9 Days Kenya Ultimate Safari Odyssey with Kibera Holiday Safaris
Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska | Official Visitors Guide of the Jefferson County Visitors Committee
1. Showcasing all that is
Jefferson County, Nebraska
Dining • Shopping • Attractions • History • Lodging
Daykin • Diller • Endicott • Fairbury
Gladstone • Harbine • Jansen
Plymouth • Reynolds • Steele City
www.VisitOregonTrail.org
4. Dining/Restaurants
Page 2 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
Nobody in Jefferson County goes home hungry.
Whatever your preference, a dash of American, a
sample of fast food and a smattering of casual dining will
satisfy just about every taste bud.
Daykin
The Daykin Pub
Hwy 4 - Friendly service and quality food make for a
great dining experience.
Diller
The Field Sports Bar & Grill
415 Commercial St. - Classic bar food and atmosphere.
Endicott
Criner’s Corner
Endicott - For beer, spirits, food and fun! Check out the
smalltownatmospherewithgreatburgersandsandwiches.
Fairbury
Crystal’s Cafe @ the Sale Barn Café
1312 Sale Barn Road - Home cooking. Two words say it
all. Crystal’s Cafe at the Sale Barn is as close to good, old-
fashionedfoodasonecanget.Dailyspecialsarehighlighted
by a regular menu of sandwiches and luncheon fare.
Fairbury Country Club
56811 719 Rd. - Restaurant and lounge open to members
and guests year-round.
Griffey’s Steakhouse and Lounge
4004thSt.-SituatedinoneofFairbury’soldestdowntown
buildings, Griffey’s is known for a wide selection of steaks,
burgers, sandwiches and Mexican fare. The daily special
is a huge draw for locals and visitors. All food is cooked
to order and a large selection of homemade salads entice
many to the All-You-Can-Eat Salad Bar. Breakfast served
all day.
Harvest Chinese Restaurant
616 E St. - It is all about options here. Choose from a
full menu of traditional Asian fare or enjoy the all-you-
can-eat buffet offered noon and evenings daily. Either
way, customers are the winners here with great service,
reasonable prices and lot of good food. Bring your
stomach.
5. Dining/Restaurants
Page 3
Stop by and visit us at
2630 Industrial Drive
Fairbury, NE
Each morning we make Runza®
Sandwiches
from scratch, hand-slice onions for our
Onion Rings, and begin preparing our fresh Salads
and never-frozen 100% ground beef Burgers.
That’s just how we do things, and we wouldn’t
have it any other way.
Jalisco Mexican Restaurant
417 D St. - Offering a full Mexican menu, Jalisco’s creates
traditional dishes and full-meal deals as well. Its historic
building on the square is an attraction in itself. Carry-out
and catering available, too.
McDonald’s Restaurant
1429 K Street - As American as it gets, McDonald’s has it
all from breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack menu items. A
fast and speedy drive-thru gets you going where you need
to be with quick, friendly service.
Pizza Hut
505 14th Street - Pizza? Yes. But so much more to enjoy
here with pasta and sandwich selections as well. Features
a daily lunch buffet plus Kid’s Night on Tuesday. Dine-in,
carry-out and delivery.
Ray’s Apple Market
1415 K St. - Daily luncheon and evening specials
compliment a menu of broasted chicken, grilled ribs
and chicken and sliced sandwich meat. Several salad and
dessert options are also showcased for hungry stomachs
each day. Catering and carry-out are also available. A
small seating area provides a nice break.
Rowdy’s Steakhouse
321 F St. - Two blocks off the downtown square, Rowdy’s
customers never leave hungry. Both lunch and dinner
menus show a range of options from the daily specials
to grilled steaks, sandwiches, and salads. A long-time
favorite is the Chicken Fried Steak, also known as the
“Elephant Ear”.
Runza
2630 Industrial Drive - Nebraska’s original fast food
dining experience, Runza offers its unique Runza
sandwich in several options. Grilled to order hamburgers,
sandwiches, fresh daily soups and ice cream treats round
out the menu. Open daily, dine inside the restaurant or
grab something to go on the run at the drive-thru.
Subway
1413 K St. - Where the sandwich is an art form. Pick
from many options and watch it created before your eyes
with exactly the ingredients you want. Grab dessert after
the meal with Goodrich Dairy located inside the store.
Sweet Creations
1011 K Street (behind Pinecrest Apartments) - Stop by for
mouthwatering cinnamon rolls and baked goods. Daily
lunch specials featuring fresh, made-from-scratch soups
and sandwiches.
Wally’s Sports Bar and Grill
1501 K St. - Customers can experience superb
sandwiches and appetizers as well as prime rib, steak
and pasta all while viewing sporting events on multiple
big screen TVs. A full-service bar, pool tables and other
gaming attractions compliment a great time.
6. Dining/Restaurants
Page 4 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
Harbine
SideTrek
Hwy 136 - What came first? The chicken or the wing?
At Side Trek, it definitely is the wing with locally famous
Wing Night. Luckily, for fans, wings are also available
anytime, not just Thursday. The 1 pound burger and
homemade chicken fried steak, served only on Tuesday,
are also a hit. Beer and drink specials help attract diners
as well. Open 365 days a year.
Steele City
Salty Dog Saloon
200 W Main St. - A self-described gathering place
for flamboyant, colorful and crazy characters. With a
Mexican menu and lots of sandwiches hot off the grill,
most people have a hard time deciding what to eat. Open
Tuesday-Sunday for lunch and dinner, its good food and
great prices keep bringing folks back for more.
Plymouth
Goob’s Bar and Grill
303 E Main - Classic, small town hospitality and tasty
food are a great combination for all diners.
Fairbury Optimist Club
1954-2014 ~ Celebrating 60 Years of
“Bringing Out the Best In Kids” in Fairbury & Jefferson Co.
