The Small-Town Bells Of The Prairie Collection Is A Charming Gift From The Past In Nebraska

Everyone knows that one person who's been building a collection of something for years and years. Whether it's your aunt with her ceramic chickens or your coworker with a whole room full of model airplanes, there are some truly dedicated collectors out there. One such collector is Jim Mies, a man who loves to share his hobby with everyone who happens to pass by his home in Elgin.

If you're driving through Elgin, Nebraska on Highway 14, you'll pass right by Jim Mies' house. It looks just like the other residences in the neighborhood with one notable exception: the large display of antique bells and other artifacts that line one side of the driveway.

You're welcome to park and come on up to see "Bells of the Prairie," as the collection is called. Even if you aren't specifically interested in old bells, these vintage objects may end up charming you anyway.

Mies has been interested in bells from a young age, and at some point he began gathering them from various sources.

The unusual display contains bells from firehouses, one-room schoolhouses, farms, and churches. Mies acquired them from wherever he could, adding to his collection until he had around 200. Although that number is closer to 150 these days, seeing them all together is quite the experience.

Interspersed with the bells of Nebraska's past are other vintage objects that deserve a closer look. You can spy old promotional items, decorations, and antique steel wheels. There are even an old water pump and gas pump accompanying the main attraction.

While we wouldn't suggest a long road trip just to see the Bells of the Prairie display (unless you're a true die-hard fan of antique bells), it's certainly worth a stop when you're passing through Elgin. If you decide to stop by, please be respectful of the fact that this is a private residence in a quiet neighborhood.

There is no fee to visit the Bells of the Prairie display. It's located on Hwy 14 in Elgin; just follow the road through town and you can't miss it.

While you're in the area, take a little trip to Neligh, Nebraska, where you'll find a beautifully preserved old grist mill.