Volunteering at the ARCHWAY

I am a volunteer at the ARCHWAY for a number of reasons.

First, I Like meeting people from all over the world, and getting to know them.

Second, I love sharing the rich history of this part of the world with anyone traveling through Nebraska.  Our history may not be nearly as long as some, but it is still vital to the development of this country and the modern world.

Third, I enjoy promoting not only the ARCHWAY, but the community which supports it, pointing out to visitors how much we have to offer here in Kearney, and touching on all the other things there are to do here in Central Nebraska. I like to stress that this can be a destination point, not merely a place to pass through on their way somewhere else!

Fourth, I am proud of the ARCHWAY and all it represents. From Gov. Frank Morrison’s dream to the finished reality brought to fruition by thousands of dedicated people, it is a true testimonial to the vision and the “Git-R-Done,” attitude of Nebraska.  Where else could a $60 Million project be completed, opened and run for so many years without state or federal funding?

Fifth (and there are many other reasons), I work with some of the best people in the world, who labor long and hard to keep the ARCHWAY, clean and ready for visitors day after day.  From the hectic days of mid-summer to the slow days of winter, they are always there, ready to meet and welcome all those who cross our threshold. We’re there to help them learn why the Great Platte River Road was so important to the development of our entire country and why it remains one of the most important trade routes in the world today.

I’ve been volunteering here since 2013, but involved with the ARCHWAY for much longer than that, in fact since I first heard of the plans to build it.  It’s a privilege to be able to volunteer my time here, and to greet people from all over the world who grace our doorstep.

Anyone with a smile and a willing heart can join us here and help continue telling the story of the Oregon Trail and so much more!

Bob Wallace

ARCHWAY Volunteer