Ogallala in Keith County, Nebraska — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)

California Hill

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, December 9, 2011

1. California Hill Marker

Inscription. Many emigrants to Oregon or California had to ford the South Platte River to continue their trek up the North Platte River to South Pass. The most important ford, known as the Old California Crossing, was a few miles west of present-day Ogallala. The South Platte was the most formidable obstacle overland emigrants had yet faced. Some lost wagons or supplies and a few lost their lives to its swift water and shifting sands.

After fording the South Platte the emigrants face a steep climb up a large hill that became known as California Hill. During their passage, the wheels of thousands of wagons left deep ruts that can still be seen today.

Erected by Ogallala/Keith County Chamber of Commerce. (Marker Number 7.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Roads & Vehicles • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Oregon Trail series list.

Location. 41° 7.527′ N, 101° 43.212′ W. Marker is in Ogallala, Nebraska, in Keith County. Marker is on West Second Street. This marker is located on the south side of West Second Street between North Spruce and West A Streets. This is marker no. 7 of the Historic Walk of Fame in Ogallala, NE. Touch for map

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. Marker is at or near this postal address: 150 West Second Street, Ogallala NE 69153, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Union Pacific (within shouting distance of this marker); The Mormon Trail (within shouting distance of this marker); Highways 26 and 92 (within shouting distance of this marker); The Pony Express (within shouting distance of this marker); Interstate 80 (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Lincoln Highway (about 300 feet away); Standard Oil Gas Station (about 400 feet away); End of the Texas Trail (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ogallala.

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, December 9, 2011

2. California Hill Marker

The Crest of California Hill image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, December 12, 2011

3. The Crest of California Hill

Note the ruts made by thousands of wagon wheels.

Credits. This page was last revised on November 4, 2020. It was originally submitted on December 20, 2011, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 996 times since then and 16 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on December 20, 2011, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.