In December 1999, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) requested comments from consulting parties on the preliminary Assessment of Adverse Effects to NRHP and NRHP-eligible sites for the Lincoln South and East Beltways study. The preliminary assessment of adverse effects was prepared and a request for comments was made as part of FHWA's process to comply with 36 CFR Part 800, the regulations that govern Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.

This report has been completed in partial response to consulting party comments, and addresses two of the more challenging issues raised by public comment. The first issue is to identify specific boundaries for properties within the South and East Beltways Area of Potential Effect (APE) that are considered eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The second issue addresses whether large agricultural acreages should be considered contributing elements to smaller properties eligible for or listed in the NRHP.

Under agreement with Olsson Environmental Sciences (OES), the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Anthropology (UNL) conducted evaluations to define the historic boundaries of 30 NRHP-eligible properties located within the South and East Beltways Study. The inclusion of associated agricultural acreage was also assessed as appropriate. These evaluations were conducted at the request of FHWA subsequent to public comment. During the evaluation, UNL identified two additional NRHP-eligible directional signs within the study area (LC00:S-145 and LC00: E-146).

The boundaries of three NRHP eligible archeological sites, 25LC125, 25LC129, 25LC147, were defined by Parks and Stupka-Burda (2000). The boundaries of a fourth archeological site, 25LC1, were determined by the Nebraska State Historical Society (on file, NSHS).

The boundaries of two additional NRHP properties, the Stevens Creek Stock Farm-Mardale Farms (LC00: E-88; NeHBS #LC00-22) and Ehlers Round Barn (LC: S-127; NeHBS #LC00-035) were defined on their respective National Register of Historic Places Registration Forms (on file, NSHS) and, for the Stock Farm, in additional correspondence from the Nebraska State Historic Preservation Office (NeSHPO).

Previous Investigations

In 1997, On Site Photography and Preservation (On Site) conducted a reconnaissance-level historical survey within the 210 km² (80 mi²) South and East Beltways Study Area and an intensive-level survey of the Stevens Creek Bottoms (Elliott and Dirr 1998). Elliott and Dirr (1998) surveyed potential historic resources, evaluated each of these historic resources using NRHP Criteria, and made recommendations for NRHP eligibility based upon those evaluations.

During the reconnaissance survey conducted by On Site, the South and East Beltways Study Area was surveyed section by section in an effort to include each man-made structure or object in the survey (Elliott and Dirr 1998). The comparative nature of this study dictated that On Site initially consider hundreds of man-made structures and objects. Through a process based on the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Identification and Evaluations and on evaluation considerations outlined in the Nebraska Historic Buildings Survey (NeHBS) Manual (July 9, 1997), professional judgment and experience; Elliott and Dirr (1998) identified 141 sites that met minimum historic property survey criteria.

Of the 141 historic properties so identified, two properties, the Stevens Creek Stock Farm (Figure G.1) and Ehlers Round Barn (Figure G.2) were already listed in the NRHP (Elliott and Dirr 1998). Further, in consultation with the NeSHPO, the City of Lincoln Preservation Planner, and in accordance with appropriate National Register bulletins, physical integrity evaluation and comparative analysis, Elliott and Dirr (1998) recommended an additional 25 sites eligible to the NRHP (see Figure 3.3 in main body of DEIS). The NeSHPO concurred with these recommendations. Since the completion of the investigations completed by On Site, one of the historic properties considered eligible for listing, the Herter Farmstead (also known as the Herter-Hagamen Farm) has been listed on the NRHP (form on file, NSHS).

Within the intensive-level survey of the Stevens Creek Bottoms area, Elliott and Dirr (1998) developed a context within which to examine the area as a cultural landscape/rural historic district and to evaluate its eligibility for the NRHP. Although a broad pattern of nineteenth century immigrant settlement was identified within this context, Elliott and Dirr (1998) considered only one additional site within the bottoms area, the Karl Lemke Farm, eligible for the NRHP (in addition the NRHP listed Stevens Creek Stock Farm). Primarily due to physical integrity issues and later/new construction within the boundaries of the study area, Elliott and Dirr (1998) were unable to identify any cultural landscapes or historic districts. Elliott and Dirr (1998) postulated that the low incidence of NRHP-eligible properties located within the Stevens Creek Bottoms was due to the ever changing and evolving demands of agriculture. These forces continually erode the historic integrity of landscapes and structures associated with early settlement in Lancaster County. Again, the NeSHPO concurred with these recommendations.

In 1999, UNL evaluated three historic properties: one inadvertently omitted by On Site (Site LC00: S-143, Wunibald Farmyard); one previously considered outside the study area (Site LC00 S-142, Guenzel Farmyard); and one previously considered to lack sufficient integrity to be considered for listing on the NRHP (Site LC00: E-144, Hulda Otto House). These investigations were conducted under the guidelines established by the On Site researchers (1998). As a result of this additional work, one historic property (Wunibald Farmyard) was recommended eligible to the NRHP. The NeSHPO concurred with this recommendation (letter dated June 1999).

Defining Historic Boundaries

Although not routine for Section 106 purposes, well-defined historic property boundaries can assist in determining the effects of Federal undertakings. Additionally, as stated previously, the boundaries of the historic properties discussed in this report were defined at the request of FHWA subsequent to public comment, as was the evaluation of associated agricultural acreage to NRHP or NRHP eligible properties.

Boundaries are selected based on the historic property's significance, integrity and physical setting (NR Bulletins #21 and #30). According to NR Bulletin #21, these boundaries "should define the limits of the eligible resource…and usually include the immediate surroundings and encompass the appropriate setting" (p. 2). Resources or areas that do not contribute directly to a property's significance are excluded (NR Bulletin #21). When defining historic boundaries, researchers should consider:

1. Integrity: The majority of the property must retain integrity of location, design, setting, feeling and association to be eligible. The essential qualities that contribute to an eligible property's significance must be preserved. Activities that often compromise integrity include new construction or alterations to the resource or its setting. Natural processes that alter or destroy portions of the resource or its setting, such as fire, flooding, erosion, or disintegration of the historic fabric, may compromise integrity.

2. Setting and Landscape Features: Consider the setting and historically important landscape features. Natural features of the landscape may be included when they are located within the district or were used for purposes related to the historical significance of the property.

3. Use: Consider the historic use of the property when selecting the boundary. The eligible resource may include open spaces, natural land forms, designed landscapes, or natural resources that were integral to the property's historic use. Modern use may be different, and some modern uses alter the setting or affect built resources.

4. Research Potential: For properties eligible under Criterion D, define boundaries that include all resources with integrity that have the potential to yield important information about the past.

Boundaries can be aligned with the distribution of resources (both above ground and subsurface); can follow legal boundaries; can correspond with boundaries as illustrated on historic maps; and can be based on natural features or cultural features. Cartographic features and arbitrary limits may be used when necessary (NR Bulletin #21). Any combination of these may be utilized as necessary.

South and East Beltway Historic Boundaries

Based on the information described above, information obtained from the NeSHPO, and that from additional research, several observations regarding the definition of the boundaries of historic properties located within the South and East Beltway Study area can be stated. These observations were used as guidelines when considering boundary definitions for this report.

Associated Agricultural Acreage

The amount of acreage that can even be considered for inclusion within the boundary of a historic property is dependent upon the NRHP significance of the property. For example, properties significant to the NRHP under Criterion A may have associated agricultural acreage included within their historic boundaries. This property must retain "the essential physical features that made up its character or appearance during the period of its association with the important event, historical pattern, or person(s)" (NR Bulletin #15). This associated agricultural acreage must retain its integrity relative to the NRHP eligible property's period of significance (Bill Callahan, NeSHPO, personal communication). The integrity of associated acreage is irrespective of current ownership.

