Sunday, March 29, 2009

Bayard, Nebraska: Chimney Rock


Those who took off down the Oregon Trail in the 19th century needed a little enforcement that they were making progress. So certain landmarks were passed down along the way.

The travelers who made it to Chimney Rock knew they were in Western Nebraska, and closing in on the Rockies. The original name for the formation, by the way, was Elk Penis; this is better.

Chimney Rock got a boost in national awareness when it appeared on the Nebraska state quarter. It is located just south of downtown Bayard. As an aside, Bayard is an area that has seen better times based on the occupancy rate in downtown. If you are in the neighborhood, try to stop in and spend a little money. I'd bet they'd appreciate it.

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