In 1880, Tracy was established with a population count of 322. Horses, oxen, and pure human energy powered the growth of both city and countryside.

After a disastrous fire in 1891, a new Tracy welcomed the steam engine and the horseless carriage, which pushed and pulled this community into the new century.

In 1977, a small group of citizens embarked on the long and often frustrating task of erecting a memorial to those hardy pioneers who stayed with this, often wild land. The purpose was to collect wheels from all facets of their lives, agricultural, railroad and automotive...plus all the little wheels, which helped this country grow and prosper. The Wheels Across the Prairie Museum opened its doors on June 1, 1985, to share the story with visitors.​