150 years ago, 13 men seized by wanderlust, turned their eyes to the west and the journey began....
By the spring of 1856, after days of travel, they stood beside the banks of the great Loup River and gazed out at a landscape of rich black soil. Neither too far east, nor too far west, this was the place to call home.
At the time, the river was described as a "rushing tide and boiling quicksand". But instinct told them they had chosen well and without hesitation the work began.
By May 29th, 1856, the outline had been drawn, and the framework of the town, laid out. Calling it Columbus, after the capital of Ohio, it was destined to become a city to reckon with.
From the original 13, to its present day form, Columbus holds a history as rich as its soil. Strengthened by adversity - honed under the hot Nebraska sun, it's a town that's been nurtured by its dedicated people. Would our ancestors be proud of all we've achieved? I like to think so - In fact I like to believe that - somewhere, just off beyond the unbroken plains, they are looking back and smiling....
Footnote:
Many of the articles contained in this website were written during the 18 and 1900's, so to keep the site as authentic as possible, everything has been preserved in its original form --- including all spelling errors....
This website is placed here as gift to the city of Columbus in honor of their 150th Anniversary and dedicated to the 'First Families' of Columbus.
It is also dedicated to Herman & J.M. Waak, "the greatest historians I've ever known!" And to the Platte Co. Historical Society for their tireless efforts in preserving the past for future generations!