We have now traversed 1350 miles and are in Grand Island, Nebraska.   As of the 2010 census, it was a town with a population of 48,520. Grand Island had its beginnings in 1857 when 35 German settlers left Davenport IA and settled on an island formed by the Platte and Wood rivers, known as Grand Island.

The town moved inland when the railroad set up a station called Grand Island Station, which resulted in bringing more trade to the area. It was the end of the line for the eastern division of the Union Pacific, and they built service facilities there for the locomotives. In the springtime, Grand Island is known for its burst of prairie blooms and the migration of over 500,000 sandhill cranes. Thoroughbred racing also resumes.

In August, Grand Island hosts the Nebraska State Fair. In the fall, there is a 300-mile long garage sale called the ”Junk Jaunt” that extends into the  Sandhills. Folks from all over bring their RVs to haul home their new treasures. Winter months bring cross country skiing and watching for cardinals against the white snow. The Episcopal Church in Grand Island is St. Stephen’s, and like us,    they have suspended services. They are in the middle of searching for a priest-in-charge and have been relying on supply clergy. Sadly, unlike us, they are not holding online services currently, so please keep these folks in your prayers.

We have a small but dedicated group that is doing our walk. I encourage others of you to join so we can make it to Washington by Easter. Even though we’re isolated, we can still get out and walk. Just remember to keep your six feet of distance.