“No conception can be formed of the magnitude of this grand work of nature til you stand
at its base and look up. If a man does not feel like an insect,
then I don’t know when he should.”
~Elisha Perkins, Emigrant and Oregon Trail Survivor
Nearly half a million westbound emigrants and other travelers saw Chimney Rock as they trekked westward. Many remain nameless; a few left words and pictures describing their trip west. All were part of a great movement of people and ideas that passed by Chimney Rock in the years 1812-1866.
Today, the spire stands 325 feet above the plain, but during the time of the migration, Chimney Rock was substantially higher. It was indeed the most spectacular landmark on the entire trail. Many considered it the eighth wonder of the world. In their enthusiasm, some tried to climb the massive rock but none got higher than the base.
Many emigrants, surveyors, and members of military expeditions drew sketches of Chimney Rock as they passed in proximity. These sketches have been preserved by historical archivists and continue to stoke the embers of the spirit of exploration that still exist deep within the hearts of men today.
Chimney Rock was designated a National Historic Site on August 9, 1956, and is maintained and operated by the Nebraska State Historical Society. Located in the valley of the North Platte River, Chimney Rock is known as the most famous landmark on the Oregon-California Trail.
Chimney Rock, Morrill County, NE
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