John G. Neihardt State Historic Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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John G. Neihardt Study
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The Neihardt Study and Sioux Prayer Garden
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 Location in Nebraska
Location in the United States
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| Location | NW corner of Washington and Grove Sts., Bancroft, Nebraska |
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| Area | 0.5 acres (0.20 ha) |
| Built | c.1890 |
| NRHP reference No. | 70000369 |
| Added to NRHP | July 28, 1970 |
The John G. Neihardt State Historic Site, also known as the Neihardt Center, is a cool place in Bancroft, Nebraska. It has museum exhibits all about John Neihardt, who was a famous Nebraska Poet Laureate.
One of the most special parts of the site is a small, one-room building. This was Neihardt's study from 1911 to 1920. It's where he wrote many of his important works. Today, you can still see it, furnished just like he used it!
The Neihardt Center is run by the Nebraska State Historical Society and the John G. Neihardt Foundation. It also features the beautiful Sacred Hoop Prayer Garden, which Neihardt himself designed. There's even a library where you can learn more about his life. The center hosts fun events, including an annual Neihardt Day celebration.
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Discover the John G. Neihardt Center
The John G. Neihardt State Historic Site is a fantastic spot to learn about a key figure in Nebraska's history. It helps visitors understand the life and work of John G. Neihardt. This special place keeps his memory and stories alive for everyone.
Who Was John G. Neihardt?
John G. Neihardt was a very important writer. He was named Nebraska's Poet Laureate, which means he was the official poet of the state. He wrote many books and poems, often about the American West and Native American cultures. His stories help us understand more about the past.
Explore Neihardt's Special Study
The small, one-room study is the heart of the Neihardt Center. John G. Neihardt used this quiet space to write for almost ten years. Imagine all the ideas and stories that came to life within those walls! It's the only original building left from his property.
This historic study was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 28, 1970. This listing means it's recognized as a very important historical place. When you visit, you can peek inside and see how it looked when Neihardt was working there.
What Else Can You See at the Center?
Beyond the study, the Neihardt Center offers more to explore. The Sacred Hoop Prayer Garden is a peaceful area designed by Neihardt himself. It's a place for quiet thought and reflection. The center also has a library filled with books and information about Neihardt. You can learn all about his life and the impact he had.
Special events, like the yearly Neihardt Day, bring the community together. These events celebrate Neihardt's legacy and share his stories with new generations. It's a great way to experience history in a fun way.
A Look Back at the Study's Journey
The study building has an interesting history of its own. It was first built in the early 1890s by August Hartman as a small home. Later, around 1900, the Canarsky family owned it. John G. Neihardt rented this little building from them starting around 1911. He used it as his personal office and library.
Neihardt's own house was later moved to a farm about 8 miles (13 km) east of Bancroft. In 1964, the Bancroft Commercial Club bought the study for $750. The John G. Neihardt Foundation then worked to restore it in 1967. Thanks to their efforts, we can still visit this important piece of history today.
