There is also one L&C Center at Ponca, NE. It's about 2-3 hr drive north on I29 and then west. If you ever get a chance, go to Beatrice to the National Homestead Monument. Best part--it's free!
Fort Hartsuff by Ord had living history days where they bake bread in a stone oven and blacksmithing. Don't know if that will be continued due to the budget. You could also go to the Happy Jack Chalk Mine nearby too. There are Oregon Trail events and Pony Express reenactments in this state. I would recommend go to the www.travelnebraska.gov to find the dates.
One way to keep from seeing rattlesnakes at your homestead. Go during the winter.
