United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
5. Classification Ownership of Property (Check as many boxes as apply) Category of Property (Check only one box) [x] Private [] Building(s) [x] Public-local [x] District [] Public-state [] Site [x] Public-federal [] Structure [] Object Number of Resources within Property (Do not include previously listed resources in the count.) Contributing Noncontributing 41 27 Buildings Sites 4 Structures Objects 41 31 Total
Number of contributing resources previously listed in the National Register 1
6. Function or Use
Historic Functions (Enter categories from instructions.) Current Functions (Enter categories from instructions.) COMMERCIAL/Specialty Store COMMERCIAL/Specialty Store COMMERCIAL/Restaurant COMMERCIAL/Restaurant RECREATION & CULTURE/Theater DOMESTIC/Multiple Dwelling DOMESTIC/Multiple Dwelling VACANT/NOT IN USE RELIGION/Religious Facility GOVERNMENT/Post Office GOVERNMENT/Fire Station RECREATION & CULTURE/Theater GOVERNMENT/Post Office SOCIAL/Meeting Hall
7. Description Architectural Classification (Enter categories from instructions.) LATE 19th AND EARLY 20th CENTURY AMERICAN MOVEMENTS: Commercial Style LATE 19th AND 20th CENTURY REVIVALS: Classical Revival LATE 19th AND 20th CENTURY REVIVALS: Colonial Revival MODERN MOVEMENT: Moderne LATE VICTORIAN: Queen Anne Materials (enter categories from instructions.) Principal exterior materials of the property: Brick
2 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Description
Summary Paragraph (Briefly describe the general characteristics of the property, such as its location, type, style, method of construction, setting, size, and significant features. Indicate whether the property has historic integrity.)
The Benson Commercial Historic District is centered at Maple Street and Military Avenue approximately four miles northwest of downtown Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska (Figures 1 & 2). The district includes seventy-three resources, including forty-one contributing buildings, one previously listed building, twenty-seven non-contributing buildings, and four non-contributing structures. The buildings range in construction dates between circa 1890 and circa 1954 and represent modest architectural styles popular at the turn of the century from Queen Anne to Commercial Style and early twentieth century styles such as Moderne. Mid-century alterations are common throughout the district and typically include replacement storefronts or sheathing. The district represents a typical commercial cluster found at a terminal point of the Omaha streetcar system between 1869 and 1955. The Benson Commercial Historic District is associated with the streetcar network of Omaha from between 1887 and 1948; however, commercial development within the district continued for the next few years until the Radial Highway opened in 1957. The highway routed traffic away from the commercial core of Benson, and although alterations occurred to the district, the opening of the highway signaled the full transition from streetcar era to automobile era had come to Benson. The buildings maintain their pedestrian orientation with no setbacks and range between one and two stories in height. The Benson Commercial Historic District retains integrity and meets the registration requirements of an End-of-Line Commercial Cluster subtype of the Streetcar-era Commercial District property type documented in the “Streetcar-Era Commercial Development in Omaha” cover document.1 Narrative Description (Describe the historic and current physical appearance and condition of the property. Describe contributing and noncontributing resources if applicable.)
Setting Northwest of downtown, the Benson Commercial Historic District sits within a predominantly residential neighborhood of Omaha, dating to the turn-of-the-century (Figures 1 and 2). The commercial cluster is centered primarily on Maple Street and extends from North 59th Street to North 63rd Street. Binney Street and an alley on the south side of Maple Street form the north and south boundaries, respectively. The district boundaries encompass the core extant commercial development that occurred in Benson during its association with the streetcar era (1887-1948), as well as alterations that occurred between 1948 and 1957 that continue to communicate the commercial significance of the district until Radial Highway opened. Military Avenue intersects with Maple Street between North 61st and North 62nd streets and continues northwest before joining with North 63rd Street and Radial Highway. Radial Highway approaches the district from the east, generally following the path of Military Avenue from Fontenelle Boulevard to North 58th Street where it turns northwest; Maple Street (formerly Military Avenue) continues west at this
1 Emily Lenhausen & Amanda Loughlin, “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha, Nebraska (1868-1960),” National Register of Historic Places Multiple Property Documentation Form (May 2020): F36-F40. 3 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
intersection and forms the organizing corridor of the historic district. The highway visually and physically separates the commercial core of Benson from the surrounding neighborhoods to the north (Figure 2).
Both Maple Street and Military Avenue are two-way with a single lane in either direction. A center lane on Maple Street facilitates turning for the length of the district. The numbered streets run north-south and follow a lane arrangement like Maple Street. Binney Street runs east-west and is two-way with a single lane in each direction. On-street parking occurs throughout the district. Wide concrete sidewalks line the public sides of the buildings. East-west alleys run behind the properties on the south and north sides of Maple Street. Landscaping in the district is minimal and consists of street trees, small planting beds, and infrequent areas of grassy lawn. Several paved surface parking areas are interspersed throughout the district.
Overall District Characteristics The commercial cluster exhibits characteristics common to streetcar era historic districts. Extant buildings within this cluster are one- to two-story brick buildings built prior to 1948 with some contributing buildings exhibiting façade alterations that occurred between the end of the streetcar era in Benson (1948) and the opening of Radial Highway to the north (1957). The cluster occupies several blocks that saw streetcar activity between 1887 and 1948, and the majority of functions within the individual resources were commercial in nature from specialty stores to restaurants to groceries to entertainment. While most resources are commercial in nature, two civic structures, a post office and former city hall, a medical center, and a church are located within the district. Buildings along Maple Street typically abut each other and share a zero-setbacks, which allow their main entrances to open directly onto the sidewalks. However, exemptions to this pattern include a filling station at 6023 Maple Street and the Benson Medical Center at 6220 Maple Street; both feature deep setbacks to accommodate auto use and formal landscaping, respectively. The street has a right-of-way wide enough to allow for streetcar service and non-streetcar traffic to use Maple Street simultaneously. Parking, where necessary, occupies on-street spots in front of the buildings rather than in dedicated parking lots.2
Individual Resources The following resources are within the boundaries of the historic district. Construction dates were provided through consultation with previous survey databases from SHPO, historic photographs, and existing National Register nominations. Additionally, available city directories, Baist and Sanborn maps, stylistic references, and building forms, helped further distinguish approximate construction dates. To be considered contributing to the district, the resource had to be within the nominated boundary and retain historic integrity sufficient for communicating the historic associations. Buildings with a majority of non- historic alterations are counted as non-contributing. These types of alterations include: application of secondary siding over more than 60 percent of the primary façade; downsizing or infilling most historic
2 Lenhausen & Loughlin, “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha,” F-37. 4 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
masonry openings; construction of incompatible or overwhelming additions; and substantial reconstructions after the period of significance. Contributing buildings retain the majority of their historic facades; where they exist, replacement windows match documented historic units or are compatible designs; storefront alterations are compatible designs and are majority glass. Alterations that were documented to have occurred between 1948 and 1957 were considered historic where the building remained able to continue to communicate its commercial associations. Parking lots were included in the resource count when they were substantial in size and/or replaced historic buildings.
5900 Block of Maple Street (formerly Military Avenue) – North Side During the period of significance, Maple Street was known as Military Avenue in this block.3 Photo numbers refer to the photographs accompanying this nomination and mapped in Figure 11.
