Friday is the 100th anniversary of arguably the greatest and most beloved work in Nebraska literature: Willa Cather’s “My Ántonia.” For those not great at math, the book was first published on Sept.
The newsletter introduces Red Cloud Community Foundation Fund Chair Dennis Hansen and shares events and news from Red Cloud.
Red Cloud, Nebraska/news/destination-red-cloud-nebraska-trip-includes-stop-cather-country
This is heritage tourism at its finest, with lovingly restored buildings on a wide, brick road that evokes images of horse-drawn wagons and 19th century homesteaders.
Red Cloud offers small-town living with a relaxed pace and no traffic, smog, or crime. Its downtown areas include historic brick streets, bookshops, restaurants, and small businesses, while the Republican River and surrounding prairie offer scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Red Cloud (pop. 1020) was founded early in 1871 on homestead land filed upon by a group that included Silas Garber, who would later serve as Nebraska’s Governor from 1875-79. When Webster County was organized, Red Cloud was voted the county seat. The election was held in Garber’s dugout.
Willa Cather’s novel My Antonia was inspired by Red Cloud, the surrounding land, and pioneers in Webster County. The community’s literary heritage is connected with the hunting and farming culture featured in many of her stories.
