Preserving The Past
& Building For The Future
Our Mission and Vision
The Seward Blue River Historical District focuses on preserving the original log cabin and educating visitors about the area's early settlers, indigenous history, and agricultural development. We aim to maintain this heritage site as a resource for community learning and cultural appreciation.
Preserving Seward County’s Heritage Through Time
In 1866 Louis Leibrock entered upon and made settlement in the fall (one of the first settlers in what became H Precinct) and built a house thereon “of logs 17x19 feet with one door and three windows.” He also built a stable, granary, corn crib and set out 20 fruit trees. He was married with three children. He received his home-stead certificate in 1873 (the 132nd).
Louis Leibrock was born in Bavaria, and his wife in Illinois. By 1885 the family had grown to include seven children. In 1880, the Leibrocks sold a portion of the property to the German Evangelical Lutheran Immanuel Church of Middle Creek for $1. Louis Leibrock died in 1890, the result of a horse falling on him. Jane and the family remained on the farm, but ran into financial problems. The place was sold at a sheriff’s sale with Wilhelm Luebbe taking possession in December 1897.
Several years ago the present owner stated that they would like to give this significant part of the county’s history to Seward to preserve and share this story. And so, another chapter in history has begun. This project has proven to be an extraordinary example of collaboration of an extraordinary number of people contributing time, talent, and resources to build a lasting legacy for their community!
As this project develops, it has become clear that this site will tell the story of the early settlers, the Ponca Tribes’ forced trek through Seward County, the history of the Tallgrass Prairie-native species and pollinators, the evolution of agriculture in the Blue River Valley and its impact worldwide, and notable historic events.
Chronology of the Seward Blue River Historical District
Support Preservation and Education at Seward Blue River Historical District
About The Seward Blue River Historical District
The Seward Blue River Historical District preserves a log cabin and surrounding land that reflect the area's early settlement and cultural heritage. Our mission is to maintain these historic assets and provide educational resources that highlight the region’s past, including the lives of settlers, the Ponca Tribes’ journey, and the development of local agriculture.
What is the history behind the log cabin?
Built in 1866 by Louis Leibrock, the log cabin originally measured 17 by 19 feet and included a stable, granary, and corn crib. Leibrock planted 20 fruit trees and expanded his family to seven children by 1885. The property later transferred to the German Evangelical Lutheran Immanuel Church and then to Wilhelm Luebbe after a sheriff’s sale in 1897.
How does the district support education?
The district will offer interpretive exhibits and programs that explore early settler life, the forced migration of the Ponca Tribes through Seward County, the Tallgrass Prairie ecosystem, and the evolution of agriculture in the Blue River Valley. These initiatives aim to deepen community understanding of local history and cultural significance.
How can visitors contribute to preservation efforts?
Visitors can support the district by volunteering for restoration projects, participating in community events, or making donations. Contributions help fund maintenance, educational programming, and future developments such as the planned Information Center and hiking trails.
What upcoming projects are planned for the district?
Plans include establishing an Information Center to serve as a resource hub, creating hiking trails that showcase the natural and historical landscape, and developing exhibits focused on the area’s agricultural heritage and cultural stories.
Organization
Overview
Our Mission
The Seward Blue River Historical District is a
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization formed to facilitate the restoration and preservation of a historic log cabin and other historic items. Our extended goal is to share this history with our community and visitors, and use this site for educational purposes.
The Story
(Taken from County Records)
In 1866 Louis Leibrock entered upon and made settlement in the fall (one of the first settlers in what became H Precinct) and built a house thereon “of logs 17x19 feet with one door and three windows.” He also built a stable, granary, corn crib and set out 20 fruit trees. He was married with three children. He received his homestead certificate in 1873 (the 132nd). Louis Leibrock was born in Bavaria, and his wife in Illinois. By 1885 the family had grown to include seven children. In 1880, the Leibrocks sold a portion of the property to the German Evangelical Lutheran Immanuel Church of Middle Creek for $1. Louis Leibrock died in 1890, the result of a horse falling on him. Jane and the family remained on the farm, but ran into financial problems. The place was sold at a sheriff’s sale with Wilhelm Luebbe taking possession in December 1897. Several years ago the present owner stated that they would like to give this significant part of the county’s history to Seward to preserve and share this story. And so, another chapter in history has begun!
Creating The Working Structure
In 2022, a group of volunteers applied for and received the
501(c)(3) status. This allows for tax deductions and makes the group eligible to apply for grants. It was officially listed both federally and statewide as The Seward Blue River Historical District, and has a working board of directors for guidance and setting policy.
Profile
This project has proven to be an extraordinary example of collaboration of an extraordinary number of people contributing time, talent, and resources to build a lasting legacy for their community! As this project develops, it has become clear that this site will tell the story of the early settlers, the Ponca Tribes’ forced trek through Seward County, the history of the Tallgrass Prairie-native species and pollinators, the evolution of agriculture in the Blue River Valley and its impact worldwide, and notable historic actions!
