Wild Horse Spring

Wild Horse Spring was named for the beautiful, spirited wild horses that were numerous in this area when white men first visited these lush plains, and its discovery symbolized hope and faith for early pioneers. Although the rich land beckoned, men seeking homesteads had been reluctant to settle this strange and forbidding country because of its lack of known water sources. In the early days, the spring quenched the thirst of wild horses, buffalo, and other wild animals of the region. Later, its clear, cool waters refreshed hot and thirsty cowboys weary from the long trek between Stinking Water Creek and the Platte River. It was never an abundant source of water, but it was sufficient to supply the needs of early settlers until they could dig wells for themselves. Far from any stream, its precious, life-giving water provided comfort and courage to the men and women who established their homes in this part of the frontier.

Nebraska · United States