The Steeplechase

A Great Historical Loss in Freeport, Minnesota

2011-12-28T20:10:00.000-06:00

As I was scrolling through my regular glut of news items in Google Reader today, I noticed something about the Swany Flour Mill in Freeport, Minnesota. Freeport is about 15 miles down the road, west of Collegeville. Since I began school, I've traveled regularly to Freeport to have my truck serviced.

As I looked closer at the news story, I learned with great dismay that that the Swany Four Mill had burned to the ground yesterday. I was just in Freeport about a week ago, and I found myself looking at the mill building and thinking to myself "I should photograph this place come spring." I really should have gotten around to it sooner.

I'm not a Freeport resident, nor even a Minnesota native, but I realize how significant this landmark was, architecturally, historically, and as a thriving business in a rural community. I'm not sure what there is to do now - the building is gone, nothing is salvageable, and it will not reopen. I suppose for both the lifelong local and the casual passerby, there's nothing to do but remember and reminisce.

(Photo Source)

Below are a compilation of news articles relating to the mill and the fire:

Swany White Mill: A history
SLIDESHOW: Historic Freeport Flour Mill
Fire destroys iconic Freeport flour mill (with video)
Fire destroys flour mill in Freeport (with video)
Fire Devastates Historic Freeport Flour Company (with video)
Century-Old Mill Destroyed by Fire in Freeport (with video)
Freeport flour mill fire probe begins
Flour mill fire probe begins in Freeport (with video)
Investigation begins into cause of Swany White flour mill in Freeport
Flour mill fire was one of biggest for small fire departments
Freeport mourns loss of landmark flour mill
Old mill won't be rising again

The Age of Main Street Banking

2011-11-29T06:08:00.000-06:00

In the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, nearly all Nebraska communities had at least one bank. It was a necessity in an era much less mobile than our own. In order to convince the public of their stability and trustworthiness, these financial institutions turned to architecture to convey this notion. The result: substantial, well-built, ornate structures. While the Depression and rural demographic shifts brought an end to many of these banks, the buildings themselves often remain a downtown fixture; a reminder of the age of main street banking.

Elm Creek, Nebraska
FirsTier Bank

St. Patrick Catholic Church, Battle Creek, NE

2011-11-23T20:59:00.001-06:00

(Image Source)

The first sacraments were celebrated regularly in Battle Creek, Nebraska in the fall of 1872, when Bishop O'Gorman of Omaha asked Father J. M. Ryan of Columbus to care for area Catholics. In 1873, Father Bedard of Ewing began to frequently visit the area. Under his supervision, a wood frame church was constructed in 1875 at the location of the current parish cemetery.

In 1885, a new wood frame church was constructed in the town of Battle Creek. The current brick church was built in 1903 and a resident priest assigned in 1907 after a rectory was built. For a more detailed history of St. Patrick's parish, visit this site.

The design of the current church is an example of highly restrained Romanesque Revival architecture. Judging by the historic photo above and the variation in the brick types, it appears that the church's tower was rebuilt at some point. I would assume that the bell was also removed at the same time. The inscription on the bell reads:

Henry Stuckstede
Bell Fdy Co
St. Louis MO
1909
Saint Anne
Pray for Us
Fr. Thomas Walsh, Pastor

The interior of the church is very simple and plain, much like the exterior. It appears that a number of modifications have taken place over the years - an acoustical tile ceiling (popular in the 1950s) and a sanctuary renovation, probably from the late 1970s.

While the overall feel of the space is utterly simple, it is quite pleasant. The large crucifix and altar visually emphasize the importance of the Eucharist as celebrated in this space.

The church windows are executed in two distinct styles, both bearing various ecclesiastical symbols near the top. Half of the windows, like the one above reflect a more flowing, Victorian-style sensibility...

... while the other half of the windows feature a more simple, Gothic-influenced design.

Change & Transition

2011-10-09T12:11:00.000-05:00

I must apologize for the severe lack of posts as of late. My life has undergone quite the transition in the past few months!

I've always wondered if I could potentially direct my interests in ecclesiastical architecture, art, and history toward a more professional route. In early June, I began to investigate what educational qualifications it might take to become a liturgical design consultant. I never expected much to come of this research. I was mainly interested in seeing what was involved, if I ever wanted to make such a jump. I was happy with my work at KTIC and I loved the community of West Point. God had other plans.

After exchanges with several professionals within the liturgical consulting field, it became apparent that I would need an advanced degree in liturgy and/or design. One of the liturgy schools recommended to me was St. John's School of Theology in Collegeville, Minnesota. Oddly enough, I've had a relationship with Collegeville for about the past ten years. My first experience with the campus was in high school as a member of the National Catholic Youth Choir, and I returned every year thereafter to celebrate the feast of St. Benedict with the monastic community. I later became an Oblate candidate of the monastery in 2006.

I would be making my annual retreat at Collegeville in July and I figured that I might as well look at the liturgy program while I was there. Long story short, things fell into place in a way that I never could have imagined. It became apparent that I was meant to study liturgy at St. John's right now! I made the decision to enroll in the program and was accepted about a month before classes were to start!

It was stressful to work through the process of leaving behind dear friends, a job, a community, and a home in less than a month's time. I got through it all somehow, though it wasn't easy to say goodbye to the people and organizations that had so warmly welcomed me as a newcomer four years earlier. I owe a huge debt of gratitude to the West Point, Nebraska community, and especially the West Point Community Theatre for welcoming me with such open arms. West Point has fostered a spirit and enthusiasm within me that has allowed me to arrive at where I am now. God willing, I will return there!

I arrived at St. John's on August 30th and classes began September 6th. I'm happy to be here. It's been an adjustment, to be sure. It has taken me a while to get back into the routine of "school," but I'm getting there. The classes are fascinating and it's truly a privilege to worship daily with the monastic community in Marcel Breuer's iconic Abbey Church. I still can't believe how fortunate I am to be studying liturgy here at St. John's, especially at this point in the church's history.

I was also fortunate to secure a graduate assistantship with the Seeing the Word project. Basically, we are working to develop curriculum around the now-complete Saint John's Bible. Primarily, we are focusing on the practice of Visio Divina and how the art of the Saint John's Bible can serve as an aid to prayer and an illumination of the Sacred Scriptures. I'm also in the very early stages of exploring how the notion of Vision Divina can be applied within the context of the historic preservation of religious buildings. Obviously, this assistantship is an excellent fit for me!

So, what's the future of this blog? I intend to keep posting about various churches, hopefully with more frequency than I have in the past. Since I'm living in Minnesota for the time being, I will probably begin posting more on the architecture of this area. However, I have a large photo archive of Nebraska churches that I still want to write about. I anticipate future posts to be an even balance between Nebraska and Minnesota locales. Also look for occasional posts dealing with my current studies, research, and some personal reflections.

If you have any suggestions or comments, you're always welcome to contact me by clicking the "Correspondence" box on the left side of the blog. I greatly appreciate your readership and interest. I hope you'll join me as I begin down this new path. Peace!

First United Methodist Church, North Bend, NE

2011-06-21T18:11:00.001-05:00

Methodists in North Bend, Nebraska area held their first service on June 6, 1858. From this time until 1860, services were held in homes during the winter and oftentimes in a local cottonwood grove during the summer. In 1872, the first Methodist church building (pictured above) was constructed on the site of the present church. In 1897, the church was substantially remodelled. Work included repairs to the church exterior and bell tower as well as new paint, papering, and wood burning stoves for the interior. New seating was added to the building in 1901.

In 1912, Lincoln architect J.R. Smith was enlisted to design the present church building. ( It is worth noting that J.R. Smith also designed North Bend's Carnegie Library, which was dedicated in 1913.) The church was constructed by Thomas Eastergaard at a cost of $5,910 and was dedicated on February 2, 1913.

