The publication of “History of the First Settlement of Hall County, Nebraska” fills a long-standing gap in the historical documentation of Nebraska’s early settlement periods. This significant work, originally penned by William Stolley in 1907 and published in German, offers an invaluable narrative of the pioneering days that shaped Hall County. Through the dedicated efforts of the Nebraska State Historical Society and the contributions of the Stolley family, an English translation was made available to the broader public.
The project to translate and publish this work was initiated under an agreement with William A. Stolley, the son of the author, on October 22, 1941. Dr. A. E. Sheldon, then superintendent of the State Historical Society, undertook the responsibility of bringing this German text to an English-speaking audience. However, unforeseen difficulties, including the limitations imposed by World War II, delayed the project’s completion, initially slated for February 1, 1942.
Despite these challenges and the subsequent passing of Dr. Sheldon, the Historical Society resolved to honor the original agreement. With modifications to accommodate wartime exigencies, the Society has now released this work as a special issue of “Nebraska History.” This edition is not only a tribute to the tenacity and commitment of those involved but also a crucial addition to the historical record.
The editorial and translation efforts were ably led by Dr. Sheldon, with subsequent revisions by August Brauer and Dr. Lydia E. Wagner. Their attention to detail ensures that Stolley’s observations and narratives are accurately conveyed, preserving the historical integrity of the original manuscript.
William Stolley’s account is more than just a historical document; it is a personal narrative intertwined with the broader story of American expansion and settlement. From his early life in Germany to his leadership in establishing the Grand Island settlement, Stolley’s experiences reflect both the challenges and opportunities of 19th-century pioneer life. This publication commemorates the journey of German immigrants like Stolley while also enriching our understanding of the complexities of American frontier history.
Table of Contents
- Original Settlers, p. 1
- From Davenport to Grand Island, p. 5
- Early Hardships, p. 9
- Growth of the Settlement, p. 14
- Mormons – Hunting Experiences, p. 21
- Hunting South of the Platte, p. 35
- Indian Raids, p. 46
- Grand Island Fortified, p. 51
- Soldiers and Indians, p. 55
- The Pawnee, p. 61
- Fort Kearny and the Settlers, p. 71
- Timber Troubles, p. 75
- Grasshoppers and Relief, p. 79
- Hall County Schools, 1864-1907, p. 88
Source
Stolley, William, History of the first settlement of Hall County, Nebraska, Lincoln : Nebraska State Historical Society, 1946.