Swan City: Saline County's First County Seat

The Times staff is proud of Saline County's rich history -- not only the storied past of our own community, but also the history of other communities in our area, including those that no longer exist. 

Nearly 160 years ago, on Feb. 17, 1866, the Saline County Board held its very first meeting at Swan City, which would cede its county-seat title to Pleasant Hill just five years later in 1871. 

Two decades later, Swan City would completely disappear.

Swan City, located a few miles west of present-day DeWitt, was Saline County's first community and county seat. Situated within the fork of Turkey Creek and Swan Creek, from which it took its name, Swan City held prominence for only a few years. But it had its share of commerce and businesses, including a general store and a sawmill, both built in 1865. 

Soon after, in the post-Civil War period, the thriving business center added a hotel and another store. 

The O'Connor Circus spent a few winters in Swan City, according to our research.

During its short life, Swan City grew to approximately 200 residents, a respectable population for a community on the Plains at that time.  

But in 1871 -- just five years after the town's establishment -- the county seat was moved from Swan City to Pleasant Hill.  

That same year, the railroad was built roughly three miles from Swan City. Since early Nebraska settlers wanted to be near the railroad, most residents moved to either DeWitt or Wilber or Pleasant Hill, signaling the death of Saline County's first town.

Swan City's flour mill continued to operate until it burned down in 1891, the year when Swan City officially joined the list of Nebraska's ghost towns.  

Today, a state historical marker along Highway 103 designates the approximate location of the community.

Swan City: Gone but not forgotten.

Gerry Boller Passes At 92; Services Will Be June 10

Gerry Boller passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at the Gardens Assisted Living in Crete at the age of 92. She was born on August 28, 1932 in Milford, the third of six children to parents Elmer H. and Stella A. (Dainton) Danekas. 

As a young girl, Gerry attended grade school District 92 and later graduated from Dorchester in 1949. She decided to further her education by going to Doane College, where she received her teacher’s certificate to become a schoolteacher. 

Gerry was a lifelong resident of Milford who grew up on the farm, where she was a respected member of the community. She married her first husband, Charles Leon Parks, at West Blue Church in rural Milford on July 5, 1952. She was blessed with a second marriage to Lynn Rolland Boller on June 9, 1990, in Lincoln. After three years of dedicated service as a rural schoolteacher at School District 84, she also worked at Pamida in Crete for 10 years, served the District Court for three summer terms, Metro Mailing Accounting, and temporarily worked at Phone Services for GTE. 

Her commitment to her work was as palpable as her love for her family and community. Gerry was an avid reader and also loved babysitting her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She and her husband Lynn spent many happy years traveling to Mission, Texas. Her compassionate spirit and supportive nature were a constant source of comfort and inspiration to those around her. 

Gerry is survived by her sons and daughters Terry (Brenda) Parks, Nemaha, NE, Stephen (Vicky) Parks, Dorchester, NE, Sheri Davids, Pleasant Dale, NE, David (Donna) Parks, Milford, NE, Rob (Sherri) Parks, Milford, NE, Jeannie Boller (Mike Wardy), Roca, NE, Susan Kellaugh, Crete, NE, Bill (LuJean) Boller, Dorchester, NE; 11 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; one great great granddaughter; 9 step grandchildren; sister Jane Riley, Seward, NE; brothers Don (Ann) Danekas, Milford, NE, and Doyle (Judy) Danekas, Lincoln, NE. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Lynn Boller, sisters Phyllis Vosta, Shirley Kotil, and son-in-law Merl Davids. 

Visitation: 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Lauber Funeral Home in Milford, NE. Family will greet and receive relatives and friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Funeral Home. 

Funeral Service: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the Dorchester United Methodist Church. Interment: Dorchester Cemetery, Dorchester, following the Funeral Service. 

Memorials are in the care of the family for a future designation. Lauber Funeral and Cremation Services – Milford. We invite you to share your memories of Gerry and upload photos to her memorial page. Your stories will help us keep her memory alive and honor the remarkable woman she was.

Marilyn Wolfe Passes At Age 87; Services This Saturday

Marilyn Jo Wolfe was born east of Swanton, Nebraska to Joseph and Libbie (Wanek) Stirba on 7 January 1938. She passed into Glory on 4 June 2025 at Fairview Manor, Fairmont, Nebraska. She was 87.

Marilyn grew up on her parents’ farm and went to school in Swanton, graduating Salutatorian of her class in 1955. Starting in about 8th Grade, she began to report local news to the Wilber Republican Newspaper and the Beatrice daily Sun. This kept her busy calling residents of the Swanton area from her grandparents’ phone or going door to door asking for news items. She met Roger Wolfe in 1954, while he was in the Air Force, they were engaged October of 1955 and married at the Swanton Methodist Church, 19 February 1956. To this union, four children were born, Roger JR, Diane, Julie, and Christian.

Marilyn began attending the “East Church” a mile east of her home when a little girl. But a neighbor began doing Story Hour at the Methodist Church in Swanton and that is where she trusted in Jesus as her Savior being baptized at about eleven years old.