However, those properties determined eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C generally do not include associated agricultural production acreage. Properties considered eligible under Criterion C are eligible due to their physical design, such as architecture (NR Bulletin #15). Associated agricultural acreage does not contribute to Criterion C evaluation. However, boundaries defined for properties determined eligible under Criterion C should still consider the historic setting of the property and should include those features that contribute to the overall integrity, setting and feeling of the property.

According to Guidelines for Evaluating and Documenting Rural Historic Landscapes (NR Bulletin #30) changes that may reduce the historic integrity of a rural landscape include:

• widening and resurfacing of roadways
• changes in land use and management that alter vegetation, change the size and shape of fields, erase boundary demarcations, and flatten the contours of land
• introduction of nonhistoric land uses (quarries; tree farms; sanitary landfill; recreational areas; limited access highways and interchanges; power plants; wastewater treatment plants, and other public utilities; subdivision for residential, commercial, or industrial development)
• deterioration, abandonment, and relocation of historic buildings and structures
• substantial alteration of buildings and structures (remodeling, siding, additions)
• construction of new buildings and structures

Within the South and East Beltways APE, the evolution of agricultural and conservation practices, the removal of agricultural acreage from cultivation, and the expansion of public infrastructure have led to a variety of activities that have negatively impacted the integrity of historic properties and affects the integrity of associated agricultural acreage. These practices include subdivision, construction of modern buildings and structures, agricultural and conservation terracing, channel modification, dam construction, windbreaks, and road widening and paving.

Some of these features and modifications can be dated to general periods of time, which assists in determining whether or not the feature was present during the historic property's period of significance.

Conservation Terracing

Conservation or agricultural terracing can be described within a framework spanning the last 65 years and three types of terrace construction. These three terrace types offer a relative dating technique of agricultural terraces in Lancaster County.

The Dust Bowl of the late 1930's left an important legacy of soil conservation across the United States, but particularly on the Plains (Christy 1940; Worster 1979). The Soil Conservation Service (SCS) was established in 1935 (Helms 1990). Two ways in which the SCS advocated conservation of the soil was by contour cultivation of agricultural fields, and contour furrows on rangeland (Helms 1990). Some of this early conservation contouring employed laborers of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), stationed in Lancaster County near Denton. The conservation terraces created by the CCC were dug by hand and are easily recognizable.

According to sources at the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District (LPSNRD) based in the Lancaster County Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) field office, some of the features of these early terraces include an uneven appearance; the terraces are closely spaced and the tops of the terraces are very low. In addition, these terraces were not constructed across ridge tops and the ends of CCC terraces constructed across waterways are unlikely to align (NRCS). A few such terraces still exist within Lancaster County, preserved in pasture or grasslands.

The second period of conservation terrace construction began after World War II when a record number of acres were converted to plowed fields. These terraces were built by machine and characterized by even terrace tops. The terraces are evenly spaced and fields are characterized by grassed waterways. Agricultural fields continued to be terraced in this manner into the mid-1970's (NRCS). These terraces are also obviously much more massive than the hand-dug CCC terraces.

By the mid to late 70's a third method of terrace construction was beginning to emerge. These conservation terraces maintain the characteristics of the machine built terraces of the 1950's, 1960's and early 1970's. The major difference is the addition of tile pipe outlets to control water drainage. With the addition of tile pipe outlets, grassed waterways became unnecessary, allowing farmers to farm more of their fields. By the early 1980's, tile pipe outlets became very popular, and today, The NRCS estimates that 99% of the fields that are (Lancaster County NRCS) terraced contain tile pipe outlets.

Channel Modification and the Construction of Small Dams

The Flood Control Acts of 1936 and 1944 initiated the most comprehensive examination of agriculture's relationship to flooding to that time (Helms 1988). The information gained during this examination laid the foundation for future water resources in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and for the Flood Prevention Act of 1954 (Helms 1988).

Beginning in 1936, and continuing to the present day, flood control projects have used combinations of channel modification, small dams, and other engineering works to reduce flooding along small streams (Helms 1988).

Channel modification or stream straightening aided in draining the field, reduced the tendency for stream migration, and gave farmers more useable agricultural acreage. In addition, straightening the borders of small creeks and intermittent drainages simplified cultivation by allowing straight crop rows.

The construction of small dams not only retained storm water in the event of a flood episode but also provided water retention for livestock, wildlife habitat enhancement, recreation, and irrigation.

Trees

Soon after the arrival of non-Native Americans on the Plains, planting trees became important. Settlers planted orchards, woodlots, shelterbelts and hedges (Isaacson 1999). State and Federal laws passed in the late 1860's and early 1870's gave tax exemptions to those who planted trees. Laws such as the Timber Culture Act of 1873 provided that any person who planted 40 acres of timber, planted not more than 12 feet apart, would be entitled to the ¼ section of which the timber was a part (Dick 1975). However, in the eastern part of Nebraska, there was little government land available by the time this act was passed and there are no known extant timber claim plantings within the Beltways study area.

Passed in 1924, the Clarke-McNary Act, encouraged tree planting and made it possible for landowners to purchase trees for windbreaks at low cost (Dick 1975). This legislation motivated people in many states to plant trees. However, it was only after the Dustbowl years of the 1920's, the Great Depression of the 1930's that windbreaks became widespread in the Great Plains (Isaacson 1999).

The shelterbelt program of 1935-1942, known after 1937 as the Prairie States Forestry Project, was confined to the zone between the tall grass prairie and the short grass prairie, roughly following the ninety-ninth meridian (Dick 1975). In Nebraska, the eastern boundary of the shelterbelt zone stretched from Boyd County, through Wheeler, Valley, Custer, Phelps, and Harlan Counties. The shelterbelts were forested strips planted along ¼ section lines in the interior of the section rather than along established roads, and were generally 40 m (132 ft) wide (Dick 1975). According to Dick (1975) "the ideal shelterbelt was rooflike in cross section." The center was comprised of tall deciduous trees with successively shorter trees, conifers, tall shrubs, and finally low shrubs on either side (Dick 1975).

Windbreaks are smaller than shelterbelts, and are normally placed to protect the farmyard from the effects of wind. As they occur in the study area, they are generally comprised primarily of evergreen trees evenly spaced along the north and western edges of farmyards. These plantings are not part of a large scale, systematic program of tree planting, though they may have been facilitated by legislation such as the Clarke-McNary Act. Many are the result of local or regional efforts of the Soil Conservation and Survey after 1942.

In summary, tree growth within the Beltway study area does not appear to be part of an historic context or framework which would include systematic, government-sponsored programs. Windbreaks within the study area appear to be the result of ad hoc planting. The visual evidence appears to indicate that these windbreaks date, for the most part, outside the period of historic significance represented in the area: 1890-1936. These windbreaks may now also contain volunteer tree growth Indeed, some of these windbreaks appear to be the result of encouraged volunteer growth, as they exhibit none of the characteristics of a planned shelterbelt. Therefore, windbreaks in the study area are not themselves considered to be historic elements which contribute to the significance of historic farmyards.

Within the study area, sufficiently dense windbreaks are considered to define the physical and visual boundaries of historic properties (i.e. Sartore and Herter Farmyards). Additionally, they are one of several elements considered in the evaluation of whether agricultural acreages contribute to the National Register eligibility of the property (see above). In some instances, the windbreaks are not considered to be sufficiently dense to constitute a visual or physical boundary to associated agricultural acreages (i.e. Del O'Brien and Steve Johnson Farmyards). For the majority of the historic farmyards evaluated as part of this report, however, windbreaks constitute either a physical and visual boundary of an historic property.