Electricity was later added to the church in 1915 and a new parsonage constructed in 1918. In 1949, the church interior was redecorated. An electric organ was installed, new carpet laid, and a new furnace installed. A addition including a fellowship hall and classrooms was constructed in 1957. In 1965, Purple Cane Methodist Church north of North Bend closed and merged with its sister congregation in town.

In 1969, the front entryway of the church was remodeled. The bell tower was removed and main stairs enclosed and reoriented to the south. The entire church was also faced with brick. The renovations totaled $18,500. The church bell, formerly in the now-removed bell tower was placed in front of the church in 1971.

The interior of the church was extensively remodeled in 1979. At that time, the ceiling was lowered, south room partitioned off, new carpeting, insulation, a large oak cross above the altar was added. The church was rededicated on June 8, 1980.

Though the church interior has been radically altered over the years, it retains a sense of warmth, created largely from the brown tones of the stained glass windows.

In the late 1950s, many memorials and generous gifts helped purchase the blond oak pulpit furniture, baptismal font, and brass candle holders and cross.

The stylized 1950s interpretation of the Gothic style is easily found in the sanctuary furnishings.

While simple in design, the stained glass windows contain some of the most vivid and striking colors I've seen. These windows, original to the church, were created by the Midland Art Glass Company of Omaha for a cost of $240.

The real artistic treasure is the large window at the rear of the church.

The number of congregation members began to steadily decrease and by September of 2010, the congregation voted to disband.

On January 2, 2011, the contents of the church were auctioned off. The final service was held the following Sunday, January 9. The church building, along with its windows are now listed for sale.

Prior to the church's closing, the congregation of about 12 people met in a smaller room south of the main body of the church in order to save on utility costs.

The small chapel room as it was decorated for the Advent season, just before the church was closed.

The small chapel room contains a smaller version of the church's large east window. I would imagine that the meaning of this window has changed over time for congregation members. With the church now closed, this window almost seems to symbolize the church structure that they once loved giving way to an uncertain, but beautiful path to the future.

Newspaper Articles related to the closing of the North Bend United Methodist Church:

Methodists observe 150th
Methodists hope lay minister will help prolong church's life
Methodist church celebrating final year
North Bend Church is Closing
Finals days of Methodist church planned
Methodists hold final service in North Bend

A Guided Tour of the Rural Churches of Adams County

2011-03-30T07:35:00.000-05:00

If you're from the general area and would like to learn more about some of Nebraska's rural churches, join me this Saturday afternoon for a guided tour of the rural churches of Adams County, Nebraska. This tour is sponsored by Central Community College and pre-registration is required. All the information you need to know is in the article below that was recently published in the Hastings Tribune. Click on the image to enlarge it. Hope to see you there!

The Age of Main Street Banking

2011-02-02T06:30:00.002-06:00

Roseland, Nebraska
Roseland State Bank

Christ the King Chapel at Good Samaritan Hospital, Kearney, NE

2011-01-23T11:28:00.005-06:00

The Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska was founded in 1924 by the Sisters of St. Francis. The substantial brick hospital was constructed shortly thereafter.

The former main entrance to the hospital is accented by elaborate stone carvings and a statue of Jesus as the Good Shepherd.

In 1948, the cornerstone was laid for the new Chapel of Christ the King. The architecture of the new chapel harmonizes well with the older, original hospital building.

The exterior of the chapel is primarily Romanesque Revival in design, but also exhibits some Italian influence.

A wonderfully stylized statue of Christ the King graces a niche on the chapel facade.

The elaborate and imposing exterior of the chapel gives way to a very simple and somewhat somber interior. The windows bathe the nave in a comforting blue light.

From old photographs that I've seen, the decor of the chapel appears to always have been restrained, though the old high altar was removed at some point. A few Art Deco flourishes do appear in the details - namely the duct covers above the statues and the corbels supporting the sanctuary arches.

A former confessional has been transformed into a small devotional area. Saints Anthony and Francis give a silent nod to the Franciscan roots of this institution.

The chapel's windows were installed in January of 1957 and are a striking cobalt blue. The figural windows all depict Marian images, though I was unable to photograph them because of exterior shades that distorted the lighting.

Just outside the chapel is a fantastic sculpture entitled "Trinity." It was designed and created by Kearney artist Ray Schultze in recognition of the Sisters of St. Francis as the sponsoring organization of Good Samaritan Hospital. Trinity weighs 100 pounds, is 4 feet wide and is sculpted from copper. Its unique symbolism offers a message through these elements:

Perfect Circle in the Center....................The Perfection of Creation
Irregular Pieces Radiating from the Circle...........Sin and Confusion
Triangle.........................................................................The Trinity
Triangle Points......................................Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
Hand & All-Seeing Eye....................................................The Father
Fish with Cross & 12 Holes...........................The Son & 12 Apostles
Dove with Tongues of Fire........................................The Holy Spirit
Greek letter "Tau".................Symbol St. Francis Used as a Signature
Pair of Hands in Front of Triangle......................St. Francis in Prayer
Outer Circle.........................................................................Eternity
Space Between Outer Circle & Irregular Pieces...............Outer Space

St. Peter Lutheran Church (ELCA), Creston, NE

2010-12-21T17:49:00.000-06:00

St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Creston was organized by German immigrants in the early 1900s with the current church dating from 1916.

The interior of the church is quite simple and exhibits an eclectic mixture of Gothic and Romanesque Revival elements. The church also houses a small pipe organ built by the Vaughn Organ Company of Holdrege, Nebraska. For more information in this instrument, click here.

The simplicity of the structure itself demands that the furnishings and artwork become the center of attention. Overall the feeling of the space is intimate and pleasant.

The Romanesque Revival influence is seen in the gallery arch as well as in the arch above the sanctuary.

Three primary liturgical pieces: altar, pulpit, and font.

The lighting of the sanctuary make the altar painting of the Agony in the Garden come alive.

The windows feature various Christian symbols. This particular window draws on the imagery from Luther's famous text "A Mighty Fortress is Our God."

The Age of Main Street Banking

2010-09-10T05:58:00.000-05:00

Battle Creek, Nebraska
Unidentified Bank

St. Peter Catholic Church, Clarks, NE

2010-09-08T06:42:00.000-05:00

Saint Peter Catholic Church in Clarks, NE was constructed in 1926. The exterior of the church is an example of a late Romanesque Revival design; much more restrained than in earlier decades.

At some point, it appears that the church's bronze bell was removed from the tower. The inscription on the bell reads: "Dei Gloria in Excelsis. This Bell is the Gift of Mrs. Elizabeth E. Sweet to St. Peter's Catholic Church of Clarks, Neb. A.D. 1898." Obviously this bell dates from a previous church building.

The interior is very restrained as is common in churches of this time period. This was stylistic trend that was later simplified even further with the onset of the Great Depression. While the current arrangement is tastefully executed, I am curious how the interior appeared prior to this renovation.

From the balcony, one can clearly discern the various converging architectural influences in this church. Romanesque Revival in the shape of the windows and furnishings; Art Deco in the sanctuary arch; and perhaps more of a Functionalism in the angular ceiling.

The sanctuary arch beautifully illustrates the influence of the Art Deco movement, which was just beginning to emerge when this church was constructed. The renovated sanctuary echos the simple nature of this particular church.

View from the altar toward the loft and rose window.

The brilliant windows, primarily executed in shades of blue, depict various scenes from Scripture. This particular window is of Jesus walking on the water.

During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once (Jesus) spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Matthew 14:25-27

The great rose window certainly portrays the magnificence of the scene in the center: The Transfiguration.

Bethany Lutheran Church (ELCA), Rural Axtell, NE

2010-09-03T07:21:00.001-05:00

(Photo Source)

Just south of Highway 44 near Axtell, Nebraska stands Bethany Lutheran Church. Swedish immigrants began to call Kearney County home as early as 1873 and in 1876, Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church became the first church in Kearney County. A sod church was built in 1878 and the current building dates from 1885.