Marilyn started her married life as an Air Force wife and working as a secretary at the University of Nebraska, but after Roger separated from the Air Force in 1957, she became a farm wife, returning to her roots. Marilyn also was The Avon Lady and sold Studio Girl Cosmetics for many years. From 1973-1974 she was a cook at the Crete Hospital. From 1979-2005, she drove a school bus for Dorchester Public Schools. For many years, Marilyn and Roger delivered newspapers to much of the Dorchester area.

When Roger became a pastor, she assisted Roger with his ministries. They sang many a duet at church services and funerals during the many years of Saline Baptist Ministries. She assisted Roger with many details of the ministry. She also assisted with dad’s duties a Chaplain for the American Legion. She was a long-time member of the Legion Auxiliary. All this time, she enjoyed helping with the farm chores, because Roger and Marilyn were involved in agriculture most of their lives. She spent most of her life in Saline County and a great deal of that in the Dorchester area. For 69 years, she was at the side of Roger, as she was when she passed.

Marilyn is survived by her husband Roger, children Roger JR (Diane)Wolfe, Diane (Michael)Turner, Julie (Joe) Holly and Christian Wolfe. Grandchildren Erin Tyler, Jeremiah Wolfe, David Wolfe, Shane Krasser, Destinee Ingwersen, Benjamin Holly, Adam Holly, Nathaniel Holly, Amber Holly, Casey Wolfe and Ashley Spaustat. Great grandchildren Andrew Jessen-Tyler, Parker Tyler, Emma Tyler, Faith Wolfe, Ashtyn Wolfe, Levi Wolfe, Mary Wolfe, Matej Ingwersen, Beckett Spaustat, Russell Spaustat & Robert Spaustat. Nephews Sheldon Tyser and Greg Tyser.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, parents in laws Tony and Gladys Wolfe, sister Corrine and brother-in-law, Dwain Tyser, grandson Lewis Krasser, granddaughter Angel Holly, great grandson Devin Krasser, and daughter in law DiAnn “Dee Dee” Wolfe.

Services will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. The service will be live streamed and can be accessed via https://evt.live/marilyn-wolfe-funeral-service

Visitation will be on Friday from 5-7 p.m. and Saturday noon until service time at the funeral home.

Pallbearers are Greg Tyser, Jeremiah Wolfe, David Wolfe, Benjamin Holly, Adam Holly, Nathaniel Holly.

Honorary Pallbearers are Sheldon Tyser, Erin Tyler, Ashley Spaustat, Casey Wolfe, Amber Holly, Destinee Ingwersen.

Arrangements entrusted to Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. 

NEWS ROUND-UP: DHS Track And Field Stars Place At State

 

DHS Stars Place At State Track and Field Championship: Earlier this month, three DHS athletes qualified for the 2025 Nebraska High School Track and Field Championship Meet in Omaha, held May 23-24. When the dust settled, two Lady Longhorns brought home medals. Standout Junior Bailey Theis placed 13th in the discus (106 ft. and 3 in.) and third in shot put (42 ft and 11 in.). Senior Baylor Behrens finished seventh in 300 meter hurdles, setting a new school record of 47:35, while placing ninth in 100 meter hurdles -- again setting a new school record with a 16:47 run. Longhorn Faith Elkins also performed well, coming in 18th in 100 meter hurdles (17:51) and 23rd in 100 meter dash (13:51). Congrats to these student athletes for representing the community so well. 

DHS Journalism Scores Well in State, National Contests: Dorchester High School's journalism program recently celebrated several students who placed in the Nebraska Press Women’s High School Communications Contest. Senior Gabby Theis captured first place in Yearbook Copywriting, second in Yearbook Photo, and honorable mention in Editorial Cartooning and Double-Truck Layout. Hailey Schweitzer took home first place in Double-Truck Layout and honorable mention in Yearbook Layout. Mackenzie Luzum captured second place in Double-Truck Layout and Honorable Mention in Opinion. Bailey Theis received second in Yearbook Copywriting. Andrea Pavlish won third in Yearbook Photo and in Editorial. Joseph Peacock captured Honorable Mention in Yearbook Copywriting. Gabby and Hailey’s first-place entries competed nationally and both placed third in the National Federation of Press Women High School Communications Contest. 

Dorchester's Jacee Zoubek Earns UNL Honors: Dorchester graduate was among just 24 students from UNL's College of Education and Human Sciences who were recognized as Chancellor’s Scholars during the undergraduate commencement ceremonies May 17 at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Chancellor’s Scholars are students who have maintained a 4.0 GPA on all collegiate work at Nebraska and elsewhere. Jacee graduated with a degree in nutrition, exercise and health sciences, and is the daughter of Brent Zoubek and Lindsey Zoubek.