For more information: www.FairburyOptimists.org
8. Local Towns Tell Many Tales
Page 6 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
ABSTRACT
&
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413 D STREET
FAIRBURY, NE 68352
PHONE: 402-729-2771
FAX: 866-858-2771
CELL PHONE: 402-300-1100
EMAIL:
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Providing Title Insurance,
Title Searches & Escrow Closings
to Southeast Nebraska
Jansen
Russian settler Peter Jansesn (Jansen) and a small group
of 50 fellow Mennonites left Russia in 1873 and purchased
20,000 acres from the Burlington and Missouri Railroad
where they established seven settlements. With word of
the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad coming
through the area, Jansen bought 80 more acres and on
Aug. 20, 1886, mapped out the town.
Railroad officials honored Jansen by naming the new
town after him. Within one year, 13 businesses had been
built, including a bank. Founded by Jansen, the bank
has operated continuously since that time, though it has
changed leaders and names.
Reynolds
Again, the railroad expansion helped found Reynolds in
1880. Homesteaders William Menary and W.H. DeBuse
enticed the Republican Valley Railroad to build its railroad
through Debuse’s property. The name Reynolds was given
to honor the father of a conductor on the Republican
Railroad. The town was also served by the Burlington
and Missouri Railroad, which eventually bought out
Republican Valley, becoming Chicago, Burlington and
Quincy Railroad. The creation of Reynolds also resulted
in the decline of Rose Creek City since the railroad had
bypassed it. Many of the buildings here were put on skids,
including the blacksmith shop, drug store, church, hotel
and school and pulled by horses over the hills to Reynolds.
Endicott
Settledasearlyasthe1850sand1860sbecauseofitsfertile
land and proximity to the Oregon Trail, expansion by the
St. Joe and Denver City Railroad enticed more residents
to move to the area. Early homesteaders Billy Smith and
Edward Hawkes saw the potential for a town and platted
it in 1880 when the post office was officially established.
Railway officials named Endicott after William Endicott of
Massachusetts, Secretary of War under President Grover
Cleveland.
At its height, Endicott included a hotel built by the
railroad and several businesses. The hotel still exists
today, as does Smith and Hawkes’ log cabin, situated in
the village’s park. The first school, taught in a dugout, was
later replaced with a wooden structure in 1885. When fire
destroyed that building in 1904, a two-story brick school
was built at the same site and used for years as both an
elementary and high school. Though the high school
closed earlier, the elementary remained in session until
merging with Fairbury school district in 1992.
9. Local Towns Tell Many Tales
Page 7
Daykin
Platted in 1887, Daykin began as land homesteaded
by William E. Ide and sold to John N. Daykin. He sold
the land to two Fairbury residents, John Kesterson and
George Cross, who began the village of Daykin on June 8,
1887. Attracted by the ideal farming conditions, original
residents were of German and Czech ancestry.
Initial rail lines paved early success for the community.
The first building, Jefferson County Bank, survived the
Great Depression and continues to serve citizens today.
Windmills played a large role in the town’s history.
Water was provided by windmills from a public well and
many private wells and individual windmills. This status
was also noted by a feature on “Ripley’s Believe It or Not”
calling Daykin the “Town of Windmills” because of their
popularity.
In its heyday in 1910, Daykin had 210 residents much as
it does today.
Harbine
Created in 1886 as a result of the Chicago, Rock Island
and Pacific Railroad in the area, Harbine is situated on
land donated by Fredrick Sandman, George H. Hansen
andCharlesLetton.ItwasnamedforaprominentFairbury
banker and land promoter Col. Thomas Harbine.
In its history, the town included a blacksmith shop and
wagon maker, a physician, a farm implement dealer, a
hotel, a general store and a windmill and pump business.
One of the first buildings was a two-story depot with living
quarters upstairs. Harbine was also home to a creamery,
which produced and shipped cheese and butter all over
the United States at one time.
Disaster by recession, fire and tornado took a toll on the
community. The town’s bank closed in 1933. A fire in 1946
destroyed many of the businesses and they never rebuilt.
A tornado in 1903 leveled the Congregational Church,
one of three churches to exist in the town’s tenure.
Gladstone
The building of the Chicago, Kansas and Nebraska
Railroad, later known as the Chicago, Rock Island and
Pacific Railroad, spurred the growth of Gladstone. James
Hubble bought 80 acres of land from German settler Elias
Weiker and quickly platted 23 blocks for the town in 1886.
Hubble had great plans for the little town, but no major
township developed.
Gladstone did boast several businesses, including a
livery, multiple grocers, blacksmiths, a lumberyard, a
hotel, a bank and a pool hall in its prime. Two grain
elevators also engaged in commerce until one burned and
the other eventually closed. The Depression drove many
businesses to other areas.
A schooldistrictwasorganizedin1881,butconsolidated
with Fairbury in 1968. Two churches built east and west of
town are called Gladstone churches since no such facility
was ever built in Gladstone.
10. Local Towns Tell Many Tales
Page 8 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
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Plymouth
Of all the towns in Jefferson County, this community is
one of the most interesting with two histories and two sites.
The original town of Plymouth began with 10 ministers
from Iowa, Illinois, Massachusetts and Wisconsin, one of
which was a land agent for the Burlington and Missouri Riv-
er Railroad. On Sept. 18, 1872, leaders planned to create a
“Plymouth of the Prairies, a colony of conscience” and asked
that “no [one] may join us who is not of unblemished mor-
als”. The sale of alcohol was also banned. The streets were
named after Pilgrim leaders and most of the original settlers
were of English descent. The early town flourished with sev-
eral businesses and a post office.
Unfortunately, the railroad lines were not built and the
town’s population quickly left and moved their businesses to
more prosperous places.
A new city began on a new site in April 1884 when the Chi-
cago, Rock Island and Pacific expanded its line from Lincoln
to Jansen. Because the train would not stop on the uphill
grade, a depot was built three miles north and one mile east
of the old town. The post office moved to the depot and the
name went with it. In less than a year the population reached
over 200 with German settlers and many citizens from On-
tario, Canada. The town’s old rules did not apply. At its peak
in 1910, approximately 400 citizens lived in Plymouth with
62 businesses. All that remains of Old Plymouth today is a
cemetery and signs that mark the site.
