National Register of Historic Places listings in Knox County, Nebraska facts for kids
Welcome to Knox County, Nebraska! Did you know that this county is home to many amazing places that are super important to American history? These special spots are listed on something called the National Register of Historic Places. It's like a national "hall of fame" for buildings, sites, and objects that tell us stories about the past.
When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized for its historical, architectural, or archaeological importance. It helps make sure these cool places are protected and remembered for future generations, like you! In Knox County, there are 15 places currently on this list, plus one that used to be. Let's take a closer look at some of these fascinating historical treasures!
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Historic Buildings and Hotels
Knox County has some really old and interesting buildings, including hotels that once welcomed travelers from all over.
The Argo Hotel in Crofton
The Argo Hotel is a historic building located at 211 Kansas Street in Crofton. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 5, 1999. Imagine all the people who stayed there over the years!
The Commercial Hotel in Verdigre
Another cool old hotel is The Commercial Hotel in Verdigre, found at 117 Main Street. This hotel joined the National Register on April 5, 1990. These hotels are like time capsules, showing us how people lived and traveled long ago.
St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church and School Complex
In Crofton, you can also find the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church and School Complex at 1302-1316 West 5th Street. This entire complex was recognized as historic on March 21, 2011. It shows the importance of community and education in the area's past.
The Pospeshil Theatre in Bloomfield
The Pospeshil Theatre was once a lively spot at 123 Broadway in Bloomfield. It was listed on the National Register on September 28, 1988. Sadly, the theater burned down, and the Bloomfield library was built on its former site in 2000. Even though the building is gone, its history is still remembered.
Z.C.B.J. Opera House in Verdigre
The Z.C.B.J. Opera House in Verdigre, located at 4th Avenue and Main Street, was added to the list on July 6, 1988. Opera houses were important community centers where people gathered for entertainment, meetings, and social events.
Rad Sladkovsky in Pishelville
Near Verdigre, in a place called Pishelville, you'll find Rad Sladkovsky. This site was listed on June 29, 1982. It's a reminder of the unique cultural heritage in the area.
Important Government and Community Sites
Some historic places are important because of their role in local government or community life.
Knox County Courthouse
The Knox County Courthouse is a grand building on Main Street in Center. It became a historic district on July 5, 1990. Courthouses are often the heart of a county, where important decisions are made and justice is served.
Winnetoon Jail
The small but mighty Winnetoon Jail is located at the junction of 1st Street and Sherman Avenue in Winnetoon. It was added to the National Register on February 27, 1995. This old jail tells us about law and order in earlier times.
Bridges and Engineering Marvels
Knox County also has historic bridges that are recognized for their engineering and design.
Gross State Aid Bridge
The Gross State Aid Bridge crosses Verdigris Creek, about 3.5 miles north and 0.2 miles west of Verdigre. This bridge was listed on June 29, 1992. Old bridges are not just ways to cross water; they are also examples of past engineering skills.
Niobrara River Bridge
Another significant bridge is the Niobrara River Bridge, which spans the Niobrara River about 1.3 miles northwest of Niobrara. It became a historic site on November 12, 1992. These bridges helped connect communities and allowed people to travel and trade.
Native American Heritage Sites
Knox County is rich in Native American history, with several sites on the National Register that tell the stories of the Santee Sioux and Ponca tribes.
Congregational Church and Manse (Santee)
On the Santee Sioux Reservation in Santee, you'll find the Congregational Church and Manse. This site was listed on March 16, 1972. Churches often played a central role in community life and cultural traditions.
Episcopal Church (Santee)
Also on the Santee Sioux Reservation, near the Missouri River, is the Episcopal Church. It was added to the National Register on March 16, 1972, the same day as the Congregational Church. These churches represent important parts of the Santee community's history.
Ponca Agency Archeological District
The Ponca Agency Archeological District near Niobrara is a very important historical area. It was listed on July 12, 2006. Archeological districts are places where scientists study artifacts and remains to learn about ancient cultures and how people lived long ago. The exact address is restricted to protect the site.
Ponca Fort Site
The Ponca Fort Site is located on a hilltop in Section 29, Township 33 North, Range 7 West, near Verdel. This site was added to the list on April 3, 1973. Excavations in the 1930s showed that this site was connected to the Arikara people and dates back to around 1790 to 1802. It's a fascinating look into early Native American life in the area.
Ponca Tribal Self-Help Community Building Historic District
About 3 miles southeast of Niobrara, you'll find the Ponca Tribal Self-Help Community Building Historic District at 88915 521 Avenue. This district was listed on March 13, 2003. It highlights the efforts of the Ponca Tribe to build and support their community.
Images for kids
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The historic Argo Hotel in Crofton.
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The Commercial Hotel in Verdigre.
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The Congregational Church on the Santee Sioux Reservation.
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The Episcopal Church in Santee.
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The Gross State Aid Bridge over Verdigris Creek.
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Inside the Knox County Courthouse.
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The Niobrara River Bridge.
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Buildings in the Ponca Tribal Self-Help Community Building Historic District.
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The former site of the Pospeshil Theatre in Bloomfield.
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Rad Sladkovsky in Pishelville.
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St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church and School Complex in Crofton.
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The old Winnetoon Jail.
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The Z.C.B.J. Opera House in Verdigre.
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