Explore Pioneering Plains Travel Guide
FRESH CRACKED EGGS
R
Ultimate Skillet
MADE YOU WAY!
All-World Double Cheeseburger
OPEN EVERYDAY
Sunday through Thursday 6:am-10:pm Friday and Saturday 6:am-11:pm
Pot Roast
Breakfast Served ALL DAY!
STERLING 203 N. 4th Street (970) 522-4882 VISIT US AT VILLAGEINN.COM
Courtney Cisneros / Burlington Record
This page: An exhibit in the Old Town Museum in Burlington celebrates the first people to inhabit the plains. Read more about the museum on page 21. Cover: The carnival rides at the Logan County Fair offer thrills for riders. (Journal-Advocate file photo)
Welcome to Explore TABLE OF CONTENTS Sedgwick County
Spend a day in Sedgwick County .......................................................... 5 Cruise the Tri-State Hod Rod Festival .................................................... 6 The Digger Man of Julesburg ............................................................... 8 Depot Museum at Julesburg restored ................................................ 12 When buffalo came to town ............................................................... 13
Phillips County
Spend a day in Phillips County ........................................................... 14 County Fair set to be another wild ride ................................................ 15 Dandelion Daze includes Party in the Park, car show ........................... 15 PC Raceway offers weekend entertainment ........................................ 16 Haxtun gears up ............................................................................... 16
Yuma County
Wray Museum preserves local history ................................................ 18 Event celebrates agriculture’s past .................................................... 18
Kit Carson County
Spend a day in Kit Carson County ...................................................... 19 Fair and rodeo return for 105th year ................................................... 20 Old Town sends folks back in time ..................................................... 21
Map
....................................................................................................... 22
Lincoln County
See the sights in Lincoln County ........................................................ 24
Morgan County
Spend a day in Morgan County .......................................................... 25 Bobstock rocks downtown Fort Morgan .............................................. 26 Brush Rodeo back for 67th year ........................................................ 27
Washington County
Unique geography appeals to many .................................................... 28 Try casting a line on Akron Pond ......................................................... 28
Logan County
Spend a day in Logan County ............................................................. 29 4-day Heritage on the Plains debuts ................................................... 30 Logan County Fair offers something for everyone ................................ 31 N. Sterling State Park open all year .................................................... 33 Explore stories of early settlers ......................................................... 35
More to Explore
Explore the gems of Keith County, Nebraska ....................................... 37 Cheyenne County gives big city options with small-town feel ................. 38
Calendar
....................................................................................................... 39 Copyright 2022, Prairie Mountain Media
CONTRIBUTING NEWSPAPERS Explore magazine was produced by five northeast Colorado newspapers: Burlington Record Burlington, CO burlington-record.com Fort Morgan Times Fort Morgan, CO fortmorgantimes.com
Holyoke Enterprise Holyoke, CO holyokeenterprise.com Journal-Advocate Sterling, CO journal-advocate.com Julesburg Advocate Julesburg, CO julesburgadvocate.com EXPLORE 2022 • 3
Inside Explore Festivals & Fairs
History & Heritage
Sara Waite / Sterling Journal-Advocate
Ashley Ball of Bowled Over Ceramics works at her pottery wheel during Sugar Beet Days 2021. Sugar Beet Days, held annually on the third weekend in September, is a two-day craft bazaar and vendor fair on the Logan County Courthouse Square in downtown Sterling, which includes live entertainment, food trucks and more. Read about other Festivals & Fairs on pages 6, 15, 16, 18, 20, 27, 30 and 31.
Fort Sedgwick Museum in Julesburg houses artifacts from Julesburg and Sedgwick County's past. The volunteer-run museum is located at 114 East First St. in Julesburg. For more information about History & Heritage of Northeast Colorado, see pages 8, 12, 13, 18 and 21.
Arts & Entertainment
Outdoor Adventure
Callie Jones / Sterling Journal-Advocate
The Juke Joint Cruisers perform from the Logan County Courthouse Gazebo in Sterling during a July Jamz concert. The free concert series put on by the Logan County Arts League (LOCAL) is held annually on Friday evenings in July. For other Arts & Entertainment stories, see pages 16 and 26.
4 • EXPLORE 2022
Sedgwick County Historical Society / Courtesy photo
Colorado Parks and Wildlife / Courtesy photo
Skygazers watch the stars at Jackson Lake State Park, which is a designated International Dark Sky Park in Morgan County with 251 campsites, a conference room, amphitheater and a four-lane boat ramp. Read about other Outdoor Adventure opportunities on pages 28 and 33.
Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick
Spend a day in Sedgwick County Jumbo Reservoir
Located six miles west of Sedgwick, the 1,500-acre Julesburg Reservoir; known to locals as “Jumbo” and the best place to fish, boat, water ski and camp. Services include boat ramps, shelters and restrooms. A valid Colorado hunting or fishing license or State Wildlife Area pass is required for everyone 16 or older accessing the SWA; these can be purchased online at CPWshop.com or by calling 800-2445613.
South Platte River Trail
The South Platte River Trail is the shortest of Colorado’s 26 byways. Begin the trail at the Colorado Welcome Center at Julesburg, and follow the 19-mile loop with interpretive signage at the original Julesburg townsite, the location of Colorado’s only Pony Express home station, and Fort Sedgwick, established in 1864 to protect the trail and telegraph line. Additional markers commemorate the other three Julesburg townsites, the Transcontinental Railroad, and the Lincoln Highway — the first coast-tocoast automobile road in the United States.
Old Ford Garage
Courtesy photo
Explore a privately owned collection Signage at the trailhead of the South Platte River Trail scenic byway points out sites of interest along the 19mile loop. of antique Ford vehicles, signage and gravity-fed gas pumps. The sights, sounds and smells of this one-time city The Old Ford garage will bring you back to a bygone Garage, a collecera. This museum, one of three operattion of antique ed by the Fort Sedgwick Historical Ford vehicles, sigSociety in Julesburg, is volunteer-run nage and gas and hours can vary. Visitors are pumps, is housed encouraged to call ahead to ensure a in a former city volunteer docent is available. Please garage in Julescall 970-474-2061 prior to your visit. burg.
Julesburg Dragstrip
The Julesburg Dragstrip is the oldest NHRA track in the United States in its original location. The strip is located off US-138 west of Julesburg. It celebrated 60 years of racing in 2018 and remains sanctioned by the NHRA.The 2022 races are scheduled from April to October. For a full listing of race dates, check out their calendar at http:// www.julesburgdragracing.com.
Courtesy photo / Fort Sedgwick Historical Society
EXPLORE 2022 • 5
Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick
Festivals & Fairs
Cruise the Tri-State Hod Rod Revival Friday, Aug 19, 2022 kicks off the 7th Annual Tri-State Hot Rod Revival at the Julesburg Dragstrip, Oldest Track in the Country. At dusk, enjoy the Nitro Car display at the courthouse; the cackle fest is a crowd pleaser. Friday night is Cruise Night and has grown year over year. Car enthusiasts travel near and far to take part in cruisin’ Main (Cedar) Street in Julesburg and parading in muscle cars, antiques, rat rods and motorcycles and one-of-a-kind automobiles. Racing memorabilia and local racing history can be found on display. Food Wayne Fuchs / Courtesy photo vendors, music and families make this a spectacular event Take a cruise into Julesburg on Friday, Aug. 19, where there will be fun for the whole family. Make a weekend of it and attend the Tri-State Hot Rod Revival on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 20-21 at the Julesburg Dragstrip to visit the many not to miss. cars on exhibit and drag racing. Held annually at the Julesburg Dragstrip, which is the This one-of-a-kind oldest drag racing track in the car was a fan favorcountry, the Tri-State Hot Rod ite during the 2021 Revival draws crowds numCruise Night. Called bering 2,000 to 3,000 people. the Karmadillo, this piece of art cruised Julesburg and was later on display. It is owned by the Art Cartopia Museum of Trinidad, Colorado.
For more information
See them on Facebook: Hippodrome Arts Centre Julesburg Dragstrip, Oldest Track in the Country Tri-State Hot Rod Revival
Vickie Sandlin / Julesburg Advocate
Fans gather around the many cars to look over the builds, paint jobs and motors.
Liberty Farrier Sales Manager
622 W. 1st St., Julesburg, CO
l_farrier@korfauto.com (970) 474-3391
KORF.NET
Yuma | Sterling | Julesburg | Brush
We sale and service all manufacture makes and models. 6 • EXPLORE 2022
Vickie Sandlin / Julesburg Advocate
Built Wild
Visit Historic... For more information: call 970-474-3344, 970-474-3504 or visit: www.townofjulesburg.com www.colorado.gov/sedgwickcounty sedgwick-county-economic.business.site www.rivertrailonline.org
Travel the South Platte River Trail A Scenic and Historic Byway • Explore the route of the Transcontinental Railroad. • Explore Colorado's only home station of the Pony Express. Capture the magic of the Annual Pony. Express Reride in June. • Explore the gravesite of Thad Sowder in Ovid, original rider with the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show and first inductee into the Cowboy Hall of Fame. • Explore Julesburg Reservoir, known to locals as "Jumbo",just outside of the town of Sedgwick, and the best place to boat, water ski, fish, swim and hunt small game. • Explore the historic Hippodrome Theatre. • Explore our historic downtown shops. • Explore Sedgwick Historic Jailhouse Museum. • Explore the speed at Julesburg NHRA Dragstrip, oldest continuous operational race track in the country. Sponsored by: Sedgwick County Economic Development • Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber of Commerce Sponsored by: Sedgwick County Economic Development • Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber of Commerce The Julesburg Advocate • The Town of Julesburg • The Town of Ovid • The Town of Sedgwick • Fort Sedgwick Historical Society The Julesburg Advocate • The Town of Julesburg • TheofTown of Ovid • The Town of Sedgwick Community Economic Development Sedgwick County EXPLORE 2022 • MAY 20, 2022 • 7
Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick
History & Heritage
The Digger Man of Julesburg By Dallas Williams Courtesy of the Fort Sedgwick Historical Society
No one noticed when Uberto Gibello walked in Julesburg, Colorado on a dust summer day in 1887 to file a homestead claim one mile south of the railroad depot in an area called “Devil’s Dive.” The Dive, located south of the South Platte River and two miles west of the site of “Old” Julesburg, was a deep rugged wash of rock, sagebrush and cactus. Devils Dive had earned its name from stagecoach drivers. Frank Root, a messenger for the Overland Stage Company, described the Dive as the most dangerous part of the route where the ravine came in from the south and the hills of the plateau protruded north to the river bed obliterating the view ahead of the valley. To go through, it was necessary for horses to go on the run, to give the stage sufficient momentum to reach the top of the opposite side. Passengers usually preferred to get out and walk across this bad place, only the driver and messenger remaining on the box. “At first it seemed almost impossible for a stage to go through, but most of the drivers rather enjoyed it. Ox and mule teams always went around the ‘Dive’ some distance to the south, because it was quicker and safer than stopping to hitch on double number of teams.” The area was unique because it was one of the few places containing a natural outcropping of rock. That may have been Gibello’s reason for settling on the windswept ridge, for he had a choice of filing on some of the best land in the county. At any rate, by the time of his death in 1910 Gibello amazed his friends, neighbors and passers-by with the creation of an underground complex of tunnels and 8 • EXPLORE 2022
Area Museums
The Sedgwick County Historical Society features two museums and are filled with relics and artifacts contributory to the history of Julesburg and Sedgwick County. Both facilities are open annually from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Tours are provided during the offseason by appointment. The Fort Sedgwick Museum, 114 East 1st Street, Julesburg. Phone (970)474-2061.
Stan Busse / Fort Sedgwick Historical Society
Uberto Gibello and the wheelbarrow he jokingly referred to as his “wife.” Gibello is standing near the west entrance of the main cave; at left is the second home he built. Shaping the rock outcrop on his homestead became Gibello’s passion. A shovel, a pick, and a wheelbarrow were merely extensions of himself – his dearest companions, his reason for living. Photo taken around 1907.
