TWO for the money Whether battling a line-busting lunker or pulling down on a fleeting pheasant, you'll get your money's worth with this nifty value. Just for the state's residents, this combination permit puts you on the 50-yard line for all of the outdoor action you could want. Explore the boundless energies of more than 11,000 miles of running waterways or trek over pine-studded buttes and rooster-rich fields. Whatever your pleasure, you're sure to find it afield in NEBRASKAland and this $8 investment, plus a small issuance fee, is your passport to pleasure. So, don't waste another minute. Take out the best enjoyment insurance on the market. Visit any one of more than 1,200 permit vendors across the state. There's one near you and he's waiting to usher you into a ringside slot for a crack at top-notch action in the Nation's Mixed-Bag Capital. 1971 RESIDENT HUNT & FISH STATE OF NEBRASKA 36777 STREET J TOWN MO STATE DATE OF BIRTH fi SEX HT. WT. HAIR EYES EXPIRES DEC. 31. 1971 Plan a hunting or fishing trip now...take the family with you

For the Record... MERCURY RESEARCH

Within the past year or so, more and more segments of the population have become involved in the fight to preserve the environment. Special-interest groups as well as private citizens have made their presence known by bombarding state and federal agencies in an effort to further the fight for a clean earth. Nebraska, as a whole, has escaped these onslaughts, not because we have gone unnoticed, but because the state has not been subjected to some of the critical environment-disturbing factors. Still, we have taken it upon ourselves to explore the amount of pollution which does exist throughout our state.

Some time ago, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission conducted an experiment to determine the amount of mercury contained in our pheasant population. As was reported then, a common chicken, purchased over the counter, contained more of the potentially hazardous element than did wild pheasants, but all were in the "safe" range. This is not to slight the poultry industry; it is simply a finding which resulted from sample laboratory testing. It does, however, point up a plus-factor in our most prominent game species. Such testing shows that hunters and outdoorsmen have little to fear from their game at this time. Yet, this first testing is by no means the end of the road in research, nor can we assume that all species are relatively mercury free. Our immediate concern is for people who use fish and game, not merely for the animals themselves, because people are apparently affected more easily than pheasants or fish which are in more constant contact with pollution factors.

Similar research projects are in the offing dealing with fish species in the state. Some early testing hints that we may find higher deposits here than we did in earlier pheasant studies. Conclusions, however, will have to wait for the development of better work capabilities to make further research possible. Only then will we be able to answer many questions.

The big question which immediately pops into many peoples' minds is where this contamination originated. Where did the mercury come from? Answers to such queries are impossible at this time. We know that agricultural fungicides are large contributors, but other sources are known to exist. Thus it would be naive to focus all attention on any single source, excluding other possible contributors. Only research will tell where the contamination began, and the whole truth may never be known. In the meantime, our studies must continue and we must strive to abate the influx of harmful wastes from various sources.

With present knowledge, there is little that can be done about mercury once it has been released into the environment. So, it is imperative that we keep from adding to the element's threat. We must monitor the species already tested and check those we have not yet examined. The absence of high levels in pheasants gives no assurance that hazardous amounts of mercury do not occur in some other species. As things stand now, however, these are only possibilities which may later be proven.

With present knowledge, there is little that can be done about mercury once it has been released into the environment. So, it is imperative that we keep from adding to the element's threat. We must monitor the species already tested and check those we have not yet examined. The absence of high levels in pheasants gives no assurance that hazardous amounts of mercury do not occur in some other species. As things stand now, however, these are only possibilities which may later be proven.

For now and the immediate future, Nebraska outdoorsmen should have the fullest of hunting and fishing before them. And, they can rest assured that the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will take their best interests to heart in continued investigation of destroyers and contaminators of the environment.

Willard R. Barbee Director, Game and Parks Commission

Speak up

NEBRASKAland invites all readers to submit their comments, suggestions, and gripes to SPEAK UP. Each month the magazine will publish as many letters as space permits. Pictures are welcome. NEBRASKAland reserves the right to edit and condense letters.— Editor.

LETHAL LITTER-I was hunting for morels (mushrooms) along the Interstate lakes and ran across a spot where someone had dumped a load of junk. Included was the top of an old cookstove with the stovepipe sticking out about three feet.

"Someone's dog was snooping around and got its head stuck in the pipe and could not get loose. It was a sight I'll never forget. The dog had been dead for quite a while. It may have been a very valuable animal or just a stray, but the point is that if the person who was so thoughtless had just taken a second to smash the stovepipe it would not have happened. I would like to see an article on such a subject printed in NEBRASKAland. Perhaps it would do some good and teach people to use the city dump instead of a place of beauty to dispose of their trash."-Lucile E. Sorensen, address unknown.

This same subject was discussed in our For the Record feature in the March 1971 issue. It was pointed out that such instances are on the increase and only the action of a concerned citizenry can stop such unconscious slaughter of both wild and domestic animals. — Editor.

SOIL SALVATION - "In the January issue of NEBRASKAland, Guy Germano of College Park, Georgia, presented a poem entitled Pollution.

"When I lived in Nebraska in 1946 and 1947, I saw much evidence of air pollution in the form of blowing soil. Along the same lines, why not have at least one article to tell people how to help rebuild the soil and keep it from blowing by putting on waste vegetation in compost and plowing or spading it in, or planting cover crops? — Mrs. George W. Bond, Warren, Ohio.

LOVE THY VICTIM-"I found your January issue ironic. On the cover was the famous Boys Town statue, a symbol of brotherly love. On page 3, I found an emotional statement by Woodson D. Scott, president, National Rifle Association, in defense of the citizen's unrestricted right to bear arms. His apathetic position totally disregarded the pressures on today's society.

"Contrary to what Mr. Scott said, there is a gun problem in this country. Every year more than 20,000 people are shot to death, another 200,000 are injured or maimed by firearms. In terms of crime, in 1968 alone, there were 8,900 murders, 12,000 suicides, 65,000 assaults, and 99,000 robberies - all committed with guns. That we are a gun-centered society is revealed in an annual murder rate by guns 100 times higher than Great Britain's and 17 times higher than Sweden's.

"The counter argument to these statistics— that law-abiding citizens must protect themselves with firearms — is unfounded. Law enforcement officials repeatedly warn of the dangers of self-protection. Moreover, murder is a crime of passion. In 75 percent of the cases, the murderer and victim knew each other. One wonders how frequently the gun which was purchased to protect and preserve life is used instead to destroy life.

"I respect the American Rifle Association for its efforts to promote gun safety and appreciation for the natural environment. But to actively fight effective guncontrol legislation is only callous self-interest, masked in a very hypocritical form of patriotism." - Bruce B. Johnson, East Lansing, Michigan.

OVER STAFFED —"Recently, I was in Fremont visiting my brother who, not to be outdone by our other brother in Phoenix, presented us both with the NEBRASKAland Calendar of Color.

"Upon thumbing through its beautiful pages, I came to May and had a good chuckle over the fact that there appear to be as many cowboys as cows in that Ogallala scene.

"Being born and raised in the Sand Hills around Taylor, I never had it so good in the little herd driving I did.

"The calendar is just great throughout and beautifully illustrated." - Clyde Campbell, Morrison, Illinois.

WHITE ON WHITE-"For several years our brother in Nebraska has sent us the very lovely NEBRASKAland Calendar of Color. Since we lived in Nebraska most of our lives, we do appreciate it so much.

"This year, however, I am disappointed with the numbers on the calendar. Other years you made them black and I could read them across the room. This year they are not the same and I cannot see them so well.-Mrs. George Ireland, Morrison, Illinois.

Several similar comments have been received recently. We are taking these criticisms into consideration for future editions of the Calendar Gf Color.— Editor.

CRUMBLING CASTLE - "Some 54 years ago, I began my ministry at Melbeta, a dozen miles west of Chimney Rock. Your illustrated story Tombstone of the Oregon Trail in January 1971 awakened many memories of the inspiration that came from this ancient landmark and others in the area.

"I regret to note that time has flattened the peak since I last saw it in 1957. To me, when I first resided in Melbeta, it simulated a church spire, such as pictures reveal of ancient European Gothic spires. I have always walked a lot and walked as far as many other monuments. However, I never made it to Chimney Rock. Still, I always liked to look at it in the morning and think of the hardy pioneers who saw it during their trek to the far West.

"Keep up the wonderful work you are doing so successfuly in promoting the scenery and history of the great state of Nebraska." - W. C. Birmingham, Orange, California.

ANYONE SEEN GEORGE? - "Several years ago an old friend of mine named George Helms lived next to me. He was born and raised in Nebraska and as a young man he hunted for the market in Broken Bow, Kearney, and North Platte. I would appreciate information from anyone who knew him."-Delmar Sapp, Hartford City, Indiana.

Anyone with information for Mr. Sapp can contact him at Route 3, Hartford City, Indiana 47348.-Editor.

THIMK —"I shure got one on youse guys sittin down there ware its nice and warm behin a big desk, big lites an all that kinda stuff. Wat I'm reffuring to is that pitcher some guy took and youse guys put it under the front kiver of your NEBRASKAland book. Wat you writ under the pitcher bothers me a mite. Now, I ain't one to poke fun or imbarris a body but I aint ever heared of this 'Herald of Spring' feller-in this pitcher he auta be 'Herald of Winter' — time for long-jons.

"Wat really ruffled my feathers is the way you named the things in the pitcher. I know youse guys is laffin at my spellin and maybe I ain't the best speller in these parts, (Continued on page 12)

NEBRASKAland FOR THE RECORD Willard R. Barbee VISIBILITY-ZERO Bob Bishop HOW TO: BUILD A CARTOP BOAT LOADER THE HICKOK LEGEND Lowell Johnson INDIAN CAVE CAMP-OUT Jon Farrar CRY SPRING, CRY WILD Greg Beaumont BASS ON THE RUN Norm Hellmers SQUAWK-BOX BANDITS Warren H. Spencer SAND HILLS FOREST FROM RUSSIA WITH PARTRIDGE NEBRASKAland FISHING: PITS AND PONDS NOTES ON NEBRASKA FAUNA Bruce McCarraher WHERE TO GO ROUNDUP OUTDOOR ELSEWHERE 8 10 14 16 20 36 38 40 46 48 54 57 62 66 Cover: Bullet swift, megaphone loud, blue jay is Nebraska's elegant villain Right: Among the few remaining elk in the state, these run Wildcat Hills EDITOR: DICK H. SCHAFFER Managing Editor: Irvin Kroeker Senior Associate Editor: Warren H. Spencer Associate Editors: Lowell Johnson, Jon Farrar Art Director: Jack Curran Art Associates: C. G. (Bud) Pritchard, Michele Angle Photography Chief: Lou Ell Photo Associates: Greg Beaumont, Charles Armstrong, Bob Grier Advertising Director: Cliff Griffin Postmaster: If undeliverable, please send notices by Form 3579 to Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, State Capitol, Lincoln, Nebr. 68509.DIRECTOR: WILLARD R. BARBEE NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKS COMMISSION: James Columbo, Omaha, Vice Chairman; Francis Hanna, Thedford; Dr. Bruce E. Cowgill, Silver Creek; Floyd Stone, Alliance-, Lee Wells, Axteil; J. W. McNair, Imperial. NEBRASKAland, published monthly by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. 50 cents per copy. Subscription rates-. $3 for one year, $5 for two years. Send subscriptions to NEBRASKAland, State Capitol, Lincoln, Nebraska 68509. Copyright Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, 1971. All rights reserved. Second-class postage paid at Lincoln, Nebraska.   THE MIDWEST'S LARGEST SHOOTING GOODS SUPERMARKET DIRECT FACTORY DISTRIBUTORS FOR Remington, Winchester, Savage/Stevens, Marlin, Ithaca, Browning, Chas. Daly, Colt, Smith & Wesson, Ruger, Hi Standard, Crossman, Sheridan, Hornady, Sierra, Speer, Pacific, Forester, Lee, Mec, RCBS, Mean, DuPont, Hercules, Hodgdon, Leupold, Bausch & Lomb, Redfield, Outers, Schoellkopf, Hunter, Casey, Hoppe, Weaver, Hawes and many, many others. LARGEST GUNSMITHING FACILITY IN THE MIDWEST • Rifle Rebarreling • Military Rifle Conversions Custom Stocking & Refinishing • Custom Pistol Work • 45 cal. Accuracy Jobs & Sight Installations • Rebluing • Poly Choke & Rib Installations SPRING GUNSMITHING SPECIAL Authorized Gunsmiths For: Winchester, Remington, Colt, Smith & Wesson Warranty Gunsmiths For: Marlin/Glenfield, Chas. Daly, Savage/Stevens, Hi Standard SPECIAL Any Gun Cleaned and Test Fired. ONLY $5.85 No FFA license needed to mail guns for repair. New hours: Open 9 'til 6 Daily, except Sunday WESTERN GUN & SUPPLY COMPANY 3730 No. 56th, Lincoln, Nebr. Phone: 402-466-1991 The great place to save in NEBRASKAland LOAN & SAVINGS ASSOC IAT ION 209 SO. 13 • 56 & O • 1776 SO. 70 • LINCOLN 1716 SECOND AVE. • SCOTTSBLUFF

VISIBILITY-ZERO

by Bob Bishop as told to NEBRASKAland

EVERYTHING HAPPENS fast when you run into a fog bank while flying over Nebraska. On December 15, 1970, two of us got into the soup over Nebraska, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable hours of our lives.

Bill Hauprich and I were flying similar single-engine Bellanca airplanes from our aviation company in Phoenix, Arizona, to Minnesota. We had gassed up at the airport in Grand Island and were all set for a smooth evening flight into Alexandria, Minnesota. Weather reports indicated visual flying weather the rest of the way.

We angled over toward Fremont, then headed north, keeping U.S. Highway 77 in sight. It was dark as we flew over Walthill, and within a few minutes our routine flight turned into a harrowing, frustrating, and dangerous situation.

We went into heavy fog a few miles north of town. From visual-flying-rule conditions one moment to zero visibility is a critical situation in a plane. Not equipped for instrument flying, we were helpless. It was a matter of orienting ourselves, then trying to do a 180-degree turn without running into something, and heading back to where we could see the ground.

It was with considerable elation a few minutes later when we regrouped and saw the lights of Walthill below. Because of our low altitude, we were unable to contact the Sioux City airport for assistance. Our charts didn't show any airfields in the Walthill area, so we simply circled a few times looking for a place to set down — any place. The weather behind us was closing in, too, so we were being boxed in as we flew near the Missouri River. The weather had been reported as marginal for visual flying. Therefore, we had had no way of anticipating the fog bank.

On the ground, meanwhile, our plight was attracting attention, although we didn't know it at the time.

It seems that a Walthill police officer, George Young, and a Thurston County deputy sheriff, Bob Robertson, heard our engines and assumed it was Sheriff Clyde Storie flying around. Sheriff Storie, however, was in his office at Pender, and when he heard the other two officers on the radio, he told them it was not he.

Being a pilot himself, the sheriff figured we might be in trouble. After trying to contact us by radio, the sheriff told the other two officers to 8 NEBRASKAland turn on their red beacons to try to attract our attention.

During one of our passes, we spotted the emergency vehicles with lights flashing, and thought they were trying to clear the highway for us to land. I made one pass, and Bill was lined up with the road ready to make an approach. One of the vehicles flashed its spotlight at us, then pointed it down the road. We concluded they wanted us not to land there, but to follow them. We then noticed that several police cars were strung out along the highway.

Unknown to us, they were leading us to an unlighted grass airstrip at Pender, about 13 miles away. When we arrived there, we discovered that Sheriff Storie had contacted several other men in town, members of the fire department, state patrol, police officers, rescue squad, other deputies and a few interested citizens. These people had lined their cars along the runway with headlights shining along the grass strip. It was only a matter of minutes before we were safely on the ground, shaking hands with the men now converging upon us. They seemed to be as relieved as we were.

Afterward, Sheriff Storie admitted he was leery of having us set down on the highway because he didn't know how much flying experience we had.

"If I had known you guys were aerobatic specialists, I wouldn't have worried so much," he told us.

"We were happy to have landed on a nice, lighted runway rather than on the highway, so it's just as well you didn't know," Bill chimed in.

Perhaps more than the experience itself, what Bill and I will remember best about our experience in that fog was how nice people can be. It was amazing how fast the emergency forces got organized and acted on our behalf. It was a mighty nice feeling to have friends like them on the ground — friends ready to lend a hand in time of trouble.

THE END

HOW TO: BUILD A CARTOP BOAT LOADER

Easy to build and simple to use, this rig is a boon to almost any solitary angler

BANEFUL THE fisherman's wife in spring. With this season comes an affliction the angler embraces with passion —fishing fever. So resign yourself, fishing widow, to lonely nights in front of the tube. Rain nor sleet nor dark of night will keep hubby from his pursuit.

