Please Join Us!
The Mayhew Cain Foundation is celebrating our grand reopening of the historic Mayhew Cabin at 7:00 p.m. on June 19, 2026 in commemoration of Juneteenth and America 250 Celebration.
Come learn about the recent restorations to the cabin and cave by master craftsman, Butch Bovier. Take time to tour the cabin and the partially restored John Brown’s Cave. You will also learn about the important role the Mayhew Cabin played on the Underground Railroad along the Lane Trail that runs from Topeka, KS, through Southeast Nebraska, and across Iowa. Historian and former Omaha World Herald Journalist, Bob Nelson, will take us down the trail.
The featured speaker is Darryl Hogan, current President of the Mayhew Cabin Foundation and direct descendant of Sam and Jane Harper, two of the enslaved people who passed through the Mayhew Cabin on their way to freedom in Canada in February of 1859.
The special event is open to the public and free of charge. There will be outdoor seating, but you are welcome to bring your own lawn chair if your prefer. Live music will be provided by “West Street Wranglers.”
Refreshments will be served immediately following the formal program at Hidden Falls Came Event Center directly across the street from the Mayhew Cabin.
The Mayhew Cabin is located at 2012 4th Corso, Nebraska City, NE 68410.
For any questions, or for more information, please call Doug Kreifels at (402) 209-4060.
Experience History
The Mayhew Cabin with John Brown’s Cave Museum in Nebraska City interprets the history of the Underground Railroad in Nebraska. The Mayhew Cabin was the first site in Nebraska to be recognized by the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom.
Network to Freedom: Nebraska’s Underground Railroad Trail
A self-directed driving tour was developed for Nebraska’s Network to Freedom sites. You can view or download the Network to Freedom Underground Railroad Trail brochure and map by clicking on the following link.
With Sympathy
The Mayhew Cabin Foundation wishes to express deep sadness at the passing of former docent, Marge Jordan. Marge was a delightful, loyal, unassuming lady. For many years, Marge and her husband Bob, were dedicated friends of the museum. May they both rest in peace.