National Register Listing

First Congregational Church, U.C.C.

a.k.a. Naponee Heritage Center;Naponee Octagon Church

Off NE 31C, Naponee, NE
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

Nebraska's state motto is "Equality before the law."
Nebraska random facts
Franklin County, located in Nebraska, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1867. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Pawnee and Omaha tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the late 1850s, drawn to the fertile land and the potential for agricultural success.

The county was officially organized in 1867, and its name pays tribute to Benjamin Franklin, one of America's Founding Fathers. In the early years, agriculture played a vital role in Franklin County's economy, with settlers growing crops such as corn, wheat, and oats. It also became a hub for livestock farming, with cattle and hogs being raised in abundance.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the arrival of the railroad brought further growth and development to Franklin County. The Burlington and Missouri River Railroad Company established several towns within the county, including Franklin, Naponee, and Riverton. This led to increased trade and commerce, as agricultural products could be transported more easily to other parts of the state and country.

Over the years, Franklin County continued to evolve, adapting to changes in technology, industry, and society. Agriculture remained a primary sector, but the county also experienced growth in other areas, such as manufacturing and services. Today, Franklin County is a close-knit community that celebrates its history and continues to prosper through a diverse range of industries.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Franklin County, Nebraska.

  • 1855: Franklin County is established as a county in the state of Nebraska.
  • 1861: The town of Franklin, which would later become the county seat, is founded.
  • 1872: The Burlington and Missouri River Railroad is completed, passing through Franklin County and enhancing transportation.
  • 1871: The population of Franklin County reaches 1,000 residents.
  • 1880: The town of Franklin is officially incorporated.
  • 1891: The first public high school in Franklin County is established in the town of Franklin.
  • 1912: The town of Bloomington is incorporated in Franklin County.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression profoundly affects the economy of Franklin County.
  • 1940s: Franklin County experiences a surge in population due to World War II and the construction of nearby military bases.
  • 1950s: Drainage systems are improved in Franklin County, benefiting agriculture and the overall economy.
  • 1974: The town of Franklin is devastated by a tornado, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1980s: Franklin County sees a decline in population due to rural depopulation and changes in agricultural practices.
  • 2000: The population of Franklin County is approximately 3,500 residents.
  • 2010: Franklin County celebrates its 155th anniversary since its establishment.