Built is 2008, the Archway’s replica sod house gives visitors an idea of what life was like for the first settlers of European descent in Nebraska territory.   Trees were scarce on the prairie but, native grasses sent roots deep down into the soil which made prairie sod a useful building material. Sod houses were often built near the river so the residents could trade with travelers who followed the trails along the riverbanks. Our sod house is freely available for viewing year-round.