National Spotlight on Dorchester's Dan Nerud: Dorchester's Dan Nerud is a fourth-generation farmer who also serves as a director for the Nebraska Corn Board and Board member for the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). Nerud recently spoke with Successful Farming magazine and podcast to discuss producer groups, farming with family, and mental health. Beyond all things agriculture, Nerud shared his experience with depression, which multiple studies show is between 2-5 times higher in farmers than the rest of the population, according to the publication. He said being prescribed antidepressants was a "game changer" for him, and his goal is to make sure other farmers dealing with depression know there is help available. He stressed the importance of watching out for others, encouraging family and friends to speak up if they notice changes in a loved one.

Memorial Day Services Set For Monday

Memorial Day kicks off the summer season. Let's not forget the reason behind the holiday.

We should all take time this Memorial Day -- Monday, May 26 -- to pay homage to the true meaning of this special day of remembrance.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, between 1775 and 1991, the U.S. military recorded 651,031 battle deaths and 539,054 non-combat deaths, totaling 1.19 million fatalities. From 1980 to 2022, there were more than 10,000 recorded deaths related to military activities.

Dorchester's Memorial Day program is a tradition in our area that we are proud to honor.  It is a heartfelt tribute to our fallen military heroes -- past and present -- who sacrificed their lives to protect our country and its freedoms.  

The Dorchester American Legion will host two Memorial Day services:

• 10 a.m. at the Dorchester Cemetery; and
• 11 a.m. at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery

Lunch follows services at Dorchester Legion Hall on Dorchester's Washington Ave.

In case of rain, please meet at the Dorchester Legion at 10 a.m.

 

The Dorchester Legion Bar and Grill will be open most of the day, from noon to 8 p.m., according to social media reports.

The Old Bell: Pride Of DPS Campus Since 1932

The Dorchester Public School's bell monument, now located prominently in front of the school building's main entrance, features the refurbished bell from the 1890 school building. 

How many of you know the story behind the bell?

For those old enough to remember, the old school bell was showcased as part of a 1932 brick monument, just east of the 1927 school building, which was demolished in the summer of 2008. The old bell monument was razed a few years earlier due to its weakened structure and safety concerns.

Thanks to a loyal reader, the Dorchester Times was sent a May 1932 DHS alumni newsletter, which helped us uncover a little more history behind the old monument and the school bell itself.

According to an Dorchester High School Alumni Pep Bulletin article written by W.R. Freidell (DHS Class of 1907), the bell was salvaged from "the wreckage of the old red brick school house" after that building was demolished in 1930. 

That's when the DHS Alumni Association asked DHS graduate Merion Mooberry (Class of 1916), a skilled architect, to design "an appropriate mounting for this bell." (Editor's note: The sketch below is from the May 1932 issue of the Bulletin.)

The original bell monument was unveiled at the fifth-annual DHS alumni banquet May 21, 1932. The "historic landmark and "grandsire of the campus" was presented to alumni by its builder, DHS graduate and contractor Thomas Grey Jr. 

The newsletter reports the bell was mounted in "a lovely designed, final resting place just east of the new high school." 

Following the alumni banquet, toasts were made "around the traditional old bell."

Tickets for the 1932 alumni banquet were reduced to 65 cents a plate, due to "Old Man Oppression" -- or the Great Depression, as we call it today. But attendees still received the "same big three-course dinner" per the order of Mrs. Panter, chair of the banquet and wife of the town doctor.

Following the monument dedication and banquet dinner, alumni were invited to visit the historian's exhibit entitled, "See Yourselves as Others Saw You on Your Graduation Night Years Ago."

LOOKING BACK: Joe Wagner's Mobil Station

The year is 1961. Your car needs an oil change or a mechanical fix. 

What do you do? 

Well, 64 years ago, you had several options in Dorchester. You could take your car to the new Farmers Co-op service station, or to one of two garages in town: Sehnert's Ford Garage -- or Joe Wagner's Mobil filling station and garage across the street.

A few years ago, Derek Filipi of Wilber (Joe's grandson) sent us this photograph of Wagner's. Click on the photo for a better view.

The filling station and garage operated at the present site of Barley's Specialties.  

After Wagner's went out of business, the building was sold to the Danielson family. In the 1980s, it was briefly home to Zabka's Phillips 66 station and convenience store.

Older residents will recall that during the 1950s, it was Arnold's Mobil, which was owned and operated by longtime resident Arnold Bobolz for several years.

NEWS ROUND-UP: Behrens, Elkins, Theis Headed to State Track and Field Meet

Three Lady Longhorns Headed to State: When the dust settled at this week's Class D-1 District Track Meet at Pawnee City, Dorchester High School found itself with three athletes qualifying for Nebraska's State High School Track and Field Championship Meet in Omaha later this month. Baylor Behrens qualified in the 100 and 300 meter hurdles; Bailey Theis qualified in shot put and discus; and Faith Elkins qualified in the 100 meter hurdles and 100 meter dash. Congrats to these student athletes for their hard work and standout performances. Check out the events schedule for the state track and field championships, which will be May 23-24 for Class D.

