What is the history of Nebraska City, Nebraska?
Early exploration was reported in 1804 by Lewis and Clark as they journeyed across the west discovering the beautiful Missouri River. Nebraska City was the original site of Old Fort Kearny, a military post used by the government in 1846. It was abandoned several years later and relocated to central Nebraska, now south of present day Kearney, Nebraska. Shortly after the post was vacated, John Boulware developed an important river-crossing and ferry service from Iowa across to present day Nebraska City. He and his father grew their business and built a ferry house, the first residence in Nebraska City in 1852 or 1853. In 1854 the Kansas-Nebraska Act allowed legal settlement in the regional area. Three townships were incorporated by settlers: Nebraska City and Kearney City were incorporated in 1855, and South Nebraska City was incorporated in 1856. On December 31, 1857, these three town sites along with Prairie City joined, incorporating as present day Nebraska City. In the mid 1800’s, st
