Bartlett, NE, is a small rural town located in Wheeler County in the north-central region of Nebraska. The town's history is rich with many significant events, including natural disasters and battles that took place in the area. Here are seven significant historical events that took place near Bartlett, NE.

1. The Battle of Massacre Canyon: In August 1873, a band of Sioux Indians led by Chief Little Crow attacked a group of Pawnee Indians who were camped along the Republican River, near the present-day town of Bartlett. The Pawnees, aided by white soldiers, fought back, resulting in the deaths of over 60 Sioux and 30 Pawnee warriors. This was the last major battle between Plains Indians in Nebraska.

2. The Blizzard of 1888: In January 1888, a deadly blizzard struck the Great Plains, including Nebraska. The storm left over 200 people dead and many more injured. Bartlett was not spared, and the town suffered several deaths due to the harsh winter conditions.

3. The Establishment of Bartlett: In 1883, a group of settlers led by J. P. Bartlett established the town of Bartlett. The town was named after its founder and quickly grew into a thriving agricultural community that remains a cornerstone of the area's economy to this day.

4. The Locust Plague of 1874: In the summer of 1874, the Rocky Mountain locusts descended upon Nebraska, causing widespread destruction of crops and farmland. The swarm was so massive that it could be heard from miles away, and it is estimated that billions of locusts passed through the area. Bartlett was one of many towns affected by the locust plague, and the damage caused by the insects had a lasting impact on the local economy.

5. The Construction of the Union Pacific Railroad: The Union Pacific Railroad was an essential part of the settlement of the Great Plains, and Bartlett was no exception. The railroad was constructed through the area in the 1860s and played a crucial role in connecting the isolated frontier communities to the rest of the country.

6. The Drought of 1934: During the middle of the Great Depression, the Great Plains suffered a severe drought that lasted for several years. The drought affected agriculture, causing crop failures and widespread economic hardship. Bartlett was one of many towns affected by the drought, and its impact is still felt in the area today.

7. The Establishment of Wheeler County: Wheeler County was established in 1877, and Bartlett serves as its county seat. The county has a rich history, with many settlements and towns, including Bartlett, playing a crucial role in its development.

In conclusion, Bartlett, NE, and its surrounding area are steeped in a rich history of significant events that have shaped the region's character and identity. From natural disasters to battles and the establishment of towns and counties, these events all played a crucial role in shaping the history of the Great Plains and the people who call it home.