Sherman County: Water, History and Polish Heritage

The Loup River crosses Sherman County diagonally and helped attract many of the region’s first settlers. The Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area covers more than 2,800 acres of water and over 4,700 acres of surrounding land. The waterside landscape and outdoor activities are complemented by historical and cultural collections that reveal other sides of the county.

Water, Trails and Outdoor Activities

Sherman Reservoir has about 68 miles of shoreline, with numerous coves and sheltered areas for fishing, boating and water sports. Boats of all kinds are permitted; the lake has three ramps and three boat docks. Water levels and temporary restrictions can change, so check conditions before planning a boating trip.

The State Recreation Area has trails for walking, hiking and wildlife watching. Trail conditions may vary. The Sherman Reservoir Wildlife Management Area offers opportunities related to upland game, big game and waterfowl—a different focus from the trails and water activities in the recreation area.

Trade Winds Marina at Sherman Reservoir is a seasonal, full-service marina. It has a café with a full menu and groceries; kayaks and EZ-Slip boat docks are also available to rent. Operating hours and services may change, so check in advance whether the offering you want is available.

Bowman Lake covers 20 acres and provides access to the Middle Loup River. Fishing, camping, picnicking and swimming are possible at the lake; conditions and facilities may vary. Another specific activity option is the nine-hole Loup City Golf Course.

Historic Buildings and Collections

The five historic buildings of the Sherman County Historical Society are open Sundays in summer, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, from 1 to 4 p.m. Visits at other times can be arranged by appointment. Confirm seasonal visiting hours before your visit.

The buildings and exhibits cover a range of subjects. The Hanshew Building was originally built as a jewelry store for the Elsner family and now houses an “Old Time Barber Shop” with authentic historical artifacts. The Hawk School contains an original rural school classroom with historic student and teacher desks. The Austin School displays items from Sherman County schools and postal services, the Loup City Library, and a memorial to military personnel from the county.

The Marcy Building was built in 1909 by the Ohlsen Brothers and served as Dr. William L. Marcy’s dental office; its exhibits are devoted to businesses in Sherman County. The Ohlsen-Jenner House property includes a unique brick barn built around the same time as the original house. Elsner-Clark Hall features exhibits on churches, photography, transportation and the Sherman County Times, among other subjects.

The Sherman County Historical Society Research Center contains extensive records, many photographs, family histories and information about people who lived in Sherman County. These holdings complement the exhibits with a perspective on individual families and life stories in the region.

Polish Heritage and a Regional Drive

The Polish Heritage Center and Museum in Ashton has archives and historical exhibits. Artifacts and genealogical records document the history of Polish settlers in this part of Nebraska. Polish Days, Loup City’s annual celebration of Polish heritage, takes place on the second weekend in June. It begins with a parade and includes rides, entertainment, cultural events, contests, a beer garden, polka music and Polish food. Exact dates and the program may change; check them before visiting around the festival.

Further afield in the region, sections of the Sandhills Journey National Scenic Byway run between Ravenna and Ashton and between Ashton and Broken Bow. You can incorporate Sherman County experiences into a wider drive through central Nebraska.

Discover more destinations: Loup City, Dundy County, Madison County, Kearney County, Cedar County, Nuckolls County, Cass County, Holt County.

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