The church's exterior has changed very little since its construction.

Note the ornate pressed tin shingles and pinnacles which grace the steeple.

The rather humble exterior gives way to a soaring interior that is nothing short of impressive!

Dominating the sanctuary is the altar painting, He Dwelt Among Us, painted in 1900 by famed Swedish painter Olof Grafström.

The interior is further enhanced by a large "U" shaped balcony.

Notice how the walls gracefully curve and flow into the ceiling.

Lots of light, shadows, and lines!

Bethany also features a very large pipe organ in the gallery.

For more information on this particular instrument, click here.

The length of the pillars more clearly shows the height of the interior.

The nave windows feature a slightly more ornate design, though they are largely obscured by the balcony.

The facade windows are a bit more simple, and perhaps older.

The Age of Main Street Banking

2010-06-30T07:04:00.000-05:00

Chapman, Nebraska
Unidentified Bank

The Rural Churches of Cuming County

2010-06-29T06:35:00.003-05:00

I mentioned several months ago that I would be leading a tour of Cuming County's rural churches that was sponsored by Northeast Community College. It was very successful and the college has shown interest in offering this course or a similar one this fall. I'll keep you posted! The Norfolk Daily News published an article on the tour that I thought may be of interest. If you click on the photo, it will be enlarged for easier reading. Enjoy!

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Center, NE

2010-06-28T06:22:00.004-05:00

The early German Catholics of the Butler County area were served by the Franciscans of Columbus, Nebraska intermittently from about 1877 to 1883. Construction of a permanent church in Center, Nebraska (rural David City) began in the summer of 1879 and St. Francis was chosen as the parish patron. As the parish grew, plans were made for larger, brick church which was dedicated in 1900. Only five years later, a fire of unknown origin destroyed this church on April 16, 1905. The present church, designed by H.W. Brinkman of Emporia, Kansas was dedicated in 1916. It's worth noting that this church bears much resemblance to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Colon, Nebraska. Colon was dedicated in 1919 and is much larger, but given the many similarities in design, it's likely the same architect was utilized.

(Photo Source)

The interior of this Romanesque Revival church has undergone many renovations throughout its 94-year history. The photo above was taken in approximately 1931 and depicts the interior as it likely appeared near the time of its dedication in 1916. All of the furnishings are in place, but no decorative painting yet.

Around 2004, plans were drawn up to renovate the interior of the church in order to recapture many of the architectural and artistic features that had faded or disappeared over time. A sketch of the proposed interior....

... and as it was actually executed. A new mural of the Ascension was commissioned for the apse to replace a fading 1952 mural of Christ the Priest.

The sanctuary as it appeared cira-1940. Note especially the stunning painting in the apse. Painted in the Beuronese style, the mural is replete with imagery; angels hold symbols of six Sacraments, with Christ himself as the seventh Sacrament of the Eucharist. There are also images of the Trinity, the Vine and Branches, and the feeding of the sheep. This mural was covered in 1952 with an image of Christ the Priest.

By contrast, the sanctuary as it currently appears.

(Photo Source)

The nave in approximately 1965. Much of the interior decoration in this photo can be traced to the renovation of 1952. Note the mural of Christ the Priest as well as the simplified paint scheme.

Again, contrasted with the present interior.

The interior underwent further renovations in approximately 1978 and again in the mid-1990s. The ornate altars have been removed and the paint scheme further simplified. Depicted above is the interior in 2000.

The interior finally reached its present state in about 2004. This renovation effectively renewed the color and design of the space, while completely respecting its architectural integrity.

The barrel vaulted ceiling is a distinctive design element of St. Francis.

Christ sacrificed, ascended, and dwelling among us.

A side devotional area featuring statues of Our Lady of Grace, the church's patron St. Francis of Assisi, and the Baptismal Font.

The stations of the cross harmonize well with the church's architectural elements. Note especially the detail of the pilaster featuring the head of a cherub.

An original confessional graces the rear of the church, near the entry. The all-seeing eye of God watches over the main doors.

Two different stained glass window designs are found within the nave. The parish's patron, St. Francis is a full figural representation...

...while his sister, St. Claire is depicted in a portrait-like fashion.

The windows in the façade date from 1944 and replaced clear glass windows.

Then the devil took him up to a very high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in their magnificence, and he said to him, "All these I shall give to you, if you will prostrate yourself and worship me." At this, Jesus said to him, "Get away, Satan! It is written: 'The Lord, your God, shall you worship and him alone shall you serve.'" (Matthew 4:8-10)

Behind the church lies the parish's neatly-kept cemetery.

A small, peaceful shrine to Mary occupies a corner of the cemetery grounds.

The names of many early German settlers can be found on the older headstones. This particular one reads:

We cannot tell who next may fall
Beneath thy chastening rod,
One must be first but let us all
Prepare to meet our God

St. Francis of Assisi church and rectory as viewed from the back corner of the cemetery.

The parish hall, which also serves as the township hall, was constructed in 1930. Several scenes from the 1992 made-for-TV movie "O Pioneers!" were filmed at this hall.

St. Luke United Methodist Church, David City, NE

2010-06-25T12:04:00.001-05:00

The early Methodist settlers of the Butler County area were ministered to by traveling ministers as early as 1871. The first Methodist church in David City was constructed in 1874. The current St. Luke Methodist Church was dedicated on May 7, 1911. A more detailed history of the congregation is available at the church's website.

The exterior of the Neoclassical style church building has changed very little since it was constructed in 1910. It's not often you see a church in Nebraska with such a sizable dome, so I was quite excited to see the interior!

The church has a great sense of verticality, despite having a flat roof.

The front portico with its massive columns and ionic capitals grace the main entry.

The first thing that struck me about the interior was the conspicuous lack of a dome! I was told by church members that it had been covered over with a false ceiling sometime in the 1960s in order to conserve energy. What I wouldn't give to explore the attic of this church!

Despite the obvious lack of a dome, the church interior is quite pleasant. The contemporary banners and altar covering are a nice touch. I'm told that the pipe organ is no longer in working order.

The true treasure of St. Luke's is the trio of stained glass windows on the west wall of the nave. Depicted from left to right: the allegory of Hope, the Ascension, and the Angel at the empty tomb. These windows were recently restored.

The other windows in the church are much more subdued and are executed in various shades of amber glass.

The Age of Main Street Banking

2010-06-16T05:49:00.003-05:00

Bruno, Nebraska
Unidentified Bank

The remains of the bank vault can be seen through the façade.

St. Michael Catholic Church, Central City, NE

2010-06-07T21:50:00.003-05:00

St. Michael Catholic Church in Central City is a wonderfully angular, Mid-Century church that was constructed in 1966.

A vivid stained glass window of the church's patron resides above the main entrance.

Words of welcome above the doors leading into the nave.

Despite the light color of the interior walls and ceiling, the church is quite dark. The windows are large, but note how they are angled to give the congregation a full view.

The dominant element of the church interior is a large crucifix suspended above the altar. The sanctuary also features a very simple, but elegant marble altar.

Tabernacle in a reposition area in the sanctuary.

View toward the main entrance. The randomly placed upper windows are a fantastic Mid-Century touch!

The first station, Jesus Condemned to Death. I would imagine that these stations were from a previous church building.

The real treasures of St. Michael's Church are the large and colorful stained glass windows. Pictured here is St. Isidore, patron of farmers.

A delightful trio of windows in the choir area, near the sanctuary.

Alma Lutheran Church (ELCA), Mead, NE

2010-05-04T17:27:00.001-05:00

The Alma Lutheran Congregation of Mead, Nebraska was founded in 1870 by Swedish immigrants. The first church and parsonage stood where the current Alma cemetery is located. The word "Alma" is Latin for "nourishing one" - which is generally used in a mothering sense.