1. 5908 Maple Street Contributing Building Safeway Grocery DO09:0448-017 Photo: 1 Legal Description: Glenn Park, Block 2, Lots 13-16 Date of Construction: ca. 19454 Building Description: This one-story, mid-century, concrete block building has a flat roof and rectangular plan. The building faces south and has an associated paved parking lot to the east.5 A small square concrete block loading dock projects from the north end of the east elevation; this dock is shorter than the main building. Two bays organize the south elevation. The east bay recedes slightly from the main elevation wall plane and contains a five-part anodized aluminum storefront. The westernmost part contains the primary entrance. An anodized aluminum door with glazing fills the entrance. The remaining parts are fixed display windows atop a concrete bulkhead. A corrugated metal sheath spans the bay above the storefront system. The west bay contains a ganged set of three aluminum windows with horizontal muntins, operable center awning sashes, and operable hopper sash at the bottom. Five bays organize the east elevation; concrete block pilasters define the bays. The south bay mimics the east bay of the south elevation. The second bay lacks fenestration; the center bay contains a twenty-four-light window; a pair of aluminum doors pierce the fourth bay, and the addition extends from the final bay. Integrity: This building retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Most historic materials remain, and its historic form and plan are intact.
3 The stretch of Maple Street to the east of Military Avenue was formerly known as Military Avenue. The name change occurred at an unknown date after the period of significance. 4 Built between 1940 & 1945, according to city directories from those years; it is listed in the 1945 CD as Safeway Stores Grocery. 5 Historic maps and aerials show this lot historically vacant. 5 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
2. 5910 Maple Street Contributing Building Benson Buffet DO09:0448-018 Photos: 1, 3 Legal Description: Glenn Park, Block 2, Lot 17 & E 0.75ft of Lot 18 Date of Construction: ca. 19406 Building Description: This one-story, one-part commercial block faces south. The building has a flat roof, brick cladding, and rectangular plan. Two bays organize the primary elevation. The prominent east bay contains a five-part wood storefront system. Display windows atop brick bulkheads flank the recessed entrance that contains a historic wood door with glazing; wide mullions separate the display windows. Wood shingle covers the transom level above the bay. A secondary entrance defines the west bay and contains a non-historic hollow wood door with historic fixed transom. A brick panel outlined in header brick spans the upper elevation above the bays. Integrity: This building retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. The alterations to the east storefront do not inhibit the building’s ability to communicate its historic associations. 3. 5912 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0448-019 Photos: 1, 3 Legal Description: Glenn Park Addition Replat 1, Lot 1 Date of Construction: ca. 1912; alt. post-19627 Building Description: This two-story, two-part commercial block faces south. The brick building has a flat roof and rectangular plan. Photographs and Sanborn maps note the upper story was historically recessed and at least through 1962. Today, the upper façade is flush with the first story, and a drastic color change of the brick indicates the separation between the 1912 and post-1962 facades. A five-part aluminum storefront system is centered on the first story. Large, fixed display windows on buff brick bulkheads flank a central entrance that contains a historic door with glazing. Non-historic synthetic sheathing covers the transom level that may still contain historic prismatic glass. Brick pilasters with contrasting bases and capitals flank the storefront system and terminate at the
6 Built between 1935 & 1940, according to city directories from those years; it is listed in the 1940 CD as the Benson Buffet. 7 This building is not on the 1910 Baist map (Figure 3); it first appears on the 1918 Sanborn map (Figure 4). A photograph in the Douglas County Historical Society’s Benson Historical Collection (2006.007.187) notes other buildings on this block date to 1912. The 1918 city directory lists this address as vacant; a grocer and meat seller were here in 1925. 6 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
transom level. A brick panel outlined in header brick separates the first and second stories. The second story is clad in orange brick and has two bays. Each bay contains three one-over-one wood windows with wide mullions and continuous brick sills. A brick panel outlined in header brick tops the bays. A small, square concrete medallion is centered in the top of the panel border. Integrity: The first story of this building retains integrity from within the period of significance. Although the storefront dates to after the building’s initial construction, it dates to the historic period. The upper story alteration occurred at an unknown date after 1962, changing the historic character of the building. Because of this substantial alteration, the building has lost its design and material integrity and is considered a non-contributing resource to the district. 4. 5914 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0446-016 Photos: 1, 3 Legal Description: Glenn Park Addition Replat 1, Block 0, Lot 2 Date of Construction: ca. 1912; alt. ca. 19258 Building Description: This two-story, two-part commercial block faces south. A flat roof covers the rectangular brick building. A historic five-part wood storefront system is centered on the first story. Large, fixed display windows on buff brick bulkheads flank a central recessed entrance that contains a non-historic wood door. A circa 1912 prismatic glass transom spans the storefront. Brick pilasters with contrasting stone bases and capitals flank the storefront system and terminate at transom level. A brick panel outlined in header brick separates the first and second stories. Two bays organize the second story. Each bay contains two one-over-one windows with wide mullions and continuous brick sills. Aluminum storm windows cover the window sashes. A corbelled brick cornice spans the elevation. A change in brick color in the top half of the cornice continues to the roofline and indicates the brick may be replacement. Integrity: This building retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Most historic material remains, and the building retains its historic character and appearance.