Aid to your cause is not in store here, dear ladies. So dispel your hopes of having that leaky faucet repaired, or of father taking the kids to the zoo. To the contrary, here is a tip to insure complete separation while the fish are hitting.

Relief is in store for the boat fisherman who has felt the pang of defeat and a sense of helplessness when the fish are biting at his favorite reservoir, but who finds that his fishing partner is tied up for the day. How to load that boat onto the car, and then unload it again at the lake — single-handed — has plagued boat anglers as seasonally as summer mosquitoes.

With a few simple shop tools and a handful of components the angler can alleviate his plight, and load and unload his craft, unaided, with ease. The loader, basically, is no more than a caster or roller mounted on the bow of the boat. This roller runs up a track from the back of the car, over the top, easing the boat down onto the cartop rack.

Few materials are required to build the skeleton loader, but refinements and adaptations to specific cars and boats may necessitate additional parts. This particular boat loader was designed for a 10-foot aluminum pram weighing 50 pounds, although track strength and shape vary, depending on the weight and size of the boat and size and shape of the car.

For a start you'll need the following materials:

15 to 20 feet of 1 1/2 x 1/2 x 1/s-inch steel channeling 1 foot of 1 1/2-inch-wide flat iron if caster attachment is used 1 hasp lock or rectangular hinge 1 screw-on rubber suction cup — the type used on cartop carriers 1 caster, spring-lock type 1-3/16-inch stove bolt 2 inches long with wing nut 4 1/4-inch stove bolts 1 inch long with hex nuts 4 1/4-inch flathead stove bolts 1/2 of an inch long with hex nuts

Construction of this loader is separated into three steps —the permanent attachment on the cartop boat 10 NEBRASKAland rack (commercial racks can be purchased more economically than they can be constructed), the detachable rail extending from the back of the car up to the permanent section above the rear window, and the caster mounting on the boat.

The rail, which attaches permanently across the two cartop racks, is cut from the steel channeling to proper length. The front end of this rail should extend no farther forward than several inches beyond the top of the car's windshield. The rear end of the rail maintains maximum strength if it terminates less than one foot behind the back crossbar of the boat rack. Bend the foremost foot of rail downward, a drop of perhaps four inches. This permits the caster to drop down, lowering the boat gently onto the boat rack. Next, mark the position where the rail intersects the two boat-rack bars and drill Vi-inch holes at these two points. Countersinking the holes in the channel with a larger bit permits the tapered, flatheaded bolts to sit flush in the track without hampering the caster's movement.

The unit joining the two rail segments can be made from a rectangular hinge or hasp-type lock. Regardless of which is used, the pin which the two parts pivot on is removed. Replace the pin with a 3/16 inch stove bolt and wing nut to permit removal of the lower rail unit when not in use. Additional holes are drilled in the hasp for bolting it to the channeling. The hasp is then mounted onto the bottom of the permanent rail and the top of the detachable rail with Vi-inch flatheaded %-inch stove bolts. Again, holes in the channeling should be counter-sunk to permit free run of the caster down the channel. The two rails may then be joined by running the 3/16-inch stove bolt through the hasp and securing it with the wing nut.

The second rail segment, which detaches for storage when not in use, extends from its point of union with the end of the permanently mounted rail to approximately one foot beyond the end of the trunk. While attached, the point wffiere it makes contact with the trunk must be marked. A hole of appropriate size is drilled here and the suction cup is screwed onto the rail. It should then support the channeling, protecting the trunk from scratches and anchoring it. The hindmost foot of rail should be bent upward, forming a cup-like depression.

The spring-lock caster is mounted on the bow of the craft. Mounting techniques are as varied as there are boat types. On many boats a hole may be drilled directly into the deck and the springs will lock the caster in the hole, and still permit easy removal when the boat is on the water. On pram-type boats a bracket may be made that bolts onto the bow of the boat or, as in this case, a detachable bracket upon which the caster is mounted may be constructed. This eliminates the drilling of holes in the boat. A skid may also be used in place of the caster.

The whole unit should then be cleaned and painted with an exterior-type paint to prevent corrosion of the metal.

Drilling of additional holes in the detachable segment of the rail permits attachment to the boat rack, while the boat is being transported on the road.

Total cost for this self-loading boat rack is less than $10 when constructed from new materials. Costs can be cut considerably if scrap parts are used.

With a few simple shop tools, several hours of time, and enough change from a $10 bill to pay for a trip to the lake, you can build this self loader to suit your need. Only one obstacle remains to hamper the angler from taking up summer residence at his favorite lake. How to deal with his wife is resolved with greater difficulty.

THE END

WILDLIFE NEEDS YOUR HELP Fire is but one of the many hazards faced by wildlife. The No. 1 hardship is the lack of necessary cover for nesting, for loafing, for escape from predators, and for winter survival. You can help! For information, write to: Habitat, Game Commission, State Capitol, Lincoln, Nebr. 68509. Provide Habitat... Places Where Wildlife Live Join the ACRES FOR WILDLIFE PROGRAM MAY 1971 11   in fiber glass tub/showers SNYDER All Snyder Tub/ Showers meet Standards. SEE YOUR PLUMBER NOW! It's luxuriously styled for dis- criminating people. A beau- tiful sculptured one-piece molded unit that's easily cleaned and virtually maintenance free Never any cracks as there's no grouting or tile. A new concept for apartments, mo- tels and modulars ., . offering more tub room for less money fil- ling in less space. It's more economical because of design than other comparable units. Colors Are Com- patible With National Plumb- ing Fixtures. SNYDER FIBER GLASS CO./P.O. BOX 4583 4620 FREMONT ST. LINCOLN, NEBR.68504 PHONE (402) 434-9187 TAKE A SPIN WHERE THE WEST BEGINS NEBRASKAland TRAVEL TIP OF THE MONTH A It is Centennial time in Red Cloud and the festivities are numerous. On May 1st and 2nd there is an Antique Show and Fiea Market. Two weeks later on the 15th and 16th there's an Art and Craft Exhibit. The May Flower and Garden Show will be staged May 22nd and 23rd. Plan now to attend all the Red Cloud Centennial events. 1971 CENTENNIAL EVENTS RED CLOUD your / Independent Insurance agent SERVES YOU FIRST This message brought to you by your local INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENT who is a member of the Nebraska Association of Insurance Agents

SPEAK UP

(Continued from page 4)

but when I see somethin in the woods I can tell it from somethin else. I'll go along with the milkweed —anybody knows milkweed —but wat you called bittersweet is just plane everyday buck brush in my book.

"Taint likely yousell make this mistake again but when you take a pitcher maybe you just auta ost see ol timer first and find out wat you took a pitcher of. No ofence." —Waldo Kruse, Ft. Calhoun.

Omaha by William Beyer Ft. Pierce, Florida City of the hold lights, Mingled shapes Of moving faces, Swede and Chinese; Greek and Indian. You wear Proud, Prophetic eyes. City of the brutal arms; The suddenly gentle voice. Among the strength of steel, Glass and stone, There is the old suggestion Of prairie; The vast color Of ripening wheat. City of movement, Change, Sudden, husky laughter; Lingering grief. The pulse of your streets Is a curious, Human rhythm; Song of paradox.

PET PROJECT - "Your Rare Conquest (February 1971) was particularly interesting to me. The highest point in Nebraska has been a favorite project of ours since the oil company announced that the area in Kimball County was higher than the assumed highest point in Banner County.

"In June 1962, my husband, Dwight, borrowed a surveyor's transit and with Charles DeCamp of Tilden, visited the area. They drove the stake and carried the rocks that mark the highest point.

"On Flag Day in 1968 we took a group of friends to help us with the flag raising. In the picture are Mr. and Mrs. Henry Constable, on whose land the highest point is located.

"Every summer Dwight takes a few tourist friends to see the point and also the Three State Corner Post. While some people think there is not much to see there, the grasses, mosses, algae, and wild flowers are unique to this prairie which is so much a part of our state."- Mrs. Dwight Baltensperger, Bushnell.

12 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 13

the HICKOK LEGEND

As a gunman, Wild Bill found his beginning and end in Nebraska. In between he became a frontier hero by Lowell Johnson

IF THE OLD adage that heroes are made and not born is true, then the making of James Butler (Wild Bill) Hickok into a hero must have begun at a fairly early age and continued virtually until his death at the age of 39.

Although many of his activities and accomplishments have been exaggerated and many more are difficult to trace, there is little doubt that Wild Bill Hickok was truly a legend in his own time, and certainly one of the most notable men in western history.

Historians disagree on many episodes in his life, but a gathering of the most logical and authentic opinions still points out an impressive, even heroic character. Not only did he cut a grand figure in the rough element of the frontier, but he was equally impressive in the sophisticated East.

Much of Hickok's life history developed in neighboring states, yet Nebraska was one of his stomping grounds. Hickok first met William F. (Buffalo Bill) Cody in Nebraska. That meeting resulted in a friendship that lasted the rest of their lives. It was also in Nebraska where Hickok shot the first (and second and third) man on his long list of opponents, and possibly the last. This first incident, the now-famous Rock Creek Station affair involving David McCanles, started the legend of Wild Bill Hickok and changed the course and temper of his life.

During the more than 20 years Hickok roamed the West, he was often in Nebraska, but never served as a lawman in the state. Still, his comings and goings were important.

Despite what chronic detractors have tried to disprove, or what the sensationalistic novelists tried even more to blow up, Hickok was not superhuman, but neither was he a bragging, loud-mouthed, drunken drifter. He was, primarily, a tall, impressive, brave, and well-mannered gunman. It was his prowess with a gun, after all, around which his life revolved.

The number of men Hickok is reputed to have killed will never be pinned down, but it was at least 17. This number does not include Indians or Confederate soldiers during the Civil War, so the tally probably was somewhat higher.

Hickok first entered Nebraska during a period of recuperation. As a teamster with the freighting firm of Russell, Majors, and Waddell in 1860, Hickok was driving a rig through Raton Pass, New Mexico. While applying brakes on a downhill bend, he saw a grizzly bear emerge from the brush beside the road. He was unable to drive the bear off the road because the horses spooked, so he dismounted, cracked his whip, then drew his revolver to frighten the bear away. But instead of running, the bear rose into fighting position. Two cubs then scurried out of the brush, and Hickok realized his mistake too late.

About two hours later another driver came upon the scene. He found the dead bear across Hickok's body, both covered with blood, the bear bleeding from a score of knife and bullet wounds. Hickok's left arm was broken and useless, and he bore the marks of claws all over the upper part of his body.

It was almost two months before he was able to walk. In January of 1861, still far from recovered, he was transferred on light-duty status to the Rock Creek Station along the Oregon Trail in Nebraska Territory near the town of Fairbury. Thus began the episode which led to his emergence as a living legend.

The Rock Creek Station had apparently been purchased, but not paid for, by the Overland Stage Company, owned by Russell, Majors, and Waddell. David C. McCanles was the seller, and an unfortunate choice of debtors he turned out to be. Known locally as a bully with an extremely cruel and sadistic temperament McCanles didn't welcome Hickok with open arms. On several occasions during Hickok's mending process, McCanles delighted in roughhousing and throwing the youth to the ground.

Eventually McCanles grew impatient for payment, threatening to take the station over. Hickok was merely an assistant to the station superintendent, Horace Wellman, but with trouble not far off, young Hickok seemed a valuable aid. He was called to the station where he, Wellman, a stable hand, and a couple of women awaited McCanles' threatened return with some help.

Ultimately, Hickok shot McCanles through the heart, then wounded the two men who accompanied him. Both were subsequently dispatched by other persons at the station, so Wild Bill killed only one.

Opinions vary as to Hickok's personality, but perhaps giving as good a clue as any is an incident involving a wagon train. Hickok, at 21, was serving as a scout for the large train, manned by 80 drivers, stock tenders, and guards. The bully of the crew ordered young William F. Cody, then 11 years of age, to go on an errand. When the lad didn't leap up immediately to carry out his bidding, he slapped the boy, knocking him off a wagon tongue. Young Cody grabbed a pot of hot coffee and splashed its contents in the bully's face.

Cody said the man then charged and would have beaten him badly except for Hickok's interference.

Hickok knocked the man down, Cody recounted. When the fellow asked what business it was of his to mix in, he replied that it would always be his business to see that he never bullied the boy or anyone else on the train again, or he would give him a beating.

Few qualities of Hickok's character were so generally remarked upon as his gentlemanliness. He always claimed, and this was substantiated by his friends, that he never started trouble. But he was sometimes edgy and quick to respond when a troublemaker was spoiling for a fight. Women, especially, were impressed with his courtly manners and grace.

Even when serving as law officer in some of the roughest towns in the West, Hickok tried to avoid bloodshed whenever (Continued on page 53)

MAY 1971 15

INDIAN CAVE CAMP-OUT

Savagely beautiful, state park takes on a new face as young adventurers invade its winter-locked expanses by Jon Farrar

A FROSTY HALO had formed around the edge of Scott Wittstruck's down-filled sleeping bag. Framing his head as he emerged from the warm comfort that Sunday in February, frozen vapor had formed where his warm breath met the frigid night air. The wind had risen overnight, joining forces with the below-zero mercury to create a windchill factor of 30 below.

Rustlings in the bag next to Scott grew more frequent. Dennis Nelson rousted out. The Missouri River, turned to gold by the rising sun, etched its way through fog-shrouded bluffs as the campers opened their tent to the panorama of beauty a thousand feet below. It was one of those calendar scenes, all too rare in a modern age; the type one's mind creates during interludes from daily routines. New snow from the day before had lined upper branches of coarse-barked oaks. Their gnarled forms framed the scene. A winter sun burned its way through mist rising from the river, heightening the delicate hues.

Sharp air prodded the pair to action. The morning torment of leaving warm recesses of sleeping bags to don frigid outergear, seemed to take exhaustingly long. Frozen and expanded shoe laces in rubber pac boots grudgingly gave way to fingers which operated less flexibly than chopsticks. Trivial concerns of normal life were replaced by the more immediate matter of a fire for warmth and cooking. How and why Scott and MAY 1971 17   Dennis had placed themselves in such a position crossed each of their minds.

Camping veterans, well versed in the field of snow camping, both had ventured to the southeast corner of the state that Saturday on their first venture to Indian Cave State Park. Located northeast of Shubert, the area is still in near-primitive condition. Indian tribes that occupied the cave hidden in the bluffs centuries ago must have found it much the same.

Talking with Larry Cook, park superintendent, on their way in through the north entrance the first day, the campers learned how recent weather conditions had affected travel in the park.

"None of the roads have been traveled yet, but I did open one into the park for a mile or more. That will be a good starting point for you, but there is a thin layer of ice under the new snow, and traction is poor."

At first shunning Larry's suggestion for a campsite on the east edge of the park, they reconsidered with his assurance that they would have the park to themselves until the roads thawed out.

And so the weekend began. Their gear on their backs, the duo set a course for what would be their base camp for the next two days.

Snowshoes, brought in expectation of such conditions, proved necessities in navigating deep drifts accumulated in the heavy timber. Preventing their sinking through to the ice layer, the bear-paw webs provided satisfactory traction.

Setting up camp drew second place in a straw vote. A sack lunch was put away in good style first as they rested, free of their 30-pound pack-frames.

Usually a ho-hum job, pitching the tent proved a challenge. Putting the versatile snowshoes to double duty as snow scoops, the pair removed some six inches of new snow. A crusty layer of old snow, melted and refrozen, had formed into concrete-like ridges and depressions. Hope of ever penetrating it or of finding a reasonably flat area was soon abandoned. Thin foam pads, used for insulation as well as comfort, would help to level things out.

A two-man mountain tent snapped into shape. The clearing soon took on the appearance of a high mountain camp. Compact and light-weight, the tunnel-like tent utilized every square foot of cloth. Its jet black color would absorb the sun's warming rays.

Conventional tent stakes proved useless in the frozen earth, simply splintering under efforts to pound them in. Heavy logs ultimately anchored the small tent in place.

Firewood was cut and piled in short order. A lean-to, constructed of lightweight tarp, was set in place, providing protection should the wind increase. Camp chores completed and two hours of daylight left, the campers were ready to begin exploring Indian Cave State Park.

The winter sun was short. Scott suggested the old ruins of St. Deroin were about the right distance for an expedition during the remaining hours of sunlight. The topographic map from the Geological Survey indicated that the quickest route between two points was the old dirt Quarry Road.

As the hikers approached the remains of the former bustling river town, Dennis gave Scott a short course in the area's history.

"All that remains of the town is the crumbling old bank. It was converted into a schoolhouse, but since disuse it has lost its roof and parts of its walls."

