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2025 Nebraska State Day
First Presbyterian Church 1220 Bellevue Blvd S. Bellevue, Nebraska 68005 "It Happened in Nebraska" |
Keynote Speaker
Tammy Partsch: Author of "It Happened in Nebraska"
Tammy graciously allowed us to base our State Day on the articles in her book.
She also brought copies of her book for our convenience.
"It Happened in Nebraska" contains the following information and much more.
Each article is well researched, well written, and an enjoyable read.
Tammy Partsch: Author of "It Happened in Nebraska"
Tammy graciously allowed us to base our State Day on the articles in her book.
She also brought copies of her book for our convenience.
"It Happened in Nebraska" contains the following information and much more.
Each article is well researched, well written, and an enjoyable read.
Welcome to Our Guest of Honor:
Daphne Davis
International President of The Questers
The North Platte Canteen
During World War II, the North Platte Canteen in Nebraska became a symbol of American generosity, patriotism, and community spirit. Operating from 1941 to 1946, it served millions of soldiers traveling across the country, offering them comfort, food, and encouragement during a time of uncertainty and sacrifice.
The operation of the canteen was a massive volunteer effort. People from not only North Platte but also from surrounding towns and rural areas contributed time, food, and resources. Every day, volunteers—mostly women—prepared sandwiches, cakes, cookies, and coffee. Farmers donated eggs, meat, and produce, while others sent money for supplies. Groups took turns managing the canteen, ensuring that troops were never without a warm welcome, snacks, and a sense of home, even for the brief 10-15 minutes their trains stopped at the station.
From 1941 to 1946, it is estimated that the North Platte Canteen served more than six million servicemen and women. The canteen operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week, without missing a single troop train. Its operation was a testament to the power of community volunteerism and the American spirit of generosity during wartime.
History of Kool-Aid
Kool-Aid, the brightly colored, sweet, and fruity drink mix, has become a staple in American households and an enduring symbol of summertime refreshment.
The story of Kool-Aid begins with Edwin Perkins, a creative and resourceful chemist from Hastings, Nebraska. Born in 1889, Perkins was fascinated by chemistry experimentations from a young age.
One of Perkins’ most popular products in the 1920s was a concentrated liquid drink called “Fruit Smack.” In 1927, after considerable experimentation, Perkins succeeded in dehydrating the Fruit Smack syrup into a powder form. He named this new product “Kool-Ade,” later renamed Kool-Aid. Kool-Aid quickly grew in popularity, especially during the Great Depression, when its affordability made it accessible to families across America. By the 1930s, the product was being distributed nationwide.
Kool-Aid, the brightly colored, sweet, and fruity drink mix, has become a staple in American households and an enduring symbol of summertime refreshment.
The story of Kool-Aid begins with Edwin Perkins, a creative and resourceful chemist from Hastings, Nebraska. Born in 1889, Perkins was fascinated by chemistry experimentations from a young age.
One of Perkins’ most popular products in the 1920s was a concentrated liquid drink called “Fruit Smack.” In 1927, after considerable experimentation, Perkins succeeded in dehydrating the Fruit Smack syrup into a powder form. He named this new product “Kool-Ade,” later renamed Kool-Aid. Kool-Aid quickly grew in popularity, especially during the Great Depression, when its affordability made it accessible to families across America. By the 1930s, the product was being distributed nationwide.
“He Ain’t Heavy; He’s My Brother
While “He ain’t heavy; he’s my brother” became globally recognized through The Hollies’ song, its origins trace back to earlier years. The phrase was reportedly used by Father Edward J. Flanagan, founder of Boys Town in Nebraska, as a motto emphasizing that helping others, especially those close to us, should not be considered a burden.
The enduring appeal of “He ain’t heavy; he’s my brother” lies in its simplicity and profound truth. It challenges us to look beyond our own interests and offer support to those around us—without hesitation or resentment. In embracing this motto, we celebrate the essence of brotherhood and set an example for future generations. Ultimately, the phrase reminds us that, in lifting each other up, we all rise together.
The Many Faces of Ft. Robinson
Fort Robinson, located in northwestern Nebraska, stands as a testament to the dynamic and multifaceted history of the American West. Over its many years of existence, Fort Robinson has played numerous roles, witnessing and influencing military history, Native American relations, agricultural development, and archaeological discovery.
