National Register of Historic Places listings in Keith County, Nebraska facts for kids
Welcome to Keith County, Nebraska! This page is all about special places here that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Think of it like a national list of important buildings, sites, and objects that are worth protecting because of their history. These places tell us stories about the past of Keith County and the United States.
There are 13 amazing spots in Keith County that have made it onto this important list. Let's explore some of them!
Contents
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the United States' historic places. It is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America's historic and archaeological resources. When a place is added to this list, it means it's recognized for its historical, architectural, archaeological, engineering, or cultural importance. It helps people learn about and save these special places for the future.
Historic Places in Keith County
Keith County has many interesting places on the National Register. These sites include old buildings, important archaeological digs, and even parts of old trails. Each one has a unique story to tell about the area's past.
Old Buildings and Structures
Some of the listings are historic buildings that people used to live or work in. They show us what life was like long ago.
Leonidas A. Brandhoefer Mansion
The Leonidas A. Brandhoefer Mansion is a beautiful old house in Ogallala. It is located at 10th and Spruce Streets. This mansion was added to the National Register on October 3, 1973. It's a great example of the fancy homes built a long time ago.
Front Street in Ogallala
Front Street in Ogallala, specifically 519 E. 1st St., is another important spot. It was listed on January 6, 2015. This area likely played a big role in the town's early days. It helps us imagine what Ogallala looked like in the past.
Dr. Burdette and Myrna Gainsforth House
The Dr. Burdette and Myrna Gainsforth House is at 1300 East A Street in Ogallala. This house became a historic listing on December 5, 2002. It's another example of the unique architecture and history found in the area.
Keystone Community Church
The Keystone Community Church, found on McGinley Street in Keystone, is a charming old church. It was added to the National Register on January 1, 1979. Churches often serve as important community centers and historical landmarks.
Roscoe State Aid Bridge
Bridges can be historic too! The Roscoe State Aid Bridge crosses the South Platte River. It is about 0.5 miles southeast of Roscoe. This bridge was listed on June 29, 1992, showing its importance in transportation history.
Standard Oil Red Crown Service Station
Even old gas stations can be historic! The Standard Oil Red Crown Service Station is at 220 N. Spruce Street in Ogallala. It was listed on August 20, 2004. This station reminds us of how cars and travel have changed over time.
US Post Office-Ogallala
The US Post Office in Ogallala, located at 301 N. Spruce Street, is also on the list. It was added on May 11, 1992. This post office is special because it has a cool mural inside called "Longhorns." The mural was painted in 1938 by Frank Mechau.
Important Historical Sites
Some listings are not buildings but important historical locations, like old trails or archaeological sites.
Alkali Station
Alkali Station, near Roscoe, was listed on November 14, 2016. Its exact address is restricted to protect the site. This spot was likely an important stop along an old trail or route.
California Hill
California Hill, located west of Brule, is a very famous historic site. It was added to the National Register on July 15, 1974. This hill was part of the historic Oregon Trail and California Trail. You can still see wagon ruts there from pioneers who traveled west long ago!
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Diamond Springs Stage Station Site
The Diamond Springs Stage Station Site is about 1 mile west of the Brule exit on Interstate 80. It was listed on October 15, 1970. This was once a stagecoach station, a place where travelers could rest and change horses.
Archaeological Sites
Archaeological sites are places where scientists study the past by digging up old objects and remains. These sites help us learn about people who lived in Keith County thousands of years ago.
Archeological Site 25KH67
This site, near Paxton, was listed on December 4, 2001. Its address is restricted to protect any artifacts found there.
Archeological Site 25KH68
Another archaeological site, 25KH68, is located near Brule. It was also listed on December 4, 2001.
Beauvais' Ranche Archeological Site
The Beauvais' Ranche Archeological Site is also near Brule. It was added to the National Register on February 20, 1975. This site likely holds clues about early settlements or trading posts in the area.
Former Listing
Sometimes, a place might be removed from the National Register if it no longer meets the requirements, perhaps due to changes or damage.
Welsch Motor Court-Erin Plaza Motor Court
The Welsch Motor Court-Erin Plaza Motor Court in Ogallala was once on the list. It was added on November 16, 2005, but was later removed on September 4, 2013. This old motor court was located at 311 E. 1st Street.
