Loup County Historical Society

05/19/2026

Thanks to the Humanities of Nebraska, a great time was had by all who joined us to watch Dan Holtz and Gary Zalud perform songs they’ve written about Nebraska History!

04/22/2026

04/02/2026

{A little April 1 fun. Thanks for following, everyone! Stay tuned for true news from the heart of the American West. 🤠}

What began as a water line repair this week turned into an exciting discovery in the Cowboy Capital. City crews digging near the original Front Street struck a large wooden chest, stamped with the initials S.B. and with the crumbling remains of a note reading “Back soon. Don’t touch.”

In Ogallala's Wild West days, outlaw Sam Bass and his gang were known to frequent local saloons, especially the Crystal Palace. In September of 1877, they robbed the train at Big Springs, NE in what became the single largest heist in the history of the Union Pacific railroad. $60,000 in freshly minted $20 gold pieces were stolen, much of it never recovered. The gang split up and fled the area. Bass and 3 gang members were killed in skirmishes with the law over the next year, but 2 others were never heard from again.

City officials plan to reveal the contents of the chest in a public opening soon.

03/15/2026

Our Musical Storytelling Program has been POSTPONED Due to Weather. Later date TBD! Help spread the word.

03/03/2026

Sunday the 15th!

09/13/2025

We are having an
Ice Cream Social Fundraiser at the Tractor Parade TODAY

09/09/2025

TAYLOR— In Loup County, a new trail is taking shape, dedicated to the memory of beloved teacher and community member, Kevin Brown. Known for his passion for the outdoors, Brown left a lasting legacy when he provided funding to help kickstart the project. The Kevin Brown Educators Memorial Trail wi...

08/31/2025

What to do on a rainy afternoon in Taylor?
Museum’s open.
( just sayin’)

08/01/2025

07/25/2025

We welcomed Amanda Ellis and her family to the museum today! They are from the Grand Island area.
It was a lovely day for a visit-even had a little bit of “boy soup” for a snack. The boys also loved ringing the bell! I hope they enjoyed their small town tour today!