The Depot Museum, 201 West 1st Street, has undergone a major renovation to return it to it’s former glory and will reopen in the spring of 2022, Exhibits include Pony Express and UPRR Company memorabilia as well as early-day relic. This facility was placed on the Colorado State Register of Historical Properties on Feb. 11, 2004.
occasions, he was a familiar sight around town as he pushed his wheelbarrow to and from work. The Italian always walked for he was scared to death of horses and would neither mount a horse nor rooms nearly one-half mile long, Tripoli. ride in a wagon. When offered a two underground wells, three Gibello was born January 6, ride, he would decline and ask stone houses, including the first 1840 in Turin. He immigrated to only that his supplies be carried. split-level on record in the area, a the United States in the early He would then trot along behind. vineyard (which failed), and an 1880’s. No matter how hard he Most of Gibello’s tunneling was irrigation system complete with was pressed, he refused to explain concrete ditches. why he left his native home. After accomplished on Sundays or other days when he was without work. Stories persist to this day that his arrival in this country he treasure lies hidden somewhere in reportedly worked in coal mines in He always tried to spend Sundays working on his project, even if it the tunnels of the Gibello homethe East before moving west with meant traveling by foot from as far stead. While Gibello was well liked the Union Pacific Railroad. When away as Big Springs, Nebraska, a by most people of Julesburg, some he was laid off in 1887 he went to distance of fifteen miles, where he regarded him with suspicion. His Julesburg to homestead. was sometimes employed. broken English, abrupt manner, Gibello began building and tunGibello’s first task was to build a and unique living quarters only neling soon after settling on his added to his strangeness. Favorite claim. The project was to preoccu- small stone dwelling – a one-story affair with a loft. On the south side rumors were that the Italian home- py him for the rest of his life. of this house he began his first steader was an engineer, a desertA sober and industrious man, er from Garibaldi’s Italian revoluGibello earned a living by digging cave. It was known by local people as the “horseshoe Cave,” suppostionary army, or a miner who had wells and doing stone work for edly because of its shape. “This struck pay dirt in the Cripple new houses. Sporting a bushy cave,” wrote one person who probCreek gold fields. Some have writ- white beard, and a battered straw See GIBELLO, pg. 9 ten that he had been a miner in hat which came off only on rare
Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick
GIBELLO from page 8
and party-goers. The parties were climaxed with Gibello giving a tour of the caves. “He would always light up his ably was never in it, “extends back Engleman, a local historian who knew Gibello, believed the shrines old lantern and patiently take me, into the hill for a distance of 100 feet; is circular in shape, and if one were intended for the placement of or any other visitor through his several caves,” wrote Engleman. crucifixes. follows it through , one will come “Once I asked him why he had The second leg of the cave out at the same entrance from done so much hard work digging angled to the north, was almost which he entered.” This was far the caves and all to no apparent 200 yards long, and ended in an from being true. purpose. The best answer I could underground room measuring Actually the tunnel was shaped get from him was, ‘I no work, I get nearly 30 to 40 feet. Gibello dug a like and “A” with the entrance at seek.’” the top. It extended into the hill for second well in the room. A windThe entrance to the main cave mill on the surface pumped the several yards before branching was just south of the two-story out. The right tunnel was 42 yards waters. house. This tunnel went straight A short distance up the ridge long and ended at a well in the from his first house,Gibello built a into the ridge for over 400 feet and cave floor. The Denver Post in ended in a large room with a rock second home. It was a split-level 1903 described the well as “percarved staircase leading to the fectly round, 65 feet deep and con- dwelling with the first floor halfsurface. way underground. There was a taining 12 feet of water. No one From the staircase room, a cave knows how he managed to dig the fireplace on each floor, both being well to such depth unaided but he served by the same chimney. The extended north and joined the lower story was left partially open room under the north side of the did it and the well is mute evihill. Little is now known of this tunto the south. Little alcoves were dence of that fact.” This cave was nel except that it existed. Massive cut into the stone walls. six feet wide and eight high at its cave-ins block both ends. Gibello used both levels of the entrance. Three-fourths of the way house to entertain his guests who Along the walls of the tunnel Gibello cut several small “shrines.” usually came bearing gifts, snacks, through the main cave, Gibello Stan Busse / Courtesy photo dug a tunnel toward the south. and bottles. The Italian’s homeEach was approximately one foot Ruins of Gibello’s two-story house This cave was 150 feet long, and stead and caves were a popular deep, two and one half feet wide, still stand south of Julesburg, Coloattraction for Sunday picnickers and two feet high. Thomas H. See GIBELLO, pg. 10 rado, near the I-76 Interstate.
-
-
■
■
Ill
Over 75 Choices of Top Shelf Flower Colorado’s Premium Dispensary BROADWAY, DENVER & SEDGWICK | 140 RAILROAD AVE
■■■
SEDGWICK, CO 80749 EXPLORE 2022 • 9
Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick
GIBELLO from page 9 seven feet at its highest point. It ended in a large room where he carved benches into the stone walls. Because the temperature remained nearly constant in the room Gibello used it for an “icebox” to help preserve foodstuffs. The caves were large enough for an average man to walk through without ducking his head. In the main tunnel a man on horseback could ride in with no great difficulty. Along the walls of the caves, the hermit hung an assortment of pictures to give the rock walls a more homey look. The rough and uneven surface of the gypsum rock made the Italian’s work difficult, but he demonstrated his ability as a stonemason using only a shovel pick, and wheelbarrow. Gibello had no family that anyone knew of and his first love was his work and tools. He told visitors that he was married to his wheelbarrow and affectionately called it his “wife.” The Italian tried with a vineyard to make some of the Colorado desert into part of his native land, but the poor soil and scant water supply would not produce the kind of grapes he needed. Instead he raised a small garden which did flourish. A windmill pumped water from the well in the north cave. With rock from the diggings he built a 100-barrel water storage tank and irrigation ditches across the hillside. The caves produced more than just stone for Gibello’s construc-
10 • EXPLORE 2022
tion projects. The Julesburg Grit Advocate of June 15, 1900 reported: “Dr. Mason has in his possession several very interesting articles which were given to him by the Italian Gibello. One is part of a jawbone containing the teeth of a mammoth animal, probably a mastodon. Each individual tooth is larger than a man’s fist and shows the wear of many years’ use. Another relic is the petrified limb of a tree about as large as a man’s arm at the wrist. These relics were found a few years since by Gibello while digging caves on the south side of the river. Dr. T.J. Mason was the first doctor to settle in Julesburg, opening a drug store in 1885. He and Gibello became friends and the good doctor repaid the gift of the bones several weeks later when he bailed the cave digger out of jail to the tune of $500. Gibello was a stubborn man and while he tried to keep a tight rein on his temper, the attempt was not always successful. (More than one rancher was left with an unfinished well when Gibello quit after getting mad at his helpers who often kept dropping a bucket too fast, almost hitting him). And it was Gibello’s short temper and impatience that landed him in jail for “obstructing the public highway.” The old Italian’s night in the Julesburg jail was one of several incidents in his fight with the Sedgwick County government. The confrontation began in the early summer of 1900 when the county began to rebuild the old
The walls of the cave’s tunnel crumble to the touch and show the marks of many visitors over the years. Stan Busse / Courtesy photo
stage road located south of the Platte River between Julesburg and Sedgwick, some sixteen miles to the west. The road ran through Devil’s Dive and of course through Gibello’s homestead. When Gibello settled in the Dive, the road was nothing more than a well used trail showing the marks made by thousands of covered wagons in years gone by. The decision by the county commissioners to rebuild the road within 100 yards of Gibello’s caves didn’t sit very well with the old Italian and on May 29 he asked the county commissioners for $90 for damages to his property. The Commissioners would not commit themselves other than promising to go out to the caves and examine the situation. Gibello came away from the meeting feeling somewhat disappointed. He had expected to be paid for the use of his land. When the visit by the commissioners still produced no results, the cave digger, with temper flaring, decided to act on his own. On the night of June 8, Gibello started to work with his shovel and pick. He labored through the
night, and when the sun came up he stood back and admired his work. A trench three feet wide and six feet deep ran across the new road. That afternoon Sheriff John W. Johnson arrested and jailed Gibello. At his preliminary hearing the following morning Gibello was brought before Justice D. H. Hungerford, a former Union Army surgeon. The justice did not treat the sixty-year-old man lightly. According to the Julesburg Grit of June 15, 1900: “Justice Hungerford considered Gibello’s offence a grave one and bound him over to district court in the sum of $2,000.” County Attorney William H. Pound stepped in and succeeded in having the bond reduced to $500. Gibello refused to give one penny for his bail (he did not have it, anyway) and was returned to jail. Late that afternoon the chairman of the board of county commissioners, C.W. White, promised that the board would take favorable action on the Italian’s damage claim. It was Dr. Mason who signed Gibello’s bond and secured his release.
See GIBELLO, pg. 11
Platte Valley Inn 15225 US-385, Julesburg, CO 80737
970-474-3336
Call us today to set up your reservation. • Free Wi-Fi • Free parking
• Air-conditioned • Flat Screen TVs
Call 970-474-3336 For Hours
Make a reservation at Budgethost.com
Julesburg Dragstrip,
Oldest Track in the Country US-1 138, Julesburg, CO 807 737
See thiss yearss racin ng schedule at: www.julesburgdragracing.com
Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick
GIBELLO from page 10
On July 2, Gibello received the $90 in return for road building rights across his land. The county dropped its obstructing charges and he was free. Uberto Gibello, an old man and self-styled hermit, had fought “city hall” and won. However, he remained bitter about the road for the rest of his life. Homesteaders who used it often reported being shot at while cross-
ing the Italian’s land. In July of 1910 Gibello then seventy, began having problems with indigestion. Nothing seemed to help so he finally resorted to taking a spoonful of fine sand with each meal. On August 26 he died in his bed. Why he dug his tunnels is a matter of debate. Some say he was going to use the caves as a wine
could get) to tour the caves. He cellar; others say he was being punished for some sin he commit- reasoned that this would provide a small income when he was too old ted in the old country; some believe he hid horse thieves in the or sick to work. And it did. Whenever he came into town he always caves. had a pocket of small change Actually, Gibello honeycombed the hill side for two reasons. First, received from such tours. It was like he told Engleman, he believed enough to get him by. Now I-76 is only a few yards to a man must always have somethe south, the Colorado Welcome thing to do, even if the work Center stands nearby. The caves seemed to promise nothing. Second, and most important, it was to and ruins seem undisturbed by our modern age except for a sign be a tourist attraction. stating “Danger — Absolutely No Gibello charged a small admitAdmittance.” tance fee (usually whatever he
Explore
Sedgwick County Lucy’s Place “Great Home Cooking”
Open 7 days a week 6:30am - 8:00pm Se ee us for your catering needs!
. (970) 463-5509
I-76 & Hwy 59 Sedgwick, CO
J ULESBURG FAMILY ACUPUNCTURE
100 E 3rd St., Julesburg, CO 80737
(970) 474-3341
www.pwcbank.com
106 W. 1st St., Julesburg, CO 80737
(970) 474-3492
www.julesburgfamilyacupuncture.com
J JLiquors &
Jennifer Lanckriet, Owner
Office: 970-474-2696 | Fax: 970-474-2293 114 West 1st Street | Julesburg, CO 80737 jennifer@sedgwicktitleco.com | www.sedgwicktitleco.com
“Coldest Beer in Town”
420 W 1st St., Julesburg, CO | 970-474-4623 EXPLORE 2022 • 11
Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick
History & Heritage
Depot Museum at Julesburg restored The Fort Sedgwick Historical Society is excited to announce the grand reopening of their Depot Museum in June 2022. The building, which was first opened as a Union Pacific Railroad depot in 1930, is listed on the National Register of Historic Properties. It was an active train depot for 41 years when the last passenger train came through in 1971. The building was relocated to its current location, 201 W.t First Street, in 1976 where it was opened to the public as a museum. Throughout the years, the Depot
Museum has highlighted local artifacts and unique moments in the building’s history — for example, the time it was hit by a tornado in 1940, or when President Franklin D. Roosevelt traveled through on the campaign trail, or when it was featured in a publicity stunt by comedian Gracie Allen. Renovations on the museum began in Spring 2019, with a goal to bring the historic building back to what railroad passengers would have experienced. “With these renovations, it will feel like you’re walking back in time,” said Jeana Johnson, volunteer manager for the Fort Sedgwick Historical Society. “Visitors will be able to see the original checkered flooring and the station
master’s room arranged as in the 1930s.” In addition to being a museum for history buffs and train enthusiasts, the location is also the South Platte Scenic and Historic Byway trailhead, giving visitors the perfect starting point for their Julesburg and Sedgwick County history exploration. The Depot Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day. The museum is 100 percent volunteer-run, so hours can vary. Visitors are strongly encouraged to call 970-474-2061 prior to their visit to ensure a volunteer docent is available. Admission is free, with donations greatly appreciated.
