Deuel County, NE
Deuel County lies in the southeast corner of the Panhandle of Nebraska as the gateway to some of the most spectacular scenery to be found in the high plains. Still part of the excellent grazing land that brought the Plains Indians and early pioneers, Deuel County offers hunting and fishing that draws visitors from across the United States each year.
Big Springs is located along the Oregon-California Trail and named after the fresh, cool, pure spring water that poured out of the hillside. The original spring still flows down above a park with swimming pool, playground, and historical museum. The Historic Phelps Hotel has been restored into a bed and breakfast. Located one mile from Interstate 80, you'll will enjoy the friendly atmosphere of this small, western Nebraska community and its many historical attractions.
Chappell is located north of I-80 on Highway 30, formerly known as the Lincoln Highway. Entering Chappell from I-80, you will pass the Pony Express marker, the Chappell Lake and the municipal golf course. Chappell has a beautiful library and museum, which includes paintings by well-known artists, and a rock collection donated by a local collector. Heritage House is an example of 1911 architecture, built and inhabited by members of one family.
Explore Deuel County
Chappell Golf Club
Chappell's municipal golf club lies alongside the Chappell Lake located just north of the I-80 Chappell exit. The nine-hole, grass green course is a beautiful and challenging course open to the public from daylight to dark.
Chappell, NE Golf CoursesChappell Lake
Set your hook in a largemouth bass, catfish, perch, walleye, or bluegill in this 30 acre community lake. A year-round flock of Canada geese have also made the lake their home.
The easy access just north of the I-80
Chappell, NE RecreationChappell Memorial Art Gallery
One of the most rare and valuable collections of art in western Nebraska, the Chappell collection features works by Rembrandt, Aaron Pyle, and unusual oriental art.
One wall of the gallery displays fascinating work created by local artist, Aaron Gunn Pyle, deceased, a well known
Chappell, NE ArtsPhelps Hotel
The Phelps Hotel is typical of many hotels erected during the late nineteenth century in western Nebraska. The building is Deuel County's oldest hotel, constructed in 1885 by the Edwin A. Phelps family, who were among the first settlers in the Big Springs vicinity.
Chappell, NE Famous HomesB-24 Bomber Crash Memorial
During World War II, Nebraska was home to eleven air bases, which filled the skies with planes engaged in training air crews. On June 7, 1944, a B-24J Bomber - part of a flight of 15 bombers from the 866 Bombardment Squadron (H), 7
Chappell, NE MemorialsWaterman Sod House
The Wallace W. and Libby King Waterman sod house was built about 1886. The original dwelling had three rooms. In 1925, it was enlarged and remodeled by Virgil and Helen Burke Waterman, and the sod walls were covered with concrete. The family lived in the house until 1989
Chappell, NE National RegisterSudman-Niemann Heritage House Museum
Home as it was in a more genteel times this 1911 house has been restored to its original condition, complete with period furniture. Also featured is a display of the desk, chair, and flags from the Washington, D.C. office of Congresswoman, Virginia Smith - one of Nebraska'
Chappell, NE MuseumsBergstrom Rock and Gem Collection
Mastodon bones and teeth are on display, along with several other fossils found in the Chappell area. Nature's beauty can be found in polished stones and gems.
Chappell, NE Natural Attractions
Sam Bass Train Robbery Marker
The first and greatest robbery of a Union Pacific Train took place near Big Springs on the night of September 18, 1877. The legendary Sam Bass and five companions, after capturing John Barnhardt, station master, and destroying the telegraph, forced Union Pacific Express Train No. 4 to halt.
Chappell, NE Historical Markers
Pony Express Marker
The exploits of Pony Express riders are the stuff of legend. This historical monument marks the location of one of the hundreds of stations located along their route.
Chappell, NE Pony ExpressOregon Trail Marker
The countless wagons that passed through what is now Deuel County during the westward expansion of the 1800s left an indelible mark on the land that is still visible, even today. Wagon ruts remain visible in the native prairie.
Chappell, NE Landmarks