Methodology

Based on the results of the investigations conducted by Elliott and Dirr (1998) and by UNL (Stupka-Burda 1999) researchers determined the historic boundaries of all of the historic standing structures determined eligible to the NRHP, and included 11 farmyards, seven barns, four residences, one school, two grain elevators and five concrete directional signs (Table G.1). The directional signs include two locations not previously identified in the 1998 On Site report.

Archival information regarding each historic property was collected from the Lancaster County Assessor's Office archives, plat maps, and by personal contact. Each historic property was then surveyed to determine location and extent of the historic property. This information was compared to historic and recent aerial photographs of the region.

The boundaries of each eligible property were assessed and defined in consultation with the NeSHPO and as appropriate, according to National Park Service (NPS) guidelines found in National Register Bulletin #15: How to Apply the National Register of Criteria for Evaluation, National Register Bulletin #21: Defining Boundaries for National Register Properties, and National Register Bulletin #30: Guidelines for Evaluating and Documenting Rural Historic Landscapes. In the course of defining these boundaries, appropriate visible natural and cultural resources were utilized. Examples of these boundary types include windbreaks, treelines, fencelines, driveways and legal descriptions. Arbitrary limits were defined only when established boundaries were not present.

When considering the boundaries of each historic property, attention was given to location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association. These seven aspects combine to produce the historic integrity of a property as defined by the National Register. When considered to contribute to the significance of a NRHP eligible property, appropriate features such as mature trees were included within the boundaries of that historic property.

Assessment of Impacts to Agricultural Land

Numerous impacts to the agricultural land surrounding these historic properties were noted in the course of this work. Impacts, such as agricultural terracing, channel modification, and dam construction have destroyed or significantly altered the integrity of setting and feeling of much of the agricultural land associated with NRHP eligible properties. Properties containing a significant quantity of such alterations were excluded from consideration as associated agricultural land due to the negative impact these alterations have had on the historic integrity of the property. In most instances, an aggregate effect was caused by several different kinds of physical changes.

Much of the agricultural land examined in the course of this research has been conservation terraced. Such recontouring of the natural landscape is visually intrusive from the perspective of evaluating a properties historic integrity, degrading the integrity of setting and feeling associated with an historic property's period of significance. The age of terracing can be assigned relative dates based on construction characteristics. Hand dug, closely spaced, irregular terraces indicate construction in the mid 1930's to 1940's. Largely regularized terraces with grassed waterways date from the mid 1950's to early 1970's. From the late 1970's to present, terraces are drained with tile pipe outlets. No terraces representing the earliest period were observed contiguous to any historic property considered in this report. Rather, all terraces noted contained either grassed waterways or tile pipe outlets, affording a relative date of 1950 - present day. This time period falls outside the period of significance of all historic properties considered in this report.

The lack of trees in the area that now includes Nebraska was a daunting prospect to the earliest non-Native American explorers and settlers. In fact, it was a widely held belief that the area west of the Missouri River was a desert, and was uninhabitable by anyone but nomads. While explorers like Major Stephan K. Long noted tracts of fertile land, Long stated that the scarcity of wood and water was almost uniformly prevalent, and would deter settlement (Dick 1975). Early non-Native American pioneers wisely settled along streams where water and timber was available, though this timber supply was quickly exhausted.

In Nebraska, there has been a long history of both State and Federal programs which supported and encouraged tree planting, ranging from the tax exemptions and land grants during the 1860's -1870's, the Clarke-McNary Act of 1924, and the Shelterbelt Program from 1935 to 1942. While the period of significance of all historic properties considered in this report, 1890-1936, is potentially represented, these tree planting activities would have varying degrees of identifiable characteristics today.

Investigators were able to discern intentionally planted trees on many of the historic properties. Windbreaks consisting of evergreen trees were noted most frequently, but fruit trees and ornamental trees were also observed in several farmyards. No areas that could be interpreted as early woodlots or tree claims were noted associated with these historic properties. The lack of tree claims is consistent with the observation made by Dick (1975) that by the passage of the Timber Culture Act in 1873, there was very little vacant land in the eastern portion of the State. No large scale shelterbelts, such as those planted with the assistance of the forest service were noted.

A distinction was made between windbreaks and treelines while preparing this report. A windbreak consists of evenly spaced multiple rows of trees intentionally planted to provide shelter from the elements and to assist in soil conservation. In contrast, a treeline is defined in this report as a group of volunteer trees allowed to grow along fencelines and other nonproductive areas. Treelines often consist of quick growing, scrubby tree species.

The distinction between windbreaks and treelines is important because treelines, as described above, would not have been present during the period of significance for the historic properties evaluated during the course of this investigation. Therefore, the presence of a treeline is intrusive and impacts the integrity of setting and feeling.

Results

Physical alterations to the landscape, such as subdivisions, agricultural terracing, stream straightening and dam construction, scrubby tree growth and treelines, when taken individually, may seem minor. However, when taken as a whole, the cumulative effect on the landscape is significant. Modern activities have impacted or destroyed the integrity of setting and feeling in agricultural lands contiguous to nearly all of the NRHP properties and NRHP eligible properties located in the study area.

Of the 11 farmyards determined eligible to the NRHP, four were considered to possess contiguous agricultural acreage that could be associated with the period of significance of the NRHP eligible property, the Del O'Brien Farmyard (LC00:E-15), the Steve Johnson Farmyard (LC00:E-52), the Arthur Monahan Farmyard (LC00:E-69) and the Henry Wunibald Farmyard (LC00:E-143). The remaining historic farmyard properties were assigned boundaries that generally coincide with the extent of the farmyard, bounded by obvious visual boundaries whose definitions were guided by NR Bulletin #21. Table G.1 is the list of properties for which boundaries were defined.

The NRHP eligible barns, residences, grain elevators and directional signs were assigned boundaries that conformed to the guidelines outlined by NPS (NR Bulletin #21) and that are visually reasonable. Careful attention was given to the seven aspects of integrity (location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association) relative to each property and the definition of their historic boundary.

Descriptions and justifications of the historic boundary definitions are provided on the following pages. The architectural descriptions included with each discussion rely heavily on the Elliott and Dirr (1998) report. References and a glossary of terms are included following the discussion of individual properties.

NRHP Eligible Farmyards

Site LC00: S-15 - Del O' Brien Farmyard

7900 Saltillo Rd

Lincoln, NE

The Del O'Brien Farmyard includes a house, a gambrel roof barn, chicken house, polygonal grainery and a windmill. The house is located on the west side of the farmyard and is separated from the outbuildings by a driveway. The farmyard is eligible for the NRHP under Criterion A for its ability to convey significance in the area of agricultural development as a historically functioning farm.

This property is associated with four parcels of land acquired by James O'Brien between 1872 and 1884. These parcels are still owned by heirs of James O'Brien. On Site (1998) defined the period of significance for this farmyard as 1910's-20.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of the farm yard is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska (1966): SE ¼, SW ¼, SE ¼ of Section 34, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The boundary of this historic property includes the farmyard proper and several hectares located in the E ½ of the SE ¼ of Section 34, that are contiguous to the farmyard. Specifically, the boundary can be described as the windbreak on the west side of the farmhouse; the windbreak on the north side of the farmhouse; north on the quarter-line from the north windbreak to an intermittent drainage; east on the drainage to the west end of a east-west fenceline; east on the east-west fenceline to the west edge of the 84^th Street right-of-way; south on the 84^th Street right-of-way to the north edge of the Saltillo Road right-of-way; west on the north edge of Saltillo Road to the windbreak (Figure G.3).

Boundary Justification. The farmyard is part of a parcel of 32 hectares (80 acres) (W ½ of the SE ¼ of Section 34, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska) purchased in 1872. Beyond the farmyard, much of this parcel has been agriculturally terraced, changing the natural contours of the land. In addition, an intermittent drainage crossing this parcel has been channelized. These land alterations significantly alter the historic integrity of the landscape, thereby precluding inclusion of the majority of this parcel within an historic boundary associated with the historic farmyard.

