Rock Creek Station facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Rock Creek Station State Historical Park
Reconstructed buildings at East Ranch
Rock Creek Station State Historical Park Location in Nebraska
Location	Jefferson County, Nebraska, United States
Nearest town	Endicott, Nebraska
Area	353 acres (143 ha)
Elevation	1,371 ft (418 m)
Designation	Nebraska state historical park
Established	1980
Administrator	Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Website	Rock Creek Station State Historical Park

Rock Creek Station was an important stop for stagecoaches and the Pony Express in southeastern Nebraska. It is located about three miles northeast of the small village of Endicott. Today, this historic place is protected and open to visitors as the Rock Creek Station State Historical Park.

A Look Back in Time

Rock Creek Station was first set up in 1857 by S.C. Glenn. It was built along the west bank of Rock Creek. This spot was very important because it was right on the Oregon Trail and the California Trail. These were famous paths that many pioneers used to travel west.

The station served as a place where travelers could get supplies. It was also a popular campground for people moving across the country.

New Owners and a Toll Bridge

In March 1859, brothers David and James McCanles bought the property. They added a special feature: a toll bridge across Rock Creek. Travelers had to pay a fee to cross this bridge. The cost for each wagon could be anywhere from 10 cents to 50 cents. The price often depended on how much money the travelers had.

In 1860, David McCanles built a cabin and dug a well on the east side of Rock Creek. This area became known as the East Ranch.

The Pony Express Arrives

In early 1861, McCanles sold the East Ranch. The new owners were a company called Russell, Waddell, and Majors. This company was famous for owning and running the Pony Express. The Pony Express was a fast mail service that used riders on horses.

The West Ranch continued to be a rest stop for pioneers. The McCanles family lived there until April 1861. Then, McCanles sold the West Ranch to two freighters, Hagenstein and Wolfe. He moved his family to another property a few miles south.

A Famous Encounter

In July 1861, David McCanles visited Rock Creek Station. He wanted to ask about a payment that was late. An argument happened during his visit. David McCanles died during a conflict with a young man named James Butler Hickok. This young man later became very famous as Wild Bill Hickok.

Rock Creek Station State Park

In 1980, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission started to develop the area. They turned about 350 acres into a state historical park. An additional 40 acres next to it became a state recreation area.

What You Can See and Do

When you visit the park, you can still see deep ruts left by old wagons. These ruts show where the historic trails once were. The park has rebuilt the old toll bridge and many of the station's buildings. This helps visitors imagine what the station looked like long ago.

There is also a visitor center at the park. Inside, you can find exhibits that teach you about the pioneers. You can learn about their journeys on the Oregon Trail. There are also exhibits about the famous Wild Bill Hickok. The park offers hiking trails for exploring. You can also find a campground if you want to stay overnight.