Restaurants
Luna’s Ovid 217 Main Street Ovid, CO 80744 (303) 997-6211 Tuesday - Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m Restaurant & Bar Family Dining - visit us on Facebook D&J Cafe 114 Cedar Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-0982 Monday - Saturday 8 a.m - 8 p.m Restaurant & Bar Family Dining - visit us on Facebook Family Market Food & Hardware 222 Cedar Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-0932 Monday - Saturday 5:30 a.m - 9 p.m Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Grocery and Sit-down Deli Visit us on Facebook Lucy’s Place I-76 & Hwy 59 Sedgwick, CO 80749 970-463-5509 Sunday - Saturday 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Great Home Cooking Family Dining
Motels
Platte Valley Inn Restaurant 15225 US-385 Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-3336 www.budgethost.com Open 24/7
MAKE SURE YOUR ASSETS GO TO THE FOLKS YOU LOVE THE MOST!
Churches
DON’T LET THE GOVERNMENT DECIDE Contact Me
Jeff@WellsLawFirmllc.com www.wellslawfirmllc.com 970-743-3040 12 • EXPLORE 2022
Courtesy photo / Fort Sedgwick Historical Society
The newly renovated Depot Museum in Julesburg will give visitors a glimpse into what the building looked like when railroad passengers used it to catch a train.
The Joy Mission Pastor Ivy Joy Johnson 401 W. 3rd Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-2622 Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Worship 6:30 p.m.
Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick
Back when buffalo came to Julesburg In 1939 workmen were putting the finishing touches on buffalo pens in the Union Pacific Park. Julesburg merchants had paid for two bison with expectations of drawing tourists into town. The pens were constructed of “one of the strongest known” wire and connected to fence posts set into three feet of concrete. The crates con-
taining two live buffalo arrived from Yellowstone Park via train and the cost of the 2,000-pound shipment was donated by Union Pacific. Within two weeks of arrival, there were three buffalo in the park as Mrs. Buffalo arrived on the scene very pregnant. The baby was named “Jules.” In the Nov. 27, 1941
edition of the Julesburg Grit-Advocate, the front page article headlined “Cow Buffalo Dies Saturday.” By the summer of 1942, the two remaining buffalo were loaded and trucked to the Troelstrup Ranch, east of town. The pens were immediately removed and grass planted. Currently, the Town’s gazebo is in the east area of what was originally
Explore
the bison pen. No explanation for removing the bison was found in published records, however, one local citizen recalls that the odor from the pen become overpowering, “like being next to a feedlot” — probably not the best aroma to draw tourists into town. — From research by Mary McKinstry and Betty Dittmar
Sedgwick County FAMILY MARKET FOOD & HARDWARE
222 Cedar • Julesburg, CO • (970) 474-0932
mdqdesigns.com
Quilt Shop by appointment only. Call 970-466-0994 or 308-464-1188
• Food • Hardware • Sinclair Fuel • Deli • Greenhouse • Quilt Shop
D&J Cafe
114 Cedar St, Julesburg, CO • (970) 474-0 0982
*FUEL & FOOD *UNIQUE GIFTS * HISTORICAL SOUVEN NIRS COLORADO, PONY EXPRESS & OVERLAND STAGE Julesburg, Colorado I-76, Exit 180 and WAGON WHEEL U.S. Hwy. 385 CONOCO & GIFTS 970-474-4989
Your “One-Stop and Shop” Center!
Bubbles Car Wash 210 W. 2nd Street Julesburg, CO
Critical Access Hospital, One medical clinic in Julesburg, CO. and one in Big Springs, NE., 24/7 ER, Pain Clinic, Nursing Home, Assisted Living Center and Pain Clinic.
900 Cedar St • Julesburg, CO (970)474-3323
www.schealth.org
200 W. 4th St. Julesburg, CO
(970) 474-2000
mbenson@kci.net Complete Listings at: www.benson-realty.com
(970) 474-2000 Always open Automative & Self Serve Bays
Ask about gift cards
EXPLORE 2022 • 13
Phillips County A Amherst, Holyoke, Haxtun, Paoli
Spend a day in Phillips County • Homesteaders Park
Homesteaders Park, at the Phillips County Fairgrounds on the north edge of Holyoke, features a universally accessible playground with ramp accessibility, a 60’ x 120’ turf field, nine-hole disc golf course and a mile-long walking/ bike path that runs through the park and loops around the fairgrounds. A favorite in the summer months is a water feature where children can splash in the water. The landscaping also makes it a perfect place for special occasion photos. Community activities are also scheduled consistently at the Bank of Colorado Pavilion and Phillips County Event Center, both also located at the fairgrounds in Holyoke.
• Fishing Holes
Enjoy fishing year-round at Hax-
tun’s fishing pond, located 1 mile west, 1.25 miles south and 0.25 miles east of Haxtun, through the Haxtun Gun Club, down a winding road. Avid anglers can also spend the day at the Holyoke Lions Club Fishin’ Hole, located 1 mile east and 0.25 mile south of the stoplight in Holyoke.
• Museum
Artifacts from settlers in earlyday Phillips County tell a thorough story of the area history at the Phillips County Museum, located at 109 S. Campbell Ave. in Holyoke. The museum is open Wednesday afternoons and by appointment by calling 970-854-3494, 970854-3311 or 970-854-3277.
• Dining
Whether you’re looking to sit down for a meal or take food to the parks or fishing ponds for an out-
Full-line Husqvarna Pit Boss & Traeger Grills
NAPA Auto Parts
S & W Auto Supply Open 7-6 Mon.-Sat. “Because It Matters” 310 E. Denver, Holyoke 970-854-2258 712 W. 1st, Julesburg 970-474-2067 14 • EXPLORE 2022
Airport
5,000 ft. Runway AWOS & GPS Approach RC Air Field Jet-A and Av-Gas Fuel available
Recreation
Baseball/Softball Fields Indoor Swim Pool Beautiful In-City 9-Hole Golf Course Beautiful City Park Bike/Walking Path 970-580-3659
Heginbotham Library Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
City Office H 970-854-2266 cityofholyoke-co.gov
The Holyoke Enterprise
Lions Club Fishin’ Hole east of Holyoke is a great place to get outdoors for summer sun and fishing fun.
door meal, Phillips County has lots of options — coffee, sandwiches, barbecue, steaks, pizza, Chinese, Mexican, American and more.
• Shopping
From Haxtun to Paoli to Holyoke, Phillips County offers multi-
ple shopping opportunities in the following categories: clothing, accessories, home decor, books, second-hand goods, flowers, tools, groceries, quilts, pet supplies, hardware, liquor, auto parts, hair supplies, appliances, antiques and so much more.
Phillips County A Amherst, Holyoke, Haxtun, Paoli
Festivals & Fairs
County Fair set to be another wild ride A huge schedule of events is planned for this year’s “Country Pride County Wide” Phillips County Fair in Holyoke. Sawyer Sigler is the 2022 fair princess, and Harlan and Mona Stern are serving as grand marshals. In addition to open class, 4-H and FFA competitions, headline events for the week include: • Tuesday, July 26: Barrel racing at 6 p.m. • Wednesday, July 27: Ranch rodeo at 6 p.m. • Thursday, July 28: Family fun night with escape room from 5-8 p.m., goat roping at 6 p.m. and movie at 8 p.m.
• Friday, July 29: Kids games from 3-8 p.m., barbecue at 5 p.m. and stock car races at 7 p.m., followed by beer garden and music. • Saturday, July 30: Parade at 10 a.m., kids games from noon-8 p.m., pet show at 1 p.m., junior livestock sale at 2:30 p.m., Bulls Gone Wild! with bull riding, bullfighting and mutton bustin’ at 7 p.m., and beer garden with music by Trent Hughes at 9:30 p.m. • Sunday, July 31: Community church service at 9 a.m. and tractor pull at noon. For the most up-to-date information, visit the Phillips County Fairgrounds and Fair page on Facebook.
Dandelion Daze includes Party in the Park, car show Holyoke Chamber of Commerce is excited for its annual Dandelion Daze event, which will kick off with a Party in the Park at Homesteaders Park on Friday, June 17, and the car show Saturday, June 18, at the Phillips County Court House lawn in Holyoke. Friday activities kick off at 5 p.m. with a free community dinner and a beer garden at 5 p.m., with a performance by Dance Fuzion kids at 5:30 p.m. Live music by In the Groove begins at 6 p.m. as does a cornhole tournament for age 21 and older. Saturday starts bright and early with citywide garage sales at 8 a.m. and registration for car, bike and chrome shows from 8-11 a.m. The Dandelion Dash 5K race as well as a kids bike parade will be at 9 a.m. Vendors, kids games, face painting and a bounce house will be available at the courthouse lawn from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and attendees can also find lunch on
PHILLIPS COUNTY Come to see. Stay to live. DANDELION DAZE
The Holyoke Enterprise
Wes and Bryce Kramer browse the classic cars at the 2021 Dandelion Daze event in Holyoke.
site or around town. The car show ends with an awards presentation at the courthouse steps at 2:30 p.m., followed by a cruise down Interocean Avenue at 3 p.m. For more info or to register for any of the events, contact Holyoke Chamber of Commerce at 970-8543517, check out the chamber’s Facebook page or visit www.holyokechamber.org.
June 17-18, 2022 • Holyoke
OLD FASHIONED SATURDAY NIGHT July 16, 2022 • Haxtun
PHILLIPS COUNTY FAIR July 25-31, 2022 • Holyoke
HAXTUN CORN FESTIVAL Sept. 24, 2022 • Haxtun
https://phillipscounty.colorado.gov EXPLORE 2022 • 15
Phillips County A Amherst, Holyoke, Haxtun, Paoli
Arts & Entertainment
PC Raceway offers weekend entertainment Touted as the fastest 3/8-mile dirt track in Colorado, Phillips County Raceway provides great action in stock car racing that continues through the summer at the Phillips County Fairgrounds in Holyoke. Modifieds, sport mods, stock cars, hobby stocks, outlaw classics and sport compacts are featured consistently on the 2022 racing schedule, along with mini mods, lightning sprints, late models and vintage oval racers. Up next on the schedule is the Memorial Day weekend event Sunday, May 29, at 5 p.m., which will be the first race of the season for the Colorado Alliance Tour as seven divisions battle for a winner-takes-all tour of Colorado’s best dirt tracks. A Father’s Day race is set for Sunday, June 19, at 5 p.m. July is action-packed with four dates, including a doubleheader Friday, July 8, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, July 9, at 6 p.m., which will also be fan appreciation night, in addition to a Saturday, July 23, event at 6 p.m. and the Phillips County Fair race Friday, July 29, at 7 p.m. In August, PCR will host the
Haxtun-Fleming Herald
Lakesha Hershfeldt is in it to win it during the egg toss competition at the Haxtun Corn Festival.
Haxtun gears up Joe Starr / Courtesy photo
Lloyd Meeske competes at the Phillips County Raceway season opener in Holyoke on April 16.
CAT Crown on Sunday, Aug. 21, at 5 p.m. The season comes to a close in September with the Labor Day summer send-off Sunday, Sept. 4, at 5 p.m., and the season champi-
onship Sunday, Sept. 18, at 5 p.m. For a full schedule, visit the Phillips County Raceway/BST Racing Facebook page, visit www.bstracing.com or call 720404-0400.
24-Hour
Weather-Protected ATM on Premises
NW Corner at the Stoplight
“Big City Quality, Small Town Values...” Call or visit our website today for your future reservations!
www.staycobblestone.com
n
1-970-854-3222
805 S. Interocean Ave. n Holyoke, CO n holyoke@staycobblestone.com
NMLS #811861
10% Discount* with this ad 16 • EXPLORE 2022
Festivals & Fairs
Offer not good on existing reservations *Not valid with other discounts *Some restrictions apply
“Your Future is Our Future”
101 W. Denver St., Holyoke 970-854-3109 • www ww ww.hcfcu.org w
Mark your calendars for two of Haxtun’s biggest events of the year! Back again in 2022, Old Fashioned Saturday Night is slated for downtown Haxtun on Saturday, July 16. The summertime event, which is planned by Haxtun Chamber of Commerce, traditionally features a car show, burnout, main street cruise, poker run, kiddie games, community garage sales, hog roast, beer garden, food vendors and music. After the 100th annual Haxtun Corn Festival last year, the residents of Haxtun are continuing the tradition with another big event this year. The Corn Fest is set for Saturday, Sept. 24, and the 2022 theme is “Pulling Together.” The Corn Festival usually includes activities like a 5K race, fireman’s breakfast, parade, quilt show, vendors, street games, a dance, live music, beer garden, tractor pull, and Lil’ Mr. and Miss Corn Festival contest. To keep up with plans for both events, visit Haxtun Old Fashioned Saturday Night and Haxtun Corn Festival pages on Facebook.
