This stretch of Nebraska prairie land west of Lincoln was first homesteaded by David Henderson in 1866. In 1874, German Mennonite families from Prussia settled in the area and most of the current residents are descended from these pioneers. The Henderson Mennonite Heritage Park on the north side of town preserves this culture with a replica of the first Immigrant House, the original District #73E Country Schoolhouse, a fully restored family barn from 1911 and a Country Mennonite Church.
Planning a visit? Stay at the Prairie Oasis Campground & Cabins.
Nearby, the Wessels Living History Farm in York immerses visitors in the experience of a 1920s-era Nebraska farm amidst a fully functional modern farm. In those days, the game played in the schoolyard was marbles, and you can still see hundreds of handmade dopers and tronks and thumpers at Lee’s Legendary Marble Museum. More modern play opportunities can be discovered at the York Area Children’s Museum.
Fishermen can drop a line at Henderson Pond or try their luck at one of the many state recreation areas surrounding Henderson, including the Platte River, which flows past Grand Island to the west. Birders will flock to the Kirkpatrick North Wildlife Management Basin, a favorite haunt of migrating snow geese.
