National Register Listing

Maginnis Irrigation Aqueduct

a.k.a. NeHBS No. KM00-039

S of NE 30, 5 mi. W of Kimball, Kimball, NE
Local significance of the structure:
Engineering; Agriculture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1994.

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.

During the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, Nebraska suffered from severe drought and wind erosion, leading to significant damage to the state's agriculture industry.
Nebraska random facts
Kimball County, Nebraska, located in the western part of the state, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sioux and Cheyenne. The first documented European contact was made by the explorers and fur traders in the early 1800s.

In the mid-1800s, with the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad, the region experienced rapid growth and development. The town of Kimball, named after railroad executive Thomas Lord Kimball, became a crucial railroad junction in the area, leading to increased settlement and the establishment of the county in 1888.

Kimball County played a significant role in the agriculture industry, with wheat and corn being the main crops grown in the early years. The county's fertile soil and favorable weather conditions attracted settlers who found prosperity in farming. Soon, irrigation projects were introduced, allowing for increased agricultural production.

The early 20th century brought challenges to the county, including the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression. The harsh weather conditions and economic hardships affected the agricultural sector, leading to a decline in population. However, the county persevered, and the arrival of new technologies and farming techniques, such as hybrid seeds and mechanization, helped revive the economy.

Today, Kimball County continues to be predominantly rural and focused on agriculture, with the farming industry being the backbone of the local economy. The county also offers various recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, including hunting, fishing, and exploring the region's natural beauty. With its vibrant history and resilience, Kimball County remains a testament to the pioneering spirit of Nebraska's early settlers.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Kimball County, Nebraska.

  • 1854 - The area of Kimball County, NE was part of the Nebraska Territory.
  • 1867 - The Union Pacific Railroad reached the area, attracting settlers.
  • 1870 - The first post office, called "Kimball Ranch," was established.
  • 1888 - Kimball County was officially established on November 6th.
  • 1889 - The city of Kimball was incorporated on August 21st.
  • 1904 - The first public school in Kimball County was built.
  • 1919 - The Kimball County Courthouse was constructed.
  • 1928 - The original courthouse burned down and was rebuilt.
  • 1953 - Chimney Rock in Kimball County became a National Historic Site.
  • 1984 - The Kimball County Historical Society Museum was established.