EXPLORE PHILLIPS CO Fun & Unique Treats for People & Their Furry Friends! 970-854-7220 • Across from hospital in Holyoke
Entertainment Nightly Wednesday-Saturday starting at 4 p.m.
Holyoke Vets Club 229 E. Denver • Holyoke 970-854-9444
Kwik Stop #13 Holyoke, CO • 115 E. Denver St. • 970-854-2233
Open 24 Hours
102 S. Lohn Ave. Paoli, CO
970-520-7120
T-F 9-6 Sat 9-2
Boutique & Salon
Find Us On Facebook
@theturquoisechandelierboutiqueandsalon
Los Parra's
Over 50 Years
of Rural Real Estate Experience
Family Restaurant Featuring Mexican Food Serving Margaritas & More
970-854-3004 116 N. Interocean Ave., Holyoke
Open 11-8 7 days a week
Like us on Facebook • creative-traditions.com Providing fabric, notions, classes and fun for the quilting communities in northeast Colorado, southwest Nebraska
PAOLI
FARMERS CO-OP ELEVATOR CO. www.paolifarmerscoop.com
774-7234
Haxtun 970-774-4500 800-320-6922
217 S. Colorado—Haxtun
www.homesatchoice.com
970-774-6118
Your full-service community bank
www.pwcbank.com
128 S. Colorado—Haxtun—970-774-6141
Wilson's Repair, LLC 210 E. 1st St. Haxtun, CO 970-774-6192
www.hfherald.com
Home of Your Bulldog Checking There's just something special about your hometown.
Certified Seed Cleaner
Serving the Banking Needs of Northeast Colorado for over 100 years
ATM Banking available next to our drive-up window Saturday Drive-Up Banking 8 a.m.-12 noon
150 S. Interocean—Holyoke 970-854-2227 or 1-800-854-2227
Westbred Certified Seed Wheat
Locally Owned Locally Controlled
Casey Blake, Broker Associate, 970-520-2274 Kim Fuller, Broker/Owner, 970-466-1413
Tyler & Laura Knode
www.knode-realtyauction.com
115 S. Interocean, Holyoke 970-854-3699 • T-F, 10-6; Sat., 10-3
“Becoming Stronger by Working Together” admin@phillipscountyco.org 970-580-3614 www.phillipscountyco.org
229 S. Colorado Ave. • Haxtun, CO 970-774-7396 • www.haxtuncu.com
“One Neighbor Helping Another!”
www.fpnb.bank
EXPLORE 2022 • MAY 20, 2022 • 17
Yuma County A Idalia, Wray, Yuma
Heritage & History
Wray Museum preserves local history The Wray Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from noon to 4 p.m. The museum documents much of the history of the area.
The mission of the Wray Museum is to inspire appreciation and understanding of the vibrant history of Wray and the surrounding area through the documentation, study, and exhibition of artifacts in order to foster community pride and enhance the quality of life for present and future generations. The museum, located at 205 E. Third St. in Wray, is open from noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and is available for after hour tours. Exhibits in the museum include displays from archeological finds from Yuma County; a room commemorating the Battle of Beecher Island; the Trophy Room featuring a variety of animals, fish and birds; the William B. Coston Photography Exhibit with over 70 photos of early Wray and the surrounding area; the Shady Rest Country Store Collection and a rotating exhibit gallery. Find out more about the latest exhibits on the Wray Museum Facebook page or visit http:// www.cityofwray.org/179/Wray-Museum.
18 • EXPLORE 2022
Jeff Rice / Sterling Journal-Advocate
Festivals & Fairs
Event celebrates agriculture’s past Old Thresher Days, a three-day antique machinery and threshing show, started with an interested farmer’s thoughts in 1980, and has evolved from a simple demonstration for neighbors to an event drawing over 5,000 people annually from many states and foreign countries. The event includes demonstrations such as wheat threshing, horse powered baling, plowing, grinding, shelling and planting, a blacksmith at work and the 1894 Sawmill in operation. The world’s largest barbed wire tool collection
is just one of many exhibits, while the entertainment includes a variety of live music and other acts. The grounds of Old Thresher Days, located in Yuma, features historic buildings that were moved to the seven-acre site in the 1990s. These Old Town buildings are filled with original furnishings, tools, equipment and collections. Main Street includes a church, school, bank, creamery, land office, store with barbershop, blacksmith shop, veterans museum, a house and more. The event is held annually on the weekend following Labor Day.
Kit Carson County A Burlington, Flagler, Seibert, Stratton
Spend a day in Kit Carson County Kit Carson County Carousel
ers decided not to upgrade equipment, but in 2015 Our Hometown Charitable Organization was orgaThe Kit Carson County Carousel nized as a nonprofit and a renovadates back to the turn of the 20th tion took place and it reopened a Century. One of only a very few of year later. its kind still in existence, it still works, is in its original condition, South Republican and can be ridden for only a quar- State Wildlife Area ter. The accompanying museum is Tucked away off U.S. Hwy. 385 filled with artifacts and history and between Burlington and Idalia is only costs a dollar. The historic great place for wildlife and bird attraction, located at the fairwatchers and avid hunters, the grounds in Burlington, is open South Republican State Wildlife from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Area. The SWA is open year-round Day to Labor Day, with expanded and covers most of the area below hours during the county fair and the dam at Bonny. There is more rodeo. wildlife there than at many other plains reservoirs and river botMidway Theater Since 1916, with the exception of toms. Habitat varies from yucca grassland and large hedgerows to a span from 2012-16, the Midway lowland riparian. If you are a birdTheater in downtown Burlington watcher, it’s a good spot for Northhas been providing first-run movies to folks in the area. The theater ern Cardinals, sparrows during the winter, owls, Eastern Screechclosed for a few years when own-
Owl, Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite and migrants, not to mention white-tailed deer.
Second Central School Museum
The Second Central School Museum in Flagler offers an opportunity to inspect a country schoolhouse and see a number of historic items. The building retains its old school feel, thanks to authentic desks, a drinking water crock, a chalkboard and other artifacts salvaged from other rural schools in the area.
Churches
NON-DENOMINATIONAL Burlington Evangelical Free Church 287 6th St., Burlington, CO 719-346-7474 CHURCH OF GOD First Christian Church 1564 Senter Ave., Burlington, CO 719-346-8382 CONSERVATIVE CONGREGATIONAL Hope Congregation Church 40981 Co Rd GG, Bethune, Co 719-346-8007 LUTHERAN First St Paul’s Church 2660 Senter Ave., Burlington, CO 719-346-8966 LUTHERAN (MISSOURI SYNOD) Trinity Lutheran 338 7th St., Burlington, CO 719-346-7401 UNITED METHODIST Burlington United Methodist 290 13th St., Burlington, CO 719-346-8713
Explore
Burlington The Post
Bar and Grill We refuse to compromise on quality in our restaurant. That's why we source our fresh ingredients from local suppliers.
Burlington Record
884 Rose Ave. • Burlington, CO 80807 • (719) 346-7337
The Kit Carson County Carousel in Burlington costs just a quarter to ride.
EXPLORE 2022 • 19
Kit Carson County A Burlington, Flagler, Seibert, Stratton
Festivals & Fairs
Fair and rodeo return for 105th year With a history that includes an award-winning bullfighter at the helm, the Kit Carson County Fair and Rodeo heads into its 105th year. Cory Wall — a county commissioner and the 2009 PRCA Bullfighter of the Year — organizes the marquee event each year. The 2022 Kit Carson County Fair and Pro Rodeo will be held from July 25-30 at the Kit Carson County Fairgrounds in Burlington. As always, the popular event will feature rodeo events, 4-H shows, live music, cookouts and a whole lot more. Several 4-H events take place throughout the week, including livestock sales, as well as goat, swine, and beef shows. On July 29, there’s a free afternoon barbecue that, in past years, has fed more than 4,000 people.
ers, steaks, brisket and more. The rodeo each evening is always followed by a concert. Over the past dozen years or so, fan attendance to the rodeo has tripled, and the Kit Carson County Fair and Rodeo has become a mini-vacation destination, drawing families from around Colorado as well as surrounding states to take part in the fun. In addition to the bull riding traditions, there’s some tame rides, too. For a quarter, you can take a spin on the historic carousel. NearBurlington Record The Kit Carson County Fair and Rodeo has become a mini-vacation destina- ly 2,500 wooden carousels were carved in America between 1885 tion. and the 1930s, but fewer than 150 remain today. The fairgrounds in The Rodeo and Bullfighters Other events that have delighted Burlington is home to one of the Only Bullfight is highlighted by visitors include the Knights of carefully preserved carousels. professional bullfighters who are Columbus and Kit Carson County More information: kitcarsoncompeting for a large cash grand meat producers presenting an county.colorado.gov/fair-grounds/ prize. afternoon cookoff serving burgcounty-fair
y a d r u t Sa t r e c n o C
JULY 24 - 30 •
•
•
•
•
•
•
Mini Tractor Pull BBQ Cookoff Working Dog Competition
NEAL MCCOYY
Immediately Following the Rodeo 20 • EXPLORE 2022
Kit Carson County CattleWomen’s Pink Chaps Auction During the Rodeo
American Freestyle Rodeo Bullfight Competition
Kit Carson County A Burlington, Flagler, Seibert, Stratton
Heritage & History
Old Town sends folks back in time A walk through Old Town is a walk through history — Burlington and Kit Carson County history the way it was in the, well, old days. This spacious museum is set on six and a half acres and is a wonderful gateway to the past. Travelers can see it from I-70 and often make a stop to take in the popular attraction. The walking tour through the complex includes 21 fully restored buildings that contain some 25,000 artifacts. A touching tribute to local veterans past and present awaits you as do special interactive exhibits for the children that offer unique opportunities to learn about early pioneer life on the plains of Colorado. Bring the kids during the fall
and enjoy Old Town Ghost Town, where the young are treated to trick-or-treating up and down the streets of Old Town. Or, if you’re a bit more daring, enter the barn, which has been turned into a haunted barn for a scarily delightful time. Winter brings on Winter Wonderlights, a beautiful time to enjoy Old Town as the streets are lit up with thousands upon thousands of Christmas lights, as well as fun activities for the kids. Summer brings Old Town to life. Memorial Day through Labor Day you can experience the “High Noon” can-can shows, live gunfights in the saloon (Saturdays) Burlington Record and enjoy an ice-cream treat inside Visitors to Burlington can take a trip to the past at the Old Town Museum, the Emporium. which is filled with history and memorabilia of what the area was once like For more information, visit oldmany years ago. townburlington.com.
EXPLORE 2022 • 21
22 • EXPLORE 2022
The Depot train in Julesburg offers a fun photo op for families.
Courtesy photo
Explore Northeast Colorado
Sara Waite / Sterling Journal-Advocate
Interpretive signage at the Point of Rocks overlook at North Sterling State Park explains the history of the reservoir.
The entrance sign welcomes travelers to the Pawnee National Grassland on Highway 14 west of Sterling. Sara Waite / Sterling Journal-Advocate
EXPLORE 2022 • 23
Lincoln County A Genoa, Hugo, Limon
See the sights in Lincoln County There’s a lot more to Lincoln County than meets the eye driving down I-70. Pull off the road and take it in. Limon, which bills itself as the Hub City, features the Limon Heritage Museum. Located at 899 First St., the free museum, which operates largely on donations, includes the town’s location at the intersection of the Union Pacific Railroad and the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad. The same Rock Island Line that Johnny Cash sang about. It was built in 1910 after the original building was destroyed by fire and is one of only three Rock Island depots remaining in Colorado. Outside of the railroad museum are several classic train cars through which visitors can tour, giving them a glimpse of what life was like for travelers and workers
24 • EXPLORE 2022
in the old days. One of the cars is still used, in fact, as folks can belly up to the counter and purchase delicious pies during the annual Heritage Festival, which is slated to return this year. The Heritage Museum area also includes an old school house and a saddle exhibit in an old train boxcar. Rumor has it Teddy Roosevelt used to shoot buffalo off of one of the trains. The Heritage Museum features a look at the prairie from yesteryear. Check out what the inside of a sheepherder’s wagon looks like, what a living room and kitchen looked like back then, and you can even walk inside a Plains Indian tipi. The military room encompasses a salute and museum dedicated to the many men and women who have served in the armed forces throughout America’s many wars.