James O'Brien purchased a second parcel of 32 hectares (80 acres) (E ½ of the SE ¼ of Section 34, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska) in 1882. This parcel includes portions of two intermittent drainages with an associated green belt. This grassy area has always been pasture according to Mr. O'Brien (personal communication May 2000). It is a portion of one of the drainages that delineates the northern boundary of this historic property. Although a green belt is still intact surrounding the remainder of the drainage to the north within this green belt, land on either side has been agriculturally terraced. This terracing is an intrusion when viewed from the historic farmyard and significantly alters the historic integrity of the landscape. Therefore, only an area contiguous to the farmyard, east to 84^th Street retains sufficient integrity to be included within the historic boundaries of the farmyard. This area is included within the historic boundary described above.

The third parcel (NE ¼, Section 3, T8N, R7E) was acquired in 1884 and consists of 65 hectares (160 acres) immediately south of Saltillo Road. Much of this parcel has been agriculturally terraced, thereby reducing the integrity of this parcel to the farmyard. In addition, the presence of a high-voltage power transmission line crossing the southeastern corner of this property and the widening of Saltillo Road has further diminished the integrity of this property relative to the original farmstead.

James O'Brien owned a fourth parcel of land located south of Saltillo Road and east of 82nd street by 1903. This property is separated from the original homestead by two roads, each of which has been widened, thus diminishing the integrity of this parcel.

Site LC00:E-52 - Steve Johnson Farmyard

13200 Yankee Hill Rd

Cheney, Nebraska

This historic farmyard was determined eligible to the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to the agricultural development of the area as an early dairy barn, and under Criterion C as a typical example of Folk Victorian architecture in the residence and in the outbuildings. The period of significance defined for this farmyard is the 1890's to 1900's (On Site, 1998). This property is associated with a ¼ section of property acquired by A.W. Baade sometime after June 1882, but prior to 1902.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of the buildings associated with this property is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska (1966): SW ¼, SW ¼, SE ¼, SE ¼ of Section 20, T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. Figure G-4 best illustrates the boundaries of this property.

Boundary Justification. The boundary described above encompasses all NRHP eligible resources located within the farmyard and includes adjoining agricultural acreage both east and west of the farmyard. The Baade family purchased this property after June 1882, but prior to 1902. These dates fall within the period of significance for this farmyard. The remainder of the parcel originally purchased by Baade has been significantly impacted by modern activity, including agricultural terracing, dam construction and the straightening of a large intermittent drainage. These modern impacts diminish the integrity of that portion of the parcel not included in the boundary description.

Site LC00:E-53 - Penterman Farmyard (Penterman Farm)

13800 Yankee Hill Rd

Cheney, Nebraska

Historic structures in this farmyard consist of a one-story bungalow with matching one stall garage, a gambrel roof barn and two small sheds. This farmyard was considered eligible to the NRHP under Criterion A for its association with the development of small 20-century farms, and retains a high degree of integrity. this property's period of significance is the 1920's (On Site 1998).

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this property is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska (1966): SE ¼, SE ¼, SW ¼, of Section 21, T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The boundaries of this property can be specifically described as the windbreak on the north; the fenceline on the east; the north edge of the Yankee Hill Road right-of-way on the south; and the treeline along the driveway located west of the one-story bungalow (Figure G.5). A sewage lagoon located south of the barn near Yankee Hill Road is a non-contributing element.

Boundary Justification. These boundaries include all NRHP eligible resources and a livestock corral located west and south of the barn. Associated farm ground owned by the Spatz family during the period of significance of the farmyard has been subdivided to the west. A modern house has been constructed on one of the subdivisions, in addition to numerous other modern intrusions, including a second sewage lagoon, a man made pond, and trenching to provide water. The remainder of the surrounding agricultural acreage associated with this farmyard has been agriculturally terraced, therefore, the natural contours of the land have been altered, diminishing the historic integrity of this property. This terracing excludes this acreage from consideration as an associated historic property.

Site LC00:E-56 - Michael Smith Residence

8205 S 148^th

Bennet, Nebraska

The house in this farmyard was determined eligible for the NRHP under Criterion C because it typifies the Craftsman style of construction. When initially evaluated in 1997, On Site described 5 structures, including the Craftsman style house, a barn and three outbuildings as resources that contributed to the NRHP eligibility this property. On Site noted however, that the "remaining contributing NRHP eligible resources on this site are unused outbuildings that while neglected, still retain a high degree of historic integrity" (Elliott and Dirr 1998). The period of significance for this property is 1912-14.

During the course of the investigation to define the boundary of this historic property, UNL observed that the contributing resources described by On Site (1998) have further deteriorated. In particular, a large portion of the gable end barn has collapsed. In consultation with the NeSHPO, UNL re-evaluated this property and recommends that only the Craftsman style house remains eligible, under Criterion C, to the NRHP. The barn is no longer eligible to the NRHP as the integrity of design, workmanship, materials, feeling and association has been severely impacted by the collapse of most of the structure. The three remaining minor outbuildings are in fair to poor condition, and while they contribute to the overall feeling, association and setting the of the property, they are not themselves individually eligible to the NRHP.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this property is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska (1966): NE ¼, SE ¼, SE ¼, of Section 21, T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. Specifically, the historic boundaries of this property can be described as the treeline on the north; the west edge of the 148^th Street right-of-way on the east; the southern edge of the trees lining the driveway on the south; the western edge of a north-south driveway continuing as an imagining line to the northern boundary (Figure G.6). All other buildings located on this property, including a modern, corrugated steel shed located west of the barn are non-contributing.

Boundary Justification. The boundaries described above include an area surrounding the eligible resource, including a formal yard and a tree lined driveway. The 65 hectares (160 acres) (SE ¼ 21-9-8) of land initially associated with this farmyard are not considered eligible for inclusion within the historic boundaries of this property. The general character and feeling of the period of significance for this property (1912-14) is no longer reflected in the outbuildings and or in the 65 hectares (160 acres) initially associated with this farmhouse. The historic integrity of this property is diminished by the deterioration of the large barn and the overgrowth vegetation on this property.

Site LC00:E-61 - Elaine and Owen Herter Farmyard

5300 S 148^th St

Cheney, Nebraska

This isolated farmyard, set back from nearby 148^th Street by almost 0.4 km (¼ mi), is eligible to the NRHP under Criterion A, for its contribution to agricultural development in the area. The farmyard is described as one of the best intact turn-of-the-century farmsteads within the study area, and includes 6 NRHP resources.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964), the location of this property is: NE ¼, NW ¼, SW ¼, of Section 10, T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundaries of this property are described as the treelines surrounding the farmyard on all sides (Figure G.7).

Boundary Justification. This farmyard is situated away from 148^th Street, and the trees surrounding the farmyard offer both an obvious visual and physical boundary. The Herter Family purchased the farm ground associated with this farmyard in 1878. While there is a long historical association between the farmyard and the surrounding farm ground, the farm ground has been terraced. Terracing changes the natural contour of the land, thereby significantly altering the historic integrity of the landscape, making these terraced acres ineligible for inclusion within the historical boundaries of the farmyard.