Scott, far from giving his undivided attention to Dennis' exhortation, was well into the building by way of the nearest window. Brick contrasted 18 NEBRASKAland sharply with white snow, hiding the ugliness of the ruins. Dennis' two-bit tour continued.

"Across the road to the south was the old livery stable and a three-story hotel during the town's booming days. The river ran within a quarter-mile of town until it was rechanneled."

History lectures weren't exactly Scott's cup of tea, though. His only reply to the address was a brief, but blunt "Let's head back to camp and start supper."

Camp chores proceeded with unceremonious efficiency - until Charlie dropped in. Charlie, as he was soon dubbed, was a Walker coon hound. With tender feet from days of running the bluffs, and a torn, bleeding ear from an unfortunate encounter with his quarry, the hound immediately became the camp mascot. Foraging greedily among the packs with relative success, he claimed the camp as his own.

"Lay a tarp out for him," Dennis suggested. "He may welcome a chance to get his tender feet off the snow."

And that's how Charlie the hound spent the night, curled up on the tarp next to the fire.

Dinner was an austere, but warm and practical offering —a backpacker's special of macaroni and cheese with a liberal handful of Vienna sausages. Light, yet hot and filling, it calmed the appetite and satisfied the taste. Thick chocolate pudding and tea rounded out the meal. Ingredients were premixed and packaged, cutting weight and space to a minimum.

The sun and well-chosen clothes had dulled the day's sharpness, even with temperatures dropping into tbe teens. But as the sun made its abrupt exit, coolness cut through layers of wool and insulated suits. The fire's warmth, heightened by the reflective qualities of the lean-to, eased tbe discomfort.

A nearly full moon reflected brilliantly from new snow. Even in the thick stand of trees one could clearly see a quarter-mile.

Hardwood flames lashed skyward like sinister reptile tongues. Huddling close to its warming reaches a relaxed silence settled around. Life was at its lowest denominator. Trivial concerns of daily life, how to dress or what TV programs to watch, were replaced by life's basics — protection from the elements and food for survival. Man's place in the web of life was clear.

Donning thermal and quilted underwear, Dennis and Scott grudgingly crawled into their sleeping bags. The first day of their excursion was over. Anticipation of tomorrow's sights and sounds were warming thoughts —the only thing warm at that point.

Sunday's activities picked up fast after that striking sunrise over the Missouri Valley. It was their last day and much remained to be seen.

Oak embers from the night before were still aglow deep in the ash pile. The addition of a bundle of squaw wood and a match sparked the revival of the fire. Liberal mounds of oatmeal with raisins, topped off with brown sugar or mixed with melted chocolate provided immediate energy. The last of the water was used to brew welcome cups of tea.

'We'll have to melt snow if we want water for lunch," Dennis noted.

"Why not fill our water jugs from the spring Larry told us (Continued on page 52)

MAY 1971 19

Cry Spring Cry Wild

Dawn explodes. Rushing wings unfold this exuberant season, overtaking the land and lakes with a song of spring in the Sand Hills. Hidden in blinds or shoreline reeds, photographer Greg Beaumont spent June 1970 in the wildlife refuge at Valentine. His photographs and text reveal a gentle invasion of natures secret ways 20 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 21  

etween April's cool genius and the sun-swirl of July, the Sand Hills host this best of seasons. Here, in ritual of sun and storm the land blooms yellow primrose and again infects the hills with sharp proclamations of soapweed. Here rush waterfowl and upland birds to take their territory when the wind is fresh and the meadows grass-building. The water's voice returns as the avocets arrive, and Sweetwater Lake again sees the black terns; Pelican Lake the mallards and bullet-flight pintails. Pony Lake hears once more congestions of geese. hide the bittern and teal.

22 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 23   24 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 25  

At dawn the great blue herons arrange a day's dominion where frogs are good. Nervous killdeer run and curtsy on the sandy shores, disturbing the morning with a loud, insistent, Dee-dee-dee-dee-dee, kill-deeah, kill-deeah". On the rushes ride the yellowheads, rasping their one complaint: "Our cook skedaddled, our cook she-e-e!" An impatient least sandpiper, late for breakfast, trots into the ooze to begin a busy morning's massacre of larvae beside the spinning, dabbing phalaropes. Suddenly a long-billed curlew, its fantastic sickle bill agape with scolding, flushes from the grass and alights, running: "Kli-li-li-li" to the intruder, "curleeeeeeeeuuu, curleeeeeeeeuuu".

26 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 27  

May to June at the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is motion and building, a season intricate with sun broken on immaculate water and the wind singing with several voices. By noon this bright country has become a dream, blood-warm with its music and nodding reeds, endless and without interruption, as constant as the fierce, male red-winged blackbirds, epaulets ablaze, who challenge each other across ages and ages of warm sun. Secure in the broad meadows are the Wilson's phalaropes and the upland plovers, the grass streaming with the wind like the waves of shallow lakes.

28 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 29  

Through the long, slow afternoon the continual terns lace and unlace Whitewater Lake, until suddenly the face of the water grows dark and they are gone. First thunder frightens five sandpipers together into flight. The wind stops; the hills growl. Hen mallards return to dry land and the brambles of wild roses which camouflage their nests. Avocets abandon their shore patrol: "Kleek, kleek, kleek". Nothing remains but bright lakes set in dark hills awaiting the torrent. So many places to hide in this open country! Then, the deserted landscape bears the fury of thunderheads.

30 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 31   32 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 33   34 NEBRASKAland

hen at last the skies clear, the far hills shoulder the sun. Briefly, the wet sand sparkles and the grass shines red. Then the sun is lost and the exhausted, cool expanse of marsh and pond accepts the dusk. Darkness brings to life the flat "Quark, quok" of the night herons. Through the indefinite air comes the strange "Oong-ka-choonk-oong-ka-choonk-oong-ka-choonk" of the furtive American bittern, answered by laughter and a chilling "Ha-oooooo" of a faraway, night-engulfed loon. Then through the moist darkness rides the eerie, eternal cry of an upland plover: "Kip-ip-ip-ip-whoooleeeeee, wheeloooooooo". Finally, there is nothing but the sleeping sound of water lapping against the sand.

THE END MAY 1971 35

BASS ON THE RUN

Annual May migration lures anglers to Republican's banks by Norm Hellmers

NEBRASKA ANNUALLY witnesses a variety of fish migrations. Spawning runs take place on many of the state's rivers and streams as the fish follow their strongest instincts. Walleye move up the Missouri River in search of suitable spawning locations. Trout head upstream each fall on the North Platte to reenact the rituals that once preceded their own coming into the world. And, on the Republican River, white bass make an annual trek to do their thing.

During the spring run almost all of the Republican River offers good white-bass fishing. Perhaps the best location, though, is just above Harlan County Reservoir. Harlan is well known for excellent white-bass fishing in August. This vast lake harbors high numbers of bass. The fish were stocked there and have fared well feeding on the shad also at home in the impoundment.

These same white bass that spend most of their time on Harlan begin a spawning trek up the Republican early in May. Anglers wise in the ways of white bass cash in on these runs. Each spring sees the banks of this southern Nebraska stream lined with eager fishermen.

Typical of the white-bass anglers is a duo from Holdrege. Looking for a different fishing experience were Glenn Thompson, an insurance and securities representative, and Alan Woods, an elementary school principal. Actually, Glenn and Alan had never fished for white bass before. Glenn likes trout fishing on Lake McConaughy and seeks largemouths in their sandpit haunts. Walleye are Alan's top choice. Weekends often find him working the waters of Harlan's Prairie Dog Bay.

But, both of them had always heard about the Republican's white-bass run, and they decided to give it a try. Friday night arrangements were made, and Saturday morning found them driving south from Holdrege toward the Republican.

"White bass here we come," Alan said with enthusiasm.

"Let's hope we've timed this trip right," Glenn noted. "The run doesn't last very long."

"True enough," Alan agreed. "I guess a few days either way from the run's peak can mean the difference between a tub of fish or an empty stringer."

Approaching Harlan, they checked their map. By following the gravel road along the south side of the river they would find what they were looking (Continued on page 59)

36 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 37

38 NEBRASKAland

SQUAWK-BOX BANDITS

With game seasons closed, two David City hunters pit their skills and electronic gear against hordes of area's legendary crows by Warren H. Spencer

BIG, BLACK BIRDS probably hadn't created such a stir in David City since the high school literature class first read Edgar Allan Poe's The Raven. Yet, that Sunday morning in late February, the ebony speedsters were foremost in the minds of at least three of the townspeople. Mike Loftus, local railroad depot master, Clarence Graybill, who works at the city power plant, and Delmar Lange, area extension agent, were on a cold-weather crow hunt along State Highway 64 west of Bellwood. The area has gained national recognition for its crow populations, and the trio had sights set on keeping hunting eyes in trim with an off-season outing.

Hunting prospects were as dim as the pre-dawn landscape as Mike, Clarence, and Delmar stumbled into the chill morning. Having scouted their hunting site the afternoon before, Clarence and Mike were sure there were enough birds in the roost to make the outing fruitful. But Mother Nature wasn't playing along, and the weather was anything but pleasant.

A heavy cloud cover shrouded the area as the three headed for their jump-off point. Weather forecasts called for snow and chances looked pretty good as a 40-mile-per-hour wind sliced in from the north. In the car, all three hunters joked about the chill index, but when they stepped outside and made plans to move in on the roost, all joking subsided. The crows were holed up in a cedar windbreak that ran about a mile west from a section road. The birds were on the far end, away from the hunters and in a position to keep an eye on the surrounding terrain.

"Let's move along the north edge of the shelterbelt and try to get about halfway down before we set up," Mike traced the route in the air with his gloved hand. "That will put us on the side away from most of the birds and we'll be upwind from them so our calls will have a better chance of reaching them."

'We'd better get a move on," Clarence muttered, crossing Mike's air patterns with his own as he pointed to a flock of crows already making for feeding areas. "It's still before sunup and they're already on the move."

Whether anxious about their supposed vulnerability in the high wind or eager to begin feeding, the crows were beginning to mill around in the break and flights were moving out in every direction on a regular timetable. So, conversation was cut short as the hunters shouldered their guns, grabbed Oscar, the papier-mache owl they were to use as a decoy, snatched up tape recorders, and began to snake along the break.

For these gunners, hunting David City crows was a bit unusual that day. They were going to try calling them with portable cassette tape machines, something they had heard worked and something that was about to get the supreme test. Even callers who were good at their (Continued on page 61)

MAY 1971 39

SAND HILLS FOREST

A carnival of sight and sound awaits visitors to this wonderland of grass and timber bordering Niobrara River

A FORESTED GEM in a sea of grass, Nenzel Forest displays an alien face to the uninitiated Nebraska traveler. Some 5,000 acres of pine and juniper-cloaked hills, encircled by 101,000 acres of native, sandhill prairie offer the best of both worlds. To the local Nebraskan, the dense forest provides a refreshing retreat from familiar ranch country. To the out-of-state excursionist, the native, prairie grassland is as enthralling as the mountains.

North-central Nebraska's most attractive drawing cards, scenic Snake River Falls and Merritt Reservoir lure thousands of tourists and sportsmen into the area annually. Most of them are vaguely aware of the great, green void across the river, marked on road maps as Nebraska National Forest, Niobrara Division, but all too few drive the long loop back through Valentine, west to the town of Nenzel, then south 10 miles. Those who do are pleasantly surprised by what they discover. Completion of pavement west of Merritt Dam to the road fingering east from forest headquarters is in the works and may make the long drive unnecessary.

A flourishing grouse population and a thriving herd of pronghorn antelope charm even the most reluctant hunter. Banks along Snake River and Merritt Reservoir entice both casual and dedicated fishermen. Spectacular views of the pine-clad Niobrara River bank's luxuriant forests of the towering conifers plus the unique sandhills satisfy even doubtful tourists. Nature students stay busy observing more than 200 bird species in the area, and the heronry is occupied by 100 or more nesting great blue herons. Four-wheel-drive and trail-bike enthusiasts will delight in the rolling acres.

A bit of something for everyone's taste in a place away from the crowd —that is Nenzel Forest. Created by the same stroke of Theodore Roosevelt's pen as was the Bessey Division near Halsey, April 16, 1902, the Niobrara Division near Nenzel culminated in a decade of pressure to test the Sand Hills of the state for 41   forest growth. The only man-made national forests in the United States, both areas were bare when created.

The celebrated botanist, Charles Edwin Bessey, a University of Nebraska professor at the time, provided the spark that launched the project. Noting the similarity between sandy, moist soil in the Michigan pine forests and comparable conditions in the Nebraska Sand Hills, Professor Bessey suggested experimental planting of various pine types. His discovery of a few scattered ponderosa pine and red cedar native to the Sand Hills added impetus to his theory. His plea to the United States Department of Agriculture for experimentation was met with indifference. Finally, yielding to Bessey's pressures, the federal government began an experimental pine farm in the southwestern corner of Holt County in 1891.

Interest waned until 1901 when Gifford Pinchot, then chief of the Bureau of Forestry in Washington, sent out a survey team to study forest conditions in Nebraska. The Holt County plantation was now 18 to 20 feet high and forest conditions had set in. After several months of investigation he recommended that certain experimental areas in Nebraska's Sand Hills be set aside for tree planting.

President Theodore Roosevelt issued a proclamation establishing the Nebraska National Forest reserves. The act specified two separate areas —"The Dismal River Forest Reserve" west of Halsey between the Middle Loup River and the Dismal River in Thomas County, and "The Niobrara Forest Reserve", south of Nenzel between the Niobrara River and the Snake River in north-central Cherry County. The name Forest Reserves was changed to National Forests in 1907, and the two areas were later designated as the Bessey and Niobrara divisions of the Nebraska National Forest.

Test planting of pines began with Scotch, Austrian, jack, Norway, the native ponderosa, and others. Firs and spruces were also tried, as were several types of juniper. In the end, all proved unsatisfactory for widespread planting except the two native species, ponderosa pine and eastern red cedar. Most tree planting has been discontinued in recent years, used only to Of many trees tested on area, only native ponderosa and cedar thrive line the main entrance, to provide wildlife habitat, and for recreational purposes.

Campers are welcome in one of Nebraska's most attractive grounds now nearing completion only half a mile from forest headquarters. Named the Clear Creek Camp Ground after the limpid prairie spring flowing near the camp, the grounds nestle in a mature stand of ponderosa pines. Away from highway hustle-bustle, a peaceful stay awaits overnight visitors. A winding road through the area is indented periodically by 23 pocket-like camp areas tucked back in the forest. Maximum privacy is assured and a feeling of wilderness camping is conveyed. Basic facilities will be provided and, when finished, the area will be a camper's mecca.

For those shunning even the most basic of camping facilities, a new forest regulation permits wilderness camping anywhere on federal land except during periods of high fire danger. A written permit is required for camping in the undeveloped areas and may be obtained free at ranger headquarters.

Picturesque names like Hutch Jack Flat, Powderhorn, and Tombstone valleys, or Arnold Camp provide hours of sleuthing for history buffs visiting the forest. Rich in Indian and pioneer lore, area old-timers know a veritable store of tales-some true, others sprinkled with fiction. Those in pursuit of Indian artifacts are usually richly rewarded for their efforts. Sandy blowouts are the best bets for recently uncovered arrow points and hide scrapers.

Operators of trail bikes and four-wheel-drive vehicles are given a free hand on the federal grounds at the present, but a bit of discretion should be exercised as abuse of the natural environment could easily lead to restrictions on such activities. Infinite numbers of hills and blowouts await the challenge of the "rugged road" advocates.

While most roads in the forest may leave something to be desired for seasoned highway travelers, almost all are navigable by family car, provided some patience is exercised. Maximum speed advised on the forest's secondary roads is 10 to 15 miles per hour. A refreshing change from tough highway competition, this snail's pace encourages the driver to settle back and enjoy scenery and wildlife usually overlooked.

42 NEBRASKAland MAY 1971 43   44 NEBRASKAland

Buckhorn Springs on the northern fringe of the forest is one of the most magnificent scenes. Several miles east of the main entrance, along the road leading to Anderson Bridge, you can drive to a bluff overlooking a northward bend in the Niobrara River. Ponderosa pines line the deeply cut river channel and the rugged spring-laced canyons stray off in many directions. Shimmering, clear water flows swiftly through the scenic canyon. Rockhounds find abundant petrified wood in the cool waters. Deer, porcupines, and an occasional bobcat inhabit the area, rewarding the visitor with frequent glimpses. A small band of pronghorns habitually roams the flats just over the bluff to the south.

