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High Plains Historical Society Museum

Administrator — Sun, 01 Apr 2007 12:00:15 +0000

Several years ago the Historical Society restored the Carnegie Library, and what was the Reference Room is now the “Schoolroom” containing McCook High School, McCook College and some UNL annuals.

Reunion booklets are a fascinating follow up to the yearbooks, as is the complete collection of Bison Alumni Newsletters. There are school pictures from East, West and North Ward grade schools. A clock previously donated to the high school by the Class of 1927 is now in the museum. Recently donated is a collection of regalia including Michelle Hubert Doorn’s ‘86 band uniform, Pat Moran Chesterman ’53 and Mary Lou Hubert Drake’s ‘48 cheerleader uniforms, as well as Russ Dowling ‘35 and Lamoine “Hoagy” Carmichael’s ‘53 letter sweaters.

High Plains Historical Museum

Administrator — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 12:00:00 +0000

At least once a year, every citizen with McCook roots should visit the Museum of the High Plains at 413 Norris Ave.

It will refresh your memories and remind you of the sacrifices and successes of the early-day citizens who founded and built this community. If you have never visited the museum, you are missing a real treat.

John Hubert ‘45 has repaired the “Sutton Clock” that once sat in front of the Sutton Jewelry Store. The clock was in front of the jewelry store at 216 Norris Ave. from 1908 until 1973. It now graces the lawn of the High Plains Historical Society Museum at 412 Norris Avenue, which was the former Carnegie Library.

Other highlights of the museum include the building from Hendley, NE where Edwin Perkins conceived the idea of Kool-Aid; a currency cutter once used by McCook National Bank; an iron lung; and a shoe store X-ray machine (did you ever look at your feet through that machine?) There is a room devoted to railroad memorabilia and the Daughters of the American Revolution has a room of exhibits. On the balcony there is a model railroad, fossils, and paintings from a WWII German POW camp. We are very proud of the museum and hope you will visit someday soon.

Russ Dowling ‘35, President
412 Norris Ave. 308-345-3661

High Plains Historical Society Museum

Administrator — Mon, 31 Oct 2005 12:00:00 +0000

Everyone should try to come in and visit the old Carnegie Library. Since the Historical Society has finished repairing, renovating and restoring the old building, it is a wondrous sight to behold.

Even though it has been a major investment of worry, hard work and generous donations, I think you will all agree it was well worth it. Soon it will be looking even better Kathy (Mrs. Don) Schaaf has been busy cataloging the books for us.

And another feather in our cap: year after next, the Smithsonian Institution will present a Special Exhibit on the Quilts of the American West at the Renwick Gallery, and they will be borrowing our little 1907 doll quilt. So you folks who live in or visit the Washington area in 2007 will be able to see a little bit of Southwest Nebraska at the Renwick.

Russ Dowling ‘35, President