned Christmas, where businesses and organizations invite the public to attend their open houses in beautiful downtown Elwood. Attendees can talk to Santa at the Gosper County Senior Center, ride on a fire truck at the Fire Hall, and be treated to endless amounts of delicious food at each stop, all while entering drawings for door prizes and Chamber Bucks. Be sure to check out the Elwood Chamber’s Facebook Page or website elwoodnebraska.org, for the latest news on attractions in Gosper County, as well as the dates for Old Fashioned Christmas and other upcoming events.
Other year-round attractions and events going on in Gosper County: The Annual Elwood Spring Gala, hosted by the Elwood Area Foundation, takes place in late March every year. This elegant affair is a community fundraiser disguised as a fantastic night out. Each year, a sold-out crowd is treated to an incredible dinner, complimentary beverages, and live entertainment. Proceeds from the Gala auction are used for youth grants and grants for community projects. The House on the Hill Bed & Breakfast & Catering holds classes ranging from crafting to cooking to gardening. In July, Gosper County increases in size as alumni, family members, and folks from neighboring communities come to Elwood to celebrate the world-famous Gosper County Fair and Rodeo. Our home-town operated, family-friendly carnival is open Thursday-Friday- Saturday from 7 p.m. to midnight, and the Rodeo is held on Thursday and Friday evenings. The carnival is full of rides and games for all ages, and includes a full concession stand. Other fair-time events include a golf scramble, sand volleyball tournament, horseshoe tournament, 4-H events and displays, free entertainment
something going on. Elwood boasts many businesses, including a convenience store and motel, a senior center that provides lunches for folks of any age, several retail businesses, and a caring and well-staffed care center/assisted living center. This small town with humble beginnings is still a close-knit and proud community. We take pride in the appearance of our community, in our public school, and we proudly support our local businesses. There is so much to do and see in the Elwood Area! For those who love the great outdoors, Elwood boasts a fantastic Village Park. There are attractions for all ages – playground equipment for little kids and big kids, picnic shelters and grills, restrooms, the municipal swimming pool, disc golf, horseshoe pits, and sand volleyball courts. The ball fields and rodeo arena sit just adjacent to the Park. The Annual Easter Egg Hunt is one local event that takes place in the Village Park. Hundreds of eggs are stuffed full of goodies, and area children are invited to gather up as many as they can carry. Coffee and donuts are available along with Easter crafts for people to enjoy.
20 | Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024
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Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024 | 21
Overton THE VILLAGE OF Overton O verton was settled in 1873 by the James M. Potter family and the post office was established on June 3, 1873. The community was named in honor of a government official who was in charge of men guarding construction workers on the Union Pacific Railroad. It continued to be part of the nation’s cross-country transporta- tion system as first the Lincoln Highway, and later U.S. Highway 30 passed through the community. A historic Lincoln Highway bridge is located just east of the village, visible between U.S. Highway 30 and the railroad tracks to the south. The bridge sits on the highway’s original location and has a logo on the outside wing wall. It was refurbished by members of the Overton Boy Scouts. Foster Lumber opened in 2004 and Flatwater Food & Auto provides a community-gathering place with gas, food and auto repair. Homestay Village offers eight one-bedroom apartments for the elderly and disabled, which are located only a block from downtown, the post office and the senior center where noon meals are served. The area attraction is the thousands of Sandhill cranes that congregate along the Platte River just south of town during their annual migration in March. Overton also has a monument to honor area veterans. For more information contact the Overton Village Clerk at 308-987-2433.
22 | Dawson & Gosper County Travel Guide 2024 Sumner THE VILLAGE OF Sumner Y ou are invited to visit Sumner, a northeast Dawson County community, located 20 miles northeast of Lexington. Sumner first appeared on the map activities on the Fourth include a volleyball tournament, boat race, car show, firemen’s barbecue, money pile, foot races, crafts, live entertainment, fireworks and more.
In September the community hosts a back-to- school picnic, and in December a Soup and Santa night. The Sumner Commercial Club, Sumner Saddle Club, Sumner EMT’s and Fire Department all work together to make these annual events a huge success. Sumner is the home of Tub’s Pub, famous for home cooking, such as chicken-fried steaks, prime rib and pie. Sumner’s community park is one of the nicest ones around, featuring a sod house and plenty of shade. A splash pad was installed in 2016. Sumner offers youth softball and baseball programs during the summer.
when the post office was established there on Aug. 6, 1889. Named for Sen. Charles Sumner of Massachusetts, an advocate of the abolition of slavery, Sumner was surveyed in June and platted in July of 1890. Located along the Wood River, the fun-loving folks in Sumner enjoy several community gatherings each year and work on community improvements with a team spirit. Annual activities include a community Easter Egg Hunt. The Fourth of July is celebrated in a big way with a rodeo on July 3 at 7:30 p.m. and another rodeo on July 4 at 1:30 p.m. A rodeo, dance and parade with 90-100 entries take place every year. Other
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Downtown Sumner, Nebraska Open six days a week • Closed Sunday Daily hot lunch specials Wednesday night specials Prime rib every Friday and Saturday night Let us cater your party or special event! 308-752-9925 Find us on Facebook and at www.tubspub.com
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