8 This building is not on the 1910 Baist map; it first appears on the 1918 Sanborn map as a one-story building. A photograph in the Douglas County Historical Society’s Benson Historical Collection (2006.007.187) notes other buildings on this block date to 1912. The 1918 city directory lists this address as vacant; by 1925, 5914 a barber and paint store, and two men are listed at 5914½, likely indicating the second story in place by that time. The second story is in place in mid-century photographs in the Benson Historical Collection (2006.007.188 & 2006.007.193) and the 1962 Sanborn. 7 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
5. 5916-5918 Maple Street Contributing Building E.H. Olson Building DO09:0448-015 Photos: 1, 3 Legal Description: This building today is two separate parcels. Glenn Park, Block 2, Lot 20 (5916) & Lot 21 (5918) Date of Construction: 1912; ca. 1918 combined Building Description: Although 5916 and 5918 Maple Street were possibly constructed as independent buildings in 1912, Sanborn maps indicate they were combined by 1918 and continue to function as a single building through the period of significance. The east block (5916) rises one story while the west block (5918) rises two stories. Brick cladding and decorative elements unify the blocks. Five bays organize the first story and brick pilasters with contrasting bases and capitals divide the bays. A historic two-part fixed display window system on a tiled bulwark defines the first bay. The center-three bays recede, and the outer two entrances are canted slightly to face the street at an angle. A four-part, non-historic aluminum display window system atop a brick bulwark defines the remaining bay. All five bays retain historic prismatic glass transoms. Three brick panels with header brick borders span the elevation above the bays. In the west block, three non-historic one-over-one windows in historic segmental arch masonry openings pierce the second story. A small stone reading “19 E.H. OLSON 12” is centered above the windows. A band of corbelled brick accents the elevation above the date/name stone. A similar band of corbelled brick spans the east block. Integrity: The E.H. Olson Building retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Most historic material remains, and the building retains its historic character and appearance. 6. 5920 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0448-020 Photos: 1, 3 Legal Description: Glenn Park, Block 2, Lot 22 (shares a parcel with 5922) Date of Construction: 19129 Building Description: This one-story, one-part commercial block that faces south. A flat roof covers the rectangular building. The brick south elevation surrounds a mid-century aluminum storefront that fills the 1912 masonry opening. The six-part storefront has
9 This building is not on the 1910 Baist map; it first appears on the 1918 Sanborn map. A photograph in the Douglas County Historical Society’s Benson Historical Collection (2006.007.187) notes the date of construction. In 1918, CC Beavers
8 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
a single pedestrian door at its west end. The east five display windows sit atop a narrow bulkhead, and each has a single horizontal aluminum muntin. A narrow transom, covered on the interior, spans the entire storefront system. A single contrasting brick rectangle ornaments the upper façade. Between 1951 and 1962, this building and 5922 functioned as a single store but maintained separate entrances. Integrity: The A.B. Prior Building retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. The storefront represents a common update to commercial buildings, and it fits within the existing masonry opening. The commercial associations of this building continue to be communicated. 7. Maple Street Contributing Building A.B. Prior Building DO09:0448-021 Photos: 1, 3 Legal Description: Glenn Park, Block 2, Lot 23 (shares a parcel with 5920 Maple, the parcel address) Date of Construction: 1912; combined ca. 195510 Building Description: The A.B. Prior Building is a one-story, one-part commercial block at the northeast corner of Maple and North 60th streets. A flat roof covers the rectangular building. The brick south elevation surrounds a mid-century aluminum storefront that fills the 1912 masonry opening. The six-part storefront has a centered single pedestrian door. The display windows sit atop a short brick bulkhead, and each of the three east windows has a single horizontal aluminum muntin. The west windows do not have horizontal muntins. The transom level is covered. A single contrasting brick rectangle ornaments the upper façade. Four bays organize the west façade. Brick piers separate the south three bays; the piers rise above the stepped parapet. The treatment of the south bay matches the south façade, and the north threes bays do not have any openings. The north bay is concrete block, added at an unknown date after 1962, according to the Sanborn from that year. Between 1951 and 1962, this building and 5920 functioned as a single store but maintained separate entrances. Integrity: The A.B. prior Building retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. The storefront represents a common update to commercial buildings, and it fits within the existing masonry opening. The commercial associations of this building continue to be communicated.
General Merchandise was here. The 1951 city directory lists two separate businesses at 5920 & 5922; the 1962 Sanborn shows the two functioning as a single furniture store with a single opening between the two buildings. 10 This building is not on the 1910 Baist map; it first appears on the 1918 Sanborn map (Figure 4). A photograph in the Douglas County Historical Society’s Benson Historical Collection (2006.007.187) notes the name and date of construction. The 1951 city directory lists two separate businesses at 5920 & 5922; the 1962 Sanborn shows the two functioning as a single furniture store with a single opening between the two buildings. 9 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
5900 Block of Maple Street (formerly Military Avenue) – South Side
8. 5901-5905 Maple Street Contributing Building Masonic Temple DO09:0446-002 Photo: 2 Legal Description: Rose Hill, Block 16, Lot 8, excluding right-of-way (parcel address is 5901).11 Date of Construction: 192612 Building Description: The Masonic Temple faces north. The three-story, brick Classical Revival building has a flat roof and rectangular plan. An irregular brick parapet lines the roof. Three bays organize the first story. Historic five-part storefronts flank the center bay. The center part of each storefront is recessed and contains a pedestrian door with glazing. A five-part wood transom spans each storefront. The building’s primary entrance defines the center first story bay; this bay recedes to form a shallow concrete porch. A terra cotta entablature rests on Tuscan and square columns and emphasizes the entrance. The words “Masonic Temple” are inscribed on the entablature. A terra cotta stringcourse separates the first and second stories on either side of the entablature. A two- story, recessed, rounded arch brick panel is located directly above the center bay and contains a metal and neon Masonic Temple sign. A terra cotta border accents the panel. Terra cotta urns in small brick alcoves flank the bottom of the panel while two terra cotta medallions with Masonic symbols flank the top. Historic one-over-one wood windows pierce the second and third stories on either side of the central panel. The second story windows are four-ganged and possess continuous terra cotta sills and soldier brick lintels with terra cotta square accents. At the third story, three closely spaced windows retain separate terra cotta sills and lintels. A simple terra cotta cornice spans the north façade and terminates at the elevation margins. A section of terra cotta balustrade is centered within the primary elevation parapet. Integrity: The Masonic Temple retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. The building remains in its original location, and the immediate surroundings remain intact. Most historic materials are present, and the character-defining Classical Revival ornamentation remains.
11 The parcel includes lots six through eight with the building occupying lot eight and a parking area to the east. The east boundary of the district aligns with the east wall of this building and excludes the parking lot. 12 The cornerstone reads 5926 in the Masonic calendar year, which translates to 1926. 10 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
9. 5907 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Sip and Bite Restaurant DO09:0446-147 Photo: 2 Legal Description: Rose Hill, Block 16, E½ Lot 9 Date of Construction: ca. 193013 Building Description: This one-story commercial block faces north. A deck-on-hip roof covers the narrow rectangular building. Non-historic stucco clads the exterior. Two bays pierce the primary elevation. The east bay contains a non-historic fixed display window while a single pedestrian door defines the west bay. The west elevation lacks fenestration; two former window bays on the west elevation have been infilled. Assessor and Google Streetview images indicate this occurred between April 2015 and August 2015. Integrity: This building is non-contributing due to the lack of material integrity. Non-historic materials significantly alter the building’s appearance and obscure the historic character of the resource. 10. 5909-5911 Maple Street Non-Contributing Structure
Legal Description: Rose Hill, Block 16, W½ Lot 9 (5909) and E 32ft Lot 10 (part of parcel addressed 5913) Date of Construction: Unknown14 Description: This asphalt surface parking lot occupies parts of two separate parcels. It is rectangular in plan and contains roughly twenty-five spaces. The date of paving is unknown. Integrity: This parking lot does not possess associations with the context for which this district is significant and is therefore non-contributing.
13 Built between 1925 & 1931, according to city directories from those years; it is listed in the 1931 CD as the Sip and Bite Restaurant. 14 The 1918 Sanborn shows a vacant one-story wooden structure, set back from Maple Avenue and aligned with the west property line of Lot 9; the east half of Lot 10 is open. Both the west half of Lot 9 and the east half of Lot 10 are vacant in the 1962 Sanborn. The earliest aerial image of Benson, 1952, shows this lot used as parking. 11 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
11. 5913 Maple Street Contributing Building Benson Furnace & Sheet Metal Works DO09:0446-145 Legal Description: Rose Hill, Block 16, W 18ft of Lot 10 (shares a parcel with 5911) Date of Construction: ca. 193615 Building Description: This rectangular two-story, two- part commercial block faces north. The rear (south) quarter of the building is one story tall. A flat roof covers the concrete block building with brick face. Two bays organize the first story of the primary façade. An entrance defines the east bay and contains a non-historic aluminum door with glazing and a fixed transom. A soldier brick lintel tops the window. The west bay contains a non-historic three-part aluminum storefront. Two display windows flank a central entrance above brick kneewalls. A fixed transom tops the entrance, and a soldier brick lintel spans the masonry opening. A brick panel with header brick border separates the first and second stories. Two bays pierce the second story. Each bay contains a pair of non-historic one-over-one windows with brick sills and lintels. A second brick panel with header brick border spans the façade above these windows. The concrete block east elevation has a parapet wall the steps down to the south. Three masonry openings pierce the south end of the two-story portion of the building; the south opening has one window while the other two have two. A metal slab door pierces the first story wall below the second story’s center window. Two windows pierce the wall of the first-story portion of the building. Integrity: This building retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the east entrance, storefront, and second-story windows are alterations, they fill the historic masonry openings and do not obscure the historic character of the building.