There’s also an exhibit that delves into the Dust Bowl and its impact on the families and folks in the Plains. Movie buffs should make a stop at the Lincoln Theatre in downtown Limon. Opening in 1938, it is one of a very few movie houses in the United States where the screen is behind the person entering. Legend has it the original owner who bought the land in 1938 designed the theater backwards to avoid an $860 bill to hire a mule team to grade enough soil to have it oriented to the west. Outside and just around the corner is a mural of The Duke, John Wayne, complete with the yellow neckerchief he wore in the movie “McClintock.” It was created by Some Girls and a Mural. The project has the seal of approval from the John Wayne Foundation painted into it as well. The Carpenter Barn is just that, a circa 1900 barn that is a prime example of an old dairy barn. Though moved from its original construction site, the barn continued to be used.
In Genoa is the World’s Wonder View Tower, opened in 1926. It was established on Colorado’s Eastern Plains as a commercial and recreational center designed to profit from the needs of rail and highway travelers. It is, however, no longer open for the public to enter. Also in Genoa is the Martin Homestead, which was originally homesteaded in 1899. The fourth generation of the same family continues to work the farm. It includes the original sod house and a large frame barn. Visit the Hugo Union Pacific Railroad Roundhouse. The 1909 roundhouse is associated with the operation and maintenance of the Union Pacific Railroad in eastern Colorado. It is the state’s most intact Union Pacific example and one of only four surviving roundhouses in the state. Also in Hugo is the historic Hedlund House Museum. The circa 1877 house is part of the first homestead filing in the Hugo area. It also houses memorabilia from the Hedlund family and artifacts representing all of Lincoln County.
Burlinton Record
The Lincoln Theatre in Limon was built with the screen behind you as you enter.
Morgan County A Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins
On hot summer days, the pool complex at Riverside Park offers a fun way to cool down.
Fort Morgan Times file photo
Spend a day in Morgan County Jackson Lake State Park
A visit to Jackson Lake State Park, sometimes called “the oasis of the plains,” may have you wanting to stay longer than a day. And with over 250 campsites in seven campgrounds, the park makes it possible to do just that. Jackson Lake offers an abundance of family-friendly activities, such as fishing, boating and hunting, making it an attractive destination yearround. Check out the latest updates from the park on their Facebook page, @JacksonLakeSP.
the city’s downtown. The museum offers interactive displays, cases of artifacts, lots of area history and details as well as special traveling exhibits, all free to visitors.
Riverside Park
Nestled alongside the South Platte River, Fort Morgan’s Riverside Park is the size of Central Park in New York City. In addition to 5.2 miles of improved trails through natural woodlands and wetlands, the park boasts multiple disc golf courses, two softball fields, multiple baseball diamonds, an inline skating rink, horseshoe Fort Morgan Museum pits, basketball courts, sand volleyFor anyone traveling through Morgan County, a stop at the Fort ball pits, a stocked fishing pond Morgan Museum is well worth the and a duck pond. There’s also a large playground, four picnic sheldetour off the interstate and into
ters, a pool complex with three outdoor pools, and plenty of grassy open space for recreation or relaxation. The park is also home to the historic Rainbow Bridge, built in 1922, with its 11 arches that now serves as a pedestrian bridge after being closed to vehicles in 1987.
I-76 Speedway
If your idea of a great Saturday night includes engines revving and dirt flying, get your tickets to the I-76 Speedway. The 1/4-mile highbanked dirt oval track is located on the west side of Fort Morgan. The summer season features up to six divisions racing every other Fort Morgan Times file photo Saturday, April through October, The Fort Morgan Library and Museand the track also offers a winter um features exhibits focused on the series starting in November. local history of Morgan County. EXPLORE 2022 • 25
26 • EXPLORE 2022
Morgan County
Arts & Entertainment
Bobstock rocks downtown Fort Morgan One of the hottest tickets in northeast Colorado each summer is the two-day music festival in Fort Morgan’s downtown City Park known as Bobstock. And one of the best things about it is that you don’t actually need tickets – admission is free. Bobstock is held on the second full weekend in July each year. Headlining the festival for 2022 are Eve6 on July 8 and Starship featuring Mickey Thomas on July 9.
The weekend of music features more than 20 bands on four different stages and also includes vendor booths, a beer garden, food trucks and kids activities. The event is organized by MediaLogic Radio and made possible with the help of many sponsors from the community. For more information, including a full lineup of bands and a map of the festival area, visit bobstockmusicfestival.com.
Fort Morgan Times file photo
Tone Loc performs at the Dahms-Talton Band Shell in downtown Fort Morgan for Bobstock 2021, while fans join him onstage and dance in the background.
Morgan County A Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins
Festivals & Fairs
Brush Rodeo back for 67th year
The annual Brush Rodeo is a staple Fourth of July Celebration held every year in Brush, Colorado at the Morgan County Fairgrounds. This year the 67th Brush Rodeo will be full of entertainment and events for all to enjoy. While events are still being scheduled and confirmed by the Brush Rodeo Association, in years past the rodeo has consisted of bareback bronc riding, break-away roping, bull riding, calf roping, cowgirls breakaway roping, mixed team roping, mutton bustin’, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling and team roping. The three-day community celebration also traditional-
ly includes a July 4 parade, book sale, quilt show and Western art show, a nightly beer garden and special entertainment during each rodeo performance. The Brush Rodeo is a member of the Colorado Professional Rodeo Association and became a member of that organization in 2005. Before that time, the rodeo was billed as the World’s Largest Amateur Rodeo. Price of admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under. The Brush Rodeo Association is still meeting to confirm events and performances so be sure to stay tuned on their Facebook Page @BrushRodeo.
Katie Roth / Fort Morgan Times
Jamie Tow of the Colorado Cowgirls performs a trick at the Brush Rodeo on July 3, 2021.
EXPLORE 2022 • 27
Washington County A Akron, Otis
Outdoor Adventures
Unique geography appeals to many
Fremont Butte, located seven miles northwest of Akron, is a geographical attraction that draws a wide variety of visitors. It has long been a site for community celebrations, including end-of-year school picnics, Easter sunrise services and family gatherings. Nature enthusiasts enjoy the variety of wildlife that call the butte home, including rattlesnakes, elk, antelope, deer, coyotes, badgers, porcupines as well as 19 species of grass. For stargazers, the butte offers dark skies and clear views of the Milky Way. History buffs can appreciate the story from the mid-1800s of a group of men, possibly soldiers, who were trapped on the butte by Cheyenne or Arapaho Indians and shot at the natives who tried to scale the butte. And the 1963 discovery of a meteorite weighting 6.6 kilograms, or 14.5 pounds, by a farmer working in his yard near the geological formation. Today the butte is located on private land, so Mack Hitch / https://plants-animals-northeast-colorado.com/ you’ll need to get permission from the owner to access the site. Call Jim Brandon at 303-668-8550 if Fremont Butte, located 7 miles northwest of Akron on privately-owned land, draws stargazers, hikers, photographers and even families celebrating special events. you’d like to visit Fremont Butte.
Seven
convenient locations for your road trip stops! - www.odellssupers.com -
Servicing Northeastern Colorado Since 1957!
ANTON SUPER’S
HAXTUN SUPER’S
KIRK SUPER’S
NORTH PARK SUPER’S
25980 Highway 36 Anton, Colorado 80801
105 West First Haxtun, Colorado 80731
2985 County Road M Kirk, Colorado 80824
33482 Highway 125 Walden, Colorado 80480
970-383-2424
970-774-6286 970-362-4360
970-723-8211
ODELLS SUPER’S 222 East First Street Akron, Colorado 80720
970-345-2022 28 • EXPLORE 2022
ST. FRANCIS SUPER’S
WIGGINS SUPER’S
120 East Washington Street 611 West Central Avenue St. Francis, Kansas 67756 Wiggins, Colorado 80654
785-332-2064
970-486-7868
Try casting a line on Akron Pond If your idea of a relaxing day is casting a line and soaking in the sun, head to the Akron Fishing Pond. A seven-year revitalization of the site was completed last year, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife has been working to restock the pond with salvage fish. The pond is located south of Akron on Highway 63, just west of the Washington County Golf Course. Parking is available on the east end of the pond, and there are opportunities for picnicking, hiking and other outdoor fun at the site. Gas-powered boats are not permitted on the pond, but canoes and kayaks are allowed – lifejackets are mandatory when on the water. No swimming is allowed in the pond, and any overnight stays require a permit from the Akron
Town of Akron / Courtesy photo
The Akron Pond reopened last year after the completion of a renovation project that took about seven years.
Town Hall. Town officials urge people to use caution walking on the riprap used to protect the shoreline. Some does have exposed rebar, so entering the water from anywhere other than the entry points is discouraged.
Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling
Spend a day in Logan County
Shooting Sports Complex Shooting enthusiasts of all kinds visiting Logan County will want to set their sights on the Logan County Shooting Sports Complex. The complex, located at 12515 Highway 6 on the east side of Interstate 76 at the entrance to Sterling, opened in 2016. The volunteer-run facility is open from 7 a.m. to sunset, except during special events. The complex includes trapshooting, archery and rifle/ pistol ranges that include both 1,000-yard and 600-yard ranges, as well as shorter yardage ranges with shooting benches. Annual memberships are offered, as well as day passes. Rules are posted at www.colorado.gov/pacific/lcssc.
Golf Courses
Tee off at one of Logan County’s three golf courses. Sky Ranch Golf Course, located at 17408 Highway 14 on the west side of Sterling, is Callie Jones / Sterling Journal-Advocate one of the five oldest courses in American White Pelicans spend a lazy afternoon in the waters at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area. Colorado. Riverview Golf Course, just off I-76 on County Road 370, offers a relaxed golf experience Churches with the option of professional instruction. For a shorter game, BAPTIST Lighthouse Baptist Church head east on Highway 6 to the Pastor Justin Steimer 9-hole F&H Golf Course on the 480 Logan St., Sterling, CO sandhills between Fleming and 970-522-7226 Haxtun, at 43355 County Road 30.
Sterling City Parks
Sterling boasts a plethora of parks that provide all the amenities you could ask for. On the west side of the city is Pioneer Park, which offers two playgrounds, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, a disc golf course, a nationally-recognized softball complex and over a mile of trails. Park space on the east side of Sterling includes the Overland Trail Recreation Area, home to the Kiwanis Fishing Pond, as well as the city’s river bottom property on the South Platte, where new trails are being developed. Columbine Park, on the south end of Sterling, offers plenty of open grass along with a playground, pavilions, a concrete walking path, veterans memorial and various pieces of public art.
Sara Waite / Sterling Journal-Advocate
The Logan County Shooting Sports Complex offers a variety of ranges for shooting enthusiasts.
In between these parks are over a half dozen neighborhood parks with various features, as well as other city-owned open spaces that offer a place to get outside and enjoy fresh air and sunshine.
Prewitt Reservoir SWA
The Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area offers year-round recreation on the border of Logan
and Washington counties. The reservoir itself is around 2,400 acrefeet when full, and is open to wakeless boating. The property offers deer, dove, squirrel and waterfowl hunting as well as warm water fishing. Camping is allowed except where posted. Anyone 16 and older accessing the SWA must have a valid hunting or fishing license or SWA pass.
