While I was researching our history, I happened to stumble across some very old maps that I found amazing and I hope you will too!!

I really want you to take a look at the bottom one....the Nebraska 1854?  You'll notice over in the bottom left hand corner - that's where Iowa was located and 'we' (as in Nebraska) stretched all the way to Oregon.  That's right, the Dakota's weren't there yet - Minn. was our neighbor to the east. (right hand side of map, that darker tan area).  However, as a footnote, you'll be happy to know that the following year, the maps were redefined and Nebraska was redrawn as we know it today. - (Just a bit of trivia for you...)

And as always, special thanks to the Nebr. Historical Society, as well as the Library Of Congress for making the maps available!

Just click on any photo to enlarge.  It will open a new window so just close it to return here.