Steele City
Small, but surrounded by its pioneer past, Steele City in-
cludes a 19th century stone church, a 1900 stone livery stable
and a brick bank museum. Modern day downtown includes
a restaurant and bar and a small post office. Visitors can even
water their horses in the historic spring-fed troughs. Living
history demonstrations occur each summer and during the
annual Steele City Flea Market weekend each September.
Diller
Named for Samuel Diller, an early settler, Diller was platted
on Oct. 1, 1880 and developed from the building of the
Burlington and Missouri Railroad. Diller encouraged many
of his friends from Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, to
come to Nebraska, even loaning money to many of the first
settlers to purchase land. His home served as the first school
and church. He also donated the land for a cemetery.
Diller has been home to several businesses, including
a newspaper, a hotel, a bank, an opera house and even
an orphanage. The phone company, started in 1899, has
evolved into Diode Communications and continues to serve
surrounding communities.
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12. Located 70 miles south of Lincoln and 30 minutes
west of Beatrice, Jefferson County offers plenty of
entertainment for those looking for a quick getaway or
a longer more leisurely stay. Whether you are searching
for a great antique find, exploring the region’s history
or settling in for a quiet weekend of camping, Jefferson
County provides an excursion for almost everyone.
HuntingandFishing–Outdoorsmen find abundant wildlife
year-round. Deer and pheasant hunters from around the
country return each fall. Quail, wild turkey and rabbit
compliment the wildlife available. Plentiful fishing draws
sports enthusiasts to the Little Blue River and numerous
lakes around the county.
Fairbury City Park – This place packs in a bit of everything
including, a massive tree-lined route, the city pool, a
softball complex, an original playground, the Legion
baseball field, a horseshoe complex, a community building
and the Girl Scout Cabin. Situated at 8th and Maple
Streets, touring the park on foot or by car highlights the
beauty of small-town living.
McNish Park – A drive or stroll through this shady
Fairbury park details the rolling
landscape and stone-lined pond. The
area also boasts a Frisbee golf course
and playground. Found at 14th and
I Streets, visitors can enjoy a picnic
shelter, the Boy Scout Cabin, and a
relaxing waterfall.
Art Gallery – Looking for a unique pottery gift?
Searchingforagreatpaintingfortheden?Checkouttheart
galleries in downtown Fairbury. New Earth Clay Pottery
and Art Gallery, Big Bamboo Studios and Stagecoach Mall
each offer a variety of art pieces for view and for sale.
FairburyCountryClub–Just south of Fairbury on the slopes
of the Little Blue River Valley sits the Fairbury Country
Club and Golf Course. Enjoy the picturesque and
challenging layout of the course and the restaurant and
lounge, open year-round.
Crystal Springs Park – Located on the southwest
edge of Fairbury, not too far south
and west of the City Park,
camping, fishing and
family fun happen here.
Campers will find RV
hookups, new showers
and restrooms, picnic
shelters, a horseshoe
court and playground.
Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy two spring-fed
lakes and another man-made lake stocked with bass,
catfish and blue gill, including trout in the center lake in
the cooler months. Many ducks and geese also call Crystal
Springs home year-round.
What to Do & See in Jefferson County
Page 10 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
13. What to Do & See in Jefferson County
Page 11
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Tri-County Oregon Trail Monument – This marker is located
five miles east and two miles south of Steele City. It gives
the legend of the Oregon Trail through Washington
County, Kansas and Gage and Jefferson County, Nebraska.
Fairbury’sLittleBlueRiverTrail–Added to Jefferson County
in the fall of 2006 is the new hiking trail in Fairbury.
Funded by federal, state and city grants, it was the project
of a citizen’s committee. Starting at the old dam site on
south C Street, walkers can proceed to the Fairbury City
Park or strike out across the old Rock Island Railroad
Bridge and through the Flathead Wildlife Management
Area, operated by the Nebraska Game and Parks
Commission.
Frontier Fun Park – Created
from local children’s designs,
the park, located in Fairbury’s
City Park was the first park of
its kind in the state of Nebraska.
AlexandriaStateRecreationArea–A beautiful spot to spend
a relaxing weekend, Alexandria boasts two lakes, which
are ideal for fishing and canoeing. Fish are restocked
annually for sportsmen. Camping facilities include,
electrical hookups, playground and an RV dump station.
Boat ramps and a dock have been added on the west lake.
Reach Alexandria State Rec Area by taking Highway 136
west from Fairbury for 7 miles and following the signs
north and west to find the spot.
Cub Creek – Found three miles west and four-and-a-half
miles south of Plymouth, a 40-acre lake nestles on 95
acres of land. Year-round activities include fishing, hiking,
boating, campgrounds and hunting. Campers are offered
a shelter, picnic tables, a playground, restrooms and more.
Leisure Lake – Centered around a 38-acre lake with 47
acres of land surrounding it, the Lower Big Blue Natural
Resources District owns and maintains this primitive lake.
Located south and east from Plymouth, hiking, fishing
and hunting are available.
Buckley Creek Recreational Area –
Reynolds - Created in 1971, the area
provides fishing, hiking and boating
as well as a nine-hole golf course
featuring sand greens in the 78-acre
site. Owned and maintained by
the Little Blue Natural Resources
District, a 20-acre lake is the
centerpiece. Limited hook-ups are available, though there
is no charge for camping. Tent camping areas include
restrooms, grills and fresh water. Two picnic shelters with
electricity are also available.
Jefferson County Speedway – Satisfy the need for speed by
attending mini sprint, truck and ¾ midget races on the
banked oval dirt track. Running April through September
at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds located southwest of
Fairbury, the heats attract hundreds of fans each season.
14. What to Do & See in Jefferson County
Page 12 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
Fairbury Municipal Swimming Pool – An Olympic-size
swimming pool beckons visitors during the summer at
Fairbury City Park.
