Kanesville/Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs, originally Kanesville, on the east bank of the Missouri River, stands opposite the larger city of Omaha. The “civilized” and settled portion of the country ended at the Missouri. The Nebraska Territory began on its western shore. Other than a few trading posts there were few places to stock up on supplies. 

My day began at the Western Historic Trail Museum. An excellent facility that has interesting interactive displays about the Oregon, Mormon, and California trails. The entry drive crosses a large area of prairie.

(Double click on photos for a larger image)

Prairie at the Western Trails Historic Museum

Western Historic Trails Museum 

1852 map of the trails

Early Kanesville/Council Bluffs

Seekers of gold

When I asked about buildings from 1849 that still existed, the reply was yes, sort of. Alonzo would have seen the Kanesville Tabernacle where Brigham Young was confirmed as president of the Mormon Church. The 40-by-60 building is about two blocks from the original location and a detailed replica of the original. To create the authentic wooden surface volunteers distressed every plank that became part of the structure. The large fireplace is made of sod covered with mud. The fire would bake the mud and protect the underlying sod.

Tabernacle entrance

Brigham Young, center, in front of the Tabernacle

Sod fireplace

An antique wagon but not for the long haul

After the busy morning I was ready for lunch. I’d seen a large park when I came through downtown so I found Chinese take-out and headed for the park.

General Tso's chicken in the park

Bayliss Park, Council Bluffs

Alonzo wrote, “This evening I attended a dance in a log cabin, good times and good people.” My afternoon was spent driving up the bluffs--more about that tomorrow.