Behrens Sets New DHS Record: Congratulations goes to DHS senior Baylor Baylor Behrens for setting a new school record in the girls' 100 meter hurdles. Behrens' time was 16.57, enough to break the former record held by Neileen Filipi.

May 15 Deadline to Register for DHS Alumni Banquet: On Saturday evening, May 24, Dorchester alumni -- young and old and in-between -- will gather to recall the good times and celebrate the school that gave them their start. The 2025 Dorchester Alumni Banquet will be held at the DHS gym. Doors will open at 5 p.m. and the banquet will start at 6 p.m. RSVP to Jessica Tuttle by Thursday, May 15, by calling the school at (402) 946-2781. For those who'd like to carry on their conversations beyond the banquet, the Dorchester American Legion has traditionally been open after the banquet. City Slickers and East Side are also options.

Main Street Median Getting Irrigation: Dorchester's famous main street median (actually Washington Ave. median) is getting underground sprinklers. Work has been ongoing for the past week as old curbing is being removed and the underground tubing goes in. This follows last fall's main street resurfacing project.

DPS Has Elementary Teacher Opening: Dorchester Public School currently has a first grade opening for the 2025-2026 school year. Learn more here.

It's Official: DHS Class of 2025 Celebrates Graduation

 

 

The caps, tassles, gowns, and Kleenex were in full effect Saturday, May 10, at the Dorchester High School gymnasium. 

 

That's when graduation ceremonies were held for 13 Longhorn seniors and their friends and families.

 

Here are the members of DHS' Class of 2025 and their post-graduation plans as detailed by DPS social media:

• Baylor Behrens: Baylor is the daughter of Bob and Julie Behrens. After graduating, Baylor plans to attend UNL where she will major in animal science with the goal of becoming a veterinarian.
  
  
• Angelina Cornejo: Angelina is the daughter of Ashley Karst and Isrrael Cornejo. Angelina plans to attend Southeast Community College where she will major in radiology.
  
  
• Isabella Cornejo: Isabella is the daughter of Ashley Karst and Isrrael Cornejo. Isabella will attend Central Community College where she major in occupational therapy.
  
  
• Mackenzie Luzum: Mackenzie is the daughter of Kevin and Carrie Luzum. Mackenzie plans to attend Southeast Community College where she will major in business.
  
  
• Alisson Nunez: Alisson is the daughter of Angela Del Carmen Escobar. Alisson plans to continue learning English so that she can go to college for cosmetology or work as a translator/interpreter. Alisson will also volunteer at the Capital Humane Society.
  
  
• Joey Peacock: Joey is the son of Patrick and Noemi Peacock. Joey plans to attend the UNL where he will major in journalism.
  
  
• AyLynn Schwisow: AyLynn is the daughter of Jacqueline Gooding. AyLynn plans to attend Peru State College where she will major in criminal justice.
  
  
• Ariana Tellez: Ariana is the daughter of Miriam and Edwin Tellez. Ariana plans to attend Southeast Community College where she will major in physical therapy.
  
  
• Julian Tellez: Julian is the son of Angelica and Rene Tellez. Julian plans to attend Southeast Community College where he will work toward an associates degree in welding.
  
  
• Gabby Theis: Gabby is the daughter of Michael and Bethany Theis. Gabby is headed to Central Community College on a basketball scholarship. She plans to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree and then transfer to Oklahoma State to complete a bachelors in sports management and marketing.
  
  
• Owen Vyhnalek: Owen is the son of Steve and Sarah Vyhnalek. Owen will attend Concordia University on a football scholarship where he will major in agricultural science.
  
  
• Atley Zoubek: Atley is the daughter of Brent and Lindsey Zoubek. Atley will be attending the Entourage Institute of Beauty and Esthetics.

Our heartiest of congratulations to the accomplished Longhorns in the Class of 2025. The sky truly is the limit for all of you.

 

NEWS ROUND-UP: Museum Open House This Sunday

Museum Open House This Sunday, May 4: On Sunday, May 4, the Saline County Museum in south Dorchester will host its open house of the newly renovated Chapel Building. According to the Saline County Historical Society's social media, visitors can tour the 13 buildings on the museum campus, then enjoy a free bowl of homemade ice cream. There's no charge to visit the museum, but donations are accepted. Summer hours are 1-4 p.m. on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. 

Dorchester Track and Field Stars Set Records: In late April, DHS standout Bailey Theis broke the DHS shot put record with a distance of 43' 9". Theis, a junior, smashed the previous longstanding and impressive record of 41' 7" set by Karmen Lawver, who was present to see the feat. See DPS social media. Meanwhile, DPS eighth grader Kaitlyn Bolton recently broke the DPS junior high discus record from 1987 set by Janet Uher. Bolton's 102-feet throw beat the 38-year record by more than two feet. Congrats to these Lady Longhorns!

Community Garage Sales, June 6-7: The Dorchester Community Garage Sales will be June 6 and June 7, according to village officials. Other towns having garage sales during this time will be Friend, Exeter, and Fairmont. Contact the Dorchester Village office if you would like to be put on the list. Maps will be available the week of June 2.

