California Hill - Ogallala, Nebraska
Posted by: 
gparkes
N 41° 07.528 W 101° 43.203
14T E 271662 N 4556251
This series of markers called the "Historic Walk of Fame," are located throughout the city. A brochure that can be obtained at the visitors center on Spruce Street will give the visitor a nice tour of the markers and the town.
Waymark Code: WM8512
Location: Nebraska, United States
Date Posted: 01/29/2010
Views: 4
Marker text states:
California Hill
Many emigrants to Oregon or California had to ford the South Platte River to continue their trek up the North Platte River to South Pass. The most important ford, known as the Old California Crossing, was a few miles west of present-day Ogallala. The South Platte was the most formidable obstacle the overland emigrants had yet faced. Some lost wagons or supplies and a few lost their lives to its swift water and shifting sands.
After fording the South Platte the emigrants faced a steep climb up a large hill that became known as California Hill. During their passage, the wheels of thousands of wagons left deep ruts that can still be seen today.