BRAN 43 Kicks Off in Historic Oshkosh, Nebraska

The excitement is building as BRAN 43 rolls into the charming town of Oshkosh, Nebraska—a place where history meets hospitality, and the spirit of community welcomes cyclists from across the country.

On Saturday, May 31, hundreds of riders, support crews, and families will arrive in Oshkosh to prepare for the official start of the Bicycle Ride Across Nebraska (BRAN) on Sunday morning, June 1. While Oshkosh may mark the beginning of your BRAN journey, it’s also a community deeply rooted in the stories of journeys past.

A Town Built on Trails and Tradition

Oshkosh (pop. 809) is nestled in the North Platte River valley, serving as the gateway to Garden County’s rich heritage. Just south of town, the historic Oregon and Mormon Trails trace the path of westward expansion, reminding us that long before bicycles rolled through these parts, wagon wheels marked the route of dreamers and pioneers.

The town itself traces its roots back to 1889, when the Oshkosh Land & Cattle Company established a headquarters that still proudly stands today on Main Street. Named after the founders’ hometown of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the community was incorporated in 1910 and has preserved much of its early architecture, giving visitors a glimpse into Nebraska’s frontier past.

Sites to Explore While You’re in Town

Before you hit the road, take time to explore some of Oshkosh’s unique attractions:

• The Original Company Store Building – A testament to the town’s origins, this two-story frame structure is a piece of living history.
• Garden County Museums – Housed in the first schoolhouse (built in 1905) and the historic 1907 Opera House, these museums offer a walk through time.
• The Water Tower Plaza – Built in 1920 and preserved as a National Historic Place, this local landmark lights up the skyline each night. Visit the plaza to see commemorative bricks celebrating families and alumni.
• Carl Beard Memorial Park – Stroll the Story Walk, bring the kids to the William Olson Memorial Pool, or enjoy a shady rest under the park’s gondolas.
• Public Art Displays – Murals and barn quilts brighten up buildings and fences across town. Pick up a guide brochure for a self-guided tour and be sure to check out the NETV-featured mural on the Nebraska State Bank building.

Click on photos to enlarge. (Photos courtesy City of Oshkosh, Nebraska)

A Community That Cares

Oshkosh is also home to a strong civic spirit. The 1921 courthouse and the community hospital, first opened in a home in 1935, stand as symbols of service and resilience. The town’s central role in Garden County continues today, providing 24-hour EMS coverage and serving as the heartbeat of the region.

From History to the Open Road

As riders leave Oshkosh and head toward Lewellen, keep an eye out for the Battle of Blue Water Memorial, commemorating a significant chapter in American history. From there, your route will lead you to the majestic Lake McConaughy, Nebraska’s largest man-made reservoir, and past the historic Ash Hollow State Park, once a critical resting point for Oregon Trail travelers.

Thank You, Oshkosh!

We’re grateful to the residents of Oshkosh and Garden County for their warm welcome and generous hospitality. Your town offers more than a starting line—it offers a meaningful experience that riders and visitors will remember long after their wheels roll east.

For more details on what to see and do while you’re in town, visit VisitGardenCounty.com. And from all of us at BRAN, we say thank you—here’s to a great ride and an unforgettable start in Oshkosh!