NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/725550
12 NEBRASKAland • OCTOBER 2016 here is an eerie current making its way down the Missouri River. It's rising up along the banks of Nebraska's eastern border and trickling into the towns and woodlands of the area. One of these towns is the beloved Brownville, Nebraska. Brownville has embraced its historic duty by preserving many of its original homes and buildings that were constructed when it was just an old port town in the mid-1800s. These include the town's Carriage House and the Train Depot. One of Brownsville's eight museums is the notable Captain Bailey House. There are rumors that the doors in the house will not stay closed because it is haunted by the ghost of the old Civil War captain, who was said to be poisoned by a jealous neighbor. If the restless spirit of Captain Bailey, or any others whose ill fate was sealed on this town's soil, become too much to handle in the wake of Halloween, travelers can drive 16 miles south to Indian Cave State Park. Here, visitors will discover unusual geological features and mysterious prehistoric Native American carvings. The park is most remarkable in autumn as it puts on an elaborate show of vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. Families and friends enjoy the park's annual Haunted Hollow each October, which includes light-hearted activities such as hayrack rides, a spooky campsite decorating contest, pumpkin carving and games. Scarecrows and caramel apples aside, these destinations go beyond the typical traditions of the season. Brownville fosters creativity with its many art galleries and bookstores. The Brownville Village Theater puts on four plays and one musical every year for those in need of a little drama. As for the wine connoisseurs, Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard & Winery sits on four acres right off the town's main street. Their rustic 110-year-old barn makes for the perfect tasting room. For the outdoor adventure seekers, Indian Cave State Park has everything from hiking and biking trails to horseback rides to cross-country skiing and sledding in the winter. With the rush of a scary story in one hand, and the serenity of falling leaves in the other, it's no wonder visitors are drawn to this area. ■ By Hannah Hundley, Nebraska Tourism Commission Brownville/Indian Cave h R b area O Fall color drive at Indian Cave State Park The Captain Bailey House Whiskey Run Creek Brownville Halloween at Indian Cave campgrounds