The History Of Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs, Iowa is now known for its casinos and, perhaps, for its railroad museums. Those are certainly great attractions. However, the history of Council Bluffs goes back a long way and is full of many interesting facts that shouldn’t be ignored.

How The City Got Its Name

One of the most important and interesting facts about any city is how it was named. Council Bluffs is no exception to that. It all began in 1804. That was when the famous explorers, Lewis and Clark, met the Otoe Indian tribe.

The meeting was held near what is now called Ft. Calhoun, Nebraska. Then, much later, Council Bluffs became the name for the entire area east of Bellevue, Nebraska.

The Potawatomi

The Potawatomi people were some of the first people to settle in the area that is now called Council Bluffs. That happened after they were forced out of their homes, which were located in what is now Chicago, Illinois.

The Potawatomi were befriended by Father Pierre-Jean De Smet. Father De Smet ran a mission amongst the tribe members.

Kanesville And The Mormon Movement

Around the late 1840’s, what is now Council Bluffs was actually called Kanesville. Kanesville was known for one thing, Mormons. Brigham Young became the second leader of the Mormon Church around that time and all the Mormons who wanted to migrate to Utah began that migration from Kanesville.

Searching for Gold

In 1849, the California gold rush had a major impact on the city of Kanesville, which was a major travel and trading hub. The area was renamed from Kanesville to Council Bluffs and continued to be a major part of the steamboat trade business.

The Railroad Comes To Council Bluffs

In 1867, the Northwestern Railroad came to Council Bluffs. It was followed, two years later, by the Transcontinental Railroad. Then, upon completion of the Union Pacific Missouri River Bridge, Council Bluffs became a major transportation hub for the railroads and the city was booming with business.

Stagnation Encourages Relaxed Laws

Although the mayor opened a greyhound racing park in the 1940’s, it seemed like Council Bluffs had outlived its usefulness. Business was declining and the city was in a state of decay. That all changed when gambling laws were relaxed and casinos began to open up in Council Bluffs in the late 1900’s, though.

Hooray For Harrah’s

Now that Harrah’s and other casinos have moved into Council Bluffs, business is, once again, soaring. The many great casinos offer fun and games for everyone. There are blackjack tables, poker tables, slot machines and more. In fact, players even flock to Council Bluffs to play major poker tournament events, such as WSOP events.

It’s not just the gaming that Harrah’s and other area casinos have helped with, though. They’ve also brought more shopping and more fine dining to the area. Plus, they’ve added many great attractions and events that the entire family can enjoy.

So, the next time you plan a family trip, consider going to Council Bluffs. Just be sure to soak in some if its rich history, while you’re there.