Bowring Ranch State Historical Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bowring Ranch State Historical Park |
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 Bowring Ranch State Historical Park
Location in Nebraska
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| Location | Cherry County, Nebraska, United States |
| Nearest town | Merriman, Nebraska |
| Area | 435 acres (176 ha) |
| Elevation | 3,258 ft (993 m) |
| Designation | Nebraska state historical park |
| Established | 1987 |
| Named for | Arthur Bowring |
| Administrator | Nebraska Game and Parks Commission |
| Website | Bowring Ranch State Historical Park |
Bowring Ranch State Historical Park is a special place in Nebraska, United States. It's a state park that helps us understand the history of ranching in the Sand Hills area. It also tells the story of Arthur and Eva Bowring, who used to own the ranch. Eva Bowring was very important because she was the first woman to become a U.S. Senator from Nebraska! You can find the park about three miles north of Merriman in Cherry County. It's also close to the South Dakota border.
Contents
Welcome to Bowring Ranch State Historical Park
This park is a living museum. It shows what ranch life was like in the past. It also honors the amazing lives of Arthur and Eva Bowring. The park helps visitors learn about Nebraska's rich history.
A Look at the Ranch's History
The Bowring Ranch started way back in 1894. It has a long and interesting past. It became a state historical park in 1987.
Who Were Arthur and Eva Bowring?
Arthur and Eva Bowring had a unique love story. They met when Eva's car broke down near Arthur's ranch. He came to help her, and they fell in love. They got married in 1928.
Both Arthur and Eva were very involved in public service. They held many important jobs. Even with their busy lives, they always kept the ranch running.
Arthur passed away in 1944. Eva continued to manage the ranch all by herself. She did this until she passed away in 1985. Eva was a strong and dedicated rancher.
How the Ranch Became a Park
Eva Bowring had a special wish for her ranch. She worried that it might be split up and sold to different people. To prevent this, she decided to give her ranch to the state of Nebraska.
She did this to honor her husband, Arthur. Her gift made sure the ranch would stay together. It would also be a place for everyone to learn and enjoy.
What You Can See and Do Today
Today, Bowring Ranch is still a working Hereford cattle ranch. You can see how a real ranch operates. It's a great way to experience ranching heritage.
The original ranch house and other buildings are still there. They have been carefully kept in good condition. You can explore these historic structures.
There is also a large visitor center at the park. This center tells the story of Arthur and Eva Bowring's lives. It's filled with interesting facts and exhibits.