Those seeking more traditional prairie environment find a bird's-eye view from Eagle Point Lookout Tower. Mile upon mile of undulating hills, capped with palatial stands of the native grasses such as sand and little bluestem, switchgrass, sand of love and sand dropseed, and of course the grama grasses. The bluffs of the Niobrara, dotted liberally with pines, are visible to the north. Part of the forest covers the horizon to the southwest, while hints of Snake River Canyon rise to the east.

Thriving herds of pronghorn antelope are scattered about the federal land. Most years the population ranges around 60, but it fluctuates with the seasons. Several respectable heads and many pronghorns for the meat pole are harvested annually from the forest each year by nimrods.

Abundant mule and white-tailed deer roam the forest. Concentrated along the watercourses and tree plantations, they yield a bountiful fall harvest. Hunting pressure on the federal grounds is light and no time is lost in seeking landowners' permission.

A consistently heavy sharp-tailed grouse population awaits scattergun advocates. Under little pressure in comparison with other public hunting areas in the state, a hunter is assured of plentiful game.

Photographers and bird watchers keep grouse in mind, too. Display grounds are easily located and one may view the antics of the dancers for several months, beginning in March, from the comfort of his car. Forest personnel are at the headquarters year-round and are extremely co-operative in pointing out the display grounds and other scenic features of the area.

Only half a mile from headquarters, a nesting flock of regal great blue herons is an annual summer attraction. Approximately 100 pairs return each spring to nest in the same stand of aging jack pine. Traveling to the Snake and Niobrara rivers to feed, they return to regurgitate for the nesting young. The daily ritual may be observed by interested persons without interrupting the birds.

Tourists' delight, a haven for hunters, an unraveled mystery for history buffs, the reality of every fisherman's and camper's dream, a bonanza for the advocates of trail bikes and four-wheel-drive vehicles, and a naturalist's observatory all rolled into one, the National Forest near Nenzel is a bazaar of adventure for the hardy souls who break away from the hustle and bustle of this busy world.

THE END MAY 1971 45

FROM RUSSIA WITH PARTRIDGE

Native to areas north of Black, Caspian seas, foreign species are being eyed for import to Nebraska 46 NEBRASKAland

FROM TIME TO time, every outdoorsman, if he is a true hunter, dreams of stalking an exotic species from some distant land. Whether these fantasies lead him into the arid wilderness of Africa in search of wildebeests or the steaming jungles of India after tiger, the challenge is the same. Each provides the ultimate in excitement and the peak of travel and adventure. There are precious few, however, who find the time or money for such a venture. Most must be content with huntable species near home. A sampling of distant hunting pleasures may be in the offing for Nebraska hunters sometime in the future. At least they will be if present plans materialize.

In co-operation with the U.S. Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, the Game and Parks Commission is investigating possibilities of bringing to Nebraska selected species of game birds which hopefully will provide additional hunting for the state. While plans are still highly speculative, they do bear some exploration with an eye to the future.

For the past 20 years, federal personnel have been researching the foreign game species and arranging for importation of those species adaptable to habitat in the United States. Many of these introduced birds have come from friendly nations on a trade basis. Negotiations and importation from countries behind the Iron Curtain have been underway for several years but efforts will be intensified during the upcoming years. Nebraska is particularly interested in birds from this area.

Those birds which are being seriously considered for stocking are among the partridge family. Three species of eastern gray partridge have the greatest potential for adapting to the north-central states of North America. These include the Russian gray partridge, the Azerbaijan gray partridge, and the Siberian gray partridge. Of these, the first two promise the greatest adaptability. Originating in the area north of the Black and Caspian seas, these game birds may adapt to the habitat with little trouble. But the absence of temperate sea breezes in Nebraska may spell their downfall. Consequently, potential bird selection has become more and more complicated and scientific in the past few years.

In Nebraska, the partridges are being eyed for possible introduction into areas where man is utilizing the land in such a way that native and introduced species already established are unproductive as far as game is concerned. At present, areas such as portions of southwestern Nebraska and the southern edge of the Sand Hills would appear to offer the best stocking possibilities. Portions of this land are over-grazed at present and irrigation is a potential hazard to the wildlife cover which remains. One foreseen problem is elevation. Partridges which are being considered come from high-altitude areas of the Soviet Union and only time would tell whether they would adapt to the lower elevations of Nebraska's plains. These are not the only hazards which may be encountered in the transplant, however.

Some seven states involved in the program are vying for many of the same birds. And, since some of these states are farther north, there is always the possibility that the birds might be stocked there first. Game biologists see this as a potential obstacle to bringing the species into Nebraska. Should they "take" farther north, it is highly unlikely that they could be moved south without high mortality, greatly diminishing their chances for survival as a species. Once the birds adjust to harsher climates, they have trouble making it in more moderate temperatures. It is much better, biologists note, to establish the birds in the south and then move them into colder northern regions.

One problem that must be considered is competition from the imports with established game-bird populations. Should the Russian gray partridge, for example, extend their range into bobwhite quail habitat and offer direct competition for food and cover, then more harm than good would be done. Consequently, the birds that might be introduced should be compatible with those already here.

One of the prime reasons for introducing the new species is to complement the birds we already have, to fill unoccupied niches of habitat, and to provide variety for hunters. They would also help meet existing hunting demands. A factor that becomes more noticeable as the state's population expands and more and more land is worked, environment conducive to wildlife production may be drastically changed. Such alterations might drive existing species out of their ancestral grounds. By introducing new species which have different habitat needs, birds which are forced from the hunting picture by man would be replaced and a continued balance of sporting pleasure would continue.

An alternative to importation in Nebraska is the mourning dove. Yet, forces opposed to hunting this species continue to prevail in every attempt to put doves on the hunting list.

Bringing the mourning dove into the hunting picture would save the state money since the birds are native to Nebraska. However, expense involved in importing the partridge is relatively minimal. The program calls for the Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife to make all foreign contacts, probably obtaining the birds on a trade basis. Russia, for instance, might want a number of Merriam's wild turkeys in exchange for a like number of their gray partridge. Expense, then, is not an issue since the federal (Continued on page 60)

MAY 1971 47

NEBRASKAland Fishing... PITS AND PONDS

Strongholds of largemouths and pan fish, these waters arenumerous, waiting for anglers with a yen for action 48 NEBRASKAland

LONG BEFORE WHITTIER immortalized the "barefoot boy with cheeks of tan", the long cane pole — equipped with kitchen string, an oversize hook, and cork bobber —was standard equipment for taking panfish. The barbershop calendar of a few years past depicted the effectiveness of the cane pole in the hands of that barefoot boy in the straw hat, much to the chagrin of an older, well-equipped angler in the same scene.

Panfishing, the most popular form of freshwater angling, holds the spotlight this month as NEBRASKAland features the state's pits, ponds, and Interstate lakes. Sprinkled liberally iRross me state, these small waters mean only a short drive for most any angler.

They serve as schools for beginning anglers armed with only makeshift equipment well as nostalgic retreats for seasoned fishermen.

Unpretentious as these waters seem, they hold extensive populations of game fish. The old adage "small water, small fish", does not apply to these productive gems. Largemouth bass lurk in many and crappie, bluegill, perch, and bottom-feeding catfish or bullhead abound in most.

In spite of the sport they provide and their availability, these waters remain relatively unfished ignored by most anglers who choose bigger waters in search of larger, wilder adversaries they feel these small waters cannot provide.

Panfishing has much to offer. Action is consistently hot and there is little need to worry about size or bag limits, plus it's a great pastime for all ages, and the end product is an epicure's delight.

Interstate 80, that twin ribbon of concrete spanning Nebraska, plays host to a chain of 100 or more man-made impoundments providing some of the finest smallmouth, panfish, and catfishing the state offers. Quality rather than quantity fisheries, the lakes extending from Grand Island west to Hershey were formed when fill material for the Interstate was removed. The Game and Parks Commission began its stocking program in 1962, but most lakes were stocked after 1966. They are now just coming of age with lunker-size catches. Stocked primarily with smallmouth, rock bass, and channel catfish, some of the 4 to 50-acre lakes also hold other game species such as walleye, bluegill, and Kentucky spotted bass.

Smallmouth. flashy cousins of largemouth, have endeared themselves to southern fishermen for years, but only recently have they been introduced in large numbers to Nebraska waters. The smallmouth havelr restricted range in the state, and are more difficult to bring to creel than the largemouth, challenging anglers with spectacular leaps and tremendous tenacity. Many the Interstate lakes are strongholds forthese scrappy customers.

Deep-running plugs and metal flasher lures are the ticket for smallmouth. The showy surface lures, popular for the largemouth, are less effective but will claim an occasional smallmouth. Crayfish and minnows are the preferred natural food of the smallmouth and thus the most successful bait.

Victor Forney, retired assistant superintendent of the North Platte fish hatchery, fishes the Interstate lakes and has scored on many of the southern scrappers. His favorite medicine for the smallmouth is a No. 2 yellow Shyster. Pork rind rigged on the hooks seems to be an important addition. Any yellow or lure with yellow trailers is effect casionally attract hungry customers. The lakes from Maxwell to Hershey rate tops for smallmouth in Forney's book. Wading the Hows in early morning

terle Vowers of Kearney, anoth Chain of Lakes, has topped all records for smallmouth in the state. He captured the title with four, three-pound-plus smallmouths in a one-month period last July and August. The largest neared the four-pound mark. Crayfish proved to be the deadly offering that enticed the wary scrappers to creel.

District supervisor of the lake chain along the Interstate, Wesley Sheets, recommends several of the lakes for walleye.

The lake near Hershey will be opened for the first time this year and should offer anglers walleye in the two-to-three-pound class. Walleye are also present good populations in several other Interstate lakes."

Sheets elaborated on several other species in the lakes.

"Largemouth bass and bluegill were not stocked in most of the lakes, but some in the Grand Island area have these more familiar species. Some carp have washed into several of the lakes by the flooding river. Kentucky spotted bass have been introduced in several of the pits and are just attaining some semblance of their potential size."

Similar to the smallmouth in size and fight Kentucky spotted bass can be differentiated from the former by diamond-shaped markings running along the side of the body. Feeding habits are similar to those of the smallmouth, but they seem to prefer the rockybottom areas of the lakes.

Rock bass, the panfish of the Interstate lakes, replace the over-prolific bluegill in the stocking scheme. Pushing the 1 to 1 1/2-pound mark, these tasty scrappers fall for spinners like the Mepps or Shyster. Doliflies are also attractive to the voracious feeders.

It would take an atlas to list all the sandpits and farm ponds in the state. Offering some of the best largemouth fishing, practically all art found on private property and permission from the landowner is a prerequisite as well as a common courtesy.

Superficially, there is little difference between one md another. Their individuality becomes evident with experience. Size, depth, MAY 1971 49  

50 NEBRASKAland relation to the wind, subsurface contour, submerged brush, and myriad other factors affect technique and success.

An indication of the productiveness of Nebraska's farm ponds and sandpits is revealed by scanning the Master Angler awards given for bucketmouths in 1970. Of 176 awards given for five-pound-plus bass, more than a hundred were for fish taken from farm ponds and sandpits.

The Wunderlich crew of Columbus is dedicated to the pursuit of bronzebacks in the small waters near there. Max Wunderlich, Sr., his son Max, Jr. (Little Max), Bill Walsh, and other assorted cronies are all avid anglers who haunt the local pits and ponds.

Following the solunar tables religiously, they fish at all hours, day and night, often combining fishing and camping. Oxbows on the Cedar River are frequent locales for these extended weekend trips.

More often than not, though, you'll find them huddled in Bill's 10-foot aluminum boat on some isolated and neglected pit.

No. 2 and 3 Mepps with silver bucktails are favored artificials. Silver or gold Rapalas rate second with the anglers, though Max, Sr.'s favorite lure is the black plastic worm.

"I like to cast it near the bank from the boat, give it a twitch and let it sit, count maybe to 10, and then jig it slightly and let it be again. Usually bass will hit as soon as it falls on the water or after the twitch."

The area between shallow and deep water produces many of their catches. Brush piles are equally hot. Fishing the shallows pays off during feeding peaks in early morning and in the evening.

Bill recommends the cool channels of spring-fed ponds during the warm parts of the day.

"Midday during the hot summer months is a good time to fish the cool channels. Big bass like to lie up there away from the warming waters."

Bill also revealed their secret for getting into so many private ponds.

"When we go camping or fishing we take along a bag and collect all the cans, bottles, and litter around the water. We always return home with more than we take. Good fishing starts with good manners."

The so-called "forage fish" of these productive small waters-the bluegill - provides plenty of fight when challenged with ultra-light spinning outfits or fly rods. One of the largest of the dozen or so members of the sunfish family, he is a tough character for his size, weighing more than a pound in many waters. A zealous guardian of his nest during spawning time, this slabside fights with all the determination of a smallmouth bass.

Bluegill probably have provided fly-casting practice and fly-fishing experience for more beginners than any other fish. Feeding heavily on insects, bluegill are just right for taking on small trout flies. Small wet flies on No. 8, 10, or 12 hooks are effective on most panfish. Black Gnat, Western Bee, and McGinty, are good producers to start with, though almost any pattern with yellow or orange in it is attractive to panfish. Larger fish will also hit popping bugs or rubber insect imitations. A slow retrieve, but fast enough to get action from a spinner or spoon, is ideal. Flies should be worked deep. Surface lures should be twitched rather than pulled steadily.

Natural baits effective on panfish vary with the season. Worms are reliable anytime but are most alluring in early spring when the water is high and muddy. Minnows are deadly in the summer when the water is relatively clear, as are various insects and their larvae in late summer or early fall when large hatches of grasshoppers and other insects occur.

For the Sanders of Gordon, panfishing is a family affair. In fact, during a two-day period early last June they netted four Master Angler bluegill from a manmade farm pond near Deer Creek.

Lyle prefers his fly rod rigged with a Dollfly, while his son, Steve, and daughter-in-law, Dee, use worms on unique rigs. A one-leaf spinner above the hook attracts even the most lethargic bluegill. Lyle's nephew, Tim Reddy, scored on the fourth one-pound-plus bluegill with a similar rig.

They also scored heavily on the pond's bass last winter, landing one largemouth weighing well above the five-pound mark. All in all, the Sanders rate farmpond fishing as tops in the state.

Of the 49 Master Angler plaques given in 1970, 27 were for products of farm pond-sandpit habitat. Sheridan, Dawes, Holt, and Otoe counties rate tops for small-water bluegill.

Call them goggle-eyes, strawberry perch, calico bass, or black perch, crappie are big on mouth and short on temper. Also of the sunfish family, they fall prey to naturals like minnows, earthworms, grasshoppers, or small frogs. Primarily minnow feeders, crappie frequent weed beds, sunken brush, and other places where forage fish hide.

The white crappie of the south and the more prevalent black crappie of the north both claim a place in Nebraska waters. A sure way to tell if you're catching white or black is to count the spines on the dorsal fin —no more than 7 (usually 6) for the white crappie and 7 to 10 for the black crappie.

Shunning sunlight, they school for feeding on the surface at dawn, dusk, or on cloudy days. Daylight fishing is best in deep "crappie holes" near submerged weed beds, fallen trees, and other natural cover.

Minnows were the most consistent producers, and May and June the hottest fishing months for those on the Master Angler roll.

Harmonious and happy, boys and bullheads have long gone together. Rather guileless, they are easily caught. Capable of thriving in warm and muddy waters which most other species avoid, the bullhead abounds in almost every water of the state. Abundant, and without whimsy in their taste, bullhead are exceedingly hardy, suffering little winter kill so common to other small-pond species.

Best fishing for these whiskered customers is from dusk on, especially early in the season. They are caught by still-fishing with all sorts of bait —worms, animal entrails or congealed chicken blood, and a variety of "secret" stink baits.

A three-way swivel is probably the best rig for bullhead. Use a short leader or he'll have half of your line digested. Let your bait sink to the bottom and leave it there. He's a bottom scavenger and that's the place to catch him.

Almost any hole large enough to hold rainwater runoff will likely hold a healthy bullhead population. Many a beginner has cut his angling teeth at such a place and many more will follow. For a relaxing day away from it all, return to that secluded little pond, lean back against that old cottonwood, and let the fish do the work. You'll rediscover the simplicity of life.

Next month NEBRASKAland magazine pursues the prima donna of Nebraska waters, the coldwater trout, and the state's heftiest customers, the river catfish.