The current Gothic Revival church, in the town of Mead, was dedicated on September 18, 1886. A significant renovation took place in 1920. The church's website recounts this interesting story:

On Thanksgiving Day, 1919, $3,000 was placed in the offering plate specifically dedicated to remodeling the church. At a special meeting in January 1920, it was decided that the church would be lifted and a basement would be dug. While the church was standing on its wooden blocks on Easter morning, a terrible storm approached. The steeple swayed between 12-18 feet. There was great fear the building would fall, but "the Lord was with us," and everyone was relieved to see the building still standing after the worship service in Flodman Hall.

The interior of Alma is painted in subdued colors with an interesting stencil pattern on the ceiling which runs the length of the church.

The church's website also notes that a pipe organ was installed in 1920, but unfortunately it has dissapeared.

(Photo Source)

The church was again renovated in 1966, which likely resulted in the removal of the reredos and the addition of the large dossal curtain. The above photo depicts the interior as it appeared until 2009.

The sanctuary was renovated and entire church painted and refurbished in March of 2009 in celebration of the congregation's 140th anniversary.

A closeup of the unique stencil pattern which runs the length of the ceiling.

The sanctuary retains its original altar and altar rail.

A view of the pulpit and font.

The windows depict various scenes from the life of Christ.

A statue of Jesus in the narthax. This statue likely resided in the original reredos.

A more detailed history of the parish is available here and here.

Reflections on Holy Week

2010-04-01T17:29:00.002-05:00

The always insightful and eloquent Archbishop of Canterbury offers his reflections as we begin our celebration of Holy Week.

The Rural Churches of Cuming County: An Historical & Architectural Tour

2010-03-16T06:32:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if I have many local readers or not, but I wanted to let everyone know that I will be leading a class, sponsored by Northeast Community College, in about a month that will examine the rural churches of Cuming County. All the pertinent information is below. Hopefully I'll see some of you there!

The Rural Churches of Cuming County: An Historical & Architectural Tour

Delve into the unique and fascinating architecture and history of Cuming County's six rural churches. Associated cultural and religious connections will also be explored. Meets Saturday, April 17, 1-5 p.m., West Point, Cuming County Fairgrounds, St. Matthew's Church. Transportation not provided. Preregistration required. Cost: $15.10. (HORC0616-30)

Churches on the tour include:
St. Matthew's Lutheran Church, Cuming County Fairgrounds, West Point
St. Anthony Catholic Church, St. Charles
St. Boniface Catholic Church, Monterey
St. Aloysius Catholic Church, Aloys
Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Rural Wisner
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Rural Beemer
Zion Lutheran Church, Rural Bancroft

To register for this class, call Northeast Community College at (402) 372-2269

The Age of Main Street Banking

2010-03-10T06:06:00.000-06:00

Mead, Nebraska
Bank of Mead

News and Miscellany Roundup

2010-03-04T12:18:00.000-06:00

Well, I'm not sure how much of this is actually "news" anymore, but I think everything here is still worthy of notice.

Repeal Day... December 5 marked the 76the anniversary of the end of prohibition - Repeal Day. This recently setup website explains the history of prohibition and reasons to celebrate this day!

Omaha Church Renovation... Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Omaha has recently completed a renovation. The new altar was consecrated on November 28. A full story on the renovation is available here from The Catholic Voice newspaper. A pre-renovation photograph of the interior is available here.

View into Monastic Life... The PBS series Religion & Ethics produced a fantastic piece on the Monastic Life, featuring the Benedictine Sisters in Atchison, KS. Watch this moving video here.

First Nebraska Distillery... Cooper's Chase Distillery in West Point has claimed the title of the first legal distillery in the state of Nebraska since prohibition. The Omaha World-Herald has a great story and a video telling the story of the distillery is available here. Cooper's Chase is currently producing and vodka and will expand its offerings soon.

Another New Nebraska Distillery... Solas Distillery in Omaha opened shortly after Cooper's Chase. Here is the Omaha World-Herald story as well as a fascinating video of the distillery producing their first batch of whiskey.

Beer & Personality... What does your taste in beer say about you? Check this out! I've found it to be pretty accurate with everyone I've tried it with!

Benedictine Gristmill... NPR recently produced a story featuring the gristmill at St. Vincent's Archabbey in Latrobe, PA. It's well worth listening to and photos from the story are available here. What a wonderful interweaving of agriculture, spirituality, and history! The story also mentions the brewery that was once operated by the monks.

A Cathedral Centennial... The Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City celebrated its 100th anniversary this past fall. The Cathedral is an architectural and artistic gem. It is also well-know for its fantastic liturgy and superb music program. The Cathedral is also home to one of the nation's two choir schools. Read an article on the centennial here.

A Serious Jesus?... Did Jesus have a sense of humor? Jesuit Father Jim Martin explores this aspect of Jesus in NPR here.

A New Church in LeMars... St. Joseph Catholic Church in Le Mars, Iowa has unveiled plans for a new church. The current church suffers from massive structural issues. The new church will incorporate much of the artistic heritage from the current church. Read the story and see drawings here.

Rev. John Glaves, RIP

2010-03-03T07:48:00.000-06:00

In mid-January one of my childhood pastors, Father John Glaves passed away. He is pictured at right with my father and myself on the occasion of my first communion.

Father Glaves was a man of many (and obscure) interests. He had literally traveled all over the world, primarily observing the endless variety of plant and animal life. I remember the rectory at Exeter being chock full of plants of every sort; as well as several exotic birds!

One thing that, in retrospect, I greatly admire about Father Glaves was his great interest in and love for liturgy. He was well versed in even the most localized rites of the Church and was even able to celebrate a good number of these rites himself.

Along with his liturgical expertise, Father Glaves also harbored a great interest in ecclesiastical art and architecture. His primary interest lay in various cultural artistic expressions and he had collected a number of works in both painting and sculpture from his world travels. He even dabbled in calligraphy and became quite good at it. During his lifetime, he built two new churches: Ss. Mary & Joseph in Valparaiso and St. John the Baptist in Prague. While the architecture of these church buildings may not suit everyone, they do point towards his concern for simplicity and clarity in worship. He spoke often of "his church" in Valparaiso (see architectural sketch below); it was clearly his pride and joy.

May he rest in peace! Below is his obituary as it was printed in the Southern Nebraska Register:

Father John Glaves, a retired priest of the Diocese of Lincoln, died Jan. 17 at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, where he had been a resident for three years. He was 82.

Born in Lewiston, Mo., Father Glaves attended seminaries in Illinois, Texas, Ohio and Colorado. He was ordained to the priesthood March 19, 1956 by Bishop Louis Kucera.

Father Glaves served parishes in Fairbury, Wallace, Wellfleet, Lawrence, Cambridge, Bellwood, David City, Curtis, Farnam, Paul, Dunbar, Lincoln, Palmyra, Douglas, Brainard, Valparaiso, Davey, Prague, Plasi, Alexandria, Gilead, Morse Bluff, Cedar Hill and Exeter.

In addition, Father Glaves taught at Aquinas High School in David City, Lourdes Central Catholic Schools in Nebraska City, and Bishop Neumann High School in Wahoo. He was also actively involved in the Knights of Columbus.

A funeral Mass was celebrated by Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz and priests of the Diocese at St. Peter Church in Lincoln Jan. 21. Burial followed at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in Lincoln. Butherus-Maser and Love Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

The Renovation of St. Mary Catholic Church, Alton, IA

2010-03-02T10:28:00.000-06:00

Thanks to a comment left an embarrassingly long time ago on my original post, I've finally managed to search my files and find my pre-renovation photographs of St. Mary Catholic Church in Alton, Iowa. It's also worth noting that since my original post, the parish has launched a website, where the history of the parish can be found. Below are the before and after shots of the interior. Enjoy!

St. John Lutheran Church (LCMS), Rural Waco, NE

2010-01-29T06:33:00.000-06:00

If you're traveling down Nebraska Interstate 80, between the Waco and Utica exits, look to the north; if you're paying close attention you may catch a glimpse of St. John Lutheran church of rural Waco.