Site LC00:E-62 - Joel and Kathy Sartore Farmyard ("Herter-Hagaman Farm")

4949 S 148^th St

Cheney, Nebraska

The site of a former dairy operation, this late 1890's site is listed on the NRHP and was determined eligible under Criterion A for it's contribution to agricultural development in the area, and under Criterion C as the buildings typify the Folk Victorian architectural style. The period of significance for the farm is 1885-1930, which encompasses the farm origins through construction of all its outbuildings, and the completion of the house.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this property is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964): SE ¼, SE ¼, NE ¼, of Section 9, T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundaries of this property can be described as the west edge of the treeline on the west (coinciding with the western property boundary); the north treeline on the north (coinciding with the northern property boundary); the west edge of the 148^th Street right-of-way on the east; and the fenceline on the south (coinciding with the southern property boundary) (Figure G.8).

Boundary Justification. The boundary described above includes the entire farmyard. Much of the surrounding land with an historical association to the farmyard has been agriculturally terraced, which alters the natural contours of the landscape. A portion of land north of the farmyard boundary to Pioneers Blvd on the east side of a small drainage is not currently under cultivation. However, this parcel of land is overgrown with numerous trees such as Chinese Elm. This overgrowth would not have been present during the period of significance for this property and is a visual intrusion not in keeping with the historical integrity of the remainder of this property.

Since initiation of the historic boundaries evaluation, this property was listed on the NRHP. The NRHP site is defined as a 8.1 ha (20 acre) parcel and corresponds to the independently delineated boundary in this report.

Site LC00:E-69 - Arthur Monahan Farmyard ("Haeger Dairy")

14300 O St

Lincoln, Nebraska

This large historic site known as the Haeger Dairy, supplied milk to nearby Lincoln residents during the early part of the 20^th century. This site was determined eligible under Criterion A as a commercial dairy and its contribution to the development of agriculture in the area, and under Criterion C for the integrity of the architectural styles, which document the evolution of the site. All buildings located on site, a total of nine, contribute to this eligibility. The period of significance for this property is ca. 1900 - 1920.

The 65 hectares (160 acres) originally associated with this historic property was purchased by Anthony Reed in 1893. In 1929, the Reed family sold this property to Jimmie Haeger. I.F. Kurszer purchased the property in 1945. Arthur Monahan purchased the west 80 acres and the associated NRHP eligible buildings in 1956 and converted the dairy to a cattle operation.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this property is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964): SE ¼, SW ¼, SE ¼, of Section 21, T10N, R8E Stevens Creek Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. Specifically, these boundaries can be described as the north-south fenceline that runs along the ¼ section line on the east, an east-west fenceline located approximately 305 m (1000 ft) north of the 'O' Street right-of-way on the north, a north-south fenceline located immediately west of the shelterbelt on the west, and the 'O' Street right-of-way on the south (Figure G.9).

Boundary Justification. The boundaries described above include the entire the farmyard, livestock pens associated with the barn and a portion of pasture located to north of the farmstead. The remainder of the 65 hectares (160 acres) originally purchased by Reed is excluded from these boundaries due to the construction of a modern residential subdivision on the site, man-made ponds and small flood control dams. In addition, a commercial subdivision located in the SW ¼ Section 21 is visible from the Monahan property. These modern impacts intrude upon the integrity of setting, feeling and association when considering the remainder of the 65 hectares (160 acres) originally associated with this historic property. The general character and feeling of the period of significance for this property (1900 - 20) is no longer reflected in the 65 hectares (160 acres) initially associated with this historic property.

Site LC00:E-72 - Lyle and Maverne Mayer Farmyard

The Mayer Farmyard was determined eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C as a representative type of small-scale vernacular farmstead. The buildings located on site are described as innovative and retain a high degree of integrity. The period of construction for this property is ca. 1900 - 10.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964), the house and some of the outbuildings of this farmyard are situated in different ¼ ¼ ¼'s. The house, the garage and a shed are in the SE ¼, SE ¼, SW ¼ SE ¼ of Section 20, T10N, R8E Stevens Creek Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The barn and a chicken coop are in the SW ¼, SW ¼, SE ¼ SE ¼, of Section 20, T10N, R8E Stevens Creek Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundaries can be described as the windbreak on the north; the fenceline on the east; the north edge of the 'O' Street right-of-way on the south; and the windbreak on the west (Figure G.10).

Boundary Justification. The boundary described above includes the entire farmyard. The windbreaks and fenceline provide an obvious visual boundary for this property.

Site LC00:E-87 - Theresa Retzlaff Farmyard ("Forest Brook Farm")

13905 Van Dorn St

Walton, Nebraska

This historic farmyard is an excellent example of vernacular building types and is considered eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C for its ability to convey significance through the use of local materials and individual adaptation of architectural styles. The period of significance is ca. 1890-1920.

The farmyard is located within a 32 hectare (80 acre) parcel of land purchased by Wilhem Francke from the US Government in 1887. Fred Retzlaff purchased this parcel from Francke in 1914. Fred Retzlaff also acquired an additional 32 hectares (80 acres) located immediately north of Van Dorn Street in 1914. This property was then transferred to Fred Retzlaff's son Elmer, husband to Theresa Retzlaff, the current owner of the property.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of the farmyard is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964): NW ¼, NW ¼, NW ¼, NE ¼ of Section 4, T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The boundary of this farmyard can be described as the fenceline on the west; the south edge of the Van Dorn Street right-of-way on the north; the west bank of the unnamed creek on the east; and the treeline on the south (Figure G.11). This boundary encompasses all structures determined eligible to the NRHP, including the Tudor-style cottage, the gable roof barn with stone foundation, the hog house, a granary with stone foundation, and a small polygonal shed. All other structures located within this boundary description are non-contributing.

Boundary Justification. The boundaries described above provide obvious and highly visible cultural and natural boundaries. The effect of modern activities on the historical integrity of this property has been significant. These effects include terracing, a man-made dam, the widening of Van Dorn Street and an overgrowth of trees. These features would not have been present during the period of significance for this property and are a visual intrusion not in keeping with the historical integrity of this property.

Site LC00:E-134 - Laura Reed Farmyard ("Reed Homestead")

112^th & Havelock

Lincoln, Nebraska

This historic farmyard was determined eligible for the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to agricultural development in the area. The house and the outbuildings retain a high degree of integrity and their period of significance is their construction date, ca. 1900 -10.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964), the location of this property is: SW ¼, SW ¼, SW ¼ of Section 6 (correction section), T10N, R8E Stevens Creek Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundaries of this site can be described as an imaginary east-west line 30 m (100 ft) north of the north driveway; an imaginary north-south line 30 m (100 ft) east of the eastern-most outbuilding; the north edge of the Havelock Avenue right-of-way on the south; and the east edge of the 112^th Street right-of-way on the west (Figure G.12).

Boundary Justification. The boundaries as described above encompass the entire farmyard. The land associated with this farmyard has been impacted by modern activity, including agricultural terracing, and the removal of the Chicago Rock Island and Pacific Railway line, which significantly diminishes the historic integrity of the associated acreage.

Site LC00:E-143 - Henry Wunibald Farmyard

8907 Saltillo Rd

Lincoln, Nebraska

This historic farmyard located near the center of a section, was determined eligible to the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to agricultural development in the area, and under Criterion C as an excellent example of an early 20^th century vernacular wood-frame farmhouse with some Italianate details and good historic integrity. The period of significance for this property is ca. 1901-50. In addition to the house, a mortise-and-tenon barn, and a former kitchen turned shed are eligible resources. A metal Quonset-style shed constructed in 1962 contributes to the overall significance of this property.

This farmyard is associated with a parcel of 219 hectares (540 acres) originally purchased by the Wunibald brothers, Auke, Henry, and Weirt in 1896. Around 1901, the Wunibalds divided the land among themselves. Construction began on the current house in 1901 and was completed sometime around 1905. The large barn on site was completed by 1906. The property was transferred to Helmer and Estella Wunibald in 1958. The farmyard (lots 5 & 8, NE ¼, NE ¼, NE ¼, SW ¼ of Section 2, T8N, R7E Saltillo Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska) was sold to Greg Savage in 1992.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska 1964, the topographic location of this property is: NE ¼, NE ¼, NE ¼, SW ¼ of Section 2, T8N, R7E Saltillo Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The enclosed map best illustrates the boundaries of this property (Figure G.13).

