Naomi Institute facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Naomi Institute
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Rock Bluff School, seen from the southeast.
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 Location in Nebraska
Location in the United States
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| Location | Rock Bluff, Cass County, Nebraska |
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| Built | 1870 |
| NRHP reference No. | 77000825 |
| Added to NRHP | 1977 |
The Naomi Institute, also known as the Rock Bluff School, is a very old building in Rock Bluff, Nebraska. Rock Bluff is now a ghost town, which means it's an abandoned town. The school is located about three miles east of Murray. It was one of the first places for higher education (like a college) in Nebraska, starting in 1870. Because of its important history, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
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The Naomi Institute: A Pioneer School
The Naomi Institute was founded in 1870. It was built in what was once a busy town called Rock Bluff. This town was a popular spot for crossing the Missouri River.
Rock Bluff: A Busy River Town
Before it became a ghost town, Rock Bluff was a lively place. It had a post office, a mayor, and even hosted the county fair. There were many businesses, including stores, blacksmith shops, and places for entertainment. People could also find a race track near the steamboat landing and a coal mine nearby.
Starting the Naomi Institute
In 1870, a man named Joseph Diven Patterson decided to build a school. He chose a spot overlooking the Rock and Squaw creeks, near the Missouri River bluffs. He built a two-story building for the school. On September 1, 1870, the Naomi Institute officially opened its doors.
Education in the Old West
Advertisements for the Naomi Institute proudly stated that it was a very moral place. They said students would be safe from bad influences often found in bigger, faster towns in the West. The Naomi Institute quickly became known as one of the best schools in Nebraska. It was also the first place for higher education in Cass County.
Changes Over Time
Even though the school started well, it faced financial problems. In 1872, Patterson had to sell the building because of debt. After that, it became known as the Rock Bluff School.
The town of Rock Bluff itself began to decline in the 1870s. A new railroad bridge was built in Omaha, which made the river crossing at Rock Bluff less important. Later, the closest railroad tracks were built ten miles west, further isolating the town. By the 1940s, Rock Bluff was completely abandoned, becoming the ghost town it is today.
The Rock Bluff School Today
Today, the Rock Bluff School is believed to be the oldest schoolhouse in Cass County. It is now owned by the Cass County Historical Society. The building serves as a museum, which you can visit by making an appointment. In 2003, the Nebraska Humanities Council even held some events for the Plattsmouth Chautauqua at this historic site.
See also
