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Red Cloud, Nebraska

Nebraska's largest round barn and one of the nation's largest, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in April 1972, and is still in use today.

It was built in 1902-3 by the four Starke brothers, Conrad, Ernest, Bill, and Chris, who came to Nebraska from Milwaukee. The massive structure measures 130 feet in diameter, with a center silo diameter of 28 feet, a height of 65 feet and has three levels: the bottom for animals, the second for machinery, and the third (or loft) for hay. The entire vertical frame of massive 12 x 12 timbers is held together combining construction methods of balloon framing and heavy timber supports using balanced tensions and stress rather than nails or pegs.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Red Cloud Post Office Murals

One of only twelve public buildings in the state of Nebraska which commissioned murals for its lobby, Red Cloud Post Office houses three works by the western artist, Archie Musick, 1941.

Red Cloud, NE Arts

Willa Cather Historic SitesTour

The Willa Cather Foundation proudly hosts town and country tours where visitors can view the childhood home of Willa Cather as well as experience other historic buildings related to her life and writing.

Red Cloud, NE Tours

Red Cloud City Park

The Red Cloud City Park offers a variety of activities for persons of all ages. Facilities include outdoor fireplaces, tables, a shelter house, restrooms, playground equipment, swimming pool, and tennis courts. Restaurants and electrical hookups for campers are nearby.

Red Cloud, NE Parks

Willa Cather State Historic Site

The Farmers' and Merchants' Bank building, 1889, was erected by Silas Garber, the founder of Red Cloud (1871), the fourth governor of Nebraska (1875-1879), and the prototype for Captain Forrester in A Lost Lady.

Red Cloud, NE Historic Sites

The Red Cloud Opera House

The Red Cloud Opera House, 1885, stood for many years as the jewel in Main Street's crown. Here Blind Boone played, William Jennings Bryan spoke, and it was from this stage that Willa Cather graduated in 1890 and delivered her eloquent oration, "Superstition vs. Investigation"

Red Cloud, NE Historic Buildings

Things to do near Red Cloud, NE

Swanson Reservoir Fishing

The water clarity of the lake has a special appeal for both boaters and anglers. High water years in the early 1980's cut dow...

Howard County Military Display

Located on the lower level of the Historic Gruber House along with the Museum of Baseball Greats, is a comprehensive display ...

19TH ANNUAL TRAIN SHOW

ADMISSION: $3.00 CHILDREN UNDER 12 $1.00 (under 5 with paid adult free) TRAIN LAYOUTS AND DISPLAYS, VENDOR TABLES SELL...