THE END MAY 1971 51

INDIAN LORE • NATURAL SCIENCE ... See it all at the House of Yesterday HASTINGS MUSEUM J. M. Mcdonald planetarium Highway #281 and 14th St. Hastings, Nebraska INDIAN CAVE Summer Camp for Boys and Girls Summer camping is not only fun, it's an essential part of child development. Camps like ours help provide your child with new adventures. New friends. New skills. And new experiences. Horses, water skiing, archery, riflery, crafts, sports, canoeing, and camping. Plan now for your children to attend Lake Mary Ranch Camp this summer. for more information and applications write: Mary Ann Pence 1913 M Street Aurora, Nebraska 68305 AttY m Travelers Who "Play It By Ear" Get Hang-Ups! Stay smooth. Phone ahead before you go. Save with low station rates. LINCOLN TEL. AND TEL. CO. BOYS & GIRLS Ages 8-15 We are now taking reservations for the summer months. Write for information. RINGENBERG GUEST RANCH Don and Ellen Ringenberg, prop. Elwood, Nebraska The ROZANEK Kennels VIZSLA-POINTERS The Home of Champions TRAINING PUPS STARTED DOGS AKC FDSB REG BIRD DOGS RT. #1 NORFOLK, NEBRASKA 68701 PH: 402-371-4737 BINOCULARS Cases & Straps included! We pay postage FREE illustrated price list. Giant optics catalog illustrating binoculars, microscopes, nflescopes. telescopes and magnifiers $1.00, refundable. Complete SATISFACTION GUARANTEED or Money Back. Use your r304 SEA PILOT 7x35mm MASTER CHARGE or BANKAMERICARD, MID-AMERICA OPTICS touch Big, bright, crystal clear viewing is yours for BOX 94672N years .to come,. Soft case, LINCOLN, NE. 68509 boxed. $19 95 ppd BUFFALO BILL POSTERS Go mod with swinging posters from NE- BRASKAIand. Teenagers will love them. They're great for the recreation room —25x35. Only $150 each, &«ax Send orders to NEBRASKAland, State Capitol, Lincoln, Nebraska 68509

INDIAN CAVE

(Continued from page 19)

about?" Scott countered. I would like to see it anyway. According to this map, it's just below the campground inside the north entrance."

Locating the spring proved a bit more difficult than Larry's simple instructions had indicated. "From the knoll commanding the view of the park, just before the campground, follow the trail through the native-grass stand down the hill. Watch for a clump of cedar trees and one large cottonwood. The spring is near there," Scott recounted.

They saw two deer beds that had been melted into the snow just off the trail as they worked their way down what soon proved to be the wrong ridge. Ending up not at the spring but at the bottom of the canyon, the hikers followed the frozen stream halfway back up. Navigating the 70-degree incline, made treacherous by a coating of snow and ice, proved to be the first stamina test of the day. The reward proved well worth the effort.

The limpid water, trapped in place where it rose from the earth, filled a miniature reservoir. A tiny trickle spilled from the pool, running its course down the snowy ridge. Minute rapids formed at rocky segments along the way. Cushiony green moss flourished on the rocks that lined the trickling flow, providing a spring-like touch to the winter surrounding it.

Occasional steam rolled from the earth-warmed water in the pool. While drinking his fill of the natural water, Scott remarked that it had no taste. 'This doesn't taste like city water at all. I guess we're just used to all the chemicals they add to the cities' sources." Calculating the bare minimum of water needed to prepare their noon meal, they filled their plastic containers. Every ounce was critical in the steep terrain they were traversing.

Reluctant to leave the snowy pool, Scott and Dennis slowly climbed the bluff to the campground above. During a short stop for lunch the packers plotted their course for the last stop of the day— Indian Point and Indian Cave.

Mid-afternoon found the hikers somewhat worse for wear four miles southeast of their lunch location near the south entrance of the park. Checking their map and compass they decided the route with the least topographic variation to the cave was along a ridge winding its way to the bluffs.

Commanding the most spectacular of the many views the campers had encountered was Indian Point. Over 1,200 feet above sea level, the point permits a view for miles in three directions. On a clear day you can see as far as the elevator at Brownville. Three bench marks placed there by the Geological Survey verify the site. Indian Cave lies just to the northeast in the bluffs below.

A gray squirrel darted from snow-covered branch to branch as Scott and Dennis descended the road to the cave. Scott remarked that this was one of few Nebraska areas where this lesser cousin 52 NEBRASKAland of the familiar fox squirrel is regularly seen.

Ecologically a unique area, Indian Cave State Park contains many unusual fauna and flora forms more characteristic of the Ozarks than of Nebraska.

"Miniature Ozarks," Larry Cook had described the area. "Predominantly oakcovered, the area is sprinkled liberally with such southern trees as papaw and hickory. There are abundant populations of tree frogs and whippoorwills. Both serenade the resting camper in the summer. Ruffed grouse have been introduced but their future is doubtful."

"Maybe we should bone up on our trees and birds and plan a return to Indian Cave in the summer," Dennis suggested. Scott agreed the area might be more hospitable in the summer than in the dead of winter.

Following marked trails when they are well worn in the summer, and following one in the winter when it is covered with half a foot of snow that shields the ground is another story. Wandering unsuccessfully for 30 minutes, the duo finally located the entrance to the cave. Their exploration of the park was complete.

A hideaway for slaves and retreat for ancient Indian tribes, the larger, lower cave has been filled with debris, but is scheduled for restoration soon. At one time this cave was large enough that two loaded hay wagons could be driven side by side through the entrance.

The upper cave, still intact, is topped by a chimney etched out by erosion. Nearly four feet in diameter, it extends from the cave's roof a dozen feet to the ridge above. Indians were reportedly trapped in the cave when a large rock fell and lodged in the chimney opening. The rocks are still in place.

The day grew short with unexpected rapidity. Ascending the bluff proved much more exhausting than the descent had been. Heavy packs and the miles began to tell on the weary campers, but they felt that pleasurable exhaustion resulting from setting one's goals high and reaching them. A warm bath and hot meal would be welcome. But Indian Cave Park would not be forgotten —there would be another day at Indian Cave, perhaps at a time after the snow melted.

THE END

HICKOK LEGEND

(Continued from page 19)

possible. He preferred to use the side of his gun barrel to club a troublemaker into submission rather than shoot him. But, he was always in the thick of things when trouble brewed.

An incident reported by an acquaintance of Hickok's to have happened in Jefferson County in southern Nebraska in December 1867, although disputed by some historians, illustrates his temper and quickness. Hickok went into a crossroads saloon one afternoon to wet his whistle. Among a dozen or so drovers in the place were four who made a game of taunting the "stranger", especially when he quietly accepted the crude remarks about himself.

After several minutes of this, and just as Hickok was about to take a drink, one of the men pushed him. Hickok backhanded him, then said, "Now cut it out before this gets serious." Instead of taking the advice, the drovers went for their guns. Hickok shot the man on his left but was wounded in the right shoulder by another. Hickok then drew his left gun and shot the other three men —all in the head.

Three of the men were killed instantly. The fourth, named Harkness, had his cheek and part of his jaw shot away but survived.

A similar incident many years later apparently happened in Sidney, Nebraska. Hickok was living in Cheyenne, Wyoming during the winter of 1874-75, but spent much of his time hunting and trapping in Nebraska.

Again, Hickok was standing innocently in Tim Dyer's hotel bar in Sidney, dressed in a long black overcoat with his long hair pinned up under his hat. He looked like an inoffensive preacher, a logical target for abuse from three men well on the way to being drunk. After considerable "baiting" by the three men, to which Hickok took no apparent offense, one of them intentionally knocked his hat off. Then everyone recognized him, but it was too late for the men to back down. Hickok drew a six-shooter and dropped all three rowdies where they stood.

Dexterity with guns came at an early age for Hickok. After his father died, three older brothers ran the family farm, and young James Hickok took up hunting to pad out the larder. After leaving home at the age of 17, he gradually perfected his talents.

Probably the incident at Rock Creek Station prompted much of the practice. That, coupled with a natural talent and appreciation for guns resulted in a veritable machine, capable of marksmanship beyond belief for the time.

In later years, accounts of shooting demonstrations for various writers and statements from Hickok's acquaintances gave a fair estimate of his proficiency. In a Milwaukee, Wisconsin demonstration before several local marksmen, Hickok performed a number of remarkable feats. One of the witnesses, Robert A. Kane, described the exhibition:

"His pistols cracking with the regularity and cadence of the ticking of an old house clock, he struck and dislodged the bleaching pebbles sticking in the face of the bank at a distance of about 15 yards.

"Standing about 30 feet from the shooter, one of our party tossed a quart can in the air to a height of about 30 feet. This was perforated three times before it reached the ground, twice with the right and once with the left hand.

"Standing midway between the fences of a county road, which is four rods wide, Mr. Hickok's instinct of location was so accurate that he placed a bullet in each of the fence posts on opposite sides. Both shots were fired simultaneously__

"Two common bricks were placed on the top board of a fence, about 2 feet apart and about 15 yards from the shooter. These were broken with two shots fired from the pistol in either hand, the reports sounding like one shot.

"A quart can was thrown by Mr. Hickok himself, which dropped about 10 or 12 yards distant. Quickly whipping out his weapons, he fired alternately with right and left. Advancing a step with each shot, his bullets striking the earth just under the can kept it in continuous motion until his pistols were empty."

After seeing this, Kane stated that he was prepared to believe any story about Hickok's skill or prowess which "does not conflict with the laws of gravitation and physics." Other men, including such notable marksmen as Cody, Doc Carver, and California Joe were quick to admit that probably no better shot with a handgun at a moving target ever lived.

Several of Wild Bill's excursions into Nebraska (Continued on page 59)

MAY 1971 53

NOTES ON NEBRASKA FAUNA... SNAILS

by Bruce McCarraher Senior Fisheries Biologist With only one foot, this tiny creature's primary role is to provide food source for higher species

CLAMS, OYSTERS, mussels, snails, slugs, squid, and octupus are all members of a similar group called Mollusca. The snails are very common molluscans in Nebraska and are found in practically all freshwater habitat in the state.

The only exceptions are the highly alkaline lakes of western Nebraska and isolated sites where water pollution has eliminated the snail population. Recent research in the Sand Hills lakes has demonstrated that the abundance and distribution of snail species are also indicators of whether a lake is suitable for fish.

Snails are great travelers and migrate from shallow to deep water. They crawl across lake and pond bottoms and shorelines, climb aquatic plant stems, and even glide along the underside of the water-surface film. Shallow water is the usual haunt of snails. However, they have been collected with dredges at depths up to 40 feet.

The slow-moving snail is fed upon by a great variety of animal life, including muskrats, frogs, turtles, birds, salamanders, and fish. The redear sunfish, for example, is called "shellcracker" because of its snail-eating habits. It crushes them, shell and all, with its strong pharyngeal and hard teeth.

Most snail shells are either right or left-handed and some are clamshaped in appearance. Most typical of the right-handed snails is the Lymnaea, while Physa is the most common of the left-handed snails. To determine whether a shell is right or left-handed, hold it with the opening toward you and with the tip pointing upward. If the opening is on your right the shell is righthanded or dextral. If the opening is on your left the shell is left-handed or sinistral.

The thickness of a snail shell is often directly related to the amount of calcium in a lake, which in turn is proportionate to the degree of alkalinity. The water quality of any lake or stream plays an important part in the total number of snail species present. However, individual species are found in highly variable water quality.

The Lymnaea, having lungs, are air-breathing snails whereas the Physa are gill-breathing. The larger wheel snail of the genus Planorbis is also air-breathing and is a common inhabitant of water-filled roadside ditches and ponds. Gill-breathing snails require water with high dissolved-oxygen levels.

Populations in ponds that freeze solid overwinter by burrowing into the mud at the bottom. Populations survive dry periods in much the same way.

The movement of snails is of interest as they glide slowly on their large, muscular feet constantly in search of food. The muscular portion of the snail which projects from the shell is called the foot, but it is much more than that. For the most part it is dully colored, usually being grayish, brownish, or blackish, and often flecked or mottled with yellow or white. The ventral surface of the foot is flat and there is a more-or-less prominent head at the anterior end. The head bears two tentacles which range from short and blunt to long and slender. The eyes are on or near the base of the tentacles. The mouth is on the ventral surface of the head at the front end and in contact with the substrata.

The foot consists mainly of muscle tissue, but also contains the front portions of the digestive tract and reproductive system, as well as most of the nervous system.

The great majority of freshwater snails normally feed on algae found growing on most submerged surfaces. Dead plant material is also ingested and occasionally dead animal material is eaten. Physa and Lymnaea commonly found in Nebraska are good scavengers and are essentially omnivorous. There are even a few records of Lymnaea feeding on live animals.

Just inside the mouth is a set of one, two, or three small head jaws, used in cutting off bits of food. Food is ground up by the rodula, which is analogous to the human tongue.

Egg laying usually occurs in the spring, although it may extend to the summer and early fall. The eggs are almost invariably deposited in a gelatinous mass on some substrata such as stones, plants, and other submerged objects. Some snails produce few eggs, others hundreds. By the time the young snails leave the egg mass they have taken on the basic features of adult snails. It is thought that in the great majority of species the life span is 9 to 15 months, but some species are known to live as long as 3 or 4 years.

When it comes to eating snails, we must defer to the French. They eat some 600 million a year, enough to stretch around the world 1 1/2 times. However, the snails involved in the Frenchman's diet do not occur in Nebraska. To supply the tremendous demand, French growers raise snails like livestock, nourishing them on special food and penning them in small "parks" with loose, moist soil.

Snails are often blamed for "swimmer's itch" because of minute organisms they release which burrow themselves into the skin of swimmers. Although it is not a common occurrence, this has been known to happen, particularly in the Salt Valley Lakes.

Probably the Nebraska snails' most important function in the ecological cycle is that of being a food source for higher species. More than that, they are interesting little creatures.

THE END 54 NEBRASKAland  

Where to go

Thayer County Museum, Spring Valley Park

ATOP A HILL in Belvidere is an old schoolhouse, standing like a sentinel overlooking the flatness of Thayer County. It is not an imposing structure, but for county residents it is a dedication to the past, full of memories both amusing and warm. It's the Thayer County Museum.

Although it was incorporated less than two years ago, the Thayer County Historical Society was organized back in 1966. A collection of historical items grew so large that a home was needed. This brought about an agreement with Belvidere's village council in 1970 to lease the top 2 floors of the school for a period of 10 years.

Officially opened June 14, 1970, the museum is debt free. Its collection of historical material has grown to such proportions that every room is used, and each is named. With more than 1,200 items, all cataloged and identified, the society foresaw financial need last year and persuaded the county to allocate one-tenth of a mill for the museum this year. It will be open to the public every afternoon beginning in June. During winters it is open only Sundays.

Special days, at three-week intervals, are being dedicated this summer to Thayer County's 11 towns. With Alexandria, Belvidere, and Bruning already featured, the following dates have been scheduled: Byron May 2, Carleton May 23, Chester June 18, Davenport July 11, Deshler August 22, Gilead September 12, Hebron October 3, and Hubbell October 24.

Programs planned by citizen groups from the respective towns take place in the school's basement-level gymnasium, which is retained by the Belvidere council as a community center, but is available for whatever functions the Thayer County Historical Society plans.

Every place has its own amusing stories of the distant past, but one in Thayer County which still has not mellowed with age involves Johnny Carson, NBC Television's night owl. The museum's first curator was Mrs. Jan Carr, now of Omaha, who lived in Belvidere during the museum's opening. Before the big day she often worked alone in the school and complained to her friends about the lack of company. She was just putting the finishing touches to a display featuring an American Beauty single-seat buggy.

It so happened that Life magazine came out earlier in the year (January 23, 1970) with a distorted, front-page photo of Carson. That evening, after Mrs. Carr had complained of loneliness in the hollow halls of the building, her friends built a human dummy and used Carson's face, pasted onto a piece of cardboard, for the head and placed the mannequin in the American Beauty "to keep Jan company."

Of course the friends planned to take it out before opening day, but the story evoked so many comments from the people who saw it and heard the story that the group decided to let it be.

Mrs. Jackie Williamson of Belvidere, the museum's present curator, and Mrs. Virginia Priefert, president of the historical society, have a wealth of similar stories to tell, many of them about the fun they had getting the museum started, others relating directly to some historical item. Their attitude remains fresh, free of the stodginess often attributed to museum workers. They giggle about slightly scandalous affairs which would probably make other people turn away in righteous indignation. One such incident took place several decades ago near Stoddard, a now-defunct village, when a group of shysters built a derrick over a supposedly promising oil well, sold shares in a fly-by-night corporation, and then absconded with the funds.

'That derrick stood for more than 10 years," Mrs. Priefert says with a twinkle in her eye, and points out a framed photograph of the rig, hanging in what is called the Thayer County Room.

One of the most interesting displays is in the Mechanical Progress Room. It is a complete collection of Nebraska automobile license plates dating back to 1915, the first year they were made. Before that year the state issued only individual metal numbers to vehicle owners, who put them on any material they chose, such as leather flaps, and attached them to the car or mounted them directly to the auto's radiator.