15 This date is from a previous survey. According to city directories, this building dates to between 1935 & 1940 when it is listed as the Benson Furnace & Sheet Metal Works. 12 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
12. 5915 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Williams Brothers Autos DO09:0446-146 Legal Description: Rose Hill, Blk 16, E 40ft of Lot 11 Date of Construction: ca. 191516 Building Description: This one-story one-part commercial block has a flat roof and rectangular plan; the building faces north. Non-historic pressed wood cladding obscures the historic brick masonry surface. Seven asymmetrical bays pierce the primary elevation. Entrances define the first (east) and fifth bays and contain non-historic doors with glazing. The first bay recedes slightly from the main elevation plane and the adjacent wall is angled to meet the main elevation plane. Non-historic fixed windows define the remaining bays. A low parapet with shallow crenellations spans the primary elevation. The visible west elevation contains no openings. Integrity: This building is a non-contributing building to the district. Significant material alterations obscure the historic character and appearance of the building, as well as its associations with context for which this district is significant. 13. 5919 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0446-148 Legal Description: Rose Hill Lot 12 Block 16 W 10 Ft Lt 11 & E 25 Ft Date of Construction: ca. 196017 Building Description: This one-story building faces north. The concrete block building formerly extended north to align with the 5915, as seen in the 1962 Sanborn. The front twenty feet was removed at an unknown date. A hipped roof covers the rectangular building. Four bays organize the brick and wood primary elevation. Fixed, non-historic, undersized vinyl windows define the east-two bays. The center bay contains a non-historic pedestrian entrance door and sidelight. A vehicular entrance defines the fourth bay and contains a non- historic garage door. Integrity: This building is a non-contributing resource to the district. It was constructed several years after the end of streetcar service in Benson and does not possess associations with the context for which this district is significant. Furthermore, the building has been significantly altered through the removal of the front section of the building.
16 The 1910 Baist map does not show a building at this location. First appears on the 1918 Sanborn as a garage, and the 1918 CD lists both the Williams Brothers Autos and Williams & Culver Plumbers at this address. 17 No listings for this address up through the 1951 city directory; first appears on the 1962 Sanborn. 13 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
2800 Block of North 60th Street – East Side
14. 2817-2821 North 60th Street Contributing Building DO09:0446-016 Legal Description: Rose Hill, Block 16, N 74ft and W half of Lot 12 and the N 74ft Lot 13, excl. right-of-way (parcel address is 2817) Date of Construction: ca. 191918 Building Description: This apartment building sits at the southeast corner of Maple and North 60th Street. Although the primary elevation faces west, the north elevation generally aligns with the setback of Maple Street. A narrow driveway separates this building from 5919 Maple Street to the east. The two-story fourplex has a rectangular plan, brick cladding, and hipped roof with wide eaves. The primary entrance is centered on the west elevation. A concrete porch flanked by low brick walls accesses two doors, both historic wood with non-historic aluminum storm doors. Two sets of historic paired one-over-one wood windows flank the entrance and correspond to the first-floor units. Four bays containing paired historic one-over- one wood windows pierce the second story. Similar historic windows remain extant at all elevations. Integrity: This historic fourplex retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district.
15. 00 North 60th Street Non-Contributing Structure
Legal Description: Rose Hill, Block 16, S 56ft and West half of Lot 12 and the S 56ft of Lot 13 Date of Construction: Unknown (post-1962) Description: This paved parking area to the south of the brick fourplex at 2817 replaced a one-and-a-half story dwelling at some point after 1962, according to the Sanborn from that year. Today the asphalt surface lot is unmarked. Integrity: This parking area is a non-contributing structure due to its lack of historic associations with the district.
18 This building is not on the 1918 Sanborn map nor are the addresses listed in the city directory from that year; the addresses first appear in the 1920 city directory. 14 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
6000 Block of Maple Street (formerly Military Avenue) – North Side
16a. 6000 Maple Street Non-Contributing Structure
Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, Lot 24 (part of parcel addressed 6008) Date of Construction: circa 1995 Description: Lot 24, at the northwest corner of Maple and North 60th streets, formerly contained a narrow rectangular filling station, which according to aerial images, was demolished for the between 1993 and 1999. Today lot 24 houses two concrete parking lots; the north lot contains five spaces, and the south lot contains ten spaces. A grassy berm with trees separates the two lots, and a grassy landscape area separates the south lot from Maple. A circular sitting area with brick pavers and historical marker sits at the southeast corner of the lot. Integrity: The parking lot is non-contributing to the district. It was constructed after the period of significance and does not possess associations with the context for which the district it significant. 16. 6008 Maple Street Contributing Building Benson Fire Barn/Benson Community Center DO09:0559-008 Photo: 4 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, Lots 22 & 23 Date of Construction: 1917; ca. 194019 Building Description: This tan brick building includes a two-story main block built in 1917 as a fire station and a one-story addition to the north and northwest built in circa 1940. The building sits back approximately ten feet from the adjacent commercial buildings and straddles lots 22 and 23. The L-shaped gymnasium addition covers the entire first story of the north elevation. This addition today has EIFS cladding all but the south elevation which retains its brick cladding. It extends west to the west line of lot 22, wrapping approximately fourteen feet of the northwest corner; the addition extends approximately fourteen feet east of the east side of the building without wrapping the corner. The 1917 building is two-stories tall with a rectangular footprint and a flat roof behind a shaped parapet. Stylistically, the building has restrained Classical Revival details including a heavy stone cornice with brick dentils, a stone beltcourse between the two stories, and faux quoining at the first story. Four bays
19 The cornerstone reads 1915, the year it was laid; however, debates over the annexation of Benson stalled completion of the building until 1917. The exact date of the addition is so far unknown; architectural styling indicates a possible date of around 1940, and it was in place by 1952, the earliest aerial image available. 15 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
organize the first story of the south (primary) façade, and brick, quoined pilasters separate each bay. The west two and the easternmost bay formerly contained bifold garage doors for firetruck bays. The second bay from the east was and remains a single pedestrian entrance into the building; a divided lite transom surmounts a non-historic door. Brick fills the remaining bays today. No openings pierce the westernmost bay; a pair of doors pierce the center of the next bay. A ganged set of three non-historic windows pierce the center of the easternmost bay. A cornerstone is located at the southeast corner of the building. A quoined brick column with decorative concrete finial supports an angled marquee that covers the center two bays. Three bays organize the upper façade above the stone beltcourse. The east and west bays contain three ganged windows. The center bay contains three windows separated by brick panels but connected by a stone sill. While the windows are replacements, they fill historic openings and mimic the design of the historic windows. Decorative brick panels with central stone medallion sit below each bay, and decorative metal sconces flank the center panel. The cornice and parapet span the façade above the windows; an engraved stone panel centered in the shaped parapet reads “City of Benson.” The east elevation faces North 60th Street. The beltcourse and cornice continue across this façade. Four masonry openings pierce each story. Paired windows fill the first (south) and third bays of the first story while a single window fills the other two historic openings. Similarly, at the second story, paired windows fill all openings except the second bay from the south; this bay contains two single windows separated by a brick mullion. The north bay has been modified to contain a metal slab door to access a fire escape. A brick chimney separates the north two bays. The west elevation is similar to the east with beltcourse and cornice and windows at each story. The main entrance into gymnasium addition is through a centered door in its south elevation on the west side of the main building. A decorative brick portico covers the entrance with non-historic door. Two small windows with stone sills flank the entrance. Vertical slots adorn the top of the south wall, and a stone coping covers the parapet walls; the roof is flat. Integrity: The Benson Community Center retains sufficient integrity to be a contributor to the district. Alterations to the building mainly include the infill of former garage bays at an unknown date, but the bays are still discernible. The replacement windows throughout the building fill historic masonry openings. The applied EIFS to the historic addition detracts from the historic integrity of the building, but the retention of the brick on the addition’s primary façade and the retention of brick on the 1917 building outweigh the application of this non-historic material.
