- Picnicking
Bowring Ranch near Merriman is a Hereford demonstration ranch, donated by former U.S. Senator Eve Bowring in memory of her husband. The ranch house displays fine antique china, crystal and silver, as well as memorabilia from their active public service careers. The Visitor Center interprets ranching, homesteading, geology, wildlife and many other areas related to the Sandhills and the Bowring family.
Video tour
Attractions
Ranch Home
The ranch house contains artifacts that speak to the history of the Nebraska Sandhills, as well as to the Bowrings’ political lives. Eve Bowring’s collections of antique china, crystal and silver are displayed, as are memorabilia from local sandhills businesses and the couple’s political careers. Eve Bowring had the house remodeled in preparation from a visit from President Eisenhower; however, the president had to cancel his visit.
Visitor Center
The Visitor Center contain displays devoted to the extraordinary lives and careers of Arthur and Eve Bowring, as well as the history and geology of the Sandhills and the Nebraska cattle ranching business.
Hours & Admission
Memorial Day Weekend – Labor Day: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday – Sunday
After Labor Day through the day before Memorial Weekend: Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday
Park Grounds: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., year round
Admission: Adults (13 & up),$4; Children (3-12), $1; Under 3, free
A valid vehicle Park Entry Permit is required.
Sod House
A replica sod house illustrates how early many early settlers to the sandhills lived. This way of life is celebrated during Sod House Saturday Night. Spend a Saturday evening enjoying a barbecue supper, volunteers participating in an open mic and parking lot dance. Bring family and friends to enjoy good food, fun and Western hospitality.
Picnicking
Five picnic tables provide guests a place to enjoy a picnic lunch or to just relax and enjoy the beautiful sandhills scenery.
Tours
Tours of the home, visitor center, sod house, outbuildings and cattle operation are available upon request. Call the park for details.
Contact Information
Address: Bowring Ranch State Historical Park | Hwy 61 | Merriman, Neb. 69218-0038
1 1/2 miles north and 2 miles east of Merriman on E. Hwy. 61.
Phone: (308) 684-3428
Email: Send email