The cornerstone of the church reads "U.A.C. 1903." Apparently the area was settled by very conservative German Lutherans, as nearby Zion in Thayer is also a U.A.C. Church. A comment on my Thayer church post by gnesio-lutheran explains that:

U.A.C. does indeed mean "Unaltered Augsburg Confession".

It was commonly used in the formal name of many early Missouri-Synod Lutheran congregations. This was to distinguish the congregation from other 'Lutheran' congregations which used an altered form of the Augsburg Confession, the primary statement of the Lutheran faith. This altered confession was created early in the 19th century in an effort to unite Lutherans and Calvinists in Germany. (Lutheran teachings on the Real Presence in the Eucharist, baptismal regeneration, and Confession/Absolution were deleted to make the it acceptable to Calvinists.) The Missouri Synod was founded by German immigrants who wished to retain the original unaltered form.

Thank you very much for explaining the history of this movement!

The church's steeple is adorned with pressed tin shingles and pinnacles.

The interior is absolutely fantastic! These photos do a poor job of illustrating the true height of the structure. St. John's is certainly a rare jewel among rural Lutheran churches!

Particularly unique features are the wrap-around balcony and the pressed tin which covers both the ceiling and walls. Perhaps the most impressive thing about the interior is that it appears to have retained its original appearance for over 100 years.

Elevated pulpit and altar in the sanctuary.

The altar is very ornate and dramatically lit.

Note the wonderful curve on the balcony corners.

A Reuter pipe organ, dating from 1949 resides in the rear gallery. More information on this instrument, including a stoplist, is available here.
View from the sanctuary toward the church entrance. The organ chamber is to the left.

Detail of the balcony railing and side walls.

One of the few windows not obscured by the balcony. The windows are mostly geometric designs that feature a particular Christian symbol.

The Winter of 1957

2010-01-18T19:13:00.000-06:00

I was sorting through some old family photographs this evening, and this group caught my eye. They are all labeled "1957." Judging by the looks of things, the winter of 1957 was a rather snowy one as well. In fact, this article cites the winter of 1957 as having 38.8 inches of snow - the 17th highest on record for Nebraska.

This particular photo was labeled "1957 at Exeter Public School." The area surrounding the school apparently had many more trees at the time, as there aren't many today. The frost covered evergreens have been a familiar sight in northeast Nebraska these past several days.

"1957 snow. Alphonsus Becker's car on west road of farm." Alphonsus was my great-great uncle. He grew up and lived on the farm that was homesteaded by his father in 1881; the same farm I grew up on.

Alphonsus (or "Funzie") with the dog that saved his life. The story has it that Funzie was picking ear corn. A repair or adjustment needed to be made to the picker, and somehow in the process his hand became lodged in a chain.

The dog ran back to the house and began to bark. It's said that this dog never left Funzie's side, so when his wife Christabel came to the door and saw the dog alone, she knew something was wrong. With the dog's assistance she was able to find him procure proper help.

The Age of Main Street Banking

2010-01-15T06:47:00.000-06:00

Pender, Nebraska
Logan Valley Bank

St. Patrick Catholic Church, Jackson, NE

2010-01-07T05:52:00.001-06:00

St. Patrick Parish in Jackson, Nebraska is an incredibly historic parish, (more on this below) tracing its roots to 1856. The current church was built in 1913 in a modified Romanesque style with a unique domed tower.

The original interior entry doors are intact and feature ornate "Pull" plates and stained glass panels.

The church's patron resides in a niche in the vestibule.

St. Patrick's has an interesting connection with Apollo VIII. Click on the photo to enlarge the writing on the plaque.

The interior is fairly simple, yet quite pleasant. The heavy beamed ceiling of this sort is fairly uncommon in a neo-Romanesque styled church.

The sanctuary wall is accentuated with light stenciling and an image of the Holy Spirit.

The art glass windows depict various Biblical scenes. Note how the scene is shaped around the architectural frame of the window.

A particularly unique element of the structure are the dormers located above the choir loft. St. Patrick's is one of the very few churches that I have seen which utilize this architectural feature.

The dormer as seen from the interior.

A shrine near the church, constructed in 1960, commemorates early founder and prolific missionary, Fr. Jeremiah Trecy.

A Nebraska Historical Marker also indicates the cultural and religious importance of the parish.

A Belated Christmas Message

2009-12-29T12:19:00.010-06:00

Though I'm several days late, I just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas (Season!) and offer my profound thanks for everyone who has visited these pages over the past year. I greatly appreciate the kind and heartwarming comments that I've received.

I hope that this site has proved to be both an inspiration and source of information to those who have stumbled upon it. It certainly has been a joy for me to share my photography and love of history and architecture with a much larger audience than I ever would have imagined!

As always, I'm open to suggestions and comments. Feel free to contact me at the email address on the sidebar. Again, thank you and be assured of my best wishes during this Christmas Season!

In the spirit of Christmas, I also wanted to share some clips from Christmas Vespers at the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris. The first clip (above) consists of the the Entrance Processional (featuring Olivier Latry on the Great Organ), Lucinarium (Service of Light), Imposition of Incense and Opening Hymn. The other sections of the service are available here and here. Enjoy!

Also, of note is the image at the beginning of this post, which is part of a series depicting the life of Christ found in St. Paul Cathedral, London. The work is entitled "The Holy Virgin" and was completed in 2003 by Russian-born artist Sergei Chepik.

Zion Presbyterian Church, Rural Clarkson, NE

2009-12-21T18:54:00.001-06:00

Zion Presbyterian Church is a familiar sight to travelers on Highway 15 north of Schuyler. The church building, designed by Czech architect M.D. Flechor was constructed in 1887. This is the first Czech Presbyterian church in the state of Nebraska.

The adjacent cemetery predates the church building and was dedicated in 1875.

Regular church services were held until December 1975 and the property was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. The absence of a regular congregation has taken a serious toll on the building over the past 35 years. Many of the stained glass windows were stolen several years ago.

Most of the windows that remain in place are in an unfortunate state of disrepair.

Given the historical and cultural importance of this church, I hope that it can be preserved. Unfortunately, it seems that the building has been in a steady state of decline for some time now. I'm unsure of who even owns the building or looks after it. Any reader insights?

The Age of Main Street Banking

2009-12-18T06:31:00.000-06:00

Wakefield, Nebraska
Unidentified Bank

Former St. James Catholic Church, Mead, NE - Camp Creek Church, Rural Waverly, NE

2009-12-16T06:44:00.002-06:00

The original St. James Catholic Church in Mead was constructed in 1883. When a new church was constructed in Mead in 2002, the former church was moved to rural Waverly, where it is now part of an historical village at the Camp Creek Threshers site. For a detailed history of the parish and this church building, click here.

Very few elements of the original church remain, though historical artifacts are continually being added by the Camp Creek Threshers.

A photograph of the church interior as it appeared in the early 1990s.

St. Mary Episcopal Church, Blair, NE

2009-12-14T17:22:00.000-06:00

The current church was consecrated in 1967. A history of the parish is available here and here.

Ohiowa United Methodist Church, Ohiowa, NE

2009-12-10T20:44:00.002-06:00

This past summer I attended the auctioning of the contents of the United Methodist Church in Ohiowa, Nebraska. I've been to several church and school auctions and they are truly uncomfortable events; it's these places of worship and education that often form the center of a community. An odd mixture of sadness, fond memories, and questioning is easily sensed.

Methodist Circuit Riders began visiting the Ohiowa community as early as 1871. Later, the minister from nearby Chelsea was charged with providing services for the growing Ohiowa congregation. At this time, services were being held in the schoolhouse and various locations around town.

