Notes from Washington

Before Nebraska was called the “Cornhuskers”, we were known as “The Tree Planters.” It seems ironic, given our state is characterized by its expansive Great Plains and rolling Sandhills. However, in 1895, the Nebraska legislature passed a bill establishing Nebraska’s nickname in honor of their tree planting efforts.

To understand why, let’s take a step back into history.

To set the scene, it’s the 1840’s on the East Coast, and farmers are finding it increasingly difficult to buy and farm fertile land. Outbreaks of malaria and yellow fever are ravaging towns, while many face religious persecution. Meanwhile, rumors of gold in California and fertile land stretching across the vast Great Plains stir the hope of a better life.