The DeWitty - Audacious Historical Marker soon to be a reality!

Thank you Thank you Thank you!

We did it! We raised $5100 for the historical marker in remembrances of the homesteaders of DeWitty-Audacious, Nebraska. The largest African American Settlement established in the Sandhills of Nebraska in the late 1800's. Contrary to various accountings for the reason of the demise of this town, DeWitty renamed Audacious centered their energy, vision and struggles to achieve the American dream and the audacity to think they could. 

They achieved their mission and this is a fitting memorial for all their struggles.

On behalf of the descendants, we wish to give special credit to Stew Magnuson, author of 'The Last American Highway' who was the backbone of this project and a major contributor. 
Also thank you to The Nebraska State Historical Society for approving the Marker and The Cherry County Historical Society, especially Joyce Muirhead, who helped set up the fundraising bank account. We additionally express our appreciation of the support from the Bulletin and also theNorth Platte Telegraph, Stapleton Enterprise, Lincoln Journal Star and radio station KVSH in Valentine “ for helping get the word out around Nebraska. 

I say we because funding came from far and wide; family, friends and with some the descendants contributing to the funding as well.  
The rest of the team who worked hard to get the word out were Homesteaders descendants: Catherine Blount, a Meehan Descendant, and Marcie Thompkins, who established a Facebook page and yours truly, Joyceann Gray, both descendants of the well-known Walker family. Even my grandchildren Jacob & Leah chipped in and gave $100. 

To Valentine Midland News editor Laura Vroman, I give a special Thank You for allowing me to write articles week after week offering a more balanced view of the rest of the homesteaders. Expounding on the people who worked so hard to give their children a good start in life. People who shared their skills and talents with others to make a hard life worthwhile.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention Lyn Messersmith, without her support I would be still struggling to find precious memories of the lives of the homesteaders.

I hope to see you all at the installation Ceremony!

God is Good

Joyceann Gray