In 1888, Rev. C.S. Kathan was appointed to serve the Ohiowa area and oversaw the building a permanent church that same year. In 1910, excavations were made for a basement. The church was move onto this foundation and an addition was built on the east side for the choir and an alcove on the west for the pulpit.

Various other renovations later took place, including the addition of large folding doors to the east, a gas furnace, a remodeled basement, and new altar furniture.

The church interior was quite simple, but cozy. The pressed tin ceiling and graceful curved pews were the main embellishments of the interior.

The last service in the church was held on June 7, 2009. The church was also officially deconsecrated at this time. Two article on the church and its closing are available here and here.

An ornate, etched transept window indicated that it was donated by local Civil War Veterans, the members of the G.A.R.

"The time has come for this congregation of Christ's holy Church, under God's leadership, to disband and take leave of this building. It has been consecrated for the ministry of God's Holy Word and Sacraments. It has provided refuge and comfort for God's people. It has served well our holy faith. It is fitting, therefore, that we should take our leave of one another and of this consecrated house, lifting up our hearts in thanksgiving for this common store of memories."

-- Declaration of Purpose from the Deconsecration Ceremony

Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Weston, MO

2009-12-05T06:59:00.002-06:00

Holy Trinity in Weston, Missouri is a unique neo-gothic limestone structure that dates from 1912. The parish itself, however is much older and can be traced back to 1842 - one of the oldest parishes in the Kansas City area.

While the church has a commanding presence on a hill above the town of Weston, the building is actually quite small.

Note the unique design of the sidewalls and roof structure.

The history of the parish is briefly described on an historical marker in front of the church.

I would assume that the altar is from the parish's previous church building, as it is primarily Romanesque in design, while the church itself is Gothic.

The windows contain various scriptural and doctrinal symbols. This particular window depicts symbols of Jesus' Passion.

Reflections on Advent

2009-12-01T09:10:00.004-06:00

As we begin the season of Advent, the Archbishop of Canterbury offers some wonderful reflections on this season and its spirit of anticipation. This year, I'm trying to really make this time prior to Christmas a time of preparation: waiting longer to put up the Christmas decorations and attention to Liturgical prayer. A blessed Advent to everyone!

Arsenic & Old Lace at the West Point Community Theatre!

2009-11-10T00:08:00.002-06:00

In case you've been wondering about the lag in posts lately, this is the reason why! I'll be playing a part in the West Point Community Theatre's Fall Comedy, Arsenic and Old Lace this weekend! It's going to be a fantastic production! This will also be the first time in nearly 60 years that the audience will see the full height of the stage used to it's full potential! The Fremont Tribune wrote an excellent article on the play - read it here! And if you want to come this weekend, order your tickets online here!

Write Me!

2009-11-05T17:09:00.000-06:00

I've received a few notes in the comment boxes recently about how to obtain copies of my photos and I just realized that I have not provided my readers with any way to contact me, other than the comment boxes! I guess I'm continually perfecting the whole blogging thing!

At any rate, the email address above and also on the sidebar is how to reach me. If you have any suggestions about places you'd like to see me "Steeplechase" or any thoughts about the blog in general, please feel free to drop me a line! I look forward to hearing from you!

Salem Evangelical Covenant Church, Rural Oakland, NE

2009-11-04T21:50:00.000-06:00

Salem Evangelical Covenant Church is a quaint, simply decorated church located southwest of Oakland.

The nave of the church is square shaped, rather than the usual rectangular to bring the congregation into closer proximity with each other as well as the pastor.

Lots of subtle curves! Pews, windows, arches, ceiling. Subtle, simple, and beautiful.

The ceiling of the church features sweeping Gothic-like ribbing.

The windows are a newer addition to the church, but fit the overall scheme very well.

Salem Cemetery is located one half mile west of the church and is the resting place of many early Swedish settlers. Many of the gravestones are marked with Scriptural verses written in Swedish as well as other interesting inscriptions.

The above gravestone bears this heart-rending memorial:
We miss thee from our home mother, We miss thee from thy place, A shadow o'er our life is cast; We miss the sunshine of thy face, We miss thy kind and willing hand, Thy fond and earnest care; Our home is dark without thee, We miss thee everywhere.

Another inspiring inscription: She is gone to the land where the weary enjoy the sweet rapture of sacred repose.

The view from the cemetery is spectacular. The rolling hills of the surrounding farmland make for a truly peaceful and reflective experience.

Notre Dame Sisters Motherhouse, Florence (Omaha), NE

2009-10-30T17:23:00.002-05:00

The Sisters of Notre Dame arrived in Nebraska in 1911 from their native Bohemia. Initially, they ministered in Dodge, NE and eventually arrived in Omaha in 1917 to assist Fr. Edward Flanagan at his newly formed Boys Home.

In the fall of 1921, Father Flanagan purchased Overlook Farm, the present site of Boys Town, and the Sisters bought from him the tract of land he had originally intended to use, Seven Oaks Farm. This later became the location for the Notre Dame Motherhouse at 35th and State Streets.

The construction of the Motherhouse on the grounds of Seven Oaks Farm began in 1925, and by 1926 Notre Dame Academy opened with 26 students. The unique "E" shaped Italian Renaissance Revival style convent and school was constructed in phases from 1926 to 1965.

The staircase just inside the main entrance features a unique green marble wainscot and terrazzo floor.

A Shrine to St. Joseph on the Motherhouse grounds.

Except for this rear addition from 1965, the original plans dawn up by Omaha architects Matthew Lahr and Carl Stangel were followed in the phased construction of the Notre Dame Motherhouse.

The chapel (the center section of the "E" shaped building) was constructed in 1951 and renovated in 1980. A quick search of WorldCat.org revealed an interesting dissertation entitled "Environmental persuasion and Roman Catholic Church interior design after Vatican Council II, 1963-present : a case study of Notre Dame Chapel, Omaha, Nebraska." I'll have to see if I can read a copy of that sometime!

The chapel is simple and airy. The windows are of a yellowish tint, which bathe everything in a warm, yellow light. The former sanctuary has been tastefully transformed into an area of private prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.

I was at the convent last weekend for an auction, as the sisters have begun the redevelopment of their property into affordable senior housing. If you are interested in seeing the items that were sold and what they brought, click here.

I'm not sure what this redevelopment will mean for the structure as a whole or for the chapel. I'm told that the exterior will remain the same. Say a prayer for these good sisters as they transition into a new phase of their ministry!

News & Miscellany Roundup

2009-10-28T06:28:00.000-05:00

It's been a very long time since I've featured a News & Miscellany Roundup and unfortunately, a fair amount of these articles are a bit dated. Anyways, I still think they might be of interest. Enjoy!

The Cathedral of St. Paul in St. Paul, MN was recently designated as the National Shrine of St. Paul. The title of a "National Shrine" is generally bestowed on a church that has a special devotion to a given saint. An increase of pilgrims is expected because of this designation. Read more here.

An interesting article appeared titled "What do Pope John Paul II and Hugh Hefner have in Common?" It give an interesting view of Catholic sexuality in the light of John Paul's Theology of the Body.

KTIC hosted its annual Great Nebraska Tractor Ride this past June. We had a grand total of 182 tractors! The Fremont Tribune has a great article with photos here.

Another article on the Tractor Ride in the Ashland Gazette here.

Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, NE completed a massive restoration and renovation. Work included restored high and side altars, paint and stenciling, flooring and more - all for a whapping price tag of $200,000. Read the full article and see a photo here. Hopefully I can get to Brainard sometime soon to get photos of this renovation!

Probably one of Nebraska's lesser-known breweries, Spilker Ales in Cortland was featured in the Norris Public Power District's Magazine. Read the interesting article (in .pdf form) here.

Back in the 1950s, St. John's Abbey in Collegeville, MN established Trinity Monastery in Japan. In the 1990s, this monastery moved from Tokyo to a rural area outside of Fujimi. Today, this monastery is thriving. The Minnesota Post has a fascinating story about its growth here.