Sunday School 9:50 a.m., Worship 11 a.m. Evening Service 6 p.m. EPISCOPAL Prince of Peace Episcopal Church 201 Phelps, Sterling, CO 970-522-0539 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 5th Sundays of the month worship at 9 a.m. 4th Saturday of the month worship at 4:30 p.m. SOUTHERN BAPTIST Emmanuel Baptist Church Pastor Sean Cole 300 Ballpark Rd, Sterling, CO 970-522-1440 Sunday Worship 10:15 a.m. Wed night activities 6:30-8 p.m. (Sept.-May) Adult Bible Studies throughout the week. www.ebc-online.org
EXPLORE 2022 • 29
Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling
Festivals & Fairs
4-day Heritage on the Plains debuts If you like music, history, fireworks or fun — and who doesn’t — you’ll want to visit Sterling July 1-4, during the inaugural Heritage on the Plains event. The Overland Trail Museum’s annual Heritage Festival has been disrupted the last two years by COVID-19. This year it returns with some big changes and additions, expanding into a four-day event that traverses from downtown Sterling out to Sterling’s Pioneer Park through partnerships with Logan County, the Logan County Chamber of Commerce and the Logan County Arts League (LOCAL) along with other local sponsors. Kicking off the celebration will be the first of the annual July Jamz free summer concert series. Rusty 44, a bluegrass and Americana band based in northern Colorado, will perform at the gazebo on the Logan County Courthouse Square from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 1. The concert will be accompanied by a beer garden hosted by the Logan County Chamber and a backyard barbecue competition. The fun continues in downtown Sterling Saturday, July 2, with a Master Series BBQ sanctioned cook-off, and a Colorado beer and wine tasting. There will also be live musical entertainment, a cornhole tournament, bounce house and more, with the festivities run-
30 • EXPLORE 2022
Callie Jones / Sterling Journal-Advocate
Sara Waite / Sterling Journal-Advocate
"Blacksmith Sam" Dembitsky (left) The July Jamz concert series draws big crowds to the Logan County Courtof the Cottonwood Forge in Brush house Square on Friday evenings in July. This year’s first concert will also be gives instruction during a demonthe kickoff to the new Heritage on the Plains festival. stration at the Overland Trail Museum's blacksmith shop.
ning from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
On Sunday morning, Foursquare Church will begin the day with church in the park taking place in Pioneer Park. Breakfast will be offered by the Sterling Lions Club. Following the church service the museum will kick off their traditional Heritage Festival with a flag ceremony followed by entertainment throughout the afternoon. The highlight of the day will be the Colorado Vintage
Baseball Association, who will arrive dressed to play an authentic 1860s baseball game with a local team The Atomic Drifters will play a wide variety of old time rock and roll and rock-a-billy favorites from 2 to 4 p.m. Other attractions will be the Flatlanders Car Club, Blacksmith Sam, children’s carnival games and face painting and a keg of homemade root beer provided by Parts & Labor. Wrapping up the holiday weekend Monday, July 4, will be the city
of Sterling’s annual fireworks display put on by the Sterling Fire Department at Pioneer Park. The spectacular exhibit is scheduled to start at dusk. Throughout the day families are encouraged to bring a picnic to the park and stay for a great end to the weekend! For a full schedule of events, visit the Overland Trail Museum page on Facebook, or call 970-5223895 with any questions.
LOCALLY OWNED … LOCALLY OPERATED … LOCALLY INVOLVED!
www.korf.net www
www.korf.net
520 East Chestnut – Sterling
(970) 522-2523
Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling
Festivals & Fairs
Logan County Fair offers something for everyone Carnival rides, livestock shows, rodeos, musical acts — and don’t forget the funnel cakes! The weeklong celebration that is the Logan County Fair and Rodeo offers fun for all ages, with a packed schedule of shows and entertainment. This year’s theme is “Back in the Saddle Again,” and three days of horse shows start the livestock events. Throughout the week you can enjoy all the traditional elements of a county fair — 4-H and FFA shows and open class contests — along with vendor booths, delicious fair food and the carnival. Free events include the Fashion Revue, a fashion show featuring 4-H members modeling their clothing projects and the Jim Mason Roping where Logan County residents show their roping and barrel racing skills. For rodeo fans, things kick off — literally — with Professional Bull Riding on Aug. 2. The 4-H/ FFA Youth Rodeo is held Aug. 3, and admission to that event is free. The pro rodeo athletes come to town on Aug. 4-5 for the Dick Stull Memorial PRCA Rodeo, which fea-
Rodeo royalty ride in the 2021 Logan County Fair Parade. Sara Waite / Sterling JournalAdvocate
tures saddle bronc and bareback bronc riding, tie-down roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling and bull riding. Saturday’s activities begin with the Logan County Fair Parade through downtown Sterling. After a day of fun fair activities for the community, the East Cheyenne Gas Storage Night Show on Aug. 6 will feature Sawyer Brown with special guest Uncle Kracker for a night of high-energy country music. For a VIP experience, purchase a Party Zone ticket. The week finishes off with a Demolition Derby full of smash-
Restaurants Hootenannies 324 W. Main St., Sterling 970-522-0204 Sun-Mon 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tues-Thurs 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight Pub food Sam & Louie’s Italian Restaurant 310 Main St., Sterling 970-526-2550 Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Pizza, pasta, sandwiches Village Inn 203 N. 4th St., Sterling 970-522-4882 Sun-Thurs 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri-Sat 6 a.m.-11 p.m. Homestyle American classics
ing, crashing and bashing on Aug. 7. For more information and to purchase event tickets, visit lcfair.org.
OLD LIBRARY MERCANTILE & COFFEE SHOP
Timeless Treasures • Forever Friends Art • Antiques • Home Decor Books • Coffee • Jewelry
100 year old Carnegie Library National Registry of Historic Places Sara Waite / Sterling Journal-Advocate
A Ferris wheel and food stands light up the night at the 2021 Logan County Fair.
210 S. 4th St. Sterling, Co • 970-526-6003 www.oldlibrarymercantile.com EXPLORE 2022 • 31
EXPLORE LOGAN COUNTY
BARBS MAIN STREET GIFTS 970- 526- 9415 @barbsandbarnes www.barnespharmacyco.com
32 • MAY 20, 2022 • EXPLORE 2022
422 Main Street Streling CO 80751
Swe weeeeetttlllyy Vintage
108 Main St Sterling, CO 80751
970-425-2112
Jewelery • Lingerie • Cups • Purses & Soaps
Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling
Outdoor Adventures
N. Sterling State Park open all year North Sterling State Park has two boat ramps to access the 3,000-acre irrigation reservoir.
If you’re looking for some outdoor fun and relaxation, look no further than North Sterling State Park (http://bit.ly/2Jz4onU), located just a short drive from Sterling in Logan County. The 3,000-acre irrigation reservoir boasts two boat ramps for those wanting to enjoy a day on the water. Explore the great coves and fingers of the lake, take in the wildlife and geographical formations, find a shady spot for a picnic or cast a line into the warm-water fishery. North Sterling is open to fishing year-round, featuring walleye, crappie, perch, bass, bluegill, trout, catfish, tiger muskie, wiper and northern pike. Please refer to the Colorado Fishing Regulations published annually by Colorado
Verdon Tomajko / Colorado Parks and Wildlife
See PARK, pg. 34
Enjoy Free-Range Tourism in Logan County!
Explore:
Outdoor Fun:
North Sterling State Park Overland Trail Museum Bradford Rhea Tree Sculptures Wonderful Shops & Restaurants
Hunting, Fishing, Birding, Boating, Golf, Disc Golf, Biking, 60 Acres of Parks, Hiking, Swimming, Water Park, Festivals & Concerts, Logan County Shooting Sports Complex
Explore Sterling
and
All
Indoor Fun: Recreation Center, Bowling, 5-Plex Movie Theatre, Public Library, Art Galleries
of
Logan County
www.ExploreSterling.com | Sterling, Colorado | #RoamFreely | 970.522.8962 EXPLORE 2022 • 33
Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling
PARK from page 33 Parks and Wildlife for a complete listing of size restrictions and possession limits. PJ Marina, located by the Visitor Center, is accessible from the north entrance or by water. The marina is open weekend hours through Labor Day, contingent upon water levels, with extended holiday hours. They offer seasonal and daily boat slip rentals, firewood, fuel and bait, as well as the supplies you’ll need to enjoy your campsite. Natural surface trails offer miles of options for those on foot, bike or horseback. For archery enthusiasts, an 11-station range boasts 18 targets, including three sight-in targets, at 20, 30 and 40 yards for field tips or target tips only. The park also offers a designated stargazing area near the campgrounds on the south side, where you can enjoy the wonders of the night sky away from pesky night pollution. Prairie wildlife is abundant in the park, on the ground and in the air. Land-based animals of all sizes and species call the park home, from prairie dogs to coyotes, badgers, deer and antelope. Bird-watchers will enjoy sighting a wide variety of raptors, including golden eagles, red-tailed hawks and American kestrels, among other types of birds. A complete Bird Species List can be found on the park website or at the Visitor Center, and guided bird walks can be arranged by calling 970-522-3657. Hunting is carefully managed and permitted during established
Sara Waite / Sterling Journal-Advocate
The campsites at North Sterling State Park all offer picnic shelters and tent pads; 50 developed sites are available year-round. Reservations can be made at cpw.state.co.us.
seasons from the first Tuesday after Labor Day through the Friday before Memorial Day. Hunting area maps are available at the Sterling Visitor Center and south
entrance brochure kiosk. The park boasts three campgrounds with a total of 141 campsites. It can accommodate the largest motor homes as well as the
smallest pup tents, with 50 developed sites available year-round. View fees and make reservations for any of the campgrounds online at cpw.state.co.us/.
Voted “Best Burger” in Sterling
34 • EXPLORE 2022
Wings, Burgers, Steaks & more
324 W. Main St. Sterling 970-522-0204 Dine-in,Take-out Delivery with DoorDash Happy Hour 4-6 pm & 9-Close
Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling
Heritage & History
Explore stories of early settlers
The Overland Trail Museum has grown significantly since it began in 1936 as a project of the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Additions to the original stone building have transformed the museum into a showcase of natural history, natives and settlers. What hasn’t changed is the museum’s mission: to preserve and share the rich history of the Overland Trail and the heritage of the early settlers who traveled it. “Items we have here were items the first settlers brought with them and items donated by their families,” said museum curator Kay Rich. The museum is home to a oneof-a-kind Rural Electrification of America exhibit in the Dave Hamil building, which also houses special temporary exhibits highlighting artifacts from the museum’s collection. A collection of area historic buildings acquired over the years — some of them originals, some reproductions — form a “village” in the museum courtyard, including a church, one-room school and country store. The area’s agricultural heritage is reflected in the Karg Barn and displays of antique farm equipment, and the community’s connection to the railroad is evident with the restored ATSF caboose and boxcar depot. Opened last year, the Propst
Agriculture Center for Kids features hands-on exhibits intended to teach children about the dominant industry in Logan County. The highlight of the new ag center is Bella The Incredible Milking Cow, who shares facts about the dairy industry while allowing youngsters to try their hand at milking. Other exhibits feature agrelated activities like gathering eggs from a chicken coop, irrigation, horseback riding and more. The High Plains Education Center features interactive exhibits on the people, geography and industries found in the area. The building also includes a large meeting Photos by Callie Jones / Sterling Journal-Advocate room that can be rented for private The Stoney Buttes schoolhouse is lit up in Christmas decorations for the functions and classroom space for 2021 holiday season. children’s programs. The Print Shop and Media CenChildren use a ter houses an Intertype machine hand pump to and antique printing press, among push rubber other things, and includes historiduckies down a cal images and front pages from pipe at a station local newspapers going back neardesigned to help ly a century. them learn about The museum hosts programs for irrigation during all ages throughout the year, a grand opening including monthly Family Fun Satcelebration for urdays on the first Saturday of the Overland Trail month, children’s holiday proMuseum's new grams, History Cafe for adults, Propst Agriculand Christmas open houses in ture Center For December. Kids. For more information, call 970522-3895, or visit the Overland Trail Museum Facebook page.
The City of Sterling invites you to visit, enjoy the sculptures of Bradford Rhea, the Heritage Museum or take our self-guided walking tour. sterlingcolo.com EXPLORE 2022 • 35
EXPLORE LOGAN COUNTY
• Pro Sports’ Licensed Retailer • New Era Caps • Novelties & Auto Items • Apparel
• Sullen Apparel • Glass pipes • Vapes • CBD • KRATOM
Open 6 days a week until 7 p.m. • 212 Main St. • Sterling, CO • 970-526-6011
FRIDAYS OPEN HOUSE
at Sterling Creatitives i EVERY FRIDAY • ll:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
New gift fts t from the
!!
201 Ash St. - Sterling, CO 80751
970-520-2222 Arts and Craftfts t Gallery
129 N 3rd St #8
Old Library Mercantile • Art • Antiques
Timeless Treasures • Forever Friends 100 year old Carnegie Library National Historic Registry
210 S. 4th St., Sterling, CO • 970-526-6003 36 • MAY 20, 2022 • EXPLORE 2022
Visit our new location.
