Grand Island was settled by only 35 German immigrants from Davenport, Iowa.  The settlement began on July 4, 1857.  They experienced many hardships including blizzards and conflicts with the Native Americans.  In 1866, the Union Pacific laid out and platted Grand Island which raised the population.  The involvement or churches and the school system also helped with the structure of Grand Island.  Not to mention all of the special events that are in Grand Island including the new Heartland Event Center.

    Grace Abbott was a famous person from Grand Island.  She was born on November 17th, 1878.  She was a well known American social reformer, teacher, and writer.  Grace was involved in the Sheppard-Towner Act which aided single mothers and children.  As you can see Grace Abbott and the history of Grand Island is very interesting and important.