Immaculata Benedictine Monastery in Norfolk, NE was rededicated after nearly two years of renovations. For photos of the renovated chapel, click here. To see photos of the chapel prior to the renovation, click here.

St. James Episcopal Church, Fremont, NE

2009-10-27T17:58:00.001-05:00

St. James Episcopal Church is one of the oldest church buildings in Fremont and Dodge County. Unfortunately, I've been unable to locate little information on the history of this parish.

St. James is a wonderful example of an early English Gothic Revival church. Note especially the carved ceiling beams.

An elaborately carved Eagle Lectern in the sanctuary.

The Book of Common Prayer stands watch in the choir.

View towards the rear of the church.

Marble baptismal font with an ornate brass lid.

A stunning window of the Ascension dominates the entrance of the church, both interior and exterior.

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-26T17:35:00.003-05:00

A photographic series focusing on the historic buildings of the Nebraska State Fairgrounds in Lincoln. In an unfortunate move by the Nebraska State Legislature, the State Fair will move to Grand Island in 2010. Many of these buildings will likely be torn down. It is my intention to try to capture these magnificent spaces for all to enjoy and remember.

Closing Thoughts

I hope that you've enjoyed this excursion into the buildings of the former Nebraska State Fairgrounds in Lincoln. Perhaps it seemed a bit repetitive or mundane, but I feel it's incredibly important to document and share these historic and even not-so-historic places. I think we will only realize the great loss of this place years in the future.

The State Fairgrounds in Lincoln holds many fond memories for me. I showed cattle there throughout most of my upper elementary and high school years. Each year during high school, our marching band would spend a day there as we entertained others and took part in entertainment ourselves.

The State Fair was a place of reunion for me. I was certain to run into 4-H'ers from all over the state with whom I had travelled with to various 4-H conferences and camps.

So, it is with a good deal of sadness that I watch the State Fair depart from its 108-year-old home; both because of my personal fondness for the place as well as the general historical loss.

I plan to make one last trip to the fairgrounds this weekend as many familiar items go to the auction block. Below are a collection of articles relating to various elements of the fair and its move to Grand Island for your further reading.

Will State Fair Travel Well?

Lincoln's Long Marriage to the Nebraska State Fair

Lincoln Bids Farewell to Nebraska State Fair

Nebraska State Fair: A Few Buildings Will Remain

Industrial Arts Building: Rehabilitation Feasibility Investigation

Innovation Campus Phase I Price Tag: $220M

State Fair Park to Host Weekend Surplus Auction

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-24T09:15:00.005-05:00

Industrial Arts Building: Interior

The Industrial Arts Building had not been used for roughly 10 years and is falling into disrepair. There are several parts of the building with gaping holes in the roof.

As a young 4-Her, I remember the large model railroad set that occupied the upper gallery level of this building.

This building is in extreme jeopardy. Please do your part to save this historic building! For more information, see my previous post here.

A special thanks to a kind State Fair volunteer who showed me around the interior of this fantastic building!

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-23T07:44:00.008-05:00

Industrial Arts Building: Exterior

The Industrial Arts Building is an absolutely unique and fascinating building. It was constructed in 1913 in an unusual trapezoidal shape - which is best seen from this aerial view. This building is in extreme jeopardy. Please do your part to save this historic building! For more information, see my previous post here.

Urgernt Information on the Industrial Arts Building!

2009-10-22T07:16:00.000-05:00

I received this information today via Heritage Nebraska. Please take action on this! I called my local regent today - they need to hear from you! For a list of all UNL Regents, click here.

Contact a Regent

The University of Nebraska Board of Regents is to receive a preliminary report Friday [October 23] from consultants on the proposed Nebraska Innovation Campus which will be located on the former Nebraska State Fairgrounds. In September, the consultants recommended demolition of the Industrial Arts Building.

On October 12, Regents and UNL Chancellor Harvey Perlman and University President J.B. Milliken received copies of another report from Heritage Nebraska and the Preservation Association of Lincoln dealing with the 1913 building which has played a major part in the history of Nebraska and Lincoln.

The report said the building is “a very good candidate for rehabilitation.” It further notes that “rehabilitation would be very feasible technically as well as functionally and economically.”

In preparing the report for Heritage Nebraska and PAL, Lincoln historic preservation architects Jerry Berggren and Dan Worth and Steve Kelley of Wiss Janney Elstner in Chicago, uncovered some interesting history of the 93,500 square-foot trapezoidal building which was built in 1913 at a cost of $100,000. Not only was the building, designed by prominent Omaha architect Burd F. Miller, unique among state fairs nationwide because of its design, it also served as an aircraft assembly plant for the Lincoln Standard Airplane. Aviation legend Charles Lindburgh came to Lincoln and learned to fly in a Lincoln Standard assembled at the plant.

Worth wrote that while the building has some limited areas of deterioration, it is in relatively good condition compared to many structures the consultants have seen. He noted that the Industrial Arts Building is in better shape than an old Union Pacific freight depot in Omaha was before it was converted to the Harriman National Dispatching Center for the railroad.

The report said the cost to rehabilitate the entire exterior of the building would be about the same as it would be to demolish the building and construct an empty new shell building for the Innovation campus. “Reuse of a solid building shell rather than demolition and replacement would be a more sustainable approach,” the report said. Consultants urged Heritage Nebraska and PAL to join the University in a careful study to promote rehabilitation options for the structure.

Here’s how you can help. Contact a Regent. Tell them you support saving and re-using this important building. A list of Regents and their contact information is available here. I have also included talking points.

TALKING POINTS when you call or e-mail the Regents:

1. THIS PLACE MATTERS. The Industrial Arts Building was a world-class building when it was constructed in 1913. It played a major role in the development of the Nebraska State Fair and was a showcase for agriculture and technology.

2. REUSE WOULD BE SUSTAINABLE. The cost to rehabilitate the entire exterior of the building would be about the same as it would be to demolish the building and construct an empty new shell building for the Innovation campus.

3. AREAS OF DETERIORATION CAN BE FIXED. Holes in the roof should be fixed first and the building can then be properly moth-balled until a new use is found. At 93,500 square feet, the uses are endless. In the heyday of the Fair, the railroad displayed one of the first refrigerated railcars in the building. Agricultural equipment was also displayed there. Airplanes were manufactured in the building, including the plane in which aviation pioneer Charles Lindburgh learned to fly.

4. TALK ABOUT INNOVATION. What better place to teach and use green building techniques. Replacement of the windows and the skylights that were original to the building would make it unique among such structures. Students could learn and practice the techniques while rehabilitating the building. The Industrial Arts Building would make a unique tractor/implement museum as well as a teaching facility and green building hands-on laboratory.

5. ENERGY EFFICIENCY. It takes energy to construct a new building. It saves energy to preserve an old one. That’s innovation.

6. JOBS: A million dollars spent in new construction generates 30.6 jobs. But that same million dollars in the rehabilitation of an historic building creates 35.4 jobs. –Donovan Rypkema, Principal, PlaceEconomics, Washington, DC.

SAVE THE INDUSTRIAL ARTS BUILDING | IT JUST MAKES SENSE

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-22T07:00:00.002-05:00

4-H Youth Complex / Show Ring

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-21T16:56:00.000-05:00

4-H Beef Barn

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-20T06:49:00.000-05:00

4-H Sheep Barn

4-H Beef Barn on left and Sheep Barn on right

View into the 4-H Building Arena from the Sheep Barn.

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-19T06:41:00.000-05:00

4-H Building: Arena Undercroft

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-18T09:20:00.000-05:00

4-H Building: Arena

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-17T06:44:00.005-05:00

4-H Building: Second Floor Exhibit Area

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-16T06:37:00.002-05:00

4-H Building: First Floor Exhibit Area

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-15T05:10:00.002-05:00

4-H Building: Exterior

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-14T07:30:00.000-05:00

Agricultural Hall

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-13T06:26:00.000-05:00

Swine, Sheep, & Goats Building

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-12T17:23:00.000-05:00

The Brandt House

Originally inhabited by the manager of the State Fair. Read more here.