Rock Creek Station State Historical
Park – 57426 710th Rd. Step back
in the past at this Pony Express
Station where James Butler
Hickok gained his famed name,
“Wild Bill”, when he shot and
killed station owner, D.C. McCanles,
in 1861. Visitors have lots to see at the museum and
interpretive center. Outside watch the smithy at work and
see the visible Oregon Trail ruts, one of America’s pioneer
legacies. Modern picnic areas, campgrounds, and a nature
trail are available. (402) 729-5777.
Rock IslandDepotMuseum–910BaconRd.A gem in railroad
transportation history, Fairbury served as the division
headquarters for the Rock Island Railroad during its
heyday, being the midpoint between Denver and Chicago.
For more information, call (402) 729-5131.
Fairbury City Museum – 1128
Elm St. Preserving the past
for future generations. Sit
a spell and enjoy the many
new slide shows that have
been added to the various
rooms. Open year-round
Saturday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Office: 402-671-
6879 or Ben McBride: 402-300-1318
Wildlife Management Areas –
Rock Glen - 706 acres located on the south end of Rock
Creek State Historical Park.
Flathead – 259 acres of land features a tree-lined path
for hikers to explore the area.
Rose Creek – A mixture of cropland, woods and
grassland make up Rose Creek located on two parcels
(664 combined acres) of land south of Jade Road east of
Thompson. The locally famous McDowell Mausoleum is
situated in the second section. Hunters are attracted to the
area during deer and turkey season.
Endicott Clay Products-Beehive Brick Kilns – Providing both
a historical and economic impact to Jefferson County,
Endicott Clay Products manufactures and ships bricks
around the world. Artists also create brick murals and
brick art for customers. Located across the Little Blue
River south of Endicott and two miles west. (402) 729-
3315.
Four-Corner Survey Marker – Located on the 6th Principal
Meridian and 40th Parallel, this landmark was used in
1856 to legally describe Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado,
Wyoming and South Dakota from this point west of the
Missouri River. The marker can be reached by taking
Highway 8 west to Reynolds, then turning south to
Mahaska, KS. From here, it is one mile west and one mile
north of Mahaska.
15. Area Attractions
Page 14
Fairbury . 1313 K Street . (402) 729-3337
Member FDIC
Offering complete banking solutions
with a unique approach to service.
ubt.com
Schmidt’s Inc.
McDowell’s Rose Creek Mausoleum – McDowell’s Tomb,
located south of Rose Creek, shows the work of Fairbury
resident Nelson L. McDowell, a wealthy bachelor who
spent a decade carving the two-room mausoleum with a
hammer and chisel.
Now under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Game and
Parks Commission, the site bears the carvings thousands
of visitors left as their own legacy. Ironically, following his
death in 1937 from a car-train accident, McDowell was
buried in the Fairbury Cemetery.
Diller Opera House – 421 Commercial
Built in 1912-13 by Anna Diller,
daughter-in-law of Samuel Diller,
for whom the town was named,
the Opera House stands on Diller’s
main business street. The three-
story brick building was designed
in the Second Renaissance Revival style. The
second level of the opera house has a raked floor, balcony,
and orchestra pit. The walls and ceiling display stencil
work and free hand painting by Danish immigrant artists
Charles Hansen and James Willer.
Today, the Diller Opera House Society owns the building
so that it can be preserved and used by the community for
wedding receptions, celebrations and meetings.
District10SchoolMuseum–The grounds of this old country
school display monuments to the Oregon Trail, Pony
Express and Mormon Trail. Located a half mile west and
one mile southwest of Alexandria State Lakes, northwest
of Fairbury. Visitors may contact (402) 729-5131 for more
information.
Smith Lime Kiln – NW of Fairbury on River
Road A rare glimpse into early masonry
manufacture unfolds at the limestone
house built in the early 1870s by W.C.
Smith, who produced calcined lime
for building purposes in a nearby kiln.
Located north of Fairbury on River Road, displays
in the house depict lime burning and its uses. Open
summer Sunday afternoons 2-4 p.m. (402) 729-5131.
Steele City Historical District – The past comes alive in a
stroll through this historic village. Visitors can check out
a restored 1880s stone church, a 1900 stone blacksmith
shop, plus a 1902 stone livery, stable and brick bank
museum. Open by appointment. Call (402) 729-5131.
The annual Steele City Flea Market each fall provides an
excellent opportunity to take advantage of great antique
finds and the scenery.
Jefferson County Courthouse was built in 1891 of hand-cut
limestone. Situated on a square in downtown Fairbury
at 411 4th, the building also features ceramic-fronted
fireplaces in some offices and unique antique furniture
in the courtroom. Newly renovated statues stand on top
of the courthouse on three sides. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
weekdays.
16. Jefferson County Map
Jefferson County
Nebraska
Population(2010): 7,547
DAYKIN
166 PLYMOUTH
409
HARBINE
49
GLADSTONE
FAIRBURY
3,755
STEELE CITY
61578thAVE
575thAVE
To
Hebron
To Morrowville,KS
To
Beatrice
PWF Road
DILLER
260
ENDICOTT
132
ROCK CREEK
STATION
REYNOLDS
69
Important Notes:
BUCKLEY CREEK
REC AREA
CRYSTAL
SPRINGS PARK
ALEXANDRIA
STATE LAKES
JANSEN
118
CUB CREEK
REC AREA
LEISURE LAKE
REC AREA
Map not to scale.For illustrative purposes only.
Map design Copyright 2014 Brainchild Concepts.
562ndAVE
718th Road
561stAVE
573rdAVE
Page 14 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
17. Page 15
Moving into a digital age is shaping the future of the
long-time Fairbury icon, The Bonham Theatre.
Since the closing of the theatre in August 2012 because
of a lack of funds by its current owner to purchase digital
projection equipment, a group of citizens banded together
to help restore, renovate and re-open the 88-year old
building as a movie theatre and community entertainment
venue. From this, the Bonham Theatre Project was born.
SeveralcriticalstepsevolvedinsavingtheBonham.First,
the group formed a non-profit organization and selected
a board of directors to help govern future decisions and
plans for the venue. Second, the group purchased the
building in January 2013 following a short-fundraising
campaign.
