Arbor Day

Road Trip To Nebraska City

Amazing Trees:  The Legacy of J. Sterling Morton
Trees are abundant in Nebraska City, the heart of southeast Nebraska.  Memorable apple orchards, carefully planned gardens, an extensive arboretum, and Arbor Day Farm deserve a weekend walk with a pleasant afternoon drive.
J. Sterling Morton, a statesman, editor, and the early resident of this area, was known for the far-reaching insight he gave to Nebraska.  Morton prompted early Nebraska residents to recognize the need to plant a wide variety of trees in great numbers to provide shade, wind breaks, and future resources for the land that was known for its awe-inspiring and far-reaching prairie views.
Morton tested many species of trees to learn which would thrive within the state’s widely varied terrain.  He appreciated Nebraska’s beauty and fertile soil, while anticipating the future need to protect and develop these essential natural resources.
Nebraska City residents, guided by their Chamber of Commerce, are planning extensively for the 150th celebration of Arbor Day in 2021.  Arbor Day is recognized nationally and internationally.  Tree-lovers of all ages, grandchildren to grandparents, celebrate by getting outdoors and planting trees.
History buffs enjoy notable museums, buildings, and sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places in Nebraska City, including Arbor Lodge, Otoe County Courthouse, the Morton-James Public Library, and the Windmill Factory Museum.
Arbor Lodge is known for its terraced gardens and expansive views including its wide, open portico.  Initially built by J. Sterling Morton around 1855, the early mansion consisted of four basic rooms.  The home was totally renovated between 1903 and 1906 and expanded into a much larger mansion of fifty-two rooms, in which architect Jarvis Hunt featured updated Neo-Classical style.  J. Sterling Morton’s son, Joy Morton, prompted the renovation when he returned from Chicago to Nebraska to make the mansion his family’s summer home.  In Illinois, Joy was owner and president of a salt company which later gained renown as The Morton Salt Company.
Joy continued his father’s dream in Nebraska City by establishing the arboretum at the lodge and adding many notable details in and around the mansion.  When you visit, ask about Morton’s addition to the basement.  Arbor Lodge is open for visitors on Saturdays and Sundays between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. 
The lodge is not far from the courthouse which was originally built in 1865.  The Morton-James Public Library, dedicated in 1897, features Richardsonian Romanesque architecture.  Your tour might also lead to the Kregel Windmill Co. which successfully produced “wind wheel water pumping windmills” in Nebraska City as early as 1879.  Visitors are welcome to enter the Windmill Factory Museum Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Lied Lodge of Nebraska City offers accommodations, excellent food, and helpful guest service on the 260-acre Arbor Day Farm.  Well-known annual activities include Arbor Day and the Applejack Festival.  Prepare for pleasant surprises and do plan ahead so your visit will match your personal needs and interests.  Simply taking a peaceful walk through the arboretum will make your journey worthwhile.  A longer stay will lead to even more wonderful memories, heightened by the meaning found in the beautiful natural settings.  To search for details, monthly schedules, and even more activities, see www.gonebraskacity.com.

Celebrate Arbor Day In Nebraska City