16 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
17. 6014 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Uldin Plumbing Building DO09:0559-022 Photo: 4 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, Lot 21 (east half of lot; parcel addressed 6016) Date of Construction: ca. 192220 Building Description: This simple brick two-story two part commercial block has boxy massing and a rectangular footprint. A flat roof covers the building behind a parapet. Ornamentation is limited to simple corbelled brick at the cornice and brick lintels at masonry openings. Two bays organize the first story. An entrance defines the first bay and contains a non-historic hollow core door with fixed security glass transom. Non-historic corrugated metal sheeting fills the historic storefront bay; it is currently unknown if a storefront exists behind the covering. A continuous band of soldier brick extends across the facade above both bays. Two bays pierce the second story. The west bay contains a single one-over-one non- historic window while the east bay contains a set of three one-over-one non-historic windows with wide mullions. Both window bays possess concrete sills and soldier brick lintels. The east façade faces the former fire station. One window pierces the first story while the second story possesses four window openings each of unequal size. Each masonry opening has brick sills. Painted advertising signage adorns the south end of the first story. Integrity: This building is considered non-contributing to the historic district due to the lack of storefront or evidence of one. Should a historic or compatible storefront be documented, this building’s contributing status should be reevaluated because it otherwise retains a high degree of integrity.
20 This building is not on the 1918 Sanborn map nor is the address listed in the city directory from that year or 1920; the address first appears in the 1925 city directory with David Uldin plumber; he remained here through at least 1945. 17 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
18. 6016 Maple Street Contributing Building Williams Drugstore DO09:0559-023 Photo: 4 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, Lot 21 (west half of lot; shares a parcel with 6014) Date of Construction: ca. 193721 Building Description: This is simple, one-story one-part commercial block. The concrete block building has a brick south façade. A flat roof with parapet covers this unadorned rectangular building. A historic five-part, mid-century aluminum storefront system is centered on the south elevation. Fixed display windows on tile-clad bulkheads flank the recessed center entrance. Non-historic pressed wood cladding covers the gazing in the west window. A transom with patterned glass glazing extends over the storefront. A continuous band of soldier brick spans the masonry opening and header brick accents the top of the parapet. Integrity: The Williams Drugstore retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. The building remains in its original location, and the immediate surroundings remain intact. Although the storefront system is not original to the building, it fills the historic opening and is likely a historic alteration within the period of significance. 19. 6018-6020 Maple Street Contributing Building Hinky-Dinky Grocery Store No. 28 DO09:0559-024 Photo: 4 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, Lot 20 (parcel address is 6020) Date of Construction: ca. 193122 Building Description: This one-story, one-part commercial block building has a rectangular plan with flat roof. The building has a concrete structure faced with brick. A tile pent roof accents the parapet of the primary elevation between two gable-shaped end parapets. A non- historic, complex storefront system fills the historic storefront opening; it is set back slightly. The storefront is a mixture of wood and aluminum framing, fixed windows, and plywood boards. Two entrances are located at opposite ends of the system, and the center portion rests on a brick bulkhead. A continuous row of solider bricks spans the masonry opening above the recessed storefront.
21 This building is not on the 1918 Sanborn map. This address first appears in the 1940 city directory with John Williams Drugstore; by 1951 this was the Grund Pharmacy. 22 This building is not on the 1918 Sanborn map. This address (6018-6020) first appears in the 1931 city directory as the Hinky Dinky grocery store no. 28. 18 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Integrity: The Hinky-Dinky Grocery Store retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the date of storefront alteration is unknown, it retains separate entrances, and display windows remain even if covered. 20. 6022 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Hested Department Store DO09:0559-025 Photo: 4 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, Lot 19 (parcel address is 6024) Date of Construction: ca.1929; ca. 196023 Building Description: This former grocery store is a one- story, one-part commercial block. It has a flat roof and rectangular plan. A mid-century concrete tile panel sheaths the primary elevation of the brick building. An eleven-part aluminum mid-century storefront system spans the primary elevation. Two entrances containing paired aluminum doors with glazing form the third and ninth parts. Fixed display windows on low concrete-clad bulkheads define the remaining parts. Those immediately adjacent to the entrances are angled slightly to create recessed entrances. A narrow non-historic asphalt-shingle clad awning shelters the storefront system and does not appear historic. A large, non-historic plywood sign is adhered to the elevation above the awning. Integrity: This building is a non-contributing resource to the district. The date of alteration to the façade is currently unknown, but they appear to post-date the period of significance. If the alterations, particularly to the upper façade, can be documented to fall within the period of significance this building’s contributing status could be reevaluated.
