Nebraska’s history is as diverse as it is long, with roots tracing back to its establishment as a territory under the Kansas–Nebraska Act, passed by the United States Congress on May 30, 1854. The Plains Indians, descendants of a long line of indigenous cultures, inhabited the area for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. Yet, the recent discovery of ancient tunnels in Nebraska has ignited curiosity and given rise to a myriad of theories and speculations.
Some speculate that the tunnels in Nebraska are remnants of a lost civilization predating the Native Americans.
Nebraska is home to a unique tunnel known as the Belmont Tunnel in Dawes County. However, there is no solid evidence to suggest the existence of ancient civilization tunnels in the state. The Belmont Tunnel, the only one of its kind in the Cornhusker State, remains a well-kept secret, known mostly to locals.
The Paleoburrows
The paleoburrows, a series of underground passages, were excavated by prehistoric animals, specifically giant ground sloths. These elephant-sized creatures used their long claws to dig through the soil. Estimated to be between two million and 10,000 years old, these burrows vary in size, ranging from four feet to 65 feet in width and length. Some bear claw marks, indicating the direction and effort of the digging. While these paleoburrows are predominantly found in southern Brazil, geologist Heinrich Frank discovered some in Nebraska in 2010. It is speculated that some of these Nebraska paleoburrows might have been repurposed by Native Americans following the extinction of the giant sloths. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this theory.
The Scottsbluff Tunnel
The Scottsbluff Tunnel, a natural formation resulting from the erosion of the North Platte River, is located near the Scotts Bluff National Monument, a landmark of the Oregon Trail. Standing about 20 feet high and 50 feet long, the tunnel offers a picturesque view of the river and the surrounding landscape. Historically and culturally significant, the tunnel served as a passage for Native Americans, fur traders, pioneers, and soldiers. Accessible via a hiking trail, the tunnel is open to the public.
Theories and Speculations
Some speculate that the tunnels in Nebraska are remnants of a lost civilization predating the Native Americans. Proponents of this theory suggest that these tunnels were constructed by an advanced race of humans or extraterrestrials for transportation, communication, or refuge. Alleged evidence supporting this theory includes mysterious symbols, carvings, and artifacts found in the tunnels, as well as the tunnels’ alignment with astronomical phenomena. However, there is no scientific or archaeological evidence to substantiate these claims. The tunnels in Nebraska are either natural formations or the result of animal activity, with no signs of modification or use by any human civilization prior to the Native Americans.
