The Mysteries on the Map series began as a tribute to the people who formed those long-forgotten settlements in Nebraska now considered “ghost towns.” Upon the suggestion of a Midwest Messenger reader and family friend, I began researching Rose in Rock County. Little did I know that this project would turn from a mystery on the map into a history of this unincorporated community.
Located in southern Rock County, Rose was one of many small communities established in the early years of Nebraska settlement.
The Trading Post was the center of commerce for the Rose community. Notice the gas pumps to the left of the building.
The Rose School was built in 1967 as a two-room schoolhouse. A third room was added in the late 1980s to accommodate the growing number of students.
A large cross hangs clearly visible on the back of the Rose Church.
People are also reading…
The beautiful simplicity inside the Rose Church reflects the quaint country setting in which the church sits.
Christina (Hallgrimson) Swinney served as the postmistress of Rose from July 13, 1937, until her retirement on Sept. 21, 1966.
Janet Kuchera served as Officer in Charge of the Rose postal service for several years. Her three children—Clay, Peggy and Frank (being held)—are pictured in front of the post office area at the Rose Community Hall in this photo from the 1980s.
A postcard from Rose, Neb., is stamped Dec. 23, 1999—the day the Rose Post Office officially closed.
The gas pump and Swinney’s Store are still visible along old Highway 183 in Rock County.
The Rose Community Hall has been the hub of countless social activities, meetings and community gatherings throughout the years.
What began as a trading center in the 1950s is now a relic of days past in Rose, Neb.
Mysteries on the Map is a series that highlights a different ghost town and how it contributed to the rich history of Nebraska. Running through the summer months, it pays tribute to the pioneers who endured incredible hardship and paved the way so that we can now enjoy the good life called Nebraska. If you have suggestions or stories to share about a community that no longer exists, contact reporter Kristen Sindelar at Kristen.Sindelar@midwestmessenger.com. Write to the Midwest Messenger at P.O. Box 239, Tekamah, NE 68061, or call editor Janelle Atyeo at 800-888-1380.
Kristen Sindelar
Agriculture Reporter