Dump Site Now Open: Now through Aug. 31, the Dorchester dump site is now open. Hours are Mondays and Wednesdays 3-7 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m-5 p.m. Branches, leaves, grass clippings, and garden waste are accepted. Recycling is also available at the site.

Acreage For Sale On West Edge Of Dorchester

 

 

Dorchester's real estate market remains strong despite the fact that easy, cheap money -- following years of federal money printing and massive government spending -- are coming to a close. Interest rates will continue to remain relatively high due to the uncontrollable debt unleashed during the COVID-19 years and foreign nations shedding U.S. treasuries.

While homes in large cities and rural properties have become unaffordable for the average buyer, Dorchester looks even more appealing now to most folks. Consider what our community has to offer:

• STREET IMPROVEMENTS: Village leaders have paved more streets in recent months and more street improvements are planned.
  
  
• POTENTIAL FOR MORE BUSINESSES: Due to its strategic location and available commercial buildings, many believe Dorchester will see an increase in more small businesses over the next two to 10 years.
  
  
• TOP-NOTCH SCHOOL: A newer K-12 school with smaller class sizes and some of the state's best educators. This means individualized attention for your child.

• A SAFE AND FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE COMMUNITY: With an upgraded water and sewer system, and a surplus of funding at Village Hall.

• LOWER COSTS: Affordable living costs with lower property taxes compared to surrounding school districts.

• KEY BUSINESSES AND PRIME LOCATION: Headquarters for one of the nation's largest agri-businesses (Farmers Cooperative) and situated on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line and along two major highways.

• GEOGRAPHIC ADVANTAGE: A quick drive to employers in Crete, Milford, Friend, and Seward. Just 30 minutes to Lincoln and 12 minutes to I-80. Yet all the advantages of a small, close-knit community.

Here's a Dorchester home and acreage that just hit the market:

1413 County Road 1400: Charming country living on the edge of town! This updated 1.5-story home sits on 3.5 acres and features 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, a beautifully remodeled kitchen, wood and carpet flooring, and a brand-new HVAC system. The property offers everything you need for a rural lifestyle — an detached single-car garage, a livestock building, a large shop with a concrete floor, and fenced-in pasture ready for animals. Situated on a blacktop road on the northwest edge of Dorchester, it’s just two blocks from the school — offering both convenience and privacy. Acreage like this doesn’t come around often. Don’t miss your chance to make it yours! View the listing.

NEWS ROUND-UP: Dorchester's Fajita Fiesta, April 26

Fajita Fiesta, April 26: Get ready for a fun time in Dorchester on Saturday, April 28. That's when the Dorchester Community Foundation will host its Fajita Feed from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. The event will take place at the Dorchester Community Building and Legion Hall. You can count on great food, drinks, and conversation with friends. Dine in or take out by calling (402) 381-7789. This is a free-will donation event, so please give generously.

Workshop This Saturday at Museum: The Saline County Historical Museum will host "Save Your Life, One Story at a Time" workshop on Saturday, April 26 at 2 p.m. Dana Tramba -- an author, teacher, and speaker from Edmond, Oklahoma -- will be the keynote speaker. Cost is $10.

Hydrant Flushing This Week: The village hydrants will be flushed the week of April 21-25 from 7 a.m to 3 p.m. Village staff says chlorine will be added while flushing, so there may be chlorine smell.

Times Turns 18 Years Old: Eighteen years ago this month, the Dorchester Times made its debut. Back in April 2007, we wrote: "Welcome to the Dorchester Times. This site is dedicated to our town, Dorchester, Nebraska. While we relish our proud past, we also enjoy the blessings of today and eagerly look forward to the future." Now, 17 years later, the Dorchester blog has gathered an estimated 3.75 million page views. Not bad for a community of 600 residents. Not bad at all.

School Year Wind-Down: For Dorchester High School seniors, the end of the road is in sight. For other students, summer vacation is the light at the end of the tunnel. Here's a look at what remains for the DPS school year:

• May 9 - Last day of school for seniors 
• May 10 - Graduation
• May 21 - Last day of school for pre-schoolers
• May 22 - Last day of school for K-11 (class is out at 11:30 a.m.)
  

News Channel Nebraska Spotlights Axline: In case you missed it, Dorchester's Sharon "Mimi" Axline was recently named recipient of the Above and Beyond Award by the Nebraska State Activities Association. The award celebrates "the incredible individuals who make a difference in Nebraska's schools and communities." News Channel Nebraska covered the news. Read the online story.

Happy Easter From The Times

The staff of the Dorchester Times wishes all our readers and area residents a happy Easter. 

May you and your families enjoy together the blessings and forgiveness bestowed upon each of us and our community.

Take time today to remember the reason for this special day. 

“He is not here; he has risen!” - Luke 24:6

Looking Back: Community Lessons From 100 Years Ago

Some of the best life lessons are learned from those who came decades -- or centuries -- before us. Their words can remind us of common knowledge that has been lost as modern life becomes more "sophisticated."

