History of A.J. Poppleton

Lawrence A. (Larry) Dwyer is an attorney, author, and historian with deep roots in Nebraska’s legal and cultural community. He earned his B.A. in American and British History from the University of Nebraska–Omaha and his law degree from Creighton University. A proud member of the Nebraska Bar Association, Larry has practiced law for more than 50 years.

In addition to his legal career, Larry has written seven books on estate planning, covering topics such as wills, trusts, probate, elder law, and estate taxes. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to helping individuals and families plan wisely for the future.

Larry’s passion for history has also shaped much of his community involvement. He served six years on the Board of Directors of the Douglas County Historical Society, where he founded its Foundation and served as its first President. He has been a keynote speaker at the Society’s major anniversary celebrations of the historic Trial of Standing Bear.

His most recent book, Standing Bear’s Quest for Freedom, published by the University of Nebraska Press, was named Nebraska’s Best History Book for 2023. Larry also serves on the board of a new national nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Ponca Chief Standing Bear.

In May 2025, Larry and his wife, Karen, along with another couple, donated a three-foot replica of the Chief Standing Bear statue—created by sculptor Benjamin Victor for the U.S. Capitol’s Statuary Hall—to the Douglas County Historical Society, where it is now on permanent display at the Crook House.