Limestone Houses Still Stand Near Dorchester

Take a winter drive in the countryside south of Dorchester and you will likely spot an old stone house or two. 

These structures played a vital role in the permanent settlement of southeast Nebraska.

Fortunately for us, more than 130 or 140 years after their construction, some of these homes still stand, allowing the residents of the 21st century to take a step back in time.

When the first European settlers came to Saline County in the 1850s and 1860s, quality lumber had to be brought via the Missouri River and by wagon from Nebraska City. That trip could take several weeks. As an alternative, most homes were either dugouts or made from sod or -- better yet -- limestone. (By the 1880s, lumber was more readily available and homes like this were appearing in Saline County.)

Luckily for our Saline County pioneer ancestors, a vein of limestone runs near Pleasant Hill and Turkey Creek. Quarries and lime kilns could be found throughout the Pleasant Hill precinct, according to the Dorchester Centennial history book. 

Some of these quarries operated until the mid-twentieth century, when they ceased to be financially viable.

The Sukraw house, Brown house, Pisar house and barn, Freude house, and See house were prime examples of this early architecture. They were as practical as they were sturdy.

A map of the stone home locations can be found on page 198 of the Dorchester Centennial history book. (Note: The centennial book can be found here.)

We encourage Times readers to explore the architectural history and heritage of the Saline County area. But respect the rights of the owners and don't set foot on these properties without first getting permission.