More to Explore
Explore the gems of Keith County, Nebraska For more than 125 years, Ogallala has ranked among the state’s top tourism communities. The gem that draws most visitors to Keith County is Lake McConaughy. The lake was formed by damming the North Platte River, which starts in Colorado and comes to western Nebraska via Wyoming. The lake boasts 100 miles of shoreline of white sand beaches and 30,000 surface of clear blue waters and some of the best walleye fishing in the nation. Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala rank high on the list for bird watching in the nation. More than 320 species of birds have been identified on or near their shores. Interactive displays at the Lake McConaughy Visitor and Water Interpretive Center explain the benefits of the Platte River and the High Plains Aquifer. The Visitor Center, located at 1475 NE Hwy 61, is about eight miles north of Ogallala and is open year-round. Summer hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, while winter hours are shortened to 4 p.m. Admission is free. During the spring, walleye spawn at Lake McConaughy. Anglers target walleye and wipers using live bait or casting jigs. From May to August, its white bass, small and large bass hit on casting jigs or lures. Yellow perch can be caught all summer throughout the lake on worms and wax worms. Whether you are fishing from the bank or off a boat, anglers can catch northern pike, rainbow trout, brown trout, and tiger trout at the neighboring Lake Ogallala. Catfish can be caught year-round. Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds boaters to take care to avoid transporting aquatic nuisance species such as zebra mussels by making sure to clean,
Lake McConaughy offers miles of water and shoreline for recreation Courtesy photo / Ogallala, Keith County Chamber of Commerce
There are lots of places to stay...
to play at Lake McConaughy!
I-80 Exit 126, Ogallala, NE
Courtesy photo
Lake McConaughy is a destination for those looking to enjoy some fun in the water.
drain and dry their watercraft before launching at either lake. Nebraska law also requires any person born after Dec. 31, 1985, to complete a boater safety course and have proof of completion with them in order to operate any motorboat, including personal watercraft. For more information or list of activities and events visit http:// outdoornebraska.gov/lakemcconaughy/.
Scan to go to ILoveLakeMac.com or download the Lake McConaughy App to find hotels, cabins, private campgrounds, restaurants, shopping & things to do! A reminder: ALL public camping requires a reservation 5/20/22-9/10/22. See outdoornebraska.org/LakeMcConaughy.
Keith County Visitors Committee
EXPLORE 2022 • 37
More to Explore
Cheyenne County gives big city options with small-town feel Whether you just stop in Cheyenne County for a bit or a while, we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the bigcity options in a welcoming small-town way. From upscale hotels, cozy campsites, to antique stores and more, it has all of the conveniences your family is looking for. Not only do we have museums, inviting parks and seasonal events, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy. So go ahead and turn off at Exit 59 on I-80, and experience what it’s like to kick back in Cheyenne County for awhile. Area attractions: Sidney Boot Hill Cemetery* Sidney Camp Lookout* Fort Sidney Museum* Sidney Pony Express National Monument Sidney Legion Park & Trail Sidney Hillside Golf Course Potter Golf Course Potter Sundry* and Duck Pin Bowling Alley* Lodgepole Train Depot Museum* Dalton Prairie Schooner and Log Cabin Museum* *By appointment only, please call ahead
38 • EXPLORE 2022
Courtesy photo
The terrain at Hillside Golf Course in Sidney, Nebraska provides scenic views and challenging holes.
Calendar MAY 2022
May 28 — Kit Carson County Little Britches Rodeo 9 a.m., 815 15th Street, Burlington May 28 — Can Can shows and gunfights at High Noon, Old Town Museum. Kick off for the season. Show times are noon and 2 p.m. May 28 — Kickoff to Summer, at Fort Morgan Fieldhouse, 1239 E. Kiowa Ave. Free admission, food and activities to celebrate the first anniversary of the Fieldhouse. With bouncy house, countdown to Splash Pad opening up at noon, burgers and hotdogs for first 200 guests, climbing wall, fun and games. Info: 970-542-3921 May 28 — City of Brush: Community Pool opens for the season, Brush. Visit brushcolo.com for more information. May 28 — Riverside Park Pool Complex opens for the season, Fort Morgan. Open 1 to 5 p.m. Call 970542-3921 or visit cityoffortmorgan.com/389/ Recreation-Department and click on Community Connections link for more information. May 29 — Splash Pad opens for season with regular daily hours of 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., at Fort Morgan Fieldhouse, 1239 E. Kiowa Ave., Fort Morgan. Will be open through Sept. 4 (excluding July 4). May 29-Sept 5 — Kit Carson County Carousel & Museum opens daily 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 815 15th St., Burlington. May 30 — Sterling Recreation Center outdoor pool opens for the season. May 30 — Annual Memorial Day Observance at Hillside Cemetery, 7 a.m., Julesburg May 31-Aug. 7 — Burlington Swimming Pool open for public swim. Sat-Sun, 1-5 p.m.
JUNE 2022
June 2 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, mechanical bull challenge, live DJ, preshow from 6 to 7:30 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m. from The Long Run, Colorado’s Tribute to The Eagles in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Visit facebook.com/ TNLFORTMORGAN for more information. June 3-5 — Hwy 24 Garage Sales. Yard sales galore up and down Hwy 24 from eastern Colorado through central Kansas. June 4 — Rohr into Summer. 9
Sara Waite / Sterling Journal-Advocate
The fishing dock at the Kiwanis Pond in Sterling is a favorite spot for families during the city of Sterling’s annual fishing derby the first Saturday in June. a.m.-3 p.m., “E” Avenue, Limon. Food and craft vendors, breakfast and lunch available. June 4 — Akron Town Wide Yard Sale, All Day. Over 20 yard sales, map found in the June 1 issue of the Akron News-Reporter. June 4 — Fishing Is Fun Fishing Derby, Kiwanis Pond, Overland Trail Recreation Area, Sterling. 9 a.m.noon. Free fishing weekend, casting contest and biggest fish contest for kids. June 4 — Relay For Life of Northeast Colorado, 4 p.m., Columbine Park. Information: http:// www.relay.org/neco. June 7 — Twilight Tuesdays Movie in the Park, 7 p.m. Sterling. Free family-friendly movie. Call 970-5229700 for more information. June 8 — Enjoy a meal and Mochila Exchange at the Colorado Welcome Center, Julesburg 5:30 p.m. June 9 — The Pony Express Re-ride passes through the northeast corner of Colorado. Follow the mochilla as it travels across 8 states at www.xphomesation.org June 9 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6
p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, City of Fort Morgan’s Touch a Truck, Canyon Critters, live DJ, preshow from 6 to 7:30 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m. from El Loco Fandango in DahmsTalton Band Shell in the park. Visit facebook.com/TNLFORTMORGAN for more information. June 10 — Limon Rotary Concert in the Park. 6 p.m., Railroad Park, Limon. Band: Stray Grass, blue grass and classic rock. June 11 — Akron Elks Poker Run, 8-10:30 a.m. registration, Washington County Event Center. All vehicles welcome! Email john2nree@gmail for more information. June 11 — Juneberry Vintage Market, 3429 Timber Ln., Merino. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Live music, food trucks, farmhouse and vintage treasures, and a succulent bar. June 14 — Twilight Tuesdays Movie in the Park, 7 p.m.. Sterling. Free family-friendly movie. Call 970-5229700 for more information. June 16 — 5 to 7 p.m. Downtown Fort Morgan Third Thursday Art Walk,
at various businesses. Visit facebook.com/fmartwalk for a map of stops on the self-guided tour and more information. June 16 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, On the Break Dance, live DJ, preshow from 6 to 7:30 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m. from Ronnie Raygun and the Big Eighties in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Visit facebook.com/ TNLFORTMORGAN for more information. June 17 — Dandelion Daze Party in the Park, Homesteaders Park, Phillips County Fairgrounds, Holyoke, 5 p.m.. Free dinner, beer garden, cornhole tourney and live music. Info: www.holyokechamber.org or Holyoke Chamber of Commerce on Facebook. June 18 — Celebration of Summer, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1858 Ben Street, Burlington. Car Show. June 18 — NJC Young Farmers Tractor Pull, 5 p.m. Logan County Fairgrounds. NSPA Truck and Tractor Pull. June 18 — Dandelion Daze, See CALENDAR, pg. 40 EXPLORE 2022 • 39
CALENDAR from page 39 Phillips County Court House lawn, Holyoke, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.. Car/bike/ chrome shows, vendors, 5K race and kids games. Info: www.holyokechamber.org or Holyoke Chamber of Commerce on Facebook. June 21 — Twilight Tuesdays Movie in the Park, 7 p.m., Sterling. Free family-friendly movie. Call 970-5229700 for more information. June 22-25 — International Feedlot Cowboys Association Finals, Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling. http://feedlotcowboys.com/ June 23 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, Balloon Artist, live DJ, preshow from 6 to 7:30 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m. from Delta Sonics in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Visit facebook.com/TNLFORTMORGAN for more information. June 25 — Akron Car Show, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Akron City Park. Vendor fair, live music, food. Call 970-5542612 for more information. June 25-26 — Thunder on the Plain. Burlington Softball Complex, Burlington. Girls 18 and under softball tournament. June 30 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, Get to Know Your Downtown Businesses Night, live DJ, pre show from 6 to 7:30 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m. from Girls On Top in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Visit facebook.com/TNLFORTMORGAN for more information.
