Friday, March 18, 2011

Nebraska: Off the Beaten Path


Nebraska: Off the Beaten Path [7th ed.]
by Diana Lambdin Meyer [917.82 Lam]

This is a fun travel guide about unique places throughout the Cornhusker state. Places such as the Filley Stone Barn in Gage County. Elijah Filley employed a number of local residents to build this three-story "bank barn" out of wood and limestone in 1874. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. It was described as one of the largest limestone structures presently known and one of the most magnificent barns in the state. One of a kind eateries such as the Drifter's Cookshack near Crawford are also included in this guide. The Cookshack is part of the High Plains Homestead. The homestead is an old cow town that a local family has brought to life. Walk on the boardwalk through the swinging doors into the saloon for a sarsaparilla or a brew. Or step into the Badlands Mercantile and browse the antiques. Native American life can be experienced at the Dancing Leaf Cultural Learning Center near Wellfleet. A willow and grass lodge plastered with mud is the heart of this center. The Native Americans that lived here are known to archaeologists as the Upper Republican Culture and are thought to be the ancestors of the Pawnee. Guided tours of the 115-acre center are available. Visitors can also spend the night in an earthen lodge. The book is divided into six sections for ease in trip planning and have colorful names such as Land of Cather and Cranes for the south central section. This area inspired Willa Cather's writings. This book is filled with tidbits about little known areas. It's enjoyable to read even if you aren't planning a vacation in the near future. -- recommended by Donna G. - Virtual Services Department

[Also available in multiple earlier editions.]

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