1. Nebraska became a state
March 19, 1867, is a very important day in Nebraska’s history: it was the day when the State of Nebraska officially joined the Union as the 37th American state. The passing of this bill was not an easy journey, and it took years of campaigning and lobbying, but it finally paid off. The process started as early as 1854, when the Kansas-Nebraska Act was passed, and after years of political and economic battles, Nebraska became a state.
2. The Great Flood of 1948
The late winter and early spring of 1948 were disastrous for Nebraska, especially March 18 and 19. Heavy precipitation resulted in flooding across the state. The highest recorded water level (4.3 feet) on the Platte River in Grand Island occurred on March 19. Several towns were submerged, and the losses were huge. It is still considered as one of the most destructive floods in Nebraska's history.
3. The Lincoln County War
March 19, 1878, saw one of the most tragic and violent events in Nebraska’s history, which is referred to as the “Lincoln County War.” It was a fight between rival factions over control of powerful local businesses. The start of the war was marked by the assassination of Sheriff William Brady and his deputy on April 1, 1878.
4. The Richard Thornsberry Case
Richard Thornsberry was executed in Nebraska on March 19, 1909, for the murder of six people, including two small children. The story of “the madman of Tarnov” is one of the most controversial and disturbing cases in the state's history. Thornsberry’s trial was one of the most prolonged, expensive, and highly publicized legal cases ever held in Nebraska's courts.
5. The Creighton University Gymnasium Fire
On March 19, 1913, Creighton University Gymnasium, located in Omaha, was engulfed by fire due to faulty electrical wiring. The fire killed several students and injured many more. The tragedy left a lasting impact on Creighton students and the university community. The event led to the development of stringent building codes and fire prevention laws in Nebraska.
5 Fun Facts About March 19 In Nebraska History
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