An embodiment of the ecumenical theme is the Church Room, with an altar from the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hebron, an organ from Harmony Lutheran Church northwest of Bruning, a podium from the Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, a painting of the former Methodist Church in Belvidere, and some cast iron stars from the bell tower of the First Christian Church in Hebron.

The Hobby Room displays crafts from candles to woodwork. Other nooks named MAY 1971 57   after the functional rooms of ordinary homes are furnished with relics which belonged to the pioneer grandparents and great-grandparents of Thayer County's residents. The old-time bedroom has on its wall a needlepoint sampler called "The Garden of Eden" brought from Germany in 1879.

The Parlor Room contains valuable antiques including a Columbia Graphophone which uses cylinders instead of record discs. This particular model sold for $16.95 in 1906, but today it is worth much more.

There's a collection of barbed wire showing all the different styles homesteaders used to build fences around their pastures, and a unique arrangement of hand tools gathered from forgotten corners throughout the county.

There's a collection of barbed wire showing all the different styles homesteaders used to build fences around their pastures, and a unique arrangement of hand tools gathered from forgotten corners throughout the county.

The list goes on, too long to mention even an appreciable number of items. The best way to find out what else the museum holds is to visit the place. It's located at the northern end of Belvidere, which is a mile off U.S. Highway 81, 42 miles south of Interstate 80.

A map prepared by the Alexandria Community Club shows a nine-mile circular route to interesting places in the surrounding countryside. It leads to the Alexandria Lakes, the Oregon Trail Monument, the county's first stone bridge built in 1866, a defunct skunk farm, and camping, picnic, and recreation areas. Thus, a day in Thayer County can be well spent.

Another worthwhile place in the state to visit, where the host greets all guests with warmth and hospitality, is Spring Valley Park just west of Newport at the junction of Nebraska Highway 137 and U.S. Highway 20. Newport is approximately 135 miles north of Interstate 80 via U.S. Highway 183, 11 miles east of Bassett, or via U.S. Highway 281, 38 miles west of O'Neill.

Vic Thompson, as friendly as he was in 1938 when he and his wife Maude first opened their property to highway travelers, is carrying on in a spirit described by the National Safety Council as being in complete harmony with the constant plea for drivers to stop when fatigued.

Vic Thompson, as friendly as he was in 1938 when he and his wife Maude first opened their property to highway travelers, is carrying on in a spirit described by the National Safety Council as being in complete harmony with the constant plea for drivers to stop when fatigued.

Spring Valley Park is considered to be Nebraska's first roadside rest area. In 1966, the Thompsons dedicated their Memorial Forest and asked that all 50 states plant official trees there. Thus far 38 states are represented. With several more plantings scheduled this summer, Vic hopes to have all 50 states represented within the next few years.

The 1,100-acre wildlife refuge has 11 ponds where anglers are welcome to try their luck and hunters to test their skill. Plots for research under Future Farmers of America are available on a firstcome, first-served basis.

The only requirement for staying in the park is to sign the guest book. The park's motto is "For Safety's Sake... Stop and Rest" - a good idea.

THE END 58 NEBRASKAland

HICKOK LEGEND

(Continued from page 53)

were prompted by military business at Fort McPherson, just east of North Platte. For several years Hickok served as scout, guide, and spy for the military. Cody, his lifelong friend since the wagontrain incident of years before, possibly influenced him to travel to McPherson, too, as Cody was stationed there for some time.

Little of consequence ever occurred during any of these trips, however, judging from newspapers of the period. Nebraska did serve a role in one of Wild Bill's attempts at show business, however. In the early summer of 1872, Wild Bill rounded up several head of wild buffalo in southern Nebraska, moved them to Omaha, and loaded them aboard a train for shipment to Niagara Falls, New York for participation in a "wild west" show.

Success of the show is uncertain, as reports conflict. One version is that it ended in utter failure when the buffalo escaped and ran through the streets, accompanied by a hungry bear. Also, no admission for the show was charged, since "passing the hat" was relied upon. Other sources, however, claim the show was well received and only personality conflicts were responsible for Wild Bill's leaving the show.

Hickok again ventured into show business with Buffalo Bill Cody in 1873, but his career did not last long. What he considered to be sham and artificial did not agree with him, although he was a popular attraction. He finally departed after a year, apparently still on good terms with Buffalo Bill.

Despite his inability to accept the theater, many things about Hickok's personality had a theatrical flair about them. Such was the case when he was finishing out his term as sheriff in Hays City, Kansas in 1870. Before Hickok left the office, a pugilist by the name of Patterson came to town to open a gymnasium. When he found enthusiasm for his business lacking, he thought of the idea of a bout with Hickok for publicity purposes.

He stepped up to Hickok in a crowded saloon one night and challenged him. Hickok accepted, and they stepped outside. When Patterson assumed the scientific posture of the professional boxer, Hickok stood in disbelief. Then he sailed into Patterson and pummeled him insensible within minutes, "rough and tumble" style.

But the West was taming rapidly. The mining towns of the Black Hills were among the last to go, but they could never compare in "wildness" with the terminal towns along the cattle-drive trails. Still, the lawless elements abounded. Law was obviously absent when Hickok made his way to Deadwood in 1876. En route he stopped at a military outpost which was supposed to have been set up on Hat Creek in western Nebraska, but which had been mistakenly established on Sage Creek in eastern Wyoming. There, Hickok met Buffalo Bill for the last time, then continued on his way to the gold fields and his death. His killer was an unknown drifter with whom Hickok never had any trouble, as far as can be determined. Nor was any reason ever found for McCall to shoot him from behind. It was theorized that the Sidney shooting may have been a factor, as the three men killed there by Hickok had been friends of McCall.

But the legend of Wild Bill Hickok didn't end with his death, and it was, perhaps, fortunate that he died when he did, and in the manner he did. Inside, Hickok probably resented the changes that swept all too rapidly across "his" west, and much of his glamour would have worn off, had he lingered on.

The smashing of a bullet through his brain ended a way of life admired by many, but suitable to very few. With his vision growing steadily worse he would eventually have been easy prey for a glory hound, but Hickok covered his impairment to the end. He confided his weakness only to a couple of trusted friends, and was able to bluff his enemies.

Plows changed the southern Nebraska prairie where he had hunted buffalo and trapped wildlife undisturbed. Church socials and ladies' aid societies replaced the rowdy barrooms where his guns had been the highest authority. Fortunately, he had always been on the side of the law, as he would have been a formidable criminal.

From the Rock Creek Station affair to the Sidney shootout, Nebraska claims the dubious honor of seeing the beginning and end of Wild Bill's gunfighting career. Although it spanned only 15 years, it was a period that singled out the heroes from a multitude of toughs, crooked gamblers, lawbreakers, and the common folk who found their way into the colorful frontier life.

THE END

BASS ON THE RUN

(Continued from page 36)

for —an open gate that would provide easy access to the river.

In an era when more and more private property is posted "no trespassing", it is refreshing to find landowners who co-operate with sportsmen. Thanks to the co-operative farmer who owns the land south of the river just upstream from Harlan, many anglers have an opportunity to pursue their sport.

The open gate was found, and a small sign on the fence marked "FISHERMAN GATE" welcomed them. A dirt road led through the fields to the river's edge. Several cars and pickups parked along the side indicated that the bass were running.

"Looks like we might have picked the right day," Glenn said, watching a successful angler clamber up the bank with a heavily loaded stringer.

Alan noticed the variety of license plates. Besides cars from as far east in Nebraska as Lincoln, there were others from Kansas and Colorado. The run was on, and fishermen from near and far had the word.

Both Alan and Glenn have families and trailers (Continued on page 61)

J'S OTTER CREEK MARINA NORTH SIDE LAKE McCONAUGHY HWY. 92-OPEN YEAR AROUND ALL MODERN MOTEL • CAFE • BAIT • TACKLE GAS • BOAT RENTALS CHRYSLER BOATS MOTORS SALES • SERVICE PHONE LEMOYNE 308-355-2341 P.O. LEWELLEN, NEBR. 69147 COLLINS on Beautiful Johnson Lake . . . Lakefront cabins - Fishing tackle - Boats & motors • Free boat ramp • Fishing • Modern trailer court - Swimming - Cafe and ice - Boating & skiing - Gas and oil - 9 hole golf course just around the corner - Live and frozen bait. WRITE FOR FREE BROCHURE or phone reservations 785-2298 Elwood, Nebraska Kip's I drive-inn At Kip's the quality food and low prices you paid in 1968 are still the same today. We continue to serve the finest in seafoods, chicken, sandwiches and soft drinks. One minute from Interstate 80 Highway 47 to Gothenburg Fishermen and Hunters Enjoy the Harlan County Reservoir Stay at HARROW LODGED Box 606 ALMA, NEBRASKA 68920 Telephone 928-2167 HIGHWAYS 183-383 and 136 Air-Conditioned, TV, Telephones One and Two-Room Units Cale lJ2 Block Away Laundromat Nearby MAY 1971 59   IN LINCOLN it's the CONGRESS INN or the New SENATE INN MODERN LODGING COCKTAIL LOUNGE Tops in Food West O Highway 6 HAHLE'S FISHING CENTER FISHING EQUIPMENT RESTAURANT FACILITIES* EAT IN OR CARRY OUT OVERNIGHT CAMPER FACILITIES • GAS AND ICE RODS • REELS • LICENSES • MINNOWS-WORMS BOAT AND BARGE RENTALS call 345-3560 No. Hiway 83 • 10 miles from McCook RR 1 McCook • Hugh Butler Lake All Types LIVE BAIT OPEN 6 A.M. TO 10 P.M. South Side Co-op 8501 West "O" Street (Emerald) 435-1611 Lincoln, Nebr. 68502 NEBRASKA'S FIRST NEWMAN'S GUEST RANCH Specializing in family and youth vacations For complete information write MR. HERB NEWMAN JR. Stuart, Nebr. 68780 Tele-402-924-3292...IN ALMA BAIT SHOP and MOTEL Open 7 days a week • Fishing equipment Trailer Hookups • Hwy. 136 • Vera Jams, owner ON BEAUTIFUL LAKE McCONAUGHY Beautif uI 40 by 80 ft. lots at $250.00 per year. Permanent parking includes water and sewer. All other utilities reasonably priced. LEMOYNE BAY MOBILE HOME PARK 308 355-2311 Shirley Carey Lemoyne, Nebraska 69146 Plan to stay at... Samuelson's Lemoyne Cabins • Cooking Facilities • Free Fish Freezing Store • Gas • Tackle • Bait • Boat & Motor Rental • Guides L. R. "Monte" Samuelson ON BIG MAC Phone 355 2321 Lemoyne, Nebr.

Outdoor Calendar

HUNTING, FISHING Nongame Species-Year-round, statewide. State special-use areas are open to hunting in season year-round unless otherwise posted or designated. Hook and Line-All species, year-round, statewide. Archery- Game or nongame fish, sunrise to sunset. Hand-Nongame fish only, year-round, sunrise to Spearing sunset. Underwater-No closed season on nongame fish. Powered Spearfishing Turkey-Toms, April 24 to May 3. STATE AREAS

State Parks-The grounds of all state parks are open to visitors year-round. Park facilities are officially closed September 15.

Other areas include state recreation, wayside, and special-use areas. Most are open year-round, and are available for camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, and horseback riding. Consult the NEBRASKAland Camping Guide for particulars.

FOR COMPLETE DETAILS

Consult NEBRASKAland hunting and fishing guides, available from conservation officers, NEBRASKAlanders, permit vendors, tourist welcome stations, county clerks, all Game and Parks Commission offices, or by writing Game and Parks Commission, State Capitol, Lincoln, Nebraska 68509.

RUSSIA WITH PARTRIDGE

(Continued from page 47)

and state governments would share the cost load equally. Time and trouble constitute the major obstacles to importtion plans.

With international relations in their present state, it is impossible to put such a program on a timetable. Any diplomatic incident can put import-export negotiations on ice for an undetermined time period. And, the birds must go through a double quarantine enroute. They must be held in the Soviet Union for some time to assure that they are not transporting any disease out of the country. Then, they must be subjected to a 60 NEBRASKAland like holding period at the United States' point of entry. All of this takes time, thwarting any attempt to set up a specific timetable. Of course, there is always the possibility that the birds would show some sickness while in quarantine and the shipment would be cancelled. Since the state also has to provide personnel to assist in the actual operation, time would again fall victim to red tape. Even without such complications, there would still be the chance that the experiment would fail.

Several stockings of the ring-necked pheasant were tried across the nation before they finally took hold in Oregon. Even that was a fluke, but it was one that paid off. When they were introduced in Nebraska in the late 1800's, they were destined to become the mainstay of the state's hunting future. In 1958, the Merriam's turkey was brought into the state to broaden hunting horizons for Nebraska sportsmen. Their later appearance was more a reintroduction than a stocking. Thus, there is a possibility that bringing in a completely new species would not work. Initial response may indicate that the birds will survive. However, reproduction may occur for a few years only to fade out of the picture, leaving hunters who are ready to harvest the first crop wondering what happened. Among the major reasons for such failure are climatic conditions, particularly rainfall and temperature ranges encountered during reproduction. If a species is not successful in reproducing, failure of establishment is certain.

Something that might be equally hazardous would be rearing the birds in a game-farm atmosphere. Consequently, game biologists are opposed to contacting individuals to raise the new species in confinement, then releasing them into the wild. Birds raised in sheltered environments tend to lose many traits which are their salvations in the back country. Protection from the elements and daily rations of feed and water tend to dull survival instincts, spelling almost certain disaster for the birds once they are released. All minus factors aside, however, Nebraska may one day list these species among the top sporting birds in the state. If the species adapt to their new environment, huntable populations are projected for three to five years after introduction.

So, those dreams of far-off lands and exotic game may be on the verge of coming true. The day may come when every Nebraska hunter can take those foreign game birds right in his own backyard. Only time will tell because there are few seers in the game management field and even fewer crystal balls.

THE END

BASS ON THE RUN

(Continued from page 59)

which they take on numerous camping and fishing excursions. But today was their day, the kind every serious angler likes once in a while so he can concentrate on his sport. Stepping from the car, they thanked the weatherman for being so thoughtful. Clear skies with just enough of a cool breeze to keep things comfortable were the order of the day. A quick strategy session followed as they donned waders and organized gear.

"I think we can get down this side," suggested Glenn, "and wade through the shallows to work those pools across the way."

"Should be good," countered Alan. 'You can see where it drops off over there."

As he spoke, Alan put on a yellow jig. "This ought to do the job," he commented. "Dollflies are probably the most consistent bass getters."

"I'm going to go with this Mepps spinner," said Glenn, tying on the small, gold lure.

Discussion came to an end when Glenn brought in the first white bass with the spinner. Then, to emphasize the point, he quickly landed another.

"You can tell it's spawning time," Glenn noted. His soft push on the underside of a female sent a stream of greenish fluid from its belly.

"They sure are ripe," added Alan. "Look at those eggs."

With Glenn two fish up, Alan caught his first. Working downstream, the pair met other anglers who had been there since early morning. Their stringers were loaded with good-size bass, evidence that a little persistence could yield a lot of fish. Some fishermen make a day of it and go home with literally buckets and bushel baskets full of white bass.

But large numbers of fish didn't concern Glenn and Alan. Primarily interested in learning about the bass run, they were content to experiment with different lures, try a variety of areas, and enjoy a relaxing day outdoors.

Glenn was using a new rod and reel for the first time. He enjoyed telling Alan about how he had won it in the Omaha World Herald "Tall Tales" contest. His proficiency in making up fish stories also won him a tackle box. Glenn told how a few days after his win he received a letter addressed only to "the biggest liar in Holdrege". A friend had read about the contest and had sent a letter to him with that address, and he had received it.

"Word sure got around fast," laughed Glenn.

Alan chuckled and added, "I wish you had won a new pair of breast waders; these you loaned me have a leak and my feet are getting wet."

After lunch, the fishermen headed to a spot a little farther downstream. Using different lures, the two enjoyed continued success. It seemed that the bass weren't too particular. Shysters, Thin Fins, and vari-size Mepps all brought good results. A variety of spots also proved fruitful. The best, however, were the slow, deep holes right off the edges of the sandbars. The bass would work toward the shallows as they pursued minnows.

The silvery, striped bodies of the white bass could be seen in the shallows of the river. Freshwater members of the seabass family, they are closely related to the striped bass, another game fish recently brought into Nebraska waters. White bass will reach a length of about 18 inches, but most of those Alan and Glenn were catching ranged from 10 to 14 inches in length, weighing about a pound or so. Having caught enough that morning for their own purposes, they released all those landed in the afternoon, leaving quarry for other anglers on other days.

