In the heydays, that is 1700s to late 1900s most of the towns in the United States of America came up by the influence of railroad, rich mines farming activity, and military fort presence in the areas. Saltillo was exceptional as it began with the death and decline of other towns. Just as it enjoyed and thrived on the failure of its counterparts, Saltillo would receive the same fate in the late 1950s.

 The beginning of an era 

Originally called Olathe, the town’s name changed to Saltillo after the city of Saltillo, Mexico. The town was located between the former boomtowns of Grants, Centerville, and Yankee Hill. This location favored the town as it received all the desperate residents from the declining neighboring towns. The town's economy depended on the Oregon train traffic as most of its residents worked for the railroad. Saltillo was the only town in the area that had a constant population of about 50 people throughout its existence. With the Atchison Nebraska railroad and Union Pacific railroad passing through, the town's population rarely lacked employment. People who were not so lucky to work with the railroad focused on farming. The town received its post office in 1862. 

The decline of the town 

In 1865, the construction of the transcontinental railroad began shutting down all the existing railroads. This hit the small town hard as the effects were evident. The railroads that crossed the town were deserted and auctioned to Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy by 1908. The town turned to fishing and small-scale farming for a period but frequent floods would halt every bit of hope that they could have revived it. It was at this time that Lincoln town was being established. Death of railroad, floods, and great by newly-established Lincoln town was too much for Saltillo to carry. Saltillo town was permanently deserted by 1950. 

Saltillo today

Today the town lies in despair dominated by grass and trees. Its wooden business buildings and cabins are extremely dilapidated but are still hanging onto life. Many of the locals around and within Nebraska do not know of the town hence major damage by vandalism has not been recorded. The townsite of Saltillo is rural and for that reason, the roads to this place are not well done. A four-wheel drive is recommended for those ghost town enthusiasts who may want to visit the town. Just like any other state park or public place, one does not need permission to visit or tour the townsite. Be cautious as the Waters of the salt Creek are unpredictable, they can overflow causing floods at the slightest of short rains. Saltillo also has various conducive spots that can be used as camping sites.