Rock Creek Station - History

History

Rock Creek Station was established in 1857 by S.C. Glenn along the Oregon Trail and California Trail, along the west bank of Rock Creek. The station was a supply center and campground for emigrants. In March 1859, the property was purchased by David McCanles and his brother, James, who added a toll bridge across Rock Creek, charging each wagon from 10¢ to 50¢ to cross the bridge depending upon their ability to pay. In 1860 McCanles built a cabin and dug a well on the east side of Rock Creek which became known as the East Ranch.

In early 1861 McCanles sold the East Ranch to the Russell, Waddell, and Majors firm, which owned and operated the Pony Express for a cash deposit with the remainder to be paid in installments. The West Ranch continued to be used as an emigrant rest stop and the home of the McCanles family until April, 1861, when McCanles sold the West Ranch to freighters Hagenstein and Wolfe and moved his family to another property three miles south of Rock Creek Station.

In July 1861, David McCanles, who had a reputation as being a local bully, stopped by Rock Creek Station to inquire about the status of an overdue installment. An argument ensued, and McCanles was shot and killed by a young James Butler Hickok, who later became known as Wild Bill Hickok.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission began development of the area as a state historical park and state recreation area in 1980. Deep trail ruts can be seen on the 390-acre (1.6 km2) park complex. The toll bridge and many of the station's buildings have been reconstructed, other attractions include a visitor center with exhibits about pioneers along the Oregon trail and Wild Bill Hickok, hiking trails, and a campground.