On the way home after their satisfying day outdoors, the two anglers noticed a familiar sign of spring-gulls swooping in the wake of a plow pulled by a tractor. Once plowing was done, it would be another year before the gulls would again seek free meals behind the knifing blades. Trees were in blossom, but when petals fell it would be another year until their colors would again grace the countryside. And, it would also be a year before the white bass would once again respond to spring's call and begin their Republican River run.

THE END

SQUAWK-BOX BANDITS

(Continued from page 39)

jobs sometimes foul up, but with a professional serenade taken down on tape there was little chance for a bobble. And, taped calls left all hands free for shooting. Be that as it may, calling crows still means getting in close enough to be heard.

Clarence, Mike, and Delmar were about halfway up the belt when they called a halt. The wind was heavier than ever as Mike set the decoys and his two companions ducked into the heavy brush. In a matter of moments, tape recorders were belting out the age-old refrain of attacking crows. All the hunters could do was wait. With a frigid wind blasting them in the face, it didn't take long to realize that the set was wrong. In the first place, the crows were ignoring the calls of their mobbing comrades. They moved in and out of the belt as though there were no one within a hundred miles. And since they were always well out of range, that was essentially the case.

"Let's pick up our gear, move around the end of the trees, and set up again," Mike suggested. "Maybe we're just not reaching them from here."

No one was going to argue with a suggestion like that. It meant getting some relief from the cold and possibly putting them into position to do some shooting. Well intentioned or not, though, the move was as unproductive as the first set. Things started off pretty well, though. Mike was just over a barbed-wire fence and had his back to Clarence when the latter let go with both barrels of his 12-gauge side-by-side. The objects of his pursuit, two fat crows, simply sideslipped into the wind and were swept away. Undaunted, Clarence muttered something to himself, reloaded, and watched his partners move into position to start calling.

Within minutes, three crows appeared just out of range. Cautiously, they moved in for a (Continued on page 64)

MAY 1971 61

Roundup and What to do

From cultural festivals to sports, May will explode

EVERYTHING'S COMING UP roses and pansies and petunias as May steps delicately into Nebraska. And, here to greet her is softer-than-springtime, Kristi Maser, NEBRASKAland's hostess of the month. As all the state bursts into bloom, Kristi dips into clear Nebraska waters.

Kristi is a sophomore at the University of Nebraska's Teacher's College majoring in English and minoring in sociology. She hopes to teach either in a country school, or with VISTA. The daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wesley John Maser of Lincoln, she is a graduate of Lincoln East High. In high school, this lovely miss was elected to the National Honor Society. Now, she is a member of Delta Gamma sorority. As a freshman she was a member of Alpha Lambda Delta, women's honorary sorority.

Kristi's titles include Miss Nebraska Air National Guard, Miss Rush Week, and Miss September for the Phi Gamma Delta calendar. She was runner-up for Derby Day Queen and first runner-up for Sig Ep Sweetheart. She lists living as her hobby. Outdoor sports are her favorites, including skiing, golfing, tennis, and swimming. She refinishes antiques and writes poetry. She also paints in oils.

There are outdoor events aplenty to catch the interest of Kristi and all other lovers of action. The Women's College Softball World Series is scheduled for May in Omaha. Sanctioned by both the Amateur Softball Association and the Division of Girl's and Women's Sports, the series, now starting its third year, was won last year by the team from John F. Kennedy College in Wahoo. Their 1970 win put the "Patriettes" of Nebraska in the winner's circle for the second consecutive time.

Other action on the diamonds will draw fans to the stands during May. High school baseball teams will be competing in district playoffs, and finally in the state meets on May 18, 19, and 24.

Another outdoor activity using a ball is golf, and several tournaments dot the month's schedule. An open golf tournament in Oshkosh will kick off the activity, and both sand-green and grass-green meets will pit the best high-school golfers against each other in state golf contests.

But there is still more outdoor activity in Nebraska. From May 1 to July 5 the ponies will be running at Ak-Sar-Ben in Omaha. Horses will be moving at a slower pace in Cambridge for the annual trail ride May 2. The Midstate Track Meet at Cozad May 29 will feature a variety of events, while the McCook Demolition Derby the next day will have one attraction — crashing cars.

Those who like quieter sport will be inspired by Nebraska's many fishing waters. From trout in Lake McConaughy to crappie from Harlan County Reservoir, the state is an angler's paradise.

The McCook Chamber of Commerce will host a fishing derby at Red Willow Lake May 15 and 16. Three trophies will be presented in each of two adults' and children's categories. Winners will be selected on a point system with each species of fish good for a specified number of points.

Swift waters and faster men are the basis for another spring sport. A canoe race down the Blue River is a planned part of the Homestead Days celebration in Beatrice May 26 to 30. The race is sanctioned by the Midwest Canoe Association.

The thunder of jets will mark observance of Armed Forces Day at Offutt Air Force Base near Omaha. The Thunderbirds flying-demonstration team will give a show there May 16. Offutt will hold an open house in conjunction with the day's events.

Far to the west, in Red Cloud, the centennial celebration will be progressing with several events. There will be a Mother's Day breakfast on May 7, and flower and garden show May 22 and 23. On May 29 there will be an alumni banquet. Some members of the first graduating class of the 100-year-old school will be in attendance.

On Sunday, May 30, a notable-native-sons recognition will honor some native of Red Cloud who has made a great contribution to society and still lives in Nebraska.

Antique hunters will have a field day in Brownville May 30 when the annual spring festival and flea market bring all the old objects out of basements and attics.

Other cultural events are on the program, though they involve more intangible aspects of prairie heritage. Instead of the material objects of a bygone era, they concern the dances and customs of a different time and different people. One of these cultural events is German Heritage Days in McCook, May 1 and 2. Another is the Lincoln Square Dance Festival May 1.

Another part of heritage is observance of holidays, and Arbor Day festivities in Nebraska City qualify as part of the Nebraska heritage.

Held each year the first weekend in May, this year's festivities May 1 and 2 promise to be bigger and better than ever.

What to do 1 — Loyalty Day Parade, Norfolk 1 —Square Dance Festival, Lincoln 1-2 —German Heritage Days, McCook 1-2-Arbor Day Celebration, Nebraska City 1-July 5 —Horse Racing, Omaha 2-Trail Ride, Cambridge 2 - Open Golf Tournament, Oshkosh 6-High School Rodeo, North Platte 6-7-Class A High School Baseball District Playoffs, Omaha 7-Centennial Mother's Day Breakfast, Red Cloud 7-8-Technical Fair, Milford 7-9-"The Apple Tree", Lincoln Community Playhouse, Lincoln 8-State High School Sand Green Golf Meet, Class A at St. Paul, Class B at Franklin 8-9 - High School Rodeo, Gordon 8-9 - Lincoln Gem and Mineral Show, Lincoln 9-Registered Trap Shoot, Lincoln Gun Club, Lincoln 10-11-Class A High School Baseball District Playoffs, Omaha 10-15-High School Grass Greens Golf District Playoffs 10-16 —Centennial, Juniata 14 —High School Rodeo, Chadron 14-15-High School Rodeo, McCook 14-16-Gateway '71 Agriculture-Industry Show, Kearney 14-16-Women's College Softball World Series, Omaha 14-16-"The Apple Tree", Lincoln Community Playhouse, Lincoln 15-U.K.C. Licensed Wild Coon Hunt, Salt Valley Coon Hunters Club, Ulysses 15-16-Fishing Derby, McCook 16 —Armed Forces Day, Bellevue 17-18-Class A High School Baseball District Playoffs, Lincoln 18-19-Class A State High School Baseball Tournament, Omaha 21-State High School Grass Greens Golf Meet, Class A at Hastings, Class B at Lincoln 21-22-State High School Track Meet, Kearney 21-23-"The Apple Tree", Lincoln Community Playhouse, Lincoln 22 - Industrial Exposition, Norfolk 22-23 - High School Rodeo, Ainsworth 22-23 - Capital City Horse and Pony Club Horse Show, Lincoln 22-23-Centennial Flower and Garden Show, Red Cloud 24-Class A State High School Baseball Tournament, Lincoln 26-30 - Homestead Days, Beatrice 29-Midstate Track Meet, Cozad 29-Centennial Alumni Banquet, Red Cloud 29-30-High School Rodeo, Crawford 29-30 - Nebraska Muzzle Loading Rifle Association Gun Show, Grand Island 30-Demolition Derby, McCook 30 - Spring Festival and Flea Market, Brownville 30-Notable-Native-Sons Recognition, Red Cloud 30-Registered Trap Shoot, Lincoln Gun Club, Lincoln 30-High School Rodeo, Mullen, Valentine THE END 62 NEBRASKAland

SQUAWK-BOX BANDITS

(Continued from page 61)

closer look, the biggest of the three leading the way. The big black swung in, stayed just out of range, then called a halt to the games and ushered his companions out of the way. Clarence was talking to himself again.

By nine o'clock, the hunters had had it. What crows were left were staying clear of them, and the majority had moved on to greener shelterbelts. Mike called a conference.

"We're getting nowhere fast. Let's pack up and head in, then we'll get back out here before they roost this afternoon. If we're in the roost before they arrive, we should have a pretty fair chance of downing some."

On the trip back to David City, Mike and Clarence made arrangements to head for the field about two that afternoon. Delmar had to cancel out because of prior commitments, so that left the shooting — or lack of it — up to the other two.

Considerably warmer and rested, Mike and Clarence cruised into the roosting area shortly after two.

"Would you look at that!" Clarence almost went up on the dashboard in his excitement. "There must be a thousand crows out there! Look at them swarm into those trees!"

Possibly nature's weather gauge had warned the crows of an incoming storm, but at any rate they were roosting much earlier than either hunter had expected. Like bees drawn to a hive, they swarmed and milled, setting into the trees, then taking ofi again to repeat the performance.

"Well, there isn't much we can do about spooking them," Mike lamented. "We might as well just move right in and set up."

Less than 15 minutes later, the hunters were concealed under overhanging cedar branches and the recorders were going full blast. Crows that had moved out of the trees as Mike and Clarence moved in began to filter back, but they were still playing it cagey. Since both hunters were under heavy overhead cover, the crows lazed back and forth above them, staying clear of shooting zones as they cawed back at the recorders. One big black came in low, straight out of the south, checked out the decoys, fell back, and headed in again. Clarence tensed for a shot, but just as the target came within range, it took off.

The cat-and-mouse game continued for almost an hour before the two hunters pulled together for a parley.

"They've moved to that belt just south of us," Clarence offered as he motioned to a shelterbelt about half a mile away.

"I know. I've been watching them. Sup- pose I take the car and slip over there to jar them out. I talked to the landowner last night and we have his permission to hunt that land, too."

Mike was on his way almost before the last words were out of his mouth, and Clarence settled into another ambush position farther up the shelterbelt. He didn't have to wait long. No sooner was he settled and comfortable when it seemed half the crow nation lifted out of the distant trees. Circling for a minute, they turned and headed straight for him.

The first wave hit and immediately decided to take apart the owl decoy. The move cost them three of their number.

With the wind threatening to rip the shelterbelt out by its roots, Clarence had to wait until his targets were within 15 to 20 yards. Then he began tossing out No. 6's as fast as he could. The first crow went down like a ton of bricks, but the next one was a little harder to kill. As he took to the turf, the flock followed him down and gave up another of their brothers to a well-aimed load of shot. The smoke was just clearing as Mike roared up, jumped out, and slid into position.

Since they had been kicked out of their alternate windbreak once, it only figured that the crows would keep right on coming in, despite the firepower they encountered en route. And that held true for a while. In bunches of 15 or 20, they filtered up the eastern edge of the break, then angled down its length. About halfway down they ran into Mike's auto-loading 20-gauge. One crow, evidently confused by the gunfire, ventured in to about 10 yards from Mike. The first shot sent him earthward with a broken wing and left only his running ability to fall back on. A blast from the 12-gauge up the row put an end to that.

Then, almost as fast as it began, the action flagged. Crows were still working distant windbreaks, but despite efforts to shake them loose, they weren't moving. Mike, however, still itching to get in more shooting before the cloud-covered sun slipped away completely, decided to walk out a few. Clarence was content with staying put.

Whether Mike kicked out the next flight or not will never be known. That they came in was to be one of the most frustrating parts of a frustrating day. Clarence was standing well back in the trees when maybe a hundred crows swept in from the east, then angled south right into the shooting zone. Clarence's first load of No. 6's went wild, but the second upended a larger-than-average black one. Only wounded, the bird managed to make it out another 30 yards before he smacked into the frozen earth. Then, without warning, the rest of the flock followed him down, swirling above him, landing, then taking off again. All Clarence could do was stand in the trees, watch, and talk to himself.

What had begun earlier as just a few flakes of snow had now whipped up into a full-fledged squall. So, it wasn't too surprising that getting a shot at a crow was like trying to carry water in a sieve. Still, Mike was nowhere to be seen as Clarence headed back to the pick-up point and the warmth of the car.

About half an hour later, the second hunter came bouncing up lugging two downed crows and spewing out his story.

"I wouldn't have believed it. I was just walking along and there were two birds sitting just on the other side of the ditch. They were out of range, so I started walking toward them. I couldn't have been more than 10 yards away when they finally took off. Got both of them."

By now, the snow was really setting in and David City wasn't getting any nearer. So, with some regrets, the pair backed the car around and headed for home. Mike, reflecting on the day's activities, must have been thinking out loud when he said:

"Well, we found out the recorders don't work in high winds, but I'd like to try thern on a quiet day. Still, the shooting wasn't bad after we finally got set. Let's try this again sometime."

Clarence just mumbled something to himself.

THE END 64 NEBRASKAland

NEBRASKAland TRADING POST

Acceptance of advertising implies no endorsement of products or services. Classified Ads: 18 cents a word, minimum order $3.60. July 1971 closing date, May 9. Send classified ads to: Trading Post, NEBRASKAland, State Capitol, Lincoln, Nebraska 68509 DOGS AKC basset hound puppies. Whelped March 8. $50.00. Dean Honnen, 4118 St. Paul Ave., Lincoln, Nebraska 68504. Phone 466-5722. AKC hunting dogs. Irish setters, English Spk. spaniels, pups, dogs and stud service. Also Westie and Basenji in December. Kirilu Kennels, Hebron, Nebraska 68370. Tele. (402) 768-6237. AKC Vizsla pups, excellent hunters and pets, stud services, Freeman Guide & Sports Service, Valentine, Nebraska 69201. Phone (402) 376-2703. HUNTING DOGS: German shorthairs, English pointers, Weimaraners, English, Irish, and Gordon setters, Chesapeakes, Labradors, and golden retrievers. Registered pups, all ages, $60 each. Robert Stevenson, Orleans, Nebraska 68966. TRAINING, gun dog, retrievers and all pointing breeds. Individual concrete runs, the best of feed and care. Year round boarding. Pointer pups of the finest gun dog breeding. Point, back & retrieve early. Easy to break; registered. Platte Valley Kennels, 925 E Capitol Av., Grand Island, Nebraska (308) 382-9126. MISCELLANEOUS AFRICANS 3'V£ up, $12.00—1000. Beyond 3rd zone 25$ extra. Postpaid. Clif's Worm Hatchery, Lawrence, Kansas 66044. BASS fishermen — Cape Cod "Perlene" premium quality monofilament. "The line the guides use now available in Nebraska — write Gail McKie, 808 No. 27th, Lincoln, Nebraska 68503. BOAT charters for your organization, customers, school or family. Luxurious new excursion boat. Ponca and South Sioux City. Stardust River Cruises, Inc., Ponca, Nebraska (402) 755-2511. CABINS for rent. Near Alexandria State Lakes. Completely furnished, all electric, kitchenettes, bath. Country-Lakeview Cabins, Alexandria, Nebraska. Phone 749-4016. CUSTOM upholstery makes $$$! Re-do chairs, sofas, seats, even boats, cars, campers for high pay. No experience needed. We show you modern ways, furnish illustrated home instruction, tools, supplies, beautiful material choices. Send for big FREE book, FREE project lesson. Approved for veterans. Modern Upholstery Institute, Box 899 EHD, Orange, California 92669. CMncen advises FOR sale: 42 acres on Niobrara river 12 miles east of Valentine. House—6 rooms and bath. Main outbuilding 36 x 24. Wired, water, and cement floor. Pens for kennel operation. $12,500.00 cash. Everett Bristol, Valentine, Nebraska 69201. Phone 376-2539. FREE catalog: Feathers and hooks for flies and jigs. Custom jig molds. All popular reel parts. Tackle Shop, 2406 Hancock Street, Bellevue, Nebraska 68005. GERMAN shorthair pups, 6 weeks old. Will trade for Blue Australian shepherd. Willis L. Plate, R.R. 2, Box 19A, North Loup, Nebraska. HOW much are your bottles worth? "Bottle Collector's Handbook—Pricing Guide" identifies, prices over 2,500 collectible bottles. $3.95 postpaid. (Guaranteed!) Infobooks, Box 5001-NL, San Angelo, Texas LARSON boats, largest dealer in Nebraska. Also Appleby aluminum boats, sail boats, pontoons, trailers, Johnson and Bearcat motors, Cushman tracksters. Large service department, boating sup- plies. Get our low, big-volume prices. Blackburn's, 14 West 18th St., Scottsbluff, Nebraska (308) 632-6121. NEW, used and antique guns: $1 for year of lists or stop in at Bedlan's Sporting Goods, Fairbury, Nebraska 68352 RAINBOW trout and catfish fishing, also trout and catfish for stocking. Lake George, Oxford, Nebraska 68967. Phone (308) 824-3160. RED worms. Postpaid within 300 miles. Write for prices. Closed Sundays. Nels Ibsen, 2715 West A, North Platte, Nebraska 69101. SOLID plastic decoys. Original Do-It-Yourself Decoy-Making Kit. All species available. Catalog 25 cents. Decoys Unlimited, Box 69E, Clinton, Iowa 52732. SPARTAN, metal detectors, top quality fully guaranteed. Endorsed by Karl Von Mueller. Free literature. Paul Tainter, 335 North Williams, Fremont, Nebraska 68025. STINK bait — cut shad stink bait, also frozen shad gizzards. Tackle. Stueve's Wholesale & Rental, Wymore, Nebraska. WANTED: old fencing tools—stretchers, pliers, tightners, etc. Describe fully. Also printed material on fencing. C. Bose, Orleans, Nebraska 68966. REAL ESTATE GOVERNMENT lands. Low as $1.00 acre. Millions acres! For exclusive "copyrighted report" . . . plus "Land Opportunity Digest" listing lands throughout U.S.; and valuable 17 x 22 treasure map of U.S., send $1.00. Land Disposal, Box 9091-NE, Washington, D.C. 20003. Satisfaction guaranteed. GOVERNMENT lands . . . low as $1.00 acre! Millions acres! For exclusive "Government Land Buyer's Guide" . . . plus "Land Opportunity Review" listing lands available throughout U.S., send $1.00. Satisfaction guaranteed. United Lands, Box 19108-XE, Washington, D.C. 20036. TAXIDERMY KARL SCHWARZ Master Taxidermists. Mounting of game heads - birds - fish - animals - fur rugs - robes - tanning buckskin. Since 1910. 424 South 13th Street, Dept. A., Omaha, Nebraska 68102. TAXIDERMY work. Recreate big game heads, fish, birds, and small animals. Visitors welcome. Larry's Taxidermy Shop, House of Birds, 1213 Second Street, Fairbury, Nebraska 68352. Phone 729-2764. cancer advises... crab onto one of the Best £>eAls AROund. Reach the meat of the maRket. invest in july classifieds July copy deadline: May 9

