National Register of Historic Places listings in Jefferson County, Nebraska facts for kids
Welcome to Jefferson County, Nebraska! This area is home to many special places that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This list helps protect important buildings, sites, and areas that tell us about the past. Think of it like a special hall of fame for historic places across the United States!
There are 15 different properties and areas in Jefferson County that are on this important list. Each one has a unique story to tell about how people lived, worked, and learned long ago. By keeping these places safe, we can learn a lot about history and understand how our communities grew.
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Discovering Jefferson County's Historic Treasures
Jefferson County has many cool spots that are part of the National Register of Historic Places. These places are like windows into the past, showing us how life used to be. Let's explore some of them!
Historic Buildings in Diller
The small town of Diller has a few interesting historic buildings.
The Colman House
The Colman House is a beautiful old home located at 501 Lavelle Street. It was added to the National Register in 1982. This house shows us the kind of homes people lived in many years ago.
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Anna C. Diller Opera House
The Anna C. Diller Opera House is another important building in Diller, found at Commercial and Hilton streets. Listed in 1988, this opera house was once a place where people gathered for shows, music, and community events. Imagine the plays and concerts that happened here!
People's State Bank
The People's State Bank building, located on Nebraska Highway 103, became historic in 1984. Today, this old bank building is home to the Diller Historical Society and the Diller Museum. It's a great place to learn even more about the town's history!
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Schools with a Story
Two old school buildings in Jefferson County are also on the historic list.
District No. 1 School of Jefferson County
The District No. 1 School in Steele City is at the corner of North 2nd and Curtis Streets. This school, listed in 1997, taught many generations of students. It reminds us of how important education has always been.
District No. 10 School
Near Powell, you can find the District No. 10 School at the intersection of county roads 717 and 559. This school was added to the list in 1978. It's a great example of the small, one-room schools that were common in rural areas.
Fairbury's Historic Heart
The city of Fairbury has several places on the National Register, including a whole historic district!
Fairbury Commercial Historic District
The Fairbury Commercial Historic District covers a large part of downtown Fairbury. It includes streets like 6th, F, 3rd, and B, and goes near the railroad tracks. This area, listed in 1997, shows what a busy town center looked like in the past. It's full of old shops and buildings.
Fairbury Jr/Sr High School
The Fairbury Jr/Sr High School and Gymnasium-Auditorium is roughly bounded by J and K Streets, and 7th and 8th Streets. This school, listed in 1999, has been a place of learning for many students over the years.
Fairbury Public-Carnegie Library
The Fairbury Public-Carnegie Library at 601 7th Street was listed in 1985. Carnegie libraries were built all over the country with money from Andrew Carnegie, a famous businessman. These libraries helped make books and learning available to everyone.
Fairbury Rock Island Depot and Freight House
The Fairbury Rock Island Depot and Freight House at 910 2nd Street was added to the list in 1996. Train depots were very important in the past for travel and moving goods. This building reminds us of the days when trains were a main way to get around.
IOOF Temple Building
The IOOF Temple Building at 523 E Street was listed in 1987. IOOF stands for "Independent Order of Odd Fellows," which is a friendly society that helped people in their communities. This building was likely a meeting place for them.
Jefferson County Courthouse
The Jefferson County Courthouse is located on Courthouse Square in Fairbury. This important building, listed in 1972, is where many local government decisions are made. It's often a grand building that shows the importance of the county's history.
Other Unique Historic Sites
Beyond the towns, Jefferson County has other special historic spots.
Site No. JF00-072
Site No. JF00-072 is a unique spot located at the junction of Thayer, Jefferson, Washington, and Republic county lines. Listed in 1987, this site might be important for its archaeological value, telling us about even older times.
Woral C. Smith Lime Kiln and Limestone House
About 2 miles northwest of Fairbury, you can find the Woral C. Smith Lime Kiln and Limestone House. This site, listed in 1974, includes a lime kiln, which was used to heat limestone to make lime for building and farming. It shows us how people used natural resources long ago.
Steele City Historic District
The Steele City Historic District is another important area, roughly bounded by Main and 2nd Streets, Gardline, and the St. Joseph and Western Railroad line. Listed in 1972, this district helps preserve the historic feel of the entire town of Steele City.
