Spring Valley Park
N 42° 35.633 W 099° 20.431
14T E 472062 N 4715773
Newport, NE, established in 1883, became one of the major hay shipping centers in the Nation. Pioneers of eastern Rock County recognized Spring Valley as a great natural haying region extending over twenty miles south down this valley.
Waymark Code: WM1B2Z
Location: Nebraska, United States
Date Posted: 03/21/2007
Views: 30
On this site in 1938, Vic and Maude Thompson established what is considered to be the first roadside rest area in Nebraska. Over the Years it has provided comfort to thousands of travelers, and in 1966 they dedicated this Centennial Memorial Forest and proclaimed their ranch a wild life refuge, free to all. For safety's sake ... Stop and Rest.
Because of the fine pasturage, Rock County developed into a major beef producing region, sending thousands of cattle annually to livestock marketing centers. Travelers through the area can view the herds of prime beef cattle.
Prairie fires have been a major threat to farmers and ranchers. The great prairie fire of 1904 burned over forty miles northward through the County,, causing major damage to farmsteads, crops and livestock, and the village of Newport was threatened with destruction.
Marker Name: Spring Valley Park
Roadside: yes
Web Address if available:: [Web Link]
City: Not Listed
Other: Not Listed
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Visit Instructions:
Post Pictures:
1. Close up of historical marker
2. Picture of surrounding area (would prefer to have the marker in the picture also). Thanks!