KEARNEY, Neb. - The 1848 Venture Crew was started in November of 2002. It was decided that we would specialize primarily in Civil War reenacting and learning about Native American Indian history, and also to learn about pioneers on the Oregon and Mormon trails. Our first big event was to sponsor the District Boy Scout camporee in April of 2003. At this event we did Civil War living history and a battle, please see our photo section. Other events thoughout the year included flag ceremonies, parades, fund raisers, battles and visiting Fort Hartsuff. At the end of our first year the 1848 Venture Crew received the BSA Quality Unit Award. Our unit is very closely associated with "C" Battery 3rd US Field Artillery at Ft Kearny.

In Feb. 2004, the 1848 Crew voted to portray Company "C" of the 1st Nebraska Volunteer Infantry Regiment that was formed in 1861 to fight in the civil war. The regiment fought at Fort Donelson and Shiloh. Later the unit was converted to a cavalry regiment and sent to Fort Kearny to protect immigrants going west. Company 'C' was the first company of the regiment to arrive at Ft Kearny. We are also participate with "A" Company 1st Nebraska Vol.Infantry from the Omaha and Lincoln area, however, we are not part of their unit or organization. We are also capable of doing Confederate soldier impressions of F Company 16th Virginia Regiment of Infantry.

In our civil war reenacting unit, we strive to learn about the American Civil War and the history of the Nebraska Territory, especially of Ft Kearny. Soldiers from the Nebraska Territory were very loyal and supportive of the United States. However in our hobby of reenacting, in order for a battle to occur there must be two sides, thus, sometimes we are actors representing the Confederate States of America. Our unit is a Boy Scout Venture Crew and does not advocate racism, slavery or separation from the United States.

Discover The Great Platte River Road Archway Monument: The Archway Monument focuses on preserving, educating, and celebrating the transcontinental visionaries of the past, present and future. An interactive exhibit, the Archway Monument is the only site in the country where the California, Mormon and Oregon trails crossed paths. Completed in June of 2000, the non-profit monument prominently spans I-80 in Kearney, Nebraska. The Archway Monument was envisioned and founded by the late Nebraska Governor Frank Morrison.