Hitchin' Our Silver Wagon: An Airstream Journey on the Oregon Trail
Marysville Kansas to North Platte Nebraska
Our Oregon Trail adventure really began today in Marysville, Kansas, with our aluminum Airstream in tow. Now, you may be thinking, "Isn't an Airstream a far cry from the covered wagons the pioneers used?" And you would be right! But there's a touch of poetic justice in retracing the steps of those brave souls with my trusty, albeit slightly shinier, wagon.
In the 1800s, pioneers would have stocked their wagons with essential supplies, survival gear, and perhaps a few lucky charms. Today, our “wagon” is filled with slightly different essentials. There are refrigerated foods in place of hardtack, Wi-Fi instead of a sextant, and a memory foam mattress to replace the straw bedding. I can't help but feel that our forebears would be just a tad jealous of our cozy accommodations.
Our first stop was the Hollenberg Pony Express Station. Back in the day, this was the equivalent of a FedEx center where riders would change horses on the California-bound route. A National Historic Landmark located in Hanover, Kansas. It was built in 1858 by Gerat H. Hollenberg and his wife Sophia, and was used by the Pony Express from 1860 to 1861. The station is the most intact surviving Pony Express station in the United States. We got there early before it was open. This was a good thing because we took the whole parking lot and spend a lot of time turning around. :-)
Next, we ventured on to Rock Creek Station in Fairbury, Nebraska. Again we arrive before anyone else. It was about a 1 mile hike back to the two historical sites full of multiple original buildings.
This was a busy thoroughfare for both the Oregon and California Trails, as well as a crucial Pony Express stop. In March 1859, the property was purchased by David McCanles and his brother, James, who added a toll bridge across Rock Creek, charging each wagon from 10¢ to 50¢ to cross the bridge depending upon their ability to pay. On July 21, 1861, Wild Bill Hickok shot and killed David McCanles in a gunfight at Rock Creek Station. The gunfight was over an unpaid debt owed to McCanles. The station continued to be operated as a stagecoach and Pony Express station until 1861, when the Pony Express was discontinued. The station was abandoned in 1867.
From there, on to Fort Kearney, situated near Kearney, Nebraska. It was established as a safe haven for westward travelers. Really, it wasn't much of an other than being staffed by soldiers with guns. We didn't spend much time here, but did have a great tuna salad made from the refrigerated mayonnaise in the Airstream… NOT EXACTLY A LUXURY ENJOYED BY SETTLERS.
Driving along the Lincoln Highway (two lane), which follows the Platte River, we arrived at Gothenburg, a small town that was once home to two Pony Express stations. A little known fact: one of the stations has been relocated to a park in town and is considered the most authentic surviving station.
And, where did we end up after a day filled with history and picturesque views? Well, at a Harvest Hosts brewery in North Platte, Nebraska, of course! Because nothing caps off a day of traversing the old trails like a cold, craft beer. Ah, the luxuries of being a modern-day pioneer!
Airstream on the Nebraska Prairie.
In retracing the path of the Oregon Trail, we've certainly come to appreciate the conveniences of modern travel. Sure, our wagon may not face the dangers of the untamed wilderness, but it does grapple with the occasional Wi-Fi dropouts!
Join us as we continue our journey tomorrow, embracing the spirit of the old pioneers, albeit with our contemporary flair. Let's see what other adventures this silver wagon will take us on!