OUTDOOR NEBRASKAland of the Air

SUNDAY KHAS Hastings (1230) 6:45 a.m. KMMJ Grand Island (750) 7:00 a.m. KBRL McCook (1300) 8:15 a.m. KRFS Superior (1600) 9:45 a.m. KXXX Colby. Kan. (790) 10:15 a.m. KRGI Grand Island (1430) 10:33 a.m. KODY North Platte (1240) 10:45 a.m. KOTD Plattsmouth (100) 12 Noon KCOW Alliance (1400) 12:15 p.m. KICX McCook (1360) 12:40 p.m. KFOR Lincoln (1240) 12:45 p.m. KLMS Lincoln (1480) 1:00 p.m. KCNI Broken Bow (1280) 1:15 p.m. KAMI Coxad (1580) 2:45 p.m. KAWL York (1370) .3:30 p.m. KUVR Holdrege (1380) 4:45 p.m. KGFW Kearney (1340) 5:45 p.m. KMA Shenandoah, la. (960) 7:15 p.m. MONDAY KSID Sidney (1340) 6:15 p.m. FRIDAY KTCH Wayne (1590) 3:45 p.m. KVSH Valentine (940) 5:10 p.m. KHUB Fremont (1340) 5:15 p.m. WJAG Norfolk (780) 5:35 p.m. KBRB Ainsworth (1400) 6:00 p.m. SATURDAY KJSK Columbus (900) 6:00 a.m. KICS Hastings (1550) 6:15 a.m. KRNY Kearney (1460) 7:45 a.m. KERY Scottsbluff (690) 7:45 a.m. KTNC Falls City (1230) 8:45 a.m. KTTT Columbus (1510) 11:15 a.m. KCSR Chadron (610) 11:45 a.m. KGMT Fairbury (1310) 12:45 p.m. KBRX O'Neill (1350) 4:30 p.m. KNLV Ord (1060) 4:45 p.m. KKAN Phillipsburg, Ks. (1490) 5:15 p.m. KOLT Scottsbluff (1320) 5:40 p.m. KMNS Sioux City, la. (620) 6:10 p.m. KRVN Lexington (1010) 6:45 p.m. KJSK-FM Columbus (101.1) 9:45 p.m. DIVISION CHIEFS C. Phillip Agee, research William J. Bailey Jr., federal aid Glen R. Foster, fisheries Carl E. Gettmann, enforcement Jack Hanna, budget and fiscal Dick H. Schaffer, information and tourism Frank Foote, asst. director Richard J. Spady, asst. director Lloyd Steen, personnel Jack D. Strain, parks Lyle Tanderup, engineering CONSERVATION OFFICERS Ainsworth—Max Showalter, 387-1960 Albion-Robert Kelly, 395-2538 Alliance—Marvin Bussinger, 762-5517 Alliance—Richard Furley, 762-2024 Alma—William F. Bonsall, 928-2313 Arapahoe—Don Schaepler, 962-7818 Auburn—James Newcome, 274-3644 Bassett—Leonard Spoering, 684-3645 Bassett—Bruce Wiebe, 684-3511 Benkelman— H. Lee Bowers, 423-2893 Bridgeport—Joe UI rich, 262-0541 Broken Bow—Gene Jeffries, 872-5953 Columbus—Lyman Wilkinson, 564-4375 Crawford—Cecil Avey, 665-2517 Creighton—Gary R. Ralston, 425 Crofton—John Schuckman, 388-4421 David City—Lester H. Johnson, 367-4037 Fairbury—Larry 8auman, 729-3734 Fremont—Andy Nielsen, 721-2482 Gering—Jim McCole, 436-2686 Grand Island—Fred Salak, 384-0582 Hastings—Norbert Kampsnider, 462-8953 Lexington—Robert D. Patrick, 324-2138 Lincoln—Leroy Orvis, 488-1663 Lincoln—William O. Anderson, 432-9013 Lincoln—Dayton Shultis, 434-8926 Milford—Dale Bruha, 761-4531 Millard—Dick Wilson, 334-1234 Norfolk—Marion Shafer, 371-2031 Norfolk—Robert Downing, 371-2675 North Platte—Gail Woodside North Platte—Dwight Allbery, 532-2753 Ogallala—Parker Erickson, 284-2992 O'Neill—Kenneth L. Adkisson, 336-3000 Ord—Gerald Woodgate, 728-5060 Oshkesh—Donald D. Hunt, 772-3697 Plattsmouth—Larry D. Elston, 296-3562 Ponca—Richard D. Turpin, 755-2612 Riverdale—Bill Earnest, 893-2571 Rushville—Marvin T. Kampbell, 327-2995 Sidney—Raymond Frandsen, 254-4438 Stapleton—John D. Henderson, 636-2430 Syracuse—Mick Gray, 269-3351 Tekamah—Richard Elston, 374-1698 Valentine—Elvin Zimmerman, 376-3674 MAY 1971 65

IN HISTORIC BROWNVILLE . RESERVATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE 1971 PALMERTON ART WORKSHOPS May 7 through August 1 5 AND FOR CHARTER DATES ON THE EXCURSION BOAT "THE BELLE OF BROWNVILLE" May through October Planning a company party, church outing, school reunion, or social event? Then consider a charter date on the largest excursion boat on the Missouri River, -THE BELLE OF BROWNVILLE"! Butfet dining on board • refreshment bar • dance bands And for individual fun, Sunday afternoon excursions will start during May; exciting moonlight cruises will be offered every Saturday evening starting June 1. A rich source of challenging subject material, the "Belle" will also be an invaluable aid to the 1971 ART WORKSHOPS student. Starting May 7, a series of 3-day and 6-day workshops will be offered to the beginning and advanced student in the acrylic and watercolor media. THOMAS PALMERTON, instructor and artist-m- residence in Brownville, is widely known as one of the finest painters in the Midwest and his work has achieved national recognition and critic acceptance. Previous to his residence in Brownville, Mr. Palmerton was with the faculty at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. During the workshops, Mr. Palmerton will give lecture/demonstrations and emphasize individual instruction and field trips on location in historic Brownville. For more information, brochures, etc; write: 1971 ART WORKSHOPS, Box 3, Brownville. Nebraska 68321 (402) 825-6701 "THE BELLE OF BROWNVILLE", Box 96, Brownville, 68321 (402)825-4211 JOIN US IN BROWNVILLE

Outdoor Elsewhere

Iron Curtain Bears. Iron Curtain bears are not a newly found species of the animal or anything along that line. Rather, they are simply bears that happen to live inside Europe's Iron Curtain. And, they are mighty expensive bears, too. At least for the hunter. Hunters with plenty of money are being encouraged to visit countries such as Czechoslovakia to bag a bear. The fee is a mere $1,250 per trophy. And, to make sure that the bear is expensive enough, every shot costs the hunter $50 whether he hits anything or not. — Washington, D.C.

Recognition Solution. For a long, long time, anglers who headed south from Long Island, New York in search of the famous fishing trench known as Hudson Canyon, had difficulty in finding the area. The canyon is about 70 nautical miles south of Long Island and unless one was extremely familiar with the water, he had problems recognizing it when he arrived in the area. However, all this has been solved now. Anglers now know they have arrived when they begin passing empty gas drums that have been pitched overboard by skippers making the long run to the fishing grounds with limited fuel-tank capacity. —New York

Chain Reaction. The Department of Ecology offers an excellent example of what can happen to the environment when the natural food chain is upset. Borneo natives were very happy upon discovering that a certain pesticide effectively controlled mosquitoes. However, a drawback to the pesticide was that it also killed a wasp that feeds on caterpillars. The caterpillars, freed of their natural wasp predator, multiplied to the point that they began consuming the thatched roofs of the natives' huts. — Washington

A Grave Affair. A Minnesota mortician and his hunting partner were recently fined $500 each and also given suspended sentences of six months each. The stiff fines came as a result of game wardens confiscating seven "bodies" from the undertaker's box in his station wagon. The bodies turned out to be untagged, dressed deer, taken out of season. — Minnesota

Profitable Litter. The endless fight against litter in this country often becomes quite discouraging, but despite everything, here is an interesting advancement on the litter front. People in the Los Angeles area are collecting and turning in a million bottles and jars a week for recycling into new glass containers. Since the program started last April with 30,000 bottles, response has increased week by week and so far the Glass Container Manufacturers Institute has paid out over $40,000 from its eight redemption centers in the city. The proceeds have been used to buy clothes for needy children, build scout camps, and generally beautify the city. That's an incredible accomplishment —getting rid of litter and finding some use for it at the same time. — California

Expensive Insurance. Insurance costs money, and very few folks like to pay. However, this does not hold true for the American sportsman, who through license fees pays the insurance premiums for the future of America's game species. For example, in the early 1900's deer were numbered in the hundreds in many states and even extinct in others. But, today the total U.S. deer population is 16 million and increasing. By paying for the improvement of habitat, land purchase, and scientific management, sportsmen have increased the population of many game species to record proportions. Other success stories are the elk and antelope. There are now 5 times as many elk in the U.S. as there were in 1910 and more than a hundred times as many antelope. The list goes on and on to include wild turkey, ring-necked pheasant, chukar partridge, and many more. Thanks to the American sportsman who doesn't mind buying insurance, the future of our wildlife is well planned and protected. - Washington, D.C.

Super Seed Speed. More than 1,400 acres of Minnesota forest land were planted last winter with a snowmobile seeder that was invented by two conservation department employees. By using the speedy, snowmobile seeders, the men could go into rugged country and sow tree seeds at a cost of about $1.50 to $5 per acre. That figure compares to summer costs that run as high as $50 per acre.-Minnesota

66 NEBRASKAland

NEBRASKA Where History Lives On

By Carol Nelson, Wahoo. The poem, excerpts of which appear here, was judged winner of the 1970 Mari Sandoz Essay Contest sponsored annually by NEBRASKAland Magazine. The 1971 contest, open to all 7th through 12th grade pupils, is presently underway, and rules are available at schools or by writing NEBRASKAland Magazine, State Capitol, Lincoln, Nebr. 68509. Deadline for entries is May 17.

She's ninety-one springs old, my great grandmother Jo. A pioneer book of knowledge, Nebraska grown. Her eyes still snap with fire as she talks Of days ago when Indians roamed where now the white man walks:

"They were a hearty people, the hungry Pawnee. They ate whatever Pa would offer, long as it was free. But I remember white men who crossed an Indian's path. Many a pioneer was buried with the hatchet-hack Of an angry Indian he'd betrayed. A young man come from Sweden, Pa was quick to make his name. He found the challenge of a lifetime on the vast Nebraska plain. A two-room homestead house he built of wood, With a cellar dug beneath to keep our food. The days rolled on like patchwork quilts, Showing ribbons of scarlet-hued dawns. The countryside soils turned to mellowing silts, And I knew that it soon would be fall. Scarlet as the yarn of my stockings were the leaves darned in autumn-time trees. The evenings grew quiet; the winds barely sighed. We could hear the hungry wolves howling a close distance by. Pa set traps by our hen house to catch the stealthy thieves. In autumn Mama canned her grape jams. While Papa butchered beef and cured the hams. And I turned butter in a churn of wood. Christmas was soon to come around. The smells were as sweet as the sound Of crackling chestnuts in the fire. Mama cooked a dinner that was all we could desire. Golden Nebraska corn served with sweet butter and cream. Freshly baked bread grown from Nebraska wheat. Mama's grape preserves and a baked ham or two, With sweet molasses crinkles that Grandma baked up new. The family gathered round the fire to sing Christmas songs. Troubles were forgotten, and we laughed the whole night long. At last it was spring again. A thousand golden diadems Peered out from about the hills and fields. No greater joy can fill a heart—no bliss can be more real Than that which overflows at such a sight. Though men may change, as do the times, I can only say, That Nebraska, beautiful Nebraska, Will always stay the same."

She's ninety-one springs old, My great grandmother Jo. A pioneer book of knowledge, Nebraska grown.

See How America Grew MINDEN, NEBRASKA 12 Miles South of on FROM OX CARTS TO JET PLANES: The complete story of transportation from 1830 to the present is told by more than 500 exhibits of ox carts: prairie schooners, stage coaches, buggies, surreys & other horse drawn vehicles; bicycles; motorcycles; 125 antique automobiles, including early steam & electric models; boats & outboard motors; street cars & finally, 10 historic airplanes, including pusher, Jenny & iet. 30,000 HISTORIC ITEMS IN 22 BUILDINGS Everything Americans have used since 1830 —at work, at play, in the home. Antique autos; tractors; locomotives; airplanes; fine china; home furnishings; paintings; sculpture; much, much more. .Buildings include Indian Stockade, Pony Express Station, Pioneer Church, Sod House, People's Store, Land Office, Pioneer Railroad Depot. See it all in chronological order by walking less than a mile. ONE OF TOP 20 U.S. ATTRACTIONS KITCHENS OF YESTERDAY: Kitchens of the 1830s. 1860's, the 1890's, the 1910's and the 1930's have been authentically restored. The kitchen of each generation contains its improved version of appliances and utensils. Nation-wide publicity has been given these authentic kitchens at the Pioneer Village. Pioneer Village s Hobby House contains I. More than 5,000 items, representing collections of rivets, model autos and trains, dolls, decoys etc The contains priceless collections of china, glassware and COLLECTORS PARADISE: lector's collections. canes, hatpins, t nearby China Sho keepsakes carried west in covered wagons. fOpen 7 a.m. to sundown every day—restaurant, 66-unit motel, picnic and campgrounds adjoining Adults — only $1.50; minors 6 to 16 — 50$; little tots free SEND COUPON TODAY FOR FREE FOLDER FREE FOLDER COUPON Harold Warp PIONEER VILLAGE, Dept. O Minden, Nebr. 68959 Name Address City State