23 This building is not on the 1918 Sanborn map. The 1931 and 1935 city directories lists the Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company (A&P) grocer at 6022; by 1940 Safeway is here. A restaurant and bakery occupied 6022 in 1945-49, and Hested Inc. was here between 1951-59. A Presbyterian Church occupied this site prior to the current building. 19 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
21. 6026 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0559-026 Photo: 4 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, Lot 18, E 25 Ft Date of Construction: ca. 192024 Building Description: This one-story, one-part commercial block has a concrete block structure, flat roof behind a parapet, and a rectangular plan. A tile pent roof covers the parapet. Non-historic corrugated metal siding has been applied to the primary elevation at an unknown date. An inset, five-part aluminum storefront system sits atop a low, corrugated metal-clad bulkhead. The storefront itself appears to date to mid-century. It features fixed single pane display windows flank a central entrance. A contrasting non-historic corrugated metal sheath spans the elevation above the storefront. Integrity: This building is considered non-contributing to the historic district due to substantial material alterations that obscure the historic character of the resource. If the corrugated metal is removed and historic material remains intact, this building’s contributing status should be reevaluated. 22. 6052 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Benson Station Post Office25 DO09:0559-027 Photo: 4, 7 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, Lot 18, W 25 Ft; (this building was addressed 6050 in the 1918 city directory) Date of Construction: 1911 Building Description: This tapestry brick one-story, one- part commercial block has a flat roof behind decorative parapet and a rectangular plan. The form of the storefront appears to date to mid-century, possibly when used as a specialty store beginning in circa 1950; however, most of the storefront is covered with non-historic wood panel siding that obscures or replaces display windows seen in historic commercial buildings. The primary entrance at the east end of the storefront contains a single aluminum door and transom. A historic
24 A building shows up on this lot in the earliest map of Benson from 1910 and remained here in 1918. The square concrete block building was noted as for autos in the Sanborn from that year; however, this address does not appear in city directories until 1920 when 6028 is listed as vacant. By 1925, the city directory notes a barber at this address, and by 1931, a barber (6026) and hairdresser (6028) are here. By 1940 and at least through 1951, this was an ice cream shop. 25 The first listing of this building, in the 1918 Sanborn and the 1918 city directory note this was a bowling alley. From circa 1925 to circa 1945 this was a post office; in 1945 a clothes cleaner, and by 1951 a specialty store. 20 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
aluminum display case rests atop a corrugated metal-clad bulkhead to the east of the door. Four non- historic, undersized fixed windows surrounded with non-historic pressed wood infill fill the west three- quarters of the angled storefront. Painted plywood covers the transom level and frames the storefront. Corbelled brick and concrete diamond motifs ornament the upper façade, and a date/name stone reading “E.H. OLSON 1911” is centered above the corbelled brick. Integrity: This building is considered a non-contributor to the historic district due to the substantial covering of the storefront and part of the upper façade. If the non-historic siding is removed to reveal historic material, including an intact mid-century storefront, this building’s contributing status should be reevaluated. 23. 6054 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Best Appliances/former Benson Theater DO09:0559-028 Photo: 4, 7 Legal Description: Haney Harrell Place* Lot 3 Date of Construction: ca. 1923; alt. 195426 Building Description: The former Benson Theater is a one-story one part commercial block. The building has a brick structure, a flat roof, and rectangular plan. The west two-thirds of the building represent an overall design change from 1954; the east one-third retains most of its 1920s detailing. On the west, Permastone or similar material covers the 1920s brick façade, and a recessed mid-century anodized aluminum storefront spans this part of the façade. Wide fin mullions define the storefront parts, and the entrance is through a door in the second bay from the west. A 1950s metal marquee is positioned above the storefront. The glazed brick 1920s east façade has an altered storefront with entrance and non-historic fixed window. Plywood covers the historic transom level. A brick diamond motif is inset above the east storefront. Alterations to the building were observed during a July 2020 visit that indicate the 1954 façade may be removed.27 Integrity: The former Benson Theater is a non-contributing building to the historic district. Prior to the nomination, the primary elevation featured an overall design change that occurred during the Period of Significance. Alterations occurring to the building today remove the mid-century changes and very loosely attempts to recreate the façade as it appeared in the 1920s. Historic materials and design will be removed to accomplish the recreated exterior.
26 This address first appears in the 1925 city directory, housing the Benalto Theatre (motion pictures), a real estate agent, and a confectionary shop. The theater closed in circa 1948 and the building was remodeled in 1954 when the Best Appliance Store located here [Benson Centennial Book Committee (BCBC), Benson, Nebraska: From Buffalo Pasture to City (Marceline, MO: Walsworth Publishing Company, 1988), 78]. 27 Permit searches with the city of Omaha as well as information at bensontheatre.org indicate exterior demolition and reconstruction is part of the work being done to the building. The new façade will resemble the façade as it appeared when it functioned as a theater. See the 1948 photo of the Benson Theater in the Bostwick-Frohardt Collection at the Durham Museum, image BF6369-004. 21 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
24. 6056-6058 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0559-029 Photo: 7 Legal Description: Haney Harrell Place, Lot 1 (6058) & Lot 2 (6056) [Formerly, Lot 16 of Block 8] Date of Construction: ca. 191828 Building Description: This one-story brick building was constructed with two separate storefronts providing access to two separate businesses. The one part commercial block has a flat roof behind shaped parapet and a rectangular plan. The parapet rises to a low gable above and brick engaged pilasters flank both storefronts; the east storefront is wider than the west. Non-historic stucco clads the lower half of each pilaster while terra cotta motifs accent the top halves. A non-historic four-part aluminum storefront system fills the west storefront. The entrance defines the third part while fixed display windows on low stucco-clad bulkheads form the remaining parts. The east storefront is similar in appearance; it has five parts with a central entrance. Non-historic infill covers the historic transom levels, and a non-historic fabric awning and aluminum sign are located above the east storefront. A row of soldier brick and brick panels with terra cotta corner accents ornament the elevation above each storefront. Integrity: This building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing resource to the district. Most historic materials remain, and although the storefronts are non-historic, they are compatible and fill historic masonry openings. 25. 6060-6062 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Ben Franklin Store DO09:0559-030 Photo: 7 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, Lot 15 Date of Construction: ca. 192629 Building Description: The Ben Franklin Store was constructed as a single building with three separate storefronts and of a similar design to its neighbor at 6056-6058. The Ben Franklin company moved into 6060 in circa 1940, claiming the center and east bays, while the west bay continued to house businesses addressed as
28 The 1910 Baist map does not show a building at this location. Two stores appear on the 1918 Sanborn at this location, and the 1918 CD lists the Basket Stores Company Store no. 32 at 6056 and Dundee Shoe Repairing Co no. 2 at 6058. A series of stores (hardware, meat market, grocer) occupied these addresses through at least 1951. 29 The 1918 Sanborn shows a brick and wood building at this location, and the city directory from that year indicates there was a garage at this location. By 1931, directories consistently list a single store at 6060 and two businesses at 6062,
22 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
6062. The one-story brick commercial block has a flat roof behind parapet and a rectangular plan. Terra cotta motifs and brick panels accent the elevation above each storefront. The upper façade and parapet have been rebuilt at an unknown date, and while similar to the historic design, it does not accurately represent the historic features, as the upper façade extends down to cover the historic transom level. The storefronts are also replacements that fit—width-wise—within the historic masonry openings. The west bay features a non-historic five-part aluminum display window atop a brick bulkhead; no entry remains in this bay. The center and east bays approximately mimic the form of the mid-century storefront with two recessed entries and canted display walls. However, the materials are non-historic: three-part aluminum display windows atop brick bulkheads. The east bay matches the center storefront. A non- historic metal sign projects from the center of the elevation above the center entrance. A row of header brick spans the elevation above the storefronts and additional header brick outlines brick panels above each bay. Integrity: The Ben Franklin Store is a non-contributing resource to the historic district. Although referencing historic motifs, the façade reconstruction irrevocably obscures the historic character of this building.30 Non-historic storefronts do not fill historic openings completely, and there is no longer an entrance into what was 6062. 26. 6064 Maple Street Contributing Building R & S Shoe Store DO09:0559-031 Photo: 7 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, E 22 Ft of Lot 14 Date of Construction: ca. 192531 Building Description: This is a brick one-story, one-part commercial block with flat roof behind a parapet and a rectangular footprint. Narrow brick pilasters accent the outer margin of the elevation, and a row of corbelled brick spans the parapet between the pilasters. A narrow brick panel ornaments the upper façade. A non-historic five-part aluminum storefront fills the historic masonry opening. The storefront contains a center entrance flanked by display windows. A three-part transom spans the width of the storefront. A row of soldier brick abuts the top of the storefront and delineates the historic masonry opening. A non-historic sign extends from the center of the elevation below the storefront.