Boundary Justification. This boundary includes the Wunibald Farmyard, and portions of property originally held by Henry Wunibald. Numerous physical changes to the landscape surrounding the Wunibald Farmyard have occurred, including conservation terracing, construction of small dams, channel straightening and the placement of large powerline structures. These alterations to the landscape have impacted the integrity of setting and feeling with regard to the agricultural acreage surrounding this historic property.

The boundary described above includes portions of the original Wunibald owned acreage that speaks to the historic character of the farmyard and retains the integrity of setting and feeling.

NRHP Eligible Barns

Site LC00:S-6 - David McEwen Gable Roof Barn

3801 Rokeby Road

Roca, NE

A large gable roofed barn with formal cornice returns on the main north facing façade. This barn is the only historic building on the property and as such is individually eligible under Criterion C as an example of utilizing architectural details in barn construction. The period of significance is the construction date of the barn, ca. 1910. According to the current property owner, this barn was moved to its current location a number of years ago.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this property is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Roca, Nebraska (1964): NE¼, NE ¼ of Section 31, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific property boundary is described as an imaginary line extending 3 m (10 ft) from the envelope of the building.

Boundary Justification. The boundary of the nominated property includes only an area immediately surrounding the historic building, as the integrity and setting of property surrounding this barn are not intact.

Site LC00:S-31 - Steve Speidel Gothic Arch Roof Barn

7800 S 40^th

Lincoln, NE

This large Gothic arch roof barn was constructed in 1932 and is individually eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C as illustrative of the laminated truss system for the large Gothic arched roof. The period of significance for this structure is the date of construction, 1932. The remaining structures located on site are not eligible for the NRHP.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this barn is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Roca, Nebraska (1964): NW ¼, NW ¼, SW ¼ of Section 20, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific property boundary is described as an imaginary line extending 3 m (10 ft) from the envelope of the building.

Boundary Justification. The boundary of the nominated property includes only an area immediately surrounding the historic building, as the integrity and setting of property surrounding this barn are not intact.

Site LC00:S-47 - Margene Zachek Gable Roof Connected Barn

70^th & Yankee Hill Rd

Lincoln, Nebraska

This large connected barn complex is eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C as an excellent example of innovative agricultural construction. A gable roof barn connected to a machine shed represents vernacular efforts and techniques employed to improve the farm. The construction date, ca. 1910-20's, is the period of significance for this historic property. Although other structures are present on site, this connected barn is the only structure eligible to the NRHP.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this property is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska (1966): SE ¼, NW ¼, NW ¼, SW ¼ of Section 22, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundary of this property can be described as the northern edge of the driveway on the north; the treeline on the east; an imaginary line 6 m (20 ft) south of the barns; intersecting with the west edge of the driveway on the west; and back to the point of beginning. The concrete block silo is a non-contributing structure.

Boundary Justification. Due to modern alterations, these connected barns are the only structures on this site eligible to the NRHP. The boundary described above includes an associated corral and driveways used to access the historic buildings that contribute to the feeling and association of the architecturally significant property.

Site LC00:E-57 - Elton Haase Gable Roof Mortise and Peg Barn ("Haase Farm")

8000 S 148^th St

Cheney, Nebraska

This barn was recommended eligible under Criterion C as an excellent example of mortise and peg construction located within the South and East Beltway study area. The construction date of 1915 is the period of significance for this structure.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska (1966) The location of this property is as follows: SW ¼, NW ¼, SW ¼, of Section 22, T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The boundary of this historic property can be described as an imaginary line beginning at a point 3 m (10 ft) north of the barn; intersecting with an imaginary line 3 m (10 ft) east of the barn; intersecting with an imaginary line 11 m (35 ft) south of the barn; intersecting with an imaginary line 20 (65 ft) west of the barn back to the point of beginning.

Boundary Justification. The boundary described above includes the historic barn, and an associated livestock corral on the west and south sides of the barn that contribute to the feeling, setting and association of the architecturally significant property.

Site LC00:E-67 - Shirley Retzlaff Barns & Silo ("Retzlaff Farm")

1905 S 148^th St

Walton, Nebraska

Historic structures on the Retzlaff Farm include a large gable roof barn, a smaller gambrel roof barn, and a hollow tile silo. The gable roof barn was built upon a cut stone foundation, contains distinctive ornamental shingles and is slightly banked on one side. The barns and silo were recommended eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C, for methods and type of construction. The period of significance for this historic property is the date of construction, ca. 1890's - 1900's.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964), the location of this property is: NW ¼, SE ¼, SE ¼, NE ¼ of Section 33, T10N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. Separate boundaries have been assigned to each the barns. The boundary of the gable roof barn can be described as an imaginary line beginning at a point 6 m (20 ft) west of the barn; intersecting with an imaginary line 3 m (10 ft) north of the barn; intersecting with the eastern edge of the driveway on the east side of the barn; intersecting with an imaginary line 6 m (20 ft) south of the gable roof barn; back to the point of beginning.

The boundary of the gambrel roof barn is an imaginary line 3 m (10 ft) from the envelope of the building on the north, west, and south sides; the imaginary line is extended to 8 m (25 ft) on the east side of the barn to include the hollow tile silo.

Boundary Justification. The boundary of the gable roof barn described above includes a livestock corral associated with barn and a driveway on the east side of barn. This eastern boundary insures inclusion of the east facing entrance, which contributes to the feeling and association of the architecturally significant property. The boundary of the gambrel roof barn encompasses only the building and a nearby silo due to many modern intrusions on this farm and surrounding acreage. These intrusions include a modern ranch style house, a flood control dam and a sewage lagoon, which diminish the historic integrity of this property.

Site LC00:E-102 - Donna Keane Gambrel Roof Barn ("Kettlehut Farm Homestead")

12160 Van Dorn St

Walton, Nebraska

This large gambrel roof barn is banked on the west façade, and is nicely detailed. This barn retains a high degree of integrity and was determined eligible under Criterion C for its architectural significance.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of the barn is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964): SW ¼, SW ¼, SW ¼, SW ¼ of Section 32, T10N, R8E Stevens Creek Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The historic boundary can be described as an imaginary east-west line 6 m (20 ft) north of the barn; an imaginary north-south line 6 m (20 ft) east of the barn; the north edge of the Van Dorn Street right-of-way on the south; and the east edge of the driveway on the west side of the barn.

Boundary Justification. The boundary described above uses obvious visual edges, as well as imaginary lines to include an area surrounding the barn. This area includes mature trees that contribute to the integrity and feeling of the barn.

Site LC00:E-132 - Lynn Lenhoff Gambrel Roof Barn

2000 N 98^th St

Walton, Nebraska

This large gambrel roof concrete block barn was determined eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C as typifying a new type of construction through use of modern materials, and under Criterion A as an example of evolving technology in the adaptation of such materials.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of the barn is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964): SE ¼, SW ¼, NW ¼, SW ¼ of Section 13, T10N, R7E Lancaster Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundary of this historic property can be described as an imaginary east-west line located 3 m (10 ft) north of the barn; the wooden fence of a livestock corral 12 m (40 ft) east of the barn; an imaginary east-west line 3 m (10 ft) south of the barn; an imaginary north-south line 3 m (10 ft) west of the barn.

Boundary Justification. The boundary described above includes a livestock corral associated with the barn that contributes to the historic setting of the barn. The remainder of the property has been impacted by modern intrusions which diminish the historic integrity of this property.