The editors of the Dorchester Times recently stumbled across a rare piece of local history: a palm leaf fan given to customers of Citizens State Bank in Dorchester during the 1920s. 

On one side of the fan is a poem titled “Boost Dorchester.” On the reverse, “Fourteen Points of Community Progress” under this headline: Boost Your Town. These pointers drive home the wisdom of doing business in your hometown to help it grow and to help your neighbors prosper.

While a century has passed since this fan was printed and distributed, the wisdom it carries is more relevant than ever. We have reprinted the 14 points below. 

---

1. Are you helping our Home Town and Community?
The wealth of our citizens is the capital of our Community. Its prosperity depends upon business. Money deposited in Banks in big cities or invested in other towns, takes capital away to build up other communities at the loss of all in our own Community.

2. Money spent away from home won’t pay our Home laborers, or teachers' salaries, or build school buildings, or provide other Community needs.

3. If a Community is worth living in, it is worth trading in.
Money spent away from home never returns to make the Home Town prosperous.

4. The business men are counted upon to keep the town progressing.
Help them by doing business with them. Our Town can be no better or bigger than its business.

5. It’s the solid worth of Home-spent money and co-operation that will make our Town bigger and better in every way.

6. Our children will not live in a “dead” town.
Home-spent money keeps the town growing and our boys and girls at home.

7. It is the money spent in our Home Town that gives our property greater value and protects it.

8. Our Town depends upon the money spent in it by all the citizens of the Community for its growth and prosperity.

9. Who wants to live in a “dead” town?
The merchants, the Banks and professional men are important in the life of our Town. Do business with them and help keep our Town growing.

10. The rate of our taxation depends on the wealth of our Community.
Increase this wealth and reduce taxation by building up our Home Town and Community.

11. You like to live in a prosperous town.
Prosperity, like charity, begins at home. Every dollar spent out of town is a check against our town’s prosperity. Trade at home.

12. Dollars spent at Home return to the spender.
Dollars spent at Home mean better Government, better protection, better Schools, better Churches and better Service, and better Homes — more and better Business — a better town to live in.

13. Money invested in Blue Sky enterprises in distant towns and cities in unproved undertakings robs our Community
for all time of needed working capital for our Home Town and our Community.

14. Actions speak louder than words.
Let us build in a spirit of neighborly interest — from a genuine desire to co-operate — banishing selfishness, and developing instead a Spirit of Community Brotherhood.

---

These words from the 1920s are applicable in 2025. They remind us that Dorchester's future depends on the support, investment, and spirit of those who call it home.

Thanks to all who are leading and supporting efforts to boost Dorchester today. You know who you are.

Drought Continues; Now Covers Nearly All Nebraska

Nearly all of Nebraska is currently experiencing some form of drought. This includes Saline County, which has just been moved to the moderate drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

Keep in mind this is occurring at what is traditionally a wet season for the Cornhusker State. Earlier this week, it was reported that Nebraska's topsoil moisture is rated at 72% short-to-very short and subsoil moisture is 79% short-to-very short.

Meanwhile, a report from the University of Nebraska shows groundwater levels continue to decline in parts of the state following several years of on-going drought. 

Due to increased irrigation use and lack of rainfall, the Nebraska Statewide Groundwater-Level Report -- which looks at nearly 5,000 irrigation wells -- show 61% of the state's wells showed declines with an average statewide drop of 0.52 feet in 2024.

Fortunately, it appears moisture is on the way. This Sunday -- Easter Sunday -- our weather models show a 95% chance of rain. The Times combines several different forecast platforms on behalf of our readers. Sunday will see increasing winds with periods of rain and a thunderstorm; chilly; storms could bring damaging winds, large hail, and even a tornado.

Next Friday, Saturday, and Sunday will also bring reasonable chances for rain.

Our models show multiple chances for rain the first week of May, as well. Beyond that, the Old Farmer's Almanac predicts a generally warm and wet spring for Nebraska. May is forecast to have above-normal temperatures and rainfall across the southern half of Nebraska.

Home For Sale: 706 Stephens Ave.

Dorchester's real estate market remains strong. This despite the fact that easy, cheap money -- following years of federal money printing and massive government spending -- are coming to a close. Interest rates will continue to remain relatively high due to the uncontrollable debt unleashed during the COVID-19 years and foreign nations shedding U.S. treasuries.

While homes in large cities and rural properties have become unaffordable for the average buyer, Dorchester looks even more appealing now to most folks. Consider what our community has to offer:

• STREET IMPROVEMENTS: Village leaders have paved more streets in recent months and more street improvements are planned.
  
  
• POTENTIAL FOR MORE BUSINESSES: Due to its strategic location and available commercial buildings, many believe Dorchester will see an increase in more small businesses over the next two to 10 years.
  
  
• TOP-NOTCH SCHOOL: A newer K-12 school with smaller class sizes and some of the state's best educators. This means individualized attention for your child.

• A SAFE AND FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE COMMUNITY: With an upgraded water and sewer system, and a surplus of funding at Village Hall.