indicating the current building was in place at that time with three storefronts. Ben Franklin was located here from circa 1940 and is the tenant most associated with this building. 30 See the Durham Museum, John S. Savage Collection’s historic photo “The Ben Franklin Store in Benson” JS10-142 for 1946 image of 6060. 31 This address is first listed in the 1925 city directory with a café. Between circa 1940 and circa 1951, this was a shoe store. 23 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Integrity: This building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing resource to the district. Although the storefront is non-historic, it fills the historic opening and is compatible in style. The remainder of the elevation is intact, including the character-defining brick ornamentation of the upper façade. 27. 6066 (6064½) Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0559-032 Photo: 7 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, E 14 ft of the W 28 ft of Lot 14 (this was historically addressed 6064½) Date of Construction: ca. 193032 Building Description: This narrow brick one-story, one- part brick commercial block has a flat roof behind a parapet and a rectangular footprint. A five-part, non- historic aluminum storefront is centered on the primary elevation and fills the historic opening. Stucco-clad pilasters flank the storefront. The stucco is non-historic and terminates at the transom level. Fixed display windows on stucco-clad bulkheads flank a centered recessed entrance. Historic architectural tile (circa 1930-circa 1950) fills the transom and clads the pilaster caps. A row of soldier brick delineates the masonry opening. A brick panel is centered in the upper façade, and terra cotta squares accent the panel corners. Integrity: This building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing resource to the district. Although the storefront is non-historic, it fills the historic opening and is compatible in style. Most other historic material remains intact.
32 The address 6064½ first appears in the 1931 city directory, listing a shoe repairman here. A variety of small businesses were housed here throughout the period of significance; the addressed remained 6064½ through at least 1962, according to the Sanborn from that year. 24 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
28. 6068 Maple Street Contributing Building Johnson Hardware Store DO09:0559-033 Photo: 7 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, E 28 Ft of Lot 13 & W 14 ft of Lot 14 Date of Construction: ca. 191533 Building Description: The Johnson Hardware Store is a brick one-story, one part commercial block. Two storefronts flanked by narrow pilasters organize the primary elevation. The west storefront is a non-historic, five-part aluminum system with a deeply recessed center entrance. Fixed display windows on stucco-clad bulkheads flank the entrance. The east storefront contains a non-historic aluminum storefront system. An entrance with single-pane sidelights and a transom defines the west third of the storefront while fixed display windows on stucco-clad bulkheads define the east two-thirds. The stucco is non-historic and continues onto the pilasters, terminating at the transom level. Historic glazed tile clads the top of each pilaster. A row of header brick spans the elevation above the storefronts, defining the historic masonry opening. Narrow brick panels with terra cotta corner accents are positioned directly above each storefront within the upper facade. The parapet is stepped above each storefront, and a band of historic glazed tiles inset in rough stucco and outlined in terra cotta follows the parapet outline. Integrity: The Johnson Hardware Store retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the storefronts are non-historic, they both fill the historic openings and are compatible in style. Most other historic material remains intact.
33 A circa 1915 photo in the Douglas County Historical Society collection shows this building, with its decorative parapet (Benson Historical Society Collection, 2006.007.101.1-2). A brick building, addressed 6066-6068, first appears on the 1918 Sanborn housing a hardware store; the city directory from that year confirms this to be the Christopher C Johnson hardware store, addressed 6068; this tenant remains through at least 1951, and the 1962 Sanborn shows this as one building. The address 6066 is not in the directories. 25 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
29. 6070 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0559-034 Photo: 7 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, W 22 ft of Lot 13 Date of Construction: ca. 1890, alt. ca. 193534 Building Description: This brick one-story, one-part brick commercial block has a flat roof behind a parapet and a rectangular plan. The parapet is stepped at the primary elevation and capped in terra cotta; this design dates to circa 1935. Non-historic stucco clads the lower half of the primary elevation. A three-part non-historic aluminum storefront is centered on the elevation. The outer parts contain fixed display windows which are angled sharply to meet the recessed center entrance. The outline of the historic facade is delineated at the parapet level. Non-historic metal signage is anchored above the storefront. The west façade, which faces North 61st Street, is painted brick. Evidence of former masonry openings remain in the form of segmental arch lintels and infilled openings. Integrity: This is a non-contributing building to the historic district. Alterations to the façade today obscure most of the historic appearance of this building.
6000 Block of Maple Street (formerly Military Avenue) – South Side
30. 6001-6003 Maple Street35 Non-Contributing Building Guss A. Wulff Auto Company DO09:0557-024 Photo: 5 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 1, Lot 1; parcel address is 6001 and today includes 2812-2814 North 60th Street. Date of Construction: ca. 1915, ca. 1950, ca. 198036 Building Description: The Guss A. Wulff Auto Company Building is a one-story one part commercial block with flat roof behind a parapet. The façade, which faces north onto Maple Street, today displays
34 This building is visible in a circa 1890 photo in the John Savage Collection, Durham Museum (JS36-195); it underwent a significant design change circa 1935, as seen in a 1935 photo in the William Wentworth Collection, Durham Museum (WW325-001). Alterations to the building today were undertaken at an unknown date. 35 Today two doors on the east façade area addressed 2812-2814 North 60th Street; these addresses are not listed in the city directories up through 1951 nor are any listed on the 1962 Sanborn. The rear addition that today is addressed as 2812-2814 appears on the 1952 aerial. Details of this addition, including a former garage bay, tend to indicate it was constructed while the building functioned as a garage; therefore, this addition is not counted as a separate resource. The date of the façade alterations is unknown, but the design and materials indicate well after the period of significance. 36 A one-story brick building first appears on the 1918 Sanborn. The city directory from that year lists Guss A. Wulff Auto Company here. 26 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
an overall design change that occurred in the circa 1980s; the historic brick face has a square tiled veneer. Three bays organize the façade. The central bay is a recessed entry with a pair of glass storefront doors. A two-part display window extends west of the entry. A three-part display window pierces the center of the east bay. The building façade today mirrors the building to the west (6005-6007 Maple). The east façade spans the entire depth of the parcel from Maple to the rear alley. The north half of this brick façade dates to circa 1915. Two brick pilasters separate this wall into three bays with the center bay being widest. The northernmost bay features design elements found on the north façade; a single display window pierces the tiled wall. No other openings pierce the 1915 wall. The south portion of the east façade dates to circa 1950. The parapet rises approximately two feet above the parapet of the 1915 building. Eight uneven bays pierce this brick wall. The second bay from the north is a former garage bay; a pair of metal doors pierces the center of the infilled bay. The masonry opening remains intact. The third bay from the south is a pedestrian entry into the addition. The remaining bays feature windows; some historic steel sashes remain, and glass block infills the bay to the north of the former garage. Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the historic district due to the loss of material and design integrity of the front façade. 31. 6005-6007 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0557-025 Photo: 5 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 1, Lot 2; parcel address is 6001. Date of Construction: circa 196037 Building Description: This is a one-story one part commercial block with flat roof behind a parapet. The façade, which faces north onto Maple Street, today displays an overall design change that occurred in the circa 1980s; the historic brick face has a square tiled veneer. Three bays organize the façade. The central bay is a recessed entry with a pair of glass storefront doors. A two-part display window extends east of the entry. A three-part display window pierces the center of the west bay. The building façade today mirrors the building to the east, with which it shares a parcel today (6001-6003 Maple). Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the historic district due to the loss of material and design integrity of the front façade.