Today, the BTP continues its fundraising efforts,
collecting private donations and matching grants to
get the theatre open again. It is also working with an
architectural firm to get designs ready, contractors lined
up and renovations started in the near future.
The project is expected to be completed in phases in the
next few years with the first part adding a digital screen/
projector to the theatre downstairs, redoing the lobby/
restroom area and remodeling the main theatre. The
building’s façade will also undergo improvements with
a new front and LED marquee, which will replace the
theatre’s original metal and neon sign. Phase two would
finish the upstairs theatre and restroom area, which was
once the balcony. This would give the building two screens
for movie entertainment. Additional phases would allow
the main floor stage area and basement dressing rooms to
be renovated and used for community theatre productions
and other live events/celebrations. The potential to stream
live performances for sporting events, concerts and
even opera, could all be possible when renovations are
complete.
“We’ll see you at the movies”
Saving A Community
Entertainment Venue
18. City of Fairbury Map
LINCOLN 68
FREMONT 120
OMAHA 126
NORFOLK 153
PWF Road
McNish
Park
GStreet
FStreet
Crystal Spring Rd.
14th St
22nd Street
Circle
Drive
23rd Street
KStreet
Fairbury
Cemetery
Crystal
Springs Park
16th Street
HStreet
IStreet
JStreet
LStreet
MStreet
IndustrialDr.
EStreet
DStreet
CStreet
BStreet
AStreet
13th Street
12th Street
10th Street
9th Street
8th Street
7th Street
6th Street
5th Street
4th Street
3rd Street
Bacon Road
15th Street
17th Street
Hospital
City Park
County
Fairgrounds
HASTINGS 68
MCCOOK 196
NORTH PLATTE 245
CHADRON 492
SCOTTSBLUFF 417
MapleStreet
ElmStreet
MendenhallAve
OakStreet
Rock Island
Depot
Museum
City
Museum
Chamber
Fairbury
Municipal Airport
Map not to scale.For illustrative purposes only.
Map design Copyright 2014 Brainchild Concepts.
Little Blue
River Trail
492
Boy Scout
Cabin
Community
Building
Girl Scout Cabin
Page 16 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
19. Celebrating 2 years of popular success, downtown
Fairbury’s art galleries and specialty stores continue to
open their shops for “First Friday”, as part of “First Friday
Art Walk” in historic downtown Fairbury. Scheduled for
the first Friday of every month, visitors are encouraged
check out the community’s art galleries and studios for
the event, which features one artist each time. Some cities
hold “art walks”, in which a number of the town’s art
galleries or artists’ studios will open their doors into Friday
evening. The idea is that galleries will attract people to the
downtown and enrich the art community by pooling their
openings together into one monthly evening.
Each month, new artists, new locations and new
events are featured for
the Fairbury First Friday
Art Walk. Organizers are
hoping to grow this event
and feature more art, artists
and activities in the coming
months as a tool to promote
downtown Fairbury.
“First Friday”Art Walk
Generates Downtown
Regional Interest
Page 17
20. With buildings dating from the
turn of the 20th century, Fairbury’s
downtown earns its historic
reputation honestly. With the
courthouse as the centerpiece of a
quaint downtown “square,” the area
highlights small town America at its
best with antique stores, an art gallery,
service and professional businesses
and a variety of miscellaneous shops
and restaurants. The downtown area
draws visitors with its original brick
streets, detailed building facades and the courthouse’s
plethora of shade trees. Side streets also offer their own bits
of history relived with a modern art mural on the Globe
Rexall Pharmacy, the renovated J.C. Penney building now
housing the corporate offices of Lambert Vet Supply and
some of the oldest buildings in the business district.
Take a look at what the area has to offer. While you
are at it make sure to check out
these features. Jefferson County
Courthouse located in Fairbury and
constructed in 1891 of hand-cut
limestone—this historic building
still boasts antique ceramic-fronted
fireplaces in some offices. A unique
feature is the antique furniture in the
courtroom. Newly recreated replicas
of original statues grace three sides
at the top of the building.
Another interesting aspect of
downtown Fairbury, the Campbell Bros. Circus mural, on
the north exterior wall of Globe Rexall Pharmacy, depicts
scenes that were reminiscent when the Campbell Bros.
Circus stationed their winter home in Fairbury. From
1895 to 1913, the circus always opened their season in
Fairbury, but traveled nationwide.
Downtown Fairbury Offers Many Points of Interest
A Different Drum A key landmark in
Fairbury, the courthouse square features many
historical landmarks. The VFW Drum & Bugle
Corps march on the northside of the square in
the mid to late 1930s.
A look into the past The Campbell
Bros. Circus mural fills the north wall
outside Globe Rexall Pharmacy.
Page 18 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
21. Page 19
Jefferson County Origins
History reveals
complicated beginnings
Present day Jefferson County officially came into existence
in the fall of 1871. Prior to this, the area now known as
Jefferson County followed a complicated path to its creation.
Initially, Jefferson County may have been included in the
domain of Richardson County since Nebraska’s first counties
bordered the Missouri River. The western boundary of the
state was in the unknown wilds of the Rocky Mountains.
Richardson County, which was directly east of the river,
claimed the right to levy and collect taxes in all territory west
of it.
According to research done for “A Pictorial History of
Jefferson County, Nebraska,” “Prior to the formation of Gage
and Jefferson counties, a strip of land 24 miles wide directly
north of the 40th
parallel (Kansas-Nebraska line), lying west
of the Big Blue River, was
called Jones County on
territorial maps. However,
Jones County had no
legal existence and caused
confusion for many years.
Jones County existed
for only a few years, since
few settlers lived in the
area prior to 1860. It is the
first pioneers that deserve
the credit for shaping the
territory into the condition
to later be developed by the people residing here. Before the
first white men came, the county was populated by Otoe
Indians and wandering tribes of Pawnees and other Indians
traveling to and from their hunting grounds. Jones County
held its first election in the spring of 1861 and organized in
1862.
At a point in 1867, the legislature passed an act to enlarge
Jones County by adding to it the county on the west and
calling it Jefferson. For nearly five years, the present counties
of Thayer and Jefferson were mapped and governed as
Jefferson County. This proved unsatisfactory for its residents.
In 1871, D.C. Jenkins introduced a bill in the Legislature
to divide Jefferson County with the Sixth Principal Meridian
being the division line. This was finalized in the fall of 1871,
and two complete sets of county officers were elected, with
the establishment of Thayer County to the west of the line and
Jefferson County to the east.
For over 140 years, Jefferson County has been home to
generations of individuals and families who built a life on the
plains. Despite the struggles faced by every age in this time
span, its citizens have been able to create towns and villages;
excited about its possibilities, committed to its success and
secure in its sense of place in history. This is the legacy, which
will be passed on to future generations who also call Jefferson
County home.
Laying the foundation The
laying of the cornerstone for the
new limestone Jefferson County
Courthouse took place on July 7,
1891 in the rain.
Stagecoach Mall
Antiques & Tasting Room
508 E Street
Fairbury, Ne 68352
samplings of premium
wines from Nebraska’s
premier wineries plus
fabulous hors d’oeuvres,
great music &
antiques for sale!
22. Lodging
Page 20 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
Jefferson County has several lodging choices to consider.
All are clean and well maintained; warm hospitality, no
extra charge!
Nebraska Prairie Rose Bed and Breakfast - Hwy 4, Daykin.
Innkeepers Donovan and Doris Endorf are ready to make
your stay a special one. Experience country living in rustic
Daykin, Nebraska. No smoking, alcohol or pets. 402-446-
7471
TheCapriMotel- Highways 15 and 136, Fairbury. Standard
motel rooms or extended-stay suites with kitchenettes.
Pet-friendly motel. Handicap-accessible rooms available.
Free local calls, cable TV and smoking or non-smoking
rooms. Truck parking. Cold weather hookups. Call toll
free 800-932-0589 for reservations. Major credit cards
accepted.
Cobblestone Hotel & Suites - 1503 K Street, Fairbury.
Fairbury’s newest lodging option. Featuring hot breakfast
bar, exercise room, swimming pool and guest laundry.
Each room includes a microwave, refrigerator, coffee
service and high-speed internet. Call 888-693-8262 for
rates and reservations.
Fairbury Executive Suites - 506 E Street, Fairbury. Fully
furnished,oneandtwobedroomnon-smokingapartments
featuring separate living and sleeping areas, fully equipped
kitchens, work desks with high-speed internet access, free
satellite TV, DVD player and Aero Beds for extra persons.
Nightly, weekly and monthly rates are available. Call 402-
613-2064 for reservations and information. Visa/MC
accepted.
AbovetheGalleryLodging- 515 4th Street, Fairbury. Located
above the New Earth Clay Pottery and Art Gallery.
Smoke free, private, second floor apartment for up to 5
persons. A fully equipped kitchen with in-room coffee
and tea plus cable TV
and complimentary WiFi.
Extended stay discounts
offered with weekly rates
available. Guaranteed
reservations require
deposit. For information
call 402-729-3034. Credit
cards not accepted.
A Place to
Lay Your Head
23. Camping
Page 21
If you are traveling to the Fairbury area in an RV or
camper, you’ll find three beautiful camping options.
All areas are clean, well-maintained and offer various
recreational activities to enhance your stay.
Crystal Springs Park - southwest of Fairbury. Three lakes for
great fishing and camping. Newly updated camping pads
with electrical and water hookups. Restrooms and showers
available May 1 - October 15. Playground, horseshoe court
and picnic shelters. For more information 402-729-2148.
RockCreekStationStateHistoricalPark- six miles southeast of
Fairbury. Modern campground with paved pads. Hook-
ups, camp grill or fire ring and picnic table. Tent sites
have picnic table and grill or fire ring. Horse camping
available. Showers and bathrooms are available mid April
- late October. Large picnic shelter with electricity, tables,
grills, water and toilets available and may be reserved for
a fee. Open year-round. Beautiful 3,200 sq. ft. visitor’s
center includes two wings of displays, lobby and theater
with slide presentation upon request. Nebraska Park Entry
Permit required. Permits available at the Visitor Center or
from the Park Superintendent. Call 402-729-5777.
Alexandria State Lakes - 12 miles northwest of Fairbury.
Small 46-acre recreation area with two lakes. Fishing,
picnic shelters and campsites. Primitive camping and 46
non-pad electrical sites with 30-amp electrical hook-ups.
Picnic tables, grills, shelters and restrooms. Nebraska
Parks permit required.
VillageofDillerCampground- 15 miles southeast of Fairbury.
Diller Park with camper hook ups and electricity. 402-
729-5965
Historic Steele City Campground - 12 miles southeast of
Fairbury. Available year round. Playground, Bar and Grill,
Post Office and pay phone. Camper hookups. 402-442-
2360 or 402-613-1299
Enjoy the
Great Outdoors
24. Page 22 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
Daykin
Meridian Public Schools
402-446-7265
72380 560th Ave.
DeWitt
Tri-County
Public Schools
402-683-2015
72520 Hwy. 103
Diller
Diller-Odell Elementary
402-793-5570
315 Smith Street
Odell
Diller-Odell High
402-766-4210
506 Perry Street
Fairbury
Superintendent’s Office
402-729-6104
703 K Street
Central Elementary K-3
402-729-2418
808 F Street
Plymouth
St. Paul’s Lutheran
402-656-4465
108 East Hwy. 4
Jefferson Intermediate
402-729-5041
924 K Street
Junior-Senior High
402-729-6116
1501 9th Street
Area Schools
Whether you’re just visiting or live in the
community, we offer convenient banking, friendly
personal service and the attention you deserve.
We even have two ATM locations nearby at
Maatsch Amoco Express • 1402 C St.
Maatsch Oil Company • 1515 K St.
HOME AND AWAY
THE BEST
IN BANKING.
Fairbury • 600 Fifth St. • 402-729-2257
33 locations in Nebraska and Iowa
Visit anbank.com to find the nearest branch
25. Page 23
Fairbury
American Lutheran
12th and K Streets
Assembly of God
11th and D Streets
Cornerstone
Community Church
1501 K Street
Suite 106
Fairbury United
Methodist
605 E Street
Faith Lutheran (AFLC)
1630 I Street
First Baptist
901 F Street
First Christian
2625 H Street
First Church of God
12th and E Streets
First United
Presbyterian
2310 H Street
Foursquare Gospel
Sixth and H Streets
Grace Lutheran (LCMS)
1100 G Street
St. Michael’s Catholic
Eighth and F Streets
Seventh Day Adventist
11th and J Streets
Gladstone
Zion United
Church of Christ
56205 713 Rd.
Diller
St. Paul Ev. Lutheran
114 Lavelle St
Endicott
Endicott United
Methodist
119 W Reynolds
Jansen
Jansen Bible Church
405 Nebraska
St. Paul’s United Church
of Christ Cub Creek
57350 719 Road
Trinity Lutheran
500 Broad
Steele City
Steele City Presbyterian
Harbine
Zion Lutheran
58115 718 Rd
Plymouth
Peace Lutheran ELCA
72165 573rd Avenue
Peace United Methodist
103 E. Main Street
St. Paul’s Lutheran-
WELS
106 E. Hwy. 4
Daykin
Immanuel Lutheran
5 miles east of Daykin
Daykin United
Methodist
St. John’s Lutheran
501 Francis Street
Area Churches
26. Seeing a responsibility to the people in Jefferson County,
several businesses have committed to the long-term
success of the area by being third generation owners. As
times changed, many of these organizations have also
made the transitions needed to stay competitive. See what
businesses call Jefferson County home.
Barber Furniture Company – 404 4th Street, Fairbury -
Currently situated on the south side of Fairbury’s historic
square, Barber Furniture traces its lineage through four
generations since its start in 1927. Recognized as one of
the area’s best sources for floor coverings, quality furniture,
electronics and decorating accessories, Barber’s continues
to do business by knowing their customers on a first name
basis. They provide home furnishings today for a new
generation whose parents and grandparents also traded
with the company.
Diller Telephone/Diode Communications – 301 Commercial
Street, Dviller - As one of the oldest existing businesses,
Diller Telephone has expanded since its start in 1899. The
company first provided phone service in Diller before
growing to other communities. Though small, Diller
Telephone offers its customers state-of-the-art technology
by providing fiber optic cable links between exchanges
and updating digital switches.
Diode Communications was added to the company
in 1982 to offer cable television services to several small
communities in Nebraska and Kansas. Diode soon added
DIRECTV satellite television service and in recent years
entered the wireless Internet market.
First National Bank of Fairbury – 3 Fairbury Locations -
Celebrating 130 years of financial service to Jefferson
County in 2007, First National Bank of Fairbury has
operated continuously on the same corner of Fifth and E
Streets. Except for a short period beginning in 1929, the
bank has been locally owned. First National’s modern
history really begins in 1940 when Luther Bonham, C.J.
Bachoritch and a group of local investors, purchased
the stock of the bank from Northwest Bancorporation.
Bonham served First National for 57 years. The bank
continues to be owned and operated today by descendents
of Bonham.
As a large part of the community for so many years, First
National of Fairbury has evolved to better serve customers
adding two drive-thru facilities, several ATM locations
and online banking services.
Schultis and Son Inc. - Real Estate, Auction and Appraisal Service
– 222 W. 14th
, Fairbury - Started in 1936, Irvin Schultis
established the company with his brother Roy. Now, four
generations later, Schultis and Son is the county’s largest
real estate and auctioneering business. Three generations,
including grandfather, son and grandson, continue to
operate on a first-name basis with many residents, both in
the county and in the surrounding area.
Local Business Highlight
Page 24 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
EndicottClayProductsCo• P.O.Box17• Fairbury,Nebraska• 68352
402/729-3315 endicott@endicott.com
endicott.com
Manufacturers of
Quality Residential
and Architectural
Facebrick, Thinbrick,
Tile, Pavers, Pool
Coping and Murals.
27. Area Schools
Page 25
Jefferson County Bank – 306 Jefferson Street, Daykin - The
settlement of Daykin around 1887 stimulated the need for
a bank for its citizens. Organizers of the bank officially
met Sept. 6, 1892 to propose articles of incorporation.
The Jefferson County Bank survived several hardships,
including the Crash of 1929 and the Great Depression and
continued to grow and prosper.
The bank also earned a place in the annals of criminal
history for a daylight robbery on March 2, 1931 by three
gangsters. The robbers managed to flee with $1,125. Bank
officials responded with their own weapons. Amazingly,
no customers or bank personnel were wounded or killed
in the exchange. Only two of the criminals were captured
and served time.
Prairie View Industries – Fairbury - Established in 1991,
PVI has earned national recognition as the leading
manufacturer of portable access ramps and quality
aluminum products for the food service industry. Located
on Hwy. 15, north of Fairbury, the family-owned company
employs over 85 individuals in fabrication, design and
sales. With nationwide sales over $8.4 million in the last
fiscal year, PVI is now expanding into global markets
offering a tremendous opportunity for prospective dealers
worldwide.
Endicott Clay Products Co. – 57120 707th
Road, Endicott
-Founded in 1920 as Fairchild Clay Products Co.,
Endicott Clay initially produced rose and buff face brick
and structural tile in hand-built beehive kilns. In 1971,
the first of several expansions and kiln additions began,
culminating today with three tunnel kilns, a second tile
plant and a roller hearth kiln to produce ceramic glazed
face brick, tile and thin brick.
TLC Creations – 407 5th Street, Fairbury - What started
as a basement hobby for owner Tammy Cleary quickly
evolved into a full-service party and event business. In
2009 with the help of economic development funds,
low interest loans and private investors, Cleary opened
the doors to TLC Creations and Equipment Rentals in
historic downtown Fairbury.
Now 5 years later, TLC Creations is the largest party
supply and equipment rental store in southeast Nebraska.
