Discover Antelope County's history during annual trail ride

A trail ride trip through the history embedded in Antelope County's landscape is planned July 29.

Sponsored by the Antelope County Historical Society, in cooperation with the Antelope County Fair Board, the ride is free and open to all interested horseback riders.

"This is our third trail ride and we are so glad this popular event is drawing riders from throughout the county," said Donna Hanson, executive director of the Antelope County Museum. "There is no better way to experience our county's history firsthand than to experience it horseback."

The approximate eight-mile ride will begin at the Antelope County Airport and proceed to Oakdale and back. Registration starts at 10 a.m., with the actual ride beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Participants are asked to pack a lunch and bring water. Water for horses will be available at both ends of the trail.

"On this fun-filled four-hour ride we will go through pastures and trees along the beautiful Elkhorn River. We will eat our lunch at Oakdale. There will be no riding on paved roads," Hanson said.

Antelope County Historical Society Board Member Ron Westlake will give a short talk at the end of the ride about the history of the Fremont, Elkhorn & Missouri Valley Railroad that ran through Antelope County.

"The board is grateful to all who work hard to organize the event and work during it. History comes alive for those on the back of a horse," Hanson said. "Horseback riding has been part of our county's history since its very beginning."

For more information, contact Hanson at 402-370-0915 or Dewey Teel of the Antelope County Fair Board at 402-929-0373.