For a brief moment in American history Jail Rock and companion Courthouse Rock appeared in hundreds of pioneer journals during the mid 19th century. One of the important milestones on their journey, these rock formations are one of a half dozen landmarks found on the Overland Trail on the way to the West. The remnant buttes can be seen for miles as they tower over the North Platte River Valley, helping weary travelers gage their progress. Emigrants leaving St. Louis, and receiving only a weak introduction to the trip to California or the Oregon Territory, were quite impressed with the string of scenic wonders on the way.
   Rising almost 400 feet from the valley floor, and shrinking with every thunderstorm and strong windstorm, these rock formations are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Diary entries, now over 170 years old, explain a strong fascination with these scenic wonders. Knowing they would never see these sights again, pioneers left the wagon trains and walked five to six miles to climb the rocks and carve their names into these Nebraska landmarks.
   A significant 19th century landmark for American pioneers, nearby the present day Dismal River archeological site is located on the northwest side of the rocks. Dismal River Culture sites have been found throughout western Nebraska, helping archeologists document American Indian movement into western Nebraska during the1600s. One of 53 Nebraska depots, remnants of the Courthouse Pony Express Station are found on the southwest corner. From North Platte to Fort Kearney the Pony Express Trail followed the south side of the Platte River. Later, the railroads and major highways chose the north side of the river.

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