Montrose, Nebraska facts for kids

Montrose was once a small village in Sioux County, Nebraska. It was located near important old trails, like the Powder River Trail. Today, this area is part of the Oglala National Grassland. The only thing left from the old village is the historic Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, which was built in 1887.

History of Montrose

Early Events and Settlement

A famous American scout and showman, Buffalo Bill Cody, had an important event happen near where Montrose would later be. On July 17, 1876, during a fight known as the Battle of Warbonnet Creek, he had a conflict with a Cheyenne warrior. Buffalo Bill often talked about this event in his exciting Wild West shows.

Montrose was started in 1887. It was built by people who moved there from countries like Austria, Germany, and Luxembourg. They chose a spot where people could cross Hat Creek easily. The name 'Montrose' comes from two words: 'mont' meaning 'mountain' or 'high place,' and 'rose' for the wild rose bushes that grew there.

Building the Church and Community

In 1887, the new settlers built the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. A few years later, in 1890, the settlers felt worried about new spiritual beliefs spreading in the area, known as the Ghost Dance. Because of these worries, they built a strong, safe bunker.

In June 1899, a bishop named Richard Scannell visited the church. He confirmed 46 Catholic people there. By 1904, the small settlement had grown. It had a school for children, a blacksmith shop to fix metal items, and a general store where people could buy supplies.

Montrose's Peak and Decline

The population of Montrose reached its highest point in 1910, with 24 people living there. The village also had its own post office, which operated from 1887 until 1948. In 1953, the schoolhouse was moved away from the old village site. Over time, Montrose became a former village, with only the church remaining.