Lodge Pole Museum Board Grand Marshals

The first actual "museum" in Lodgepole was established and organized in 1959 by Mrs. Fern Lindley, a Girl Scout leader, and her troops. It was held in the First State Bank on Old Settlers weekend. After a few years, more space was needed as more donations were coming in. Later the museum was moved to the Foster Lumber Company building and eventually to the Englert Stone Hotel. All of the work was done by volunteers and still is today.

Upon hearing that Union Pacific was planning on destroying the depot that was located in Lodgepole, groups of Lodgepole citizens that were interested in the museum and its continuation spent many visits to the Union Pacific offices in North Platte. The railroad did finally agree to donate the depot building to the Village of Lodgepole.

In 1971 Filsinger Construction of Sidney donated time, energy and equipment to move the depot from the south side of Highway 30 to lots donated by the Burt Bates family. The present building was opened to the public on Labor Day 1972. From the first, 30 to 50 volunteers continued with planning activities and other refurbishments.

As the museum grew, the railroad donated a caboose which was added to the display. Funds for the moving of the caboose were raised from a large dinner and open house in 1980. Annex I, which is located behind the museum, was added later, and plans for the future include Annex II.

The goal from the very beginning of the museum, was to "collect one item from every pioneer family in the Lodgepole area" and volunteers continue to do this and have saved many historical items for future generations to enjoy. The displays are updated yearly and enjoyed by many visitors throughout the season.

At this time, there eight to 10 volunteers who organize and update. The monthly meetings of the Lodge Pole Historical Society are held at the museum on the third Monday of each month.

Today, the museum board consists of Laurie Abrams, Dianne Borm, Terry Christensen and Linda Markel. Other members include: Pam Smith, Jerry and Maryann Dickinson and Dixie Kripal, who has been with the museum from its very inception. The community would not have the wonderful museum that we have today if it were not for Dixie and all those hard working individuals that have served as previous board members.

Come visit Lodgepole on Labor Day Weekend, during the Old Settlers Celebration.