Robber's Cave in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a historic underground attraction with a rich and varied past. Initially carved out of sandstone in the 1860s, the cave was used by Lincoln's first brewery to store lager. Over the years, it became a popular spot for various groups and activities, both legal and illicit.
The cave is named "Robber's Cave" due to legends suggesting that outlaws, including Jesse James, used it as a hideout. However, it has also served other purposes throughout history, such as a meeting place for secret societies and a shelter for Coxey's Army during the labor unrest in the 1890s. The Ku Klux Klan is also known to have used the cave for gatherings in the early 20th century.
In more recent times, Robber's Cave became a beloved spot for local youth to explore and leave their mark by carving initials into the walls. It was closed to the public around the year 2000 due to safety concerns but was later reopened after significant restoration efforts.
Today, Robber's Cave is accessible for tours led by Joel Green, a local teacher and author who has extensively researched and documented the cave's history. The cave tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the geological and historical aspects of the cave, with entertaining anecdotes collected over the years.
Robber's Cave has been recognized for its historical significance and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2020. It also features advanced 3D mapping created using LIDAR technology, making the cave accessible virtually to people around the world.
For more information and to schedule a tour, you can visit the official Robber's Cave website or explore detailed historical accounts through the Nebraska Public Media and History Nebraska sites.
25 июн 2024
