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Brule, Nebraska

Following a career with Pierre Chouteau, Jr. and Company, Geminian Pierre Beauvais established his own trading post in 1849 on the South Platte River near California Crossing. Beauvais traded with Indians and white travelers and was reported to have one of the best equipped ranches on the Overland Trail.

A National Historic Landmark, the ranch included log houses, a sod storehouse, and several shops. During Indian raids along the Platte in 1864-65, Beauvais was used by the First Nebraska Cavalry as a base of operations for this portion of the westward route. A barracks was constructed to house the troops and a fortification erected.

The ranch was abandoned when the Union Pacific Railroad reached the vicinity in 1867.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

California Hill

California Hill was climbed by thousands of emigrants heading west during the covered wagon migrations of 1841-1860. Most were bound for Oregon, although California became the destination for many travelers after gold was discovered there in 1848

Brule, NE Landmarks

Diamond Springs Station Site

In 1859, the firm of Russell, Majors, and Waddell constructed this Pony Express station on a low terrace overlooking the South Platte Rover. After the Pony Express ceased operation in 1861, Diamond Springs was a stage and freight station under the ownership of Ben Holladay. A

Brule, NE Landmarks

Beauvais Ranche Station Site

Following a career with Pierre Chouteau, Jr. and Company, Geminian Pierre Beauvais established his own trading post in 1849

Brule, NE Landmarks

Things to do near Brule, NE

Rated Bird Watching

The Chicken Dance Trail opens in new window http://www.chickendancetrail.com This part of Nebraska is one of the richest bi...

Frontier County Courthouse

Cedar Run ATV Trail

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Harlan County Tourism have completed work on a new 470-acre ATV and dirtbike trail at t...

Alma Municipal Golf Course

Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles