Chadron is one of the newest additions to the Southern Airways route map. It is a town of about 6,000 people and is located in the northwestern part of Nebraska. We want to show you around this quaint little town and its surrounding areas to help you discover the charm of Chadron.
History
Chadron began in 1885 as three separate railroads were built running through this area en route to Wyoming. It expanded beyond a few wooden shacks, a couple of dirt roads and its reputation for fur-trading to become the economic leader in the Nebraska Panhandle that it is today.
Attractions
Museum of Fur Trade – The museum stands on the site of the original James Bordeaux’s post that was established in 1837 as the American Fur Company. It houses over 6,000 artifacts that display what life was like in early America for fur traders and Native Americans in the West.
Chadron Public Library – Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990, this library is a historic Carnegie Library. Funded by a $5,000 Carnegie grant, it was built in 1913 by arhictect George A. Berlinghof for for just $100. Wander the grounds to appreciate the Neoclassical architecture and go inside to enjoy an afternoon of book browsing.
Fort Robinson History Center – Fort Robinson is a former U.S. Army fort located about 30 minutes southwest of Chadron in the Fort Robinson State Park. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960, the post began in 1874 as a temporary encampment during the Indian Wars. Today, you will find original buildings (including a 1904 blacksmith shop and an 1887 officers’ quarters), a playhouse that was once a quartermaster’s store building and various exhibits including a theatre that produces live shows during the summer months.
Nebraska National Forest – This National Forest is open year-round and includes various places to go hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping and even hunting. It is split into 2 districts: The Bessey Ranger District (90,000-acres) and the Pine Ridge Ranger District (52,000-acres). Each offering their own unique experiences.