July 2-4 — 67th Annual Brush Rodeo, at Morgan County Fairgrounds, Brush. Nightly rodeo action. More info: See @BrushRodeo on Facebook for event schedules and updates. JULY 2022 July 3 — Overland Trail Museum July 1 — The Art of Barbecue. July Heritage Festival and Colorado Jamz Concert on the Green, Beer Vintage Base Ball Association Game. Garden, Backyard BBQ, Logan County Pioneer Park. Courthouse Square, Downtown July 4 — Town of Otis 4th of July Sterling. Free concert. Info: https:// Celebration, All Day, Otis Baseball www.facebook.com/ Field. Doubles volleyball tournament, SterlingColoArts/ games, Bingo, Otis Volunteer Fire July 2 — The Art of Barbecue. Department Rocky Mountain Oyster Master Series BBQ Competition, Fry, fireworks at dusk. People’s Choice Tasting and Heritage July 4 — City of Sterling Fourth of On The Plains Beer and Wine Tasting, July Celebration. Fireworks at Corn Hole Tournament, Kids Pioneer Park. Call 970-522-09700 Activities. Downtown Sterling. Info: for more information. https://www.facebook.com/ July 4 — Brush! 4th of July Parade SterlingColoArts/ 2022, 10 a.m. Organized by Brush July 2 — Annual 4th of July Racer Area Chamber of Commerce. Visit Appreciation Races. BBQ and brushchamberofcommerce.org/ for Fireworks at the Julesburg Dragstrip, parade route map and more Julesbrurg. information. July 2 — Limon Chamber July 4 — Wiggins 4th of July Independence Day Celebration, at Teets Ballfield. Food, Celebration.Gaskill Field, Limon. booths, games, music and more. Brownie and ice Cream Sale, 7 p.m; Spectacular Fireworks Show at Fireworks, 9 p.m. around 9 p.m. Visit https:// 40 • EXPLORE 2022
Fort Morgan Times file photo
Yellow Designs BMX Stunt Group performs in downtown Fort Morgan for Thursday Night Live entertainment in 2021. townofwiggins.colorado.gov/ for more information. July 4 — Brush Fantastic Fireworks display, over Morgan County Fairgrounds. Follows evening rodeo performance. July 8-9 — Bobstock Music Festival, 5:30 to 11 p.m. July 9, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 10, in Fort Morgan City Park and downtown area. Many bands on multiple stages, plus vendors, activities. Friday evening headliner Eve 6, Saturday evening headliner Starship featuring Mickey Thomas. More info at bobstockmusicfestival.com/ bands/ July 8-10 — Colorado Flatlanders Car Club’s Annual Rod Run. July 9 Show & Shine at Pioneer Park, Sterling. coloradoflatlanders.org July 8 — July Jamz Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling. Free concert. Info: https://www.facebook.com/ SterlingColoArts/ July 14 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, Yellow Design BMX Big Air Show, live DJ,
preshow from 6 to 7:30 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m. from Narrow Gauge Country in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Visit facebook.com/TNLFORTMORGAN for more information. July 15 — Movie in the Park, 6 p.m., Akron City Park. Games, food, family-friendly movie at dusk. July 15 — July Jamz Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling. Free concert. Info: https://www.facebook.com/ SterlingColoArts/ July 15 — Limon Rotary Concert in the Park. 6 p.m., Railroad Park, Limon. Band: The Long Run, a tribute to the Eagles July 16 — Old Fashioned Saturday Night, downtown Haxtun. Car show, burnout, games, food, vendors and music. Info: Haxtun Old Fashioned Saturday Night on Facebook. July 21 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, Lucha Libre Life, live DJ, preshow from 6 to 7:30 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m. from Quemando Salsa in DahmsSee CALENDAR, pg. 41
CALENDAR from page 40 Talton Band Shell in the park. Visit facebook.com/TNLFORTMORGAN for more information. July 22 — July Jamz Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling. Free concert. Info: https://www.facebook.com/ SterlingColoArts/. July 23 — Limon Heritage Days. 9 a.m., 701 First St., Limon. July 23-24 — Crook Fair, Crook. Parade, meals, gymkhana, games and activities. July 25-30 — Kit Carson County Fair and Rodeo. KCC Fairgrounds, Burlington. A week of fun and festivities, including the popular County Events Day. July 25-31 — Phillips County Fair, Holyoke. Barrel racing, ranch rodeo, escape room, stock car races, kids games, Bulls Gone Wildl!, mutton bustin’, beer garden, live music, food vendors, tractor pull, livestock shows, parade and more. Info: Phillips County Fairgrounds and Fair on Facebook. July 26-31 — Eastern Colorado Roundup, Washington County Fairgrounds in Akron. Livestock shows, carnival and rides, vendor booths, parade, beer garden, night show and more. Information: www.ecroundup.com July 28 — People’s Market, in East Morgan County Library Park, Brush. 4 to 7 p.m. Local vendors selling their wares. July 28 — Downtown Fort Morgan Third Thursday Art Walk, 5 to 7 p.m. at various businesses. Visit facebook.com/fmartwalk for a map of stops on the self-guided tour and more information. July 28 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, Hamster Ball Challenge, live DJ, preshow from 6 to 7:30 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m. from Still They Ride - Tribute to Journey in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Visit facebook.com/ TNLFORTMORGAN for more information. July 28 — County Events Day at the Kit Carson County Fair and Rodeo. KCC Fairgrounds, Burlington. July 28-Aug. 7 — Logan County Fair, Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling. Bull riding, rodeo, Night Show featuring Sawyer Brown and Uncle Kracker, carnival, demo derby, livestock shows, 4-H/FFA and open class exhibits, food vendors. www.lcfair.org July 29 — July Jamz Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling. Free concert. Info:
The Holyoke Enterprise file photo
It’s all about the thrills and spills at the Bulls Gone Wild! event, which is set for Saturday, July 30, at the Phillips County Fair in Holyoke. https://www.facebook.com/ SterlingColoArts/ July 29-Aug. 4 — Morgan County Fair begins, at Morgan County Fairgrounds, Brush. More info: morgan.extension.colostate.edu/ morgan-county-fair/
Run for the Wall. Aug. 10 — People’s Market, in East Morgan County Library Park, Brush. 4 to 7 p.m. Local vendors selling their wares. Aug. 11 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts AUGUST 2022 Aug. 3 — People’s Market, in East and crafts, retail vendors, Morgan County Library Park, Brush. 4 Mechanical Bull Challenge, live DJ, preshow from 6 to 7:30 p.m., live to 7 p.m. Local vendors selling their music at 7:30 p.m. from Buckstein in wares. Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Aug. 3-7 — Sedgwick County Fair Visit facebook.com/ & Rodeo, Sedgwick County TNLFORTMORGAN for more Fairgrounds, Julesburg Aug. 4 — “Thursday Night Live!” 6 information. Aug. 13 — Akron Crazy Days, All p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts Day, Main Avenue in Akron. BBQ cook-off, cornhole tournament, beer and crafts, retail vendors, Get to garden, live music and more. Call Know Your Downtown Businesses Akron Town Hall at 970-345-2624 for Night, live DJ, preshow from 6 to more information. 7:30 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 17 — People’s Market, in from Appetite for Destruction - A East Morgan County Library Park, Guns N’ Roses Tribute Band in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Brush. 4 to 7 p.m. Local vendors selling their wares. Visit facebook.com/ Aug. 19 — Annual Julesburg TNLFORTMORGAN for more Cruise Night. 300 plus cars, trucks, information. Aug. 5 — Limon Rotary Concert in & motorcycles. Kicks off at 5 p.m. downtown, Julesburg. Arts and the Park. 6 p.m., Railroad Park, crafts, and games on the courthouse Limon. Band: Playing with lawn, food and vendors. Adult Smoke,classic rock and roll and beverages, and music. country music. Benefit concert for
Aug. 20 — Pioneer Days. Old Town Museum, Burlington.Step back in time, with gun fights, chuckwagon cooking, activities for the kids and a concert featuring Stoney LaRue. Aug. 20 — Flagler Day. 10 a.m.dark, Flagler Park. Family-friendly activities and movie at dark. Aug. 24 — People’s Market, in East Morgan County Library Park, Brush. 4 to 7 p.m. Local vendors selling their wares. Aug. 27 — Walk to End Alzheimer’s Logan County Courthouse Square. Info: http:// www.alz.org/walk Aug. 27 — Limon Rotary Hub City Days and Concert. 5 p.m., Railroad Park, Limon. Band: Lola Rising. Aug. 31 — People’s Market, in East Morgan County Library Park, Brush. 4 to 7 p.m. Local vendors selling their wares.
SEPTEMBER 2022
Sept. 3-4 — Sedgwick Harvest Festival in Sedgwick, games, exhibits, demo derby,and street dance. Sept. 3 — People’s Market, in East Morgan County Library Park, Brush. 4 to 7 p.m. Local vendors selling their wares. See CALENDAR, pg. 42 EXPLORE 2022 • 41
CALENDAR from page 41 Sept. 14 — People’s Market, in East Morgan County Library Park, Brush. 4 to 7 p.m. Local vendors selling their wares. Sept. 16-18 — Fall Harvest Car Show, downtown Fort Morgan. More info: www.fallharvestcarshow.org/ September — Fleming Fall Festival, Fleming. Info: https:// www.facebook.com/flemingfallfest September — Sterling Miracle Players Fall Production, Sterling. Info: www.https://www.facebook.com/ The-Sterling-Miracle-Players143547279003914 Sept. 17-18 — Sugar Beet Days, Logan County Courthouse Square. Outdoor craft and vendor bazaar, live music and entertainment. https:// www.facebook.com/surgarbeetdays/ Sept. 24 — Haxtun Corn Festival, downtown Haxtun. Parade, quilt show, vendors, street games, music and more. Info: Haxtun Corn Festival on Facebook. Sept. 30-Oct. 1 — For Peetz Sake Days, Peetz. Parade, games, craft and bake sale, homecoming festivities.
OCTOBER 2022
October — Sweet Adelines Windsong Chorus Melodrama Concert, Sterling. https:// facebook.com/windsongchorusSAI Early October — Merino Fall Festival, Merino. Info: https:// www.facebook.com/Merino-FallFestival-371525919705071 Oct. 1-31 — Scarecrow Contest, Sterling. See Logan County Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. Oct. 1 — Buckers Unlimited Finals, Sterling. Information: https:// www.buckersunlimited.com/ Oct. 3 — Mainly Marathons, Pioneer Park. First race in the Center of the Nations Series, mainlymarathons.com/series-3/ center-of-the-nation/ Oct. 8 — 40th annual Brush Oktoberfest, at Memorial Park, Brush. Food, entertainment, cars and more. Visit brushchamberof commerce.org/ for more information. Late October — Sterling Miracle Players Haunted House, Sterling. www.https://www.facebook.com/ The-Sterling-Miracle-Players143547279003914 Late October — Sterling Creative District Zombie Crawl. Info: www.facebook.com/ SterlingColoArts/ Oct. 29-31 — Halloween activities in downtown Fort Morgan. More info: www.fortmorganchamber.com/ Oct. 29-31 — Halloween activities in downtown Brush. More info: www.brushchamberofcommerce.org/ 42 • EXPLORE 2022
Callie Jones / Sterling Journal-Advocate
Santa waves from his fire truck at the conclusion of the 2021 Parade of Lights in Sterling. Oct. 29 — Annual Gateway Foundation Boo Ball at the Sedgwick County Fairgrounds, Julesburg. Oct. 29 — Old Town Ghost Town. 3-5 p.m., Old Town Museum in Burlington. Come bring your little ghouls, goblins and princesses for an afternoon of trick-or-treating. Oct. 29 — Burlington Youth Council Haunted House. Old Town Barn, Burlington. Family-Friendly, 3-5 p.m.; Scary, 7-9 p.m. $5 admission. Oct. 31 — Akron FBLA Trick-orTreat on Main Street, 4 p.m., Akron. All are welcome! Oct. 31 — Downtown Trick or Treat Street, Sterling. Local businesses welcome trick-or-treaters from 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 31 — Trick or Treat Street, Sterling Recreation Center, 808 Elm St. Free for kids 12 and under, safe alternative for trick or treating. Information: www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100057713977610
NOVEMBER 2022
Nov. 5 — Holiday Gift Gala. 9 a.m.2 p.m., Community and Education Center, Burlington. Commercial and handmade items, on-site catering. Nov. 24 — High Plains Turkey Trot, Sterling. 1-mile or 5K run/walk on Thanksgiving Day. High Plains Turkey Trot page on Facebook. Nov. 25 — Logan County Courthouse Lighting and Cocoa with
Santa, Christ United Methodist Church, Sterling. Children can visit Santa and get a free gift. Child ID kits, refreshments and other activities.
DECEMBER 2022
Saturdays in December — Christmas Capital of the Plains, various events in downtown Fort Morgan. Usually includes ice sculpting contest, chili cook-off, free movies, Santa visits and more. Early December — Sweet Adelines Windsong Chorus Concert, Sterling. https://facebook.com/ windsongchorusSAI Early December — Master Chorale Concert, Sterling. https:// www.facebook.com/MasterChorale December — Christmas on the Prairie Open Houses, Overland Trail Museum, Sterling. Information: https://www.facebook.com/ OverlandTrailMuseum or 970-5223895 December — Santa City, Sterling Public Library. Photos with Santa, crafts, snacks. Information: https:// www.facebook.com/ sterlingpubliclibrary80751 or 970522-2023/ Dec. 1 — Akron Volunteer Fire Department Beef and Noodle Supper and Toy Drive, 5-7 p.m., Washington County Event Center. Santa will be
present, too! Dec. 1 — Akron Parade of Lights, 5:30 p.m., Main Avenue in Akron. Follow ‘Town of Akron, Colorado’ Facebook page for more information. Dec. 1 — Parade of Lights, Downtown Sterling. See Logan County Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. Dec. 2-3 — Christmas Tree Stroll, Winter Wonder Lights, Old Town, Burlington. Dec. 3 — Burlington Craft Fair. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Community and Education Center, Burlington. Handmade items only, on-site catering. Dec.10 — Christmas Tree Stroll, Winter Wonder Lights, Old Town, Burlington. Dec. 16-17 — Christmas Tree Stroll, Winter Wonder Lights, Old Town, Burlington. Dec. 21-23 — Christmas Tree Stroll, Winter Wonder Lights, Old Town, Burlington. Dec. 27-30 — Christmas Tree Stroll, Winter Wonder Lights, Old Town, Burlington.
JANUARY 2023
Jan. 1 — First Day Hike, North Sterling State Park. Call 970-5223657.
FEBRUARY 2023
February — Northeastern Junior College Hoops Homecoming, Sterling.
MARCH 2023
March — NJC Regional Art Show, Sterling. Info: www.njc.edu March 1-31 — Sterling Public Library Quilt Show, Sterling.
APRIL 2023
April — Sportsman Experience, Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling. Two-day festival for outdoor recreation. Interactive demonstrations, gun show, military memorabilia. www.facebook.com/ sportsmanexperience. April — High Plains Secondary Schools Art Show, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling. Info: www.njc.edu April — NJC Annual Student Art Exhibit, Sterling. Info: www.njc.edu Late April — Logan County 4-H Carnival, Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling.
MAY 2023
May — Friends of Sterling Public Library Used Book Sale, Logan County Fairgrounds. Call Sterling Public Library, 970-522-2023. Early May — Master Chorale Concert, Sterling. https:// www.facebook.com/MasterChorale
Come see 12 unique “Our Journey” Museums on Colorado's Central Plains.
Kit Carson County Carousel
Old Town Museum
Museums in Elbert, Lincoln, Kit Carson and Cheyenne Counties - some open year round. Geocaching and picture taking lead to memory making! Sunsets, sunrises, always a few surprises! Download "Travel Storys GPS" from the Google Play store to hear our history while you travel across Colorado or listen at home.
Limon Heritage Museum
Visit OurJourney.info to see what events and fun are planned each month of the year!
East Central Council of Governments 128 Colorado Avenue, Box 28, Stratton, CO 80836 719-348-5562 or 1-800-825-0208
Bailey Saddleland Museum