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-11T07:13:00.000-05:00

Heritage Village: Princeton Bank

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-10T08:07:00.000-05:00

Heritage Village: Hudson Cabin

The Hudson Cabin, as it is now known, had great and glorious beginnings and is the oldest known structure in Lincoln and Lancaster County. In 1863, Thomas Jefferson Hudson and his family arrived in Lancaster County. At that time, there were only three neighborhood families and the nearest market was in Nebraska City. Near where the village of Lancaster (later renamed Lincoln) was to be founded, they built their log cabin. It was described as being "the grandest dwelling in the counted," constructed of oak logs hauled over 20 miles, with shingles from McKissik's island, south of Nebraska City.

Hudson became successful as a farmer, establishing a fine herd of dairy cows. After the village of Lincoln came to be, he was the first to deliver dairy products to the door of the housewife. He remained here until his death in 1902.

Originally constructed in the vicinity of 9th & Lake Streets, the cabin was later moved to 2236 South 9th Street. The log cabin was covered with siding and after later additions was "lost" inside the renovated house.

It was "rediscovered" in 1964 by the new owners during a remodeling of the house. In order to save the building from destruction, it was purchased by Mayor Dean Peterson and donated to the city of Lincoln. In 1974, it was given to the State Historical Society and reconstructed in Nebraska State Fair Park.

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-10-09T17:25:00.001-05:00

Heritage Village: Roca Depot

Unfortunately, very little historical data is available on the Roca Railroad Depot building itself. It is believed to have been constructed before the turn of the century, around 1872 to 1876, and was a typical uninsulated wooden structure of the period. Perhaps more important than the physical building in historical perspective, is the significant role the railroad played in the development of the area.

The railroad functioned as the "lifeblood" of the new territories, opening up what had previously been wilderness and stimulating commerce by making good and services readily accessible.

The Roca Depot was closed in the 1950's and the building sold to Mr. Elmer Block, who donated it to Nebraska State Fair Park in 1976.

Many of the artifacts on display inside the depot were either donated by the Burlington Northern Railroad or are on loan from the Nebraska State Historical Society and several private collections.

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-09-27T14:45:00.000-05:00

Heritage Village: Cunningham School

Like most one-room schoolhouses, District 113 has a history reaching back into the 19th century. The first building was located on land squarely in the center of Newmann Township, some six or seven miles northwest of Valparaiso. It was donated by John Cunningham, thus the designation as "Cunningham School." The original building partially burned during the 1930's, but was reconstructed on the same site.

The building was fully equipped with a coal-burning stove and outhouse, but pupils carried their own water to school. Peak enrollment for the Cunningham School was 32, and the children sat three-at-a-desk. By 1966, only four youngsters of the elementary school aged lived in the district, and the schoolboard contracted for their instruction.

The building, then unused as a school was purchased by the Nebraska State Fair from Adolph Kliment, and moved to State Fair Park in 1975, as the first step in the creation of "Heritage Square."

The building has been refurbished as a working school, though not just for display purposes. The Lincoln Public Schools have developed a Social Studies unit which allows Lincoln elementary students to spend a day in the one-room schoolhouse, and is scheduled for use by a different class each day, throughout the school year.

Read a recent story about the schoolhouse and its future here.

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-09-21T05:33:00.001-05:00

Heritage Village: Cheney Post Office

The Cheney Post Office served as the official United Sates Post Office for Cheney, Nebraska from the early part of the 1900's until the late 1960's. The tiny one-room wooden structure with a "false front: was moved to Heritage Village and refurbished in 1975.

Each year during the State Fair, the Post Office becomes a working official U.S. Post Office for collection and distribution of mail. The facility is a full-service U.S. Post Office, complete with its' own State Fair Park cancellation mark.

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-09-13T20:54:00.000-05:00

Dairy Barn

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-09-11T17:47:00.001-05:00

Depot Beer Garden

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-09-08T17:15:00.002-05:00

Exposition Building

The Nebraska State Fair at Lincoln: A Photographic Memoria

2009-09-01T18:19:00.003-05:00

Open Air Auditorium

The Age of Main Street Banking

2009-08-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Allen, Nebraska
Security National Bank

St. Mary (Immaculate Conception) Catholic Church, Sutton, NE

2009-08-20T17:36:00.004-05:00

The first Mass in the town of Sutton was celebrated on June 15, 1871 in a tent used by workers on the newly-laid railroad. In 1876, a group of Catholics purchased Sutton's original school building and renovated it for use as a church. As the Catholic population in Sutton increased, a larger church was constructed in 1878 and later enlarged in 1893.

The cornerstone of the present church was blessed on June 19, 1906. The church was dedicated on October 9, 1907 by Bishop Thomas Bonacum and 21 other priests. The exterior of the neo-Romanesque church has changed little since.

It's also worth noting that the exterior is quite similar to that of St. Stephen Church in Exeter. The two towns are only about 20 miles apart and these two churches were built within 5 years of each other. Perhaps the same architect was utilized?

The interior features a unique triple barrel vaulted ceiling that allows the nave to be free of columns. The interior is simple with clean, sweeping lines.

View from the Altar. The large choir loft window was destroyed in a storm in 1994. A new window was created as an exact replica of the former.

Interestingly, the high altar does not reside within an apse, but is along the same wall as the side altars.

A window of the church's patroness is above the high altar.

The formal name of the church is actually Immaculate Conception, though over time it has become commonly known simply at "St. Mary's."

A fine green marble font holds a place of prominence in the Baptistery near the entrance of the church.

A unique window depicting the Holy Family. Mary is shown spinning, while Joseph is busy about his carpenter's work. The boy Jesus assists by carrying a measuring stick and some lumber - shaped as a cross.

A detail from the Holy Family window depicting a hen and her chicks. Luke 13:34: How often have I longed to gather your children, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings...

Sutton was settled primarily by Irish immigrants. This presence is alluded to by this window of St. Patrick.

A striking and colorful image of the Good Samaritan is found above a former confessional area.

First Presbyterian Church, York, NE

2009-08-03T17:33:00.002-05:00

A group of Presbyterians formed a congregation in York in 1871 and built its first permanent church building the following year and later enlarged in 1880.

In 1887 a more substantial brick structure was erected. In 1949 a fund was established with the intentions of building a new church.

The present structure was dedicated on December 3, 1967. The church is an utterly fantastic Mid-Century Modern structure; full of sweeping, horizontal curves and angles. Though the building was locked, I'm determined to see the interior of this striking church!

A detailed history of this congregation may be found here.
An evocative and powerful image of Christ adorns the church's exterior. The church's website explains:

"This is the strong, ever-powerful, and living Christ whose sacrifice and resurrection liberated mankind," said artist Gary Coulter whose sculpture adorns the front of our church.

The figure was placed on the building on June 13, 1969. It stands 9 feet tall, weighs 570 pounds, and is cast in bronze.

Mr. Counter, who was professor of art at Hastings College, interpreted his work by saying, "Although the sculpture is in the basic position of the crucifixion (the sacrifice that man should never forget), the main concept is that of the resurrection --the breaking away from the Cross—the living Christ." He portrayed this idea by eliminating the Cross, by throwing the head backward, and by arching the figure outward and away from the building. The fists are clenched in powerful strength, and the left leg is swinging free accentuating the breaking away from the cross. The whole movement of the sculpture is away and upward signifying the resurrection. He also stated that the most important single responsibility that the Church has is the liberation of people. He portrayed in this one piece of sculpture all of these ideas--the crucifixion, the resurrection, and the liberation of mankind.

The Age of Main Street Banking

2009-07-17T06:06:00.001-05:00

Jackson, Nebraska
Jackson State Bank