“Great” removed from Cattle Trail name

Nebraska is known all over the world for their beef. It is estimated that five million head of cattle and a million horses were moved from Texas to the Great Plains in the late 18th Century to begin Nebraska cattle herds.  Various trails were used to bring the cattle to Nebraska.  

Until recently, the most important trail was called, The Great Western Cattle Trail, and local historians have been working to mark that trail so future generations can follow the path taken by the livestock and hear the colorful history. 

Recent developments have caused the name of the trail to be shortened to, The Western Cattle Trail.  

The first reason is “Great” was never included in the description as the trail was being used. It was added later by an historian reporting on the trail. 

The second reason is the trail has been nominated for distinction as a National Historic Trail and that designation drops the “Great”.  Keeping the name consistent will prevent confusion.

Roundup convention

The national group promoting the trail also changed its name to Western Cattle Trail Association.  

The first annual Roundup (convention) will be held in McCook on Oct. 18-21.  Headquarters will be the Horse Creek Inn. 

Roundup events include the showing of the John Wayne movie, The Cowboys; stories from the trail, a chuckwagon meal (cooked beside a genuine chuckwagon); and a tour of historical sights including visible remains of where the cattle crossed locally.

Most events will be open to the public but preregistration will be required for some events. More information and registration forms will be available soon.

 

The Grant Tribune-Sentinel

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327 Central Ave in Grant
Grant NE 69140