Established in 1874 as a military post, Fort Robinson was initially built to protect settlers and serve as a base for operations during the Indian Wars. It became a significant site during the turbulent years of westward expansion, most notably as the location of the tragic death of Lakota leader Crazy Horse in 1877. Over the years, Fort Robinson evolved to serve several military purposes, including as a cavalry post, a K-9 training center during World War II, and a site for the Quartermaster Remount Depot, where horses and mules were supplied to the U.S. Army.
Fort Robinson’s history is deeply entwined with the lives and struggles of Native American tribes, particularly the Lakota and Cheyenne. The fort was the site of critical events such as the Cheyenne Outbreak in 1879, where a group of Northern Cheyenne attempted a daring escape from imprisonment, resulting in violence and loss of life. Today, the site serves as a place of remembrance and education, with monuments and interpretive displays honoring the Native American experiences and the fort’s complex role in this chapter of American history.
Fort Robinson, located in northwestern Nebraska, stands as a testament to the dynamic and multifaceted history of the American West. Over its many years of existence, Fort Robinson has played numerous roles, witnessing and influencing military history, Native American relations, agricultural development, and archaeological discovery.
Established in 1874 as a military post, Fort Robinson was initially built to protect settlers and serve as a base for operations during the Indian Wars. It became a significant site during the turbulent years of westward expansion, most notably as the location of the tragic death of Lakota leader Crazy Horse in 1877. Over the years, Fort Robinson evolved to serve several military purposes, including as a cavalry post, a K-9 training center during World War II, and a site for the Quartermaster Remount Depot, where horses and mules were supplied to the U.S. Army.
Fort Robinson’s history is deeply entwined with the lives and struggles of Native American tribes, particularly the Lakota and Cheyenne. The fort was the site of critical events such as the Cheyenne Outbreak in 1879, where a group of Northern Cheyenne attempted a daring escape from imprisonment, resulting in violence and loss of life. Today, the site serves as a place of remembrance and education, with monuments and interpretive displays honoring the Native American experiences and the fort’s complex role in this chapter of American history.
Homesteading on the Plains - Mayhew Cabin, John Brown Cave ·
The Homestead Act of 1862 allowed Americans—including freed slaves, immigrants, and women—to claim up to 160 acres of public land, provided they improved it by building a dwelling and farming it for at least five years.
Built in 1855 by Allen and Barbara Mayhew, the Mayhew Cabin is one of the oldest standing structures in Nebraska City. The Mayhews were among the early settlers who took part in the homesteading movement. What makes the cabin especially significant is its role as a station on the Underground Railroad
The John Brown Cave is a man-made tunnel located near the Mayhew Cabin. It was used to hide escaping slaves as they made their way northward, often at great risk to themselves and those who sheltered them. The Mayhew Cabin and John Brown Cave are now preserved as historical sites open to the public. Visitors can explore the restored cabin, walk through the cave, and learn about both the everyday struggles of homesteaders and the extraordinary risks taken by those involved in the Underground Railroad. These sites offer a tangible connection to the complex history of settlement, resistance, and hope that shaped the region.
The Homestead Act of 1862 allowed Americans—including freed slaves, immigrants, and women—to claim up to 160 acres of public land, provided they improved it by building a dwelling and farming it for at least five years.
Built in 1855 by Allen and Barbara Mayhew, the Mayhew Cabin is one of the oldest standing structures in Nebraska City. The Mayhews were among the early settlers who took part in the homesteading movement. What makes the cabin especially significant is its role as a station on the Underground Railroad
The John Brown Cave is a man-made tunnel located near the Mayhew Cabin. It was used to hide escaping slaves as they made their way northward, often at great risk to themselves and those who sheltered them. The Mayhew Cabin and John Brown Cave are now preserved as historical sites open to the public. Visitors can explore the restored cabin, walk through the cave, and learn about both the everyday struggles of homesteaders and the extraordinary risks taken by those involved in the Underground Railroad. These sites offer a tangible connection to the complex history of settlement, resistance, and hope that shaped the region.
The beautiful baskets fundraiser netted a nice deposit to the Quester Grant Funds. Thank you to all who participated.
Thank you Jared Schademann for presenting the invitation to 2026 Nebraska State Day and distributing copies of the written invitation found in the 2025 Autumn Prairie Tales Newsletter. The planned theme is "Little Chicago." We will discuss how North Platte earned that name during the years 1868-1951 and what finally turned the town straight. It is a very interesting story and we hope all Nebraska Questers and their guests can attend. Watch for more information to follow.