History

Photos provided by Stuhr Museum. Copy and reuse restrictions apply. 

Sand Krog Entrance
Sand Krog Octagon Ballroom Bar at Sand Krog
Originally the George Clayton Hall County Park was known as Schimmer's Sand Krog. The founder, Martin Schimmer, immigrated to Nebraska from Germany. Pictured above is the octagon-shaped ballroom and bar at the Sand Krog. In the early years, Schimmer's was the hub of the local German community.
Sand Krog dam Schimmers Lake
Schimmer's Lake was created by Martin Schimmer in 1898 by diverting water from the Wood River.  The diverted water also allowed for the harvesting of ice for passing trains.  It was a popular tourist destination for thousands of visitors until it was lost in 1942 when the dam that formed it was washed out.
Schimmers Cafe at Sand Krog Sand Krog Harvesting Ice
The Sand Krog was later closed in 1959 to make room for Highway 281. In 1968 the property was given to Hall County. George Clayton, a Hall County Supervisor, was charged with the task of re-claiming the area for a park. Two years later the area was once again fit for public use, largely due to the efforts of Mr. Clayton. In 1981 the park was dedicated as the George Clayton Hall County Park. Since that time it has become known as an excellent wildlife refuge and popular recreation area.

Photos provided by Stuhr Museum. Copy and reuse restrictions apply.