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Joshua Hardin
Located on the eastern side of Nemaha County, Brownville is a small town along the Missouri River with deep roots. With settlers dating back to 1854, this historic city is the site of the state’s first telegraph office. It also claims the honor of filing what’s considered the first claim for the Homestead Act. Daniel Freeman reportedly visited the Brownville land office ten minutes after midnight January 1, 1863, making him the country’s first official homesteader.
Possibilities for entertainment and historical excursions abound in Brownville. Stroll down Main Street and peruse artist galleries and a half-dozen museums. Enjoy a siesta at Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard and Winery, walk inside the 1854-era Didier Log Cabin or take a scenic river cruise aboard the Spirit of Brownville.
Learn more about Nemaha County communities and attractions by visiting enjoynemahacounty.org.
Discover Activities in Brownville

Brownville Main Street
Brownville's Main Street is a destination all by itself. Charming, modern and historical all at once, the street is lined with artist galleries, boutique shopping, a bookstore, an ice ...

Heritage Highway Scenic Byway
The Heritage Highway Scenic Byway stretches 238 miles east-west on U.S. Highway 136 starting in Brownville and ending mid-state not far from Holdrege. This road-less-traveled begins on the banks of ...

Didier Log Cabin
The Didier Log Cabin offers the chance to step inside pioneer history in Brownville's Boettner Park. Built in 1854 with whole logs stacked seven high, the cabin has been beautifully ...

Museum of Missouri River History
The Museum of Missouri River History in Brownville is located just south of U.S. Highway 136 in Riverside Park. This unique museum is housed in the Captain Meriwether Lewis ...

Boettner Park
Boettner Park in Brownville is a prime location for gatherings and festivals. The park offers the chance to have a picnic surrounded by green grass, trees and a wealth ...

Spirit of Brownville
The Spirit of Brownville offers Missouri River cruises Memorial Day through September near historic Brownville. Step aboard a river boat and enjoy two decks of covered seating as you ...

Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard and Winery
Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard and Winery in Brownville opened in 2002, but it looks and feels like a trip back through time. Located on the grounds of one of the ...
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