NRHP Eligible Residences

Site LC00:S-23 Forest Nisley Residence (Jensen Homeplace)

11601 S 120^th St

Bennet, NE

This small-scale neo-Tudor house was built in 1936 and exemplifies its type within the study area and is therefore eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C. The residence is bounded on the south by a graveled drive, which also serves to separate the residence from the "working" farmyard. The remainder of the farmyard is not considered NRHP eligible due to numerous alterations and new intrusions.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this historic residence is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska (1966): NE ¼, NE ¼, NE ¼ of Section 6, T8N, R8E Nemaha Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The boundary of this property begins at an imaginary point located five ft south of the southern-most stone column at the driveway entrance continuing north-northwest on an imaginary line to the southern edge of a circular drive; from the top of the circular driveway to a point that intersects a windbreak to the west; continuing to the windbreak located at the northern edge of the property; and finally to the windbreak along the eastern edge of the property to the point of beginning. All structures included in this boundary, except the historic residence, are considered non-contributing elements.

Boundary Justification. The graveled circular driveway provides a highly visible cultural boundary for the property, as do the mature trees located on the north, west and east sides of the residence. The integrity of the large yard surrounding the home is intact and contributes to the historic location, feeling, and association of the architecturally significant property. Modern intrusions and alterations, including recent construction of a garage near the residence preclude inclusion of the remainder of the farmyard.

Site LC00:E-81 - Chuck Hobza ("Jacoby Homestead")

13200 Havelock Ave

Lincoln, NE 68527

This large foursquare house, constructed of concrete block, was recommended eligible for the NRHP under Criterion C. This historic residence typifies a type of construction new to the area at the time of its construction with the use of concrete block with materials locally manufactured.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this property is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964): SE ¼, SE ¼, SE ¼, SE ¼ of Section 5, T10N, R8E Stevens Creek Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. Specifically, the boundary of this historic residence is described as an imaginary east-west line 8 m (25 ft) north of the structure; the windbreak on the east; the north edge of the Havelock Avenue right-of-way on the south; and an imaginary line 15 m (50 ft) west of the structure.

Boundary Justification. The windbreak and the north edge of Havelock Ave provide obvious visual boundaries. The boundaries on the north and west were selected to include those portions of the yard that contribute to the overall feeling and association of the property. In addition, these boundaries include a half circle drive located south of the structure. This drive contributes to the location, feeling and association of this architecturally significant property.

Site LC00:E-99 - Norma and Bob Lemke Residence ("Karl Lemke Farm")

13000 Old Cheney Rd

Walton, Nebraska

This brick house, constructed during the 1930's, was recommended eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C as an example of Colonial Revival architectural style.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964), the location of this property is: NE ¼, SW ¼, NE ¼, SW ¼ of Section 9, T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The boundary of this property can be described as the south edge of a driveway north of the residence; the west edge of a driveway on the east side of the residence; an imaginary east-west line located 15 m (50 ft) south of the residence; and a treeline west of the residence.

Boundary Justification. The driveways and the treeline provide an obvious visual boundary. The boundary described above includes a large front yard, decorative rock walls, and numerous mature trees which contribute to the location, feeling and association of this architecturally significant property.

Site LC00:E-141 - William Fagan Residence ("Fagan's Acres")

0.32 km (0.2 mile) north of 98^th and Fletcher Ave

Lincoln, NE

This house, featuring a folk Italianate architectural style was determined eligible to the NRHP under Criterion C for its architectural significance and was constructed in the 1890's.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this residence is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964): NW ¼, NW ¼, SW ¼, SW ¼ of Section 36, T11N, R7E Waverly Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. Specifically the boundary of this historic property can be described as the existing fenced yard.

Boundary Justification. The fence surrounding the house offers an obvious visual and cultural boundary for this property. The boundary described above includes a large front yard, which contributes to the location, feeling and association of this architecturally significant property.

NRHP Eligible Grain Elevators

Site LC00:S-40 - Circle 4 Feed and Grain Elevator

4^th & Shower St

Cheney, Nebraska

This early 20^th century grain elevator is considered eligible to the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to broad agricultural development. Grain elevators located throughout Lancaster County represent important facilities in an earlier era of smaller-scale, locally based agricultural commerce.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this grain elevator is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska (1966): SE ¼, NW ¼, NE ¼ of Section 26, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundary of this historic property is described as the southern edge of the railroad right-of-way on the south; to an imaginary line 12 m (40 ft) west of the building; north to the right-of-way of Breagan Road, east to an imaginary line 12 m (40 ft) from building; south to point of beginning at railroad right-of-way.

Boundary Justification. The boundary of the nominated property includes only an area immediately surrounding the historic building, as the integrity of setting and association of the property surrounding this grain elevator are no longer intact.

Site LC00:E-106 - Farmer's Coop Elevator - Walton

Walton Nebraska

This grain elevator and coop located adjacent to the abandoned Missouri and Pacific Railway Line was determined eligible to the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to broad agricultural development. Grain elevators located throughout Lancaster County represent important facilities in an earlier era of smaller-scale, locally based agricultural commerce.

Verbal Boundary Description. The location of this elevator is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska (1964): SE ¼, NW ¼, NE ¼, NW ¼, of Section 31 (correction section), T10N, R8E Stevens Creek Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. Specifically, the boundary of this historic property can be described as the north edge of the original railroad siding, an imaginary line approximately 7.5 m (25 ft) east of the elevator on the east, the northern edge of the driveway to the south, an imaginary line approximately 12 m (40 ft) west of the elevator.

Boundary Justification. Present setting does not contribute to the significance of this historic property. The railway line originally serving this grain elevator has been abandoned and the rails have been removed. The abandoned railway line now serves as a popular hiker / biker trail.

NRHP Eligible School

Site LC00:S-41 - Cheney School

2^nd & Smith St

Cheney, Nebraska

This historic school, constructed ca. 1910 - 1920 was determined eligible to the NRHP under Criterion A for rural educational development and under Criterion C as representative of the Arts and Crafts architectural style as evidenced around the main entrance to the building.

Verbal Boundary Description. The topographic location of this property is as follows according to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska (1966): NW ¼, NE ¼, NW ¼, NE ¼ of Section 26, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundary of this historic school is described as an imaginary line enveloping the footprint of the building.

Boundary Justification. This boundary description includes only an area immediately surrounding the building due to a wide range of modern alterations and additions that have impacted the integrity of setting and of feeling. These modern alterations include the addition of a handicapped entrance and sidewalk on the west side of the building, placement of 2 non-historic buildings, and a modern, paved playground.

NRHP Eligible Directional Signs

Site LC00:S-42 - Directional Sign

1^st St, at 91^st

Cheney, Nebraska

This cast concrete directional sign was determined eligible for the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to the broad transportation patterns evident in Lancaster County. With directional arrows, this sign informs travelers "Lincoln 11 miles / Bennet 7 miles". This sign has been moved, or at the very least, rotated 180 degrees (presumably for the benefit of motorists traveling along 91^st Street) which makes the directional arrows incorrect. These concrete signs, placed throughout Lancaster County, offer us a snapshot of early vehicular travel in the county, and convey a sense of feeling regarding a time when travel was being revolutionized by the automobile.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska 1966, the location of this site is as follows: NW ¼, NW ¼, NW ¼, NW ¼ of Section 26, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundary of this property is an imaginary circle with a 1.5 m (5 ft) radius around the base of the sign.

Boundary Justification. Other than that immediately surrounding the directional sign, it is not necessary to include any additional property in the boundary designation.

