Battle Creek Cleanup and Restoration

In 1867, a settlement was made on Battle Creek, about one mile above its junction with the Elkhorn. It is surrounded by level prairie, better adapted to grazing and meadow the soil is rich, and, where plowed, produces excellent corn. There are three churches, Catholic, Baptist and German Lutheran; a fine new frame schoolhouse, 24×44 feet. In 1859, following complaints of the Pawnee depredations against settlers in the Elkhorn River Valley, a combined force of Nebraska Territorial Militia under the command of General John Thayer and the 2nd U.S. Ary Dragoons under Lieutenant Robertson prepared to attack a Pawnee village. Rather than fighting, the Pawnees surrendered before the attack could be launched. Chief Petalesharu draped an American flag over his shoulders and held a peace pipe while confronting the soldiers to stop the fight from taking place, ending the Pawnee War of 1859. Although no battle occurred, the nearby stream was dubbed Battle Creek, the town founded in the area in 1867 took the creek's name for itself. In Battle Creek, ground was broken for a new school building for Battle Creek Academy in September 1903. The academy operated in the three-story building until it was destroyed by a fire in April 1945. A new, modern school was built. Battle Creek Elementary School is a public school located in Battle Creek, Nebraska, the student population of Battle Creek Elementary School is 257 and the school serves PK-6. Battle Creek High School is a public school located in Battle Creek, Nebraska the student population of Battle Creek High School is 239 and the school serves 7-12.