37 This address does not appear in city directories; the first appearance of a building on this lot is in the 1962 Sanborn when a brick store is represented. It may have been constructed as an addition to 6001, but that is unknown at this time. 27 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
32. 6009-6011 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0557-026 Photo: 5 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 1, Lot 3 & east 8 inches of Lot 4 Date of Construction: ca. 192638 Building Description: This is a brick one-story, one- part commercial block with a flat roof behind crenellated parapets and rectangular plan. Historic inset brick panels ornament the upper façade. The brick building has two distinct facades that historically matched the building at 6013 Maple to the west. The east storefront (6009) features a five-part non-historic aluminum storefront system. Fixed single- pane display windows on brick bulkheads flank a center entrance. The entrance contains an aluminum door with glazing. Painted non-historic wood planks cover the historic transom level. and a non-historic sign projects from the center of the parapet. The west storefront (6011) features a four-part non-historic aluminum storefront system. Fixed single-pane display windows on brick bulkheads define the east- three parts while a pair of aluminum doors with glazing defines the fourth part. Stone veneer covers the historic transom level and brick bulkheads. Integrity: The building at 6009-6011 Maple Street retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. While the storefront systems are non-historic, they fill the historic masonry opening. The historic, character-defining upper façade brick ornament remains intact. The building continues to communicate its historic commercial significance. 33. 6013 Maple Street Contributing Building Benson Paint Store DO09:0557-027 Photo: 5 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 1, east portion of Lot 4 excluding the east 8 Inches Date of Construction: ca. 192639 Building Description: The Benson Paint Store is a painted brick one-story, one-part commercial block with a flat roof and rectangular plan. A crenellated parapet accents the primary elevation. A seven-part mid-century aluminum storefront system pierces the primary elevation. Fixed single-pane display windows on brick bulkheads flank a center entrance. The display windows and bulkheads are angled to create a stepped
38 The 1931 through 1951 city directories list only 6009 and with a variety of specialty stores. The 1962 Sanborn shows this building as a single building with two addresses. 39 This building matches the design of 6009-6011; the address is vacant in the 1925 city directory, but Benson Paints is at this address by 1931. Various specialty stores occupied this building throughout the period of significance. 28 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
pattern and recessed entrance. The entrance contains an aluminum door with glazing and fixed sidelight. Corrugated metal sheeting covers the transom level. Inset brick panels ornament the upper facade. Integrity: The Benson Paint Store retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. While the storefront system is non-historic, it fills the historic masonry opening. The historic, character- defining upper façade brick ornament remains intact. 34. 6015 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0557-028 Photo: 5 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 1, west portion of Lot 4 Date of Construction: ca. 191540 Building Description: This is a simple, one-story one- part commercial block with a rectangular plan and flat roof. The brick building lacks ornamentation. A four-part aluminum storefront system is centered on the primary elevation. A glazed aluminum door with east sidelight is off-center. Fixed display windows atop a parged bulkhead extend west of the entry. The storefront system is canted slightly, forcing the entrance to recede from the sidewalk and a narrow angle. Integrity: The building at 6015 Maple Street retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the storefront system is not original to the building, it fills the historic opening. 35. 6023 Maple Street Contributing Building Arnold Sundshoe Filling Station DO09:0557-008 Photo: 5 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 1, Lots 5-6 Date of Construction: 194141 Building Description: The Sundshoe Filling Station is a one-story Moderne building with a flat roof. The building sets back from Maple Street to accommodate former filling pumps; today the paved area north and west of the building accommodates parking. The building is roughly rectangular in plan, and the northwest corner is rounded. Enameled metal panels clad the primary elevation and wrap around to the west elevation. A concrete block addition spans the rear. A non-historic seven-part aluminum storefront system occupies the rounded corner and contains the primary entrance. Fixed display windows flank
40 A one-story brick building first appears on the 1918 Sanborn. The city directory from that year lists a barber; the façade, including its storefront, appear to be later design changes. 41 Previous surveys. 29 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
the central entrance and fixed, circular windows flank the storefront system; these circular windows are historic. A large forty-light non-historic window with wide mullions and muntins dominates the east half of the primary elevation and fills the historic garage bay. Integrity: The Sundshoe Filling Station retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the windows are non-historic, they fill historic masonry openings. The storefront system preserves the character defining rounded corner while the primary elevation window mimics garage doors. Distinctive round window openings remain intact as does the exterior cladding. 36. 6051 Maple Street Contributing Building European Hotel DO09:0557-029 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 2, east half of Lot 1 Date of Construction: ca. 190042 Building Description: The European Hotel is a two-story brick two-part commercial block with a flat roof and rectangular plan. A non-historic aluminum storefront system occupies the first story at the primary elevation. The center is deeply recessed and contains the primary entrance. A secondary entrance is located at the west end of the system. An eroded metal stringcourse tops the storefront and separates the first and second stories. Two segmental arch window bays organize the second story. Non-historic one-over-one windows fill the bays. A narrow, corbelled brick cornice tops the elevation and wraps onto the east elevation. A mixture of non-historic windows and entrances in a variety of arrangements organize the first story at the east elevation while segmental arch window bays organize the second story. Non-historic fixed and one-over-one windows fill the bays. Integrity: The European Hotel retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the storefront and windows are replacements, they fill historic masonry openings in most cases and the storefront system is complementary in style.
42 This building appears on the 1910 Baist map. The 1918 city directory lists the European Hotel in the upper story. 30 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
37. 6053 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0557-030 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 2, west half of Lot 1; parcel address is 6051. Date of Construction: ca. 190043 Building Description: This building was built along with 6055 and 6057. It is a simple one-story, one-part brick commercial building. A narrow band of corbelled brick at the parapet is the only ornamentation. A non-historic four-part storefront fills the historic masonry opening. The entrance defines the fourth part while fixed display windows define the remaining three. An eight-light transom spans the opening. An eroded historic metal lintel tops the storefront. Integrity: This building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the storefront is non-historic, it fills the historic masonry opening and is complementary in style. Of the three identical buildings, this is the only one of the three that retains its historic cornice and storefront opening. 38. 6055 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0557-007 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 2, east half of Lot 2 Date of Construction: ca. 190044 Building Description: This building was built along with 6053 and 6057; however, its façade has been substantially altered. This one story, one-part commercial block has a mixture of non-historic brick and ceramic veneer on the primary elevation. The corbelled brick cornice is parged. Two bays organize the elevation and contain a non-historic three-part display window and a pedestrian entrance containing a non-historic aluminum door with glazing. A non-historic sign projects from the center of the elevation above the display windows.
43 This building appears on the 1910 Baist map. The 1918 city directory lists the address as vacant; however, historic photos of the European Hotel show this building in place. 44 This building appears on the 1910 Baist map. The 1918 city directory lists the address as vacant; however, historic photos of the European Hotel show this building in place. 31 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the historic district. The primary elevation has been significantly altered through incompatible cladding materials and display windows. These alterations flatten the elevation and obscure the historