Scottsbluff Carnegie Library
a.k.a. West Nebraska Arts Center;SF11-10
106 E. 18th St., Scottsbluff, NE Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1981.
1881: Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist, begins his philanthropic efforts in library construction by donating funds to build the Braddock Library in Pennsylvania.
1883: The first "Carnegie Library" is officially established in Dunfermline, Scotland, Carnegie's birthplace. This library serves as a model for future Carnegie Libraries.
1886: Carnegie writes an article titled "Wealth," where he articulates his belief in philanthropy and the responsibility of the wealthy to give back to society.
1889: The Carnegie Corporation of New York is established with the aim of funding the construction of libraries across the United States and other English-speaking countries.
1893: The first Carnegie Library in the United States, the Carnegie Library of Braddock in Pennsylvania, is opened to the public.
Late 1890s to early 1900s: The construction of Carnegie Libraries spreads rapidly throughout the United States and other parts of the English-speaking world, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. The libraries are often designed by prominent architects and feature diverse architectural styles.
1901: The Carnegie Corporation of New York is founded as a philanthropic organization to manage and administer Andrew Carnegie's charitable projects, including the library program.
1902: Carnegie makes a significant endowment, donating $10 million to establish the Carnegie Institute in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Institute includes a library, an art gallery, and a natural history museum.
1917: Andrew Carnegie dies, leaving a lasting legacy of philanthropy, including the establishment of thousands of libraries around the world.
1920s-1930s: The construction of Carnegie Libraries gradually slows down, and the focus shifts to maintaining and updating existing libraries to meet changing community needs.
Late 20th century to present: Many Carnegie Libraries undergo renovations, expansions, or repurposing to adapt to modern library services and technological advancements. Some continue to operate as public libraries, while others have been transformed into cultural centers, museums, community spaces, or educational institutions.
The Carnegie Libraries have left an indelible mark on the accessibility of knowledge and education. They remain a testament to Andrew Carnegie's belief in the power of libraries to uplift communities and provide opportunities for personal and intellectual growth.
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.
Omaha was the birthplace of Malcolm X, the civil rights activist and leader of the Nation of Islam.
The Oregon Trail, which passed through present-day Scotts Bluff County, became a popular route for pioneers during the mid-19th century. The Donner Party, one of the most famous wagon trains, passed through this area in 1846. In 1851, the U.S. government established Fort Mitchell to protect travelers along the Oregon Trail. However, conflicts with Native American tribes led to the fort's relocation and eventual abandonment.
In 1853, the U.S. Army established Fort Mitchell as Fort Mitchell Military Road, securing the area as a strategic military post. The military presence in the region helped pave the way for further settlement and development. In 1867, Scotts Bluff County was formed and named after the prominent landmark of Scotts Bluff, a natural formation that served as a significant landmark for pioneers traveling west.
The arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad in 1867 further accelerated the growth and development of Scotts Bluff County. The railroad brought new opportunities for trade, transportation, and economic growth. Agriculture became a vital industry, with farmers taking advantage of the fertile land and abundant water supply from the North Platte River. Over time, Scotts Bluff County became a thriving agricultural hub, with various crops and livestock flourishing in the region.
Today, Scotts Bluff County continues to thrive as a vital part of Nebraska's economy, with agriculture remaining a significant industry. The county's rich history, natural beauty, and strategic location along major transportation routes make it a unique and important part of the state's heritage.
Scotts Bluff County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska.
- 1812 - Scotts Bluff County area identified by American explorers Lewis and Clark during their expedition.
- 1838 - The first recorded non-native settlement in the area is established at Fort Robidoux.
- 1849 - The Oregon Trail becomes a popular route through the county, leading to increased settlement and trade.
- 1867 - Scotts Bluff County is organized and officially established.
- 1887 - The city of Gering is founded.
- 1908 - The towns of Melbeta and Minatare are incorporated.
- 1929 - The North Platte Project brings irrigation to the county, boosting agricultural production.
- 1954 - The city of Scottsbluff is formed through the merger of two neighboring communities.
- 1983 - Scotts Bluff National Monument is designated, preserving the iconic geological formation in the area.