Site LC00:E-118 - Directional Sign

112^th & Adams

This cast concrete directional sign was determined eligible for the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to the broad transportation patterns evident in Lancaster County. With a directional arrow, this sign informs travelers "Prairie Home 4 miles". These concrete signs, placed throughout Lancaster County, offer us a snapshot of early vehicular travel in the county, and convey a sense of feeling regarding a time when travel was being revolutionized by the automobile.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Walton, Nebraska 1964, the location of this site is as follows: SW ¼, SW ¼, SW ¼, SW ¼ of Section 7 (correction section), T10N, R8E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundary of this property is an imaginary circle with a 1.5 m (5 ft) radius around the base of the sign.

Boundary Justification. Other than that immediately surrounding the directional sign, it is not necessary to include any additional property in the boundary designation.

Site LC00:E-135 - Directional Sign

56^th & Saltillo

Lincoln, Nebraska

This cast concrete directional sign was determined eligible for the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to the broad transportation patterns evident in Lancaster County. With a directional arrow, this sign informs travelers "Lincoln 11 miles". These concrete signs, placed throughout Lancaster County, offer us a snapshot of early vehicular travel in the county, and convey a sense of feeling regarding a time when travel was being revolutionized by the automobile.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Roca, Nebraska 1964, the location of this site is as follows: SW ¼, SW ¼, SW ¼, SW ¼ of Section 33, T9N, R7E Grant Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundary of this property is an imaginary circle with a 1.5 m (5 ft) radius around the base of the sign.

Boundary Justification. Other than that immediately surrounding the directional sign, it is not necessary to include any additional property in the boundary designation.

Site LC00:E-145 - Directional Sign

Saltillo Road, 0.80 km (0.5 mile) west of 120^th St

Lincoln, Nebraska

This cast concrete directional sign was determined eligible for the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to the broad transportation patterns evident in Lancaster County. With a directional arrow, this 2 -sided sign informs travelers "Lincoln 14 miles". These concrete signs, placed throughout Lancaster County, offer us a snapshot of early vehicular travel in the county, and convey a sense of feeling regarding a time when travel was being revolutionized by the automobile.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska 1964, the location of this site is as follows: SE ¼, SE ¼, SW ¼, SW ¼ of Section 31 (correction section), T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundary of this property is an imaginary circle with a 1.5 m (5 ft) radius around the base of the sign.

Boundary Justification. Other than that immediately surrounding the directional sign, it is not necessary to include any additional property in the boundary designation.

Site LC00:E-146 - Directional Sign

2.25 km (1.4 miles) east of Cheney on Yankee Hill Road

Lincoln, Nebraska

This cast concrete directional sign is recommended eligible for the NRHP under Criterion A for its contribution to the broad transportation patterns evident in Lancaster County. With a directional arrow, this 2 -sided sign informs travelers "Cheney 1 mile". This sign is not in its original location, but rather was moved to this location in 1999. These concrete signs, placed throughout Lancaster County, offer us a snapshot of early vehicular travel in the county, and convey a sense of feeling regarding a time when travel was being revolutionized by the automobile.

Verbal Boundary Description. According to the USGS quadrangle map, Bennet, Nebraska 1964, the location of this site is as follows: NW ¼, NW ¼, NE ¼, NW ¼ of Section 30 (correction section), T9N, R8E Stockton Township, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The specific boundary of this property is an imaginary circle with a 1.5 m (5 ft) radius around the base of the sign.

Boundary Justification. Other than that immediately surrounding the directional sign, it is not necessary to include any additional property in the boundary designation.

References Cited

• Christy, Donald. 1940. Terracing. Edwards Brothers, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
• Dick, Everett. 1975. Conquering the Great American Desert: Nebraska. Nebraska State Historical Society.
• Elliott, Mark and Melissa Dirr. 1980. Lincoln South and East Beltways Historic Survey Report. Prepared for Olsson Environmental Sciences, Lincoln, Nebraska.
• Helms, Douglas. 1990. "Conserving the Plains: The Soil Conservation Service in the Great Plains." Agricultural History 64 (Spring): 58-73.
• Helms, Douglas. 1988. "Small Watersheds and the USDA: Legacy of the Flood Control Act of 1936." In The Flood Control Challenge: Past, Present and Future. Proceedings of a National Symposium, New Orleans, Louisiana. September 26, 1986. Edited by Rosen, Howard and Martin Reuss, Public Works Historical Society, Chicago.
• Isaacson, Kimberly A. 1999. Adoption of Windbreaks: An Assessment of Technical Assistance Providers in Nebraska. Unpublished Masters Thesis, UNL Department of Journalism.
• National Park Service. n.d. Guidelines for Evaluating and Documenting Rural Historic Landscapes: National Register Bulletin #30. U.S. Department of the Interior.
• National Park Service. 1998 (1990). How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation: National Register Bulletin #15. U.S. Department of the Interior.
• National Park Service. 1995. Defining Boundaries for National Register Properties: National Register Bulletin #21. U.S. Department of the Interior.
• Parks, Stanley M. and Stacy Stupka-Burda. 2000. Archeological Inventory and Testing of Lincoln's South and East Beltway Alternatives SM-4, EC-1, EM-1, and EF-1 Lancaster County Nebraska. Volume 1. UNL Department of Anthropology. Prepared for Olsson Environmental Sciences, Lincoln, Nebraska.
• Stupka-Burda, Stacy. 1999. Evaluation of the Hulda Otto House for Eligibility to the National Register of Historic Places. UNL Department of Anthropology. Prepared for Olsson Environmental Sciences, Lincoln, Nebraska.
• Worster, Donald. 1979. Dust Bowl The Southern Plains in the 1930's. Oxford University Press, Inc.

Glossary of Terms

Association. Link of a historic property with a historic event, activity, or person. Also, the quality of integrity through which a historic property is linked to a particular past time and place.

Eligible. Properties that meet the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) Criteria for nomination and listing on the NRHP.

Evaluation. Process by which the significance and integrity of a historic property are judged and eligibility for NRHP listing is determined.

Feeling. Quality of integrity through which a historic property evokes the aesthetic or historic sense of past time and place.

Historic Context. The concept used to group related historic properties based upon a theme, a chronological period, and/or a geographic area.

Integrity. Authenticity of a property's historic identity, evidenced by the survival of physical characteristics that existed during the property's historic period.

National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The official federal list of districts, buildings, sites, structures, and objects significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture that are important in the prehistory or history of their community, state or nation. The program is administered through the National Park Service by way of State Historic Preservation Offices.

National Register of Historic Places Criteria. Established criteria for evaluating the eligibility of properties for inclusion in the NRHP.

Noncontributing. A building, site, structure, or object that does not add to the historic architectural qualities or historic associations for which a property is significant. The resource was not present during the period of significance; does not relate to the documented significance of the property; or due to alterations, disturbances, additions, or other changes, it no longer possesses historic integrity nor is capable of yielding important information about the period.

Object. An artistic, simple and/or small-scale construction not identified as a building or structure; i.e. historic signs, markers, and monuments.

Period of Significance. Span of time in which a property attained the significance for which it meets the NRHP criteria.

Property. A building, site, structure, and/or object situated within a delineated boundary.

Setting. Quality of integrity applying to the physical environment of a historic property.

Shelterbelt. A long narrow windbreak of trees planted to protect adjoining fields. The shelterbelts planted by the Forest Service consist generally of ten rows of trees preferably not less than one-half mile in length. The tree rows are usually ten feet apart which requires a strip land approximately seven rods wide.

Significance. Importance of a historic property as defined by the NRHP criteria in one or more areas of significance.

Site. The location of a prehistoric or historic event.

Vernacular. A functional, simplistic building or structure without stylistic details. Vernacular form buildings were usually designed by the builder, not by an architect.

Windbreak. A body of trees planted to provide protection from the prevailing wind. Usually these trees are evenly spaced, but are less massive than the shelterbelts planted with the assistance of the Forest Service.

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