With a 2,000 square foot retail store carrying everything
needed to host a party or event, Cleary works hard to
ensure all clients have a memorable, one-of-a-kind event.
WestinPackagedMeats–Fairbury -WestinPackagedMeats
provides quality products to the food service industry
under the Fairbury Brand® as well as many private labels
since it was founded in 1950. With an assortment of
products, including real and imitation bacon bits, Westin
serves a variety of food service outlets. The manufacturing
plant, located in Fairbury, employs a staff of 40 plus and
produces, packs and ships food products across the United
States.
28. April 5, Saturday
Angry Cow
Adventures
402-729-6139
craig.bontrager@yahoo.com
www.AngryCowAdventures.com
April 11, Friday
5:30 p.m.
Kids Adventure Race
Burkley Wellness Center
402-729-6139
April 19, Saturday,
1 p.m.
Chamber Easter
Egg Hunt
Courthouse Lawn
402-729-3000
April 26, Saturday
8:30 a.m.
10K / 2 mile Run/Walk
“Put Your Foot Down
Against Sexual
Assault”
City Park
Fairbury
402-729-2570
www.hopecrisiscenter.org
March 29, Saturday,
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Jefferson Co.
Spring Expo
Jefferson Co. Fairgrounds
402-729-3000
April 6, Sunday,
1 p.m.
Plow Day
1-1/2 mile southeast of
Fairbury on Hwy 8.
402-729-3109 or
402-446-7486
Rain Date April 13
First Friday of
Each Month
First Fridays
Art Walk/Wine
Tasting
Downtown Fairbury
402-613-2063
April - September
Jayhusker Racing
Jefferson Co. Speedway
Fairgrounds
402-729-3008
March 15, Saturday,
10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
5K Run/Walk
Shamrock Shuffle
Chuckles, 513 4th, Fairbury
402-729-3000
April 26, Saturday
6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
3rd Annual
Pork‘N’Pints
VFW, North K St., Fairbury
402-729-3000
www.fairburychamber.org
May TBA,
Saturday & Sunday
Living History
Weekend
Steele City
402-729-5131
www.jeffersoncountyhistory.com
May 4, Saturday
1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Tea Party @ the
Museum
Fairbury Museum
402-300-1318
May 8, Thursday
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
JCHC Salad Festival
Elks Club, 525 G St.,
Fairbury
402-729-6855
Page 26 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
Community Events Calendar
29. Page 27
Community Events Calendar
June 7-8, Sat & Sun
Rails & Trails
Rock Creek Trail Days
Rock Creek Station
402-729-5777
ngpc.rock.creek.station@
nebraska.gov
Rock Island Rail Days
Rock Island Depot
402-729-5131
www.jeffersoncountyhistory.com
June 7, Saturday all day
Abate #7 Steele City
Ride In Bike Show
Salty Dog
Steele City
402-442-2233
June 8, Sunday
1 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Grill Fest @ the
Museum
Fairbury Museum
402-300-1318
June 20, Friday
2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Pony Express
Re-Ride
Hwy 53 in Thayer Co. to
Tri County Marker
402-729-5629
Trail Captain Kevin Riggle
www.xphomestation.com
June 14, Saturday
Run, Row, Rock &
Roll Adventure Race
Burkley Wellness Center,
2200 H St., Fairbury
402-729-6139
craig.bontrager@yahoo.com
May 17, Saturday
9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
FREE Park Entry &
Fishing Day
Alexandria State Lakes
402-729-5777
ngpc.rock.creek.station@
nebraska.gov
May 23-25, Fri-Sun
Fairbury Girls
Softball Invitational
Fairbury Softball Complex
Fairbury City Park
402-729-2001
www.fairburychamber.org
May 31, Saturday
2nd Annual
Duck‘N’Run
Crystal Springs Park
402-729-2278
May TBA, Saturday
Fairbury Cycling
Tour
Burkley Wellness Center
402-729-6139
craig.bontrager@yahoo.com
June 20, Friday
6 p.m. - Midnight.
American Cancer
Society
Relay For Life
Jefferson Co. Fairgrounds
402-587-0387
402-729-6419
402-729-2119
July 4, Friday
10 a.m., Parade
Dusk, VFW Fireworks
43nd Annual
Shriner’s Flea
Market,
Fairbury City Park
402-729-3221
July 3-5, Thurs. - Sat.
118th Annual
Diller Picnic
Diller
402-793-5865
www.dillerpicnic.com
July 10-13, Thurs - Sun
Jefferson County
Fair
Jefferson Co. Fairgrounds
Fairbury
402-729-5792
www.jeffcofair.us
July 26, Saturday
Fairbury Education
Foundation Golf
Tournament
Fairbury Country Club
402-729-6116
30. Page 28 Go!Guide Jefferson County, Nebraska
Community Events Calendar
July TBA, Sat & Sun
Living History
Weekend
Steele City
402-729-5131
www.jeffersoncountyhistory.com
August 15, Friday
JCHC Charity Golf
Tournament
Fairbury Country Club
402-729-6855
Sept. 20-21, Sat-Sun
Steele City Flea
Market/Antique
Farm Machinery
Show
Steele City
402-729-5131 or
402-729-5857
www.jeffersoncountyhistory.com
Sept. 21, Sunday
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
3rd Annual Museum
Car Show
Fairbury Museum
402-300-1318
October 4, Saturday
Lord’s Acre Festival
Endicott
402-729-6048
Nov. 1, Saturday
24th Annual Frost
Frolic Holiday
Market
Fairbury Jr/Sr High School
402-729-6116
diane_schutt@yahoo.com
Dec. 6-7, Sat-Sun
Festival of Trees
Fairbury
Chamber of Commerce
402-729-3000
Dec. TBA, Sat-Sun
1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Christmas @ the
Depot
Rock Island Depot
402-729-5131
All times and dates
subject to change.
Visit www.FairburyChamber.org or
call the Chamber at 402-729-3000
for most current info.
Our goal is simple... to help you put knowledge to work!
517 F St., Fairbury|402-729-3487| jefferson.unl.edu