• LOWER COSTS: Affordable living costs with lower property taxes compared to surrounding school districts.

• KEY BUSINESSES AND PRIME LOCATION: Headquarters for one of the nation's largest agri-businesses (Farmers Cooperative) and situated on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line and along two major highways.

• GEOGRAPHIC ADVANTAGE: A quick drive to employers in Crete, Milford, Friend, and Seward. Just 30 minutes to Lincoln and 12 minutes to I-80. Yet all the advantages of a small, close-knit community.

Here's a Dorchester home that just hit the market:

706 Stephens Ave.: Affordable ranch-style home with full basement! This lovely home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, first-floor laundry and large family room in the basement, and much more. Located on a large lot with fenced backyard. All appliances are included. View the listing.

NEWS ROUND-UP: DVFD Burns Home To Make Room For New Construction

(Photo Credit: Sharon Axline)

DVFD Burns Dilapidated Home Near School: On Saturday morning, April 12, the volunteers of the Dorchester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department conducted real-world training with a controlled burn of a vacant home at 605 W 9th St. It was the former home of longtime residents Rev. Roger and Marilyn Wolfe. Local photographer Sharon Axline captured images of the exercise. We are told the vacant lot will be the site of a new housing project, which will add a much-needed residential unit to our community.

Sharon Axline Receives Statewide Honor: The Nebraska School Activities Association has honored Dorchester's Sharon “Mimi” Axline, bestowing her with the organizations Above and Beyond Award. winner. A longtime business owner and DPS volunteer, Axline was honored for "her unwavering support, kind spirit, and tireless dedication to Dorchester Public Schools." At the Times, we treasure Sharon's constant effort to capture sporting events and other major community events with her amazing photography skills. Read the NSAA's award notice.

New Superintendent Building Home in Dorchester: For years, this blog has encouraged employees of Dorchester Public School, Farmers Cooperative, and other employers in town to live in Dorchester. One obstacle to making that a more common occurrence has been the lack of available housing. So we are thrilled to see that DPS' next superintendent, Dr. Nick Mumm, and his family are constructing a new house in Dorchester. The home will be the third unit in Dorchester's Northview Estates development.

School Board, Village Board Meet This Week: For members of the public who wish to get more engaged with their local government, the Dorchester Village Board will conduct its monthly meeting on Monday, April 14, at Farmers Cooperative at 6:30 p.m. Last month, the board discussed housing development plans, among other items. Also, the DPS Board will meet Tuesday, April 15 at 5:30 p.m. in the school library.

Spring Clean-Up Begins: Dorchester's Community Spring Clean-up will be from Saturday, April 19 to April 26. For Dorchester residents only, the dump site will be open Monday through Friday from 1-7 p.m. and Saturday 9-5 p.m. Accepted items: furniture, televisions, carpet, mattresses, metal, appliances, batteries, wood without nails. (No pallets, please. Also, no wet paint or other hazardous waste. No tires, no lead acid batteries, and no trash.) The attendant on duty has authority to accept or reject items.

DHS Alumni Golf Tourney, May 31: The annual DHS Alumni Golf Tourney will be held Saturday, May 31 at the Friend Country Club. Check-in will begin at 8 a.m., with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Learn more on page 15 of the DPS April newsletter.

Dorchester Easter Egg Hunt Is April 19

Hey, kids! The Easter Bunny will soon be dropping by Dorchester.  It's time to practice your egg hunting skills.  

The Dorchester Easter Egg Hunt will take place 2 p.m. Saturday, April 19. 

And it's going to be a hopping good time. 

Here's where to report (we suggest getting there by at least 1:45 p.m.): 

• Ages 3 and under, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, and first- and second-graders meet at the football field, northwest of the school. 
• Third and fourth graders meet at the practice football field two blocks north of the school.
  

Make sure your children are part of this special holiday tradition in our community.

The hunt is sponsored by the Dorchester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.

All children are invited to help color the eggs on Friday evening, April 18, at 7 p.m. at the Dorchester Fire Hall. Prepared to get messy (don't wear nice clothes).

NEWS ROUND-UP: DHS Rocks State Journalism Contest (Again)

Dorchester Rocks State Journalism Contest (Again): Several DHS students competed in the recent Nebraska Journalism Education Association Winter High School Competition. From across the state, 775 entries were received from 32 schools. Dorchester was once again the smallest school represented. Andrea Pavlish received honorable mentions in Yearbook Theme Copy Writing and Yearbook Layout. Gabby Theis received excellent honors in Photo Artistic Illustration and Action Photography. Bailey Theis received an excellent in Action Photography. Joseph Peacock received an honorable mention in Yearbook Feature Writing. Ariana Tellez received an honorable mention in Photo Artistic Illustration. Emilia Perez received an honorable mention in Advertising. The team of Andrea Pavlish, Gabby Theis, and Joseph Peacock received a superior rating in Yearbook Theme Development. They are advised by Mrs. Sandy Severance.

Volunteer Fire and Rescue to Host Brisket Sandwich Meals, April 5: On Saturday, April 5, from  4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the Dorchester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department will have brisket sandwich meals-to-go at the fire station. Drive-thru or pre-order. Free-will offering. Proceeds to support Dorchester Fire and Rescue expenses and equipment. Order by phone or text: 402-826-7346.

Spring Community Clean-Up: Dorchester community spring clean-up time is here. Roll-offs will be available at the dump site free of charge from April 19 though April 26.

Dump Site is Open: Dorchester's municipal dump site is open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. 

DHS Students at State Speech Competition: DHS sent three Longhorns to the NSAA State Speech Competition in Kearney this week. Competing in the event were Ella Vyhnalek, who performed in the persuasive speech category, along with Owen Vyhnalek and Andrea Pavlish, who performed their comedy duet. 

Nominate a Teacher for 10/11 Award: As the school year starts to wind down, think about nominating a great teacher for 10/11's Golden Apple Award. The award is given each month of the school year to an educator having a outstanding impact in our local schools. You can nominate a K-12 teacher, administrator, or support staff member who deserves recognition for the positive effect they’ve had on you, your loved ones, or the community. Use this nomination form.

Food Truck Season Underway: It's time again for the food trucks to visit Main Street Dorchester. These vendors will be parked by the Legion Hall, we are told. Here's the schedule so far:

• KennaBells BBQ Monday, March 31 
• Billies Grilled Cheese, April 7 (10:30 to 2:00 and 4:30-7:30)
• Paradise Eats, April 22 (11:00 to 2:00)
• KennaBells BBQ, April 28

DHS' Brandon Bruha Named Coach Of The Year

Dorchester's Brandon Bruha has been named girls basketball coach of the year by Neb Preps, a media outlet focused on Nebraska high school sports.

The honor comes just a week after Coach Bruha and his wife, Cassidy, welcomed their first child. 

And it comes just two weeks after the Lady Longhorns concluded their magical 25-3 season, finishing as state runners-up in the Class D-2 championship held at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln.

Bruha and assistant coach Brent Zoubek engineered the Dorchester girls program to its first state final game and only its second tournament appearance ever.

Bruha, a DHS graduate, has been coaching DHS girls basketball for 11 seasons.

Listen to Bruha's interviews with Neb Preps on Facebook or Twitter (X).

Looking Back: The Mills Of The Dorchester Area

Nowadays, the rivers and creeks of Saline County are used mostly for irrigation and fishing. But in days gone by, mills located on Turkey Creek (pictured above) and the west fork of the Big Blue River (pictured below) played an even more substantial role. In fact, Dorchester's first electricity was generated by a dam on Turkey Creek.

In Dorchester's early days, the milling industry was a staple of the area's economy. The 1880s saw rapid growth of the milling business on Turkey Creek, just south of town.Turkey Creek became recognized as "the Old Mill Stream," according to the Nebraska State Historical Society. 

Of the five mills on Turkey Creek in Saline County, two predominately served the Dorchester area. 

One was Amity Mill at Pleasant Hill. Constructed in 1870, the Amity Mill produced flour and meal, and later provided the first electricity for Dorchester. 

The other Dorchester-area mill, Lawrence Mill, was located near the current Gilbert Cemetery.

A trip to the nearest mill, with a team and wagon loaded with grain, occupied most of a farmer's day back in those early years -- and when the weather was pleasant, such a trip often provided a holiday for Saline County settlers. This allowed farm families to picnic, as well as take in the sights and sounds of water pouring over the log dam. 

The dams also provided excellent havens for large catfish.

The Amity Mill at Pleasant Hill was destroyed by a fire started by lightning and was not rebuilt. In 1934, the dam was removed by dynamite. Millstones from the Amity Mill can be seen at the Saline County Museum located in Dorchester.

No specific details are known about the demise of the Lawrence Mill.

Lot For Sale: 106 E 11th St.

Are you thinking about building a home? There's an empty lot for sale near the north edge of Dorchester. The Times staff agrees it would be a great spot to build.

Consider what Dorchester has to offer:

• TOP-NOTCH SCHOOL: A modern K-12 school with smaller class sizes and some of the state's best educators. This means individualized attention for your child.

• A SAFE AND FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE COMMUNITY: With an upgraded water and sewer system, and a surplus of funding at Village Hall.

• LOWER COSTS: Affordable living costs with lower property taxes compared to surrounding school districts.

• KEY BUSINESSES AND PRIME LOCATION: Headquarters for one of the nation's largest agri-businesses (Farmers Cooperative) and situated on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line and along two major highways.

• GEOGRAPHIC ADVANTAGE: A quick drive to employers in Crete, Milford, Friend, and Seward. Just 30 minutes to Lincoln and 12 minutes to I-80. Yet all the advantages of a small, close-knit community.

Here's the listing for the lot:

106 E 11th St.: Vacant lot on edge of Dorchester that has over an 1/2 acre of space (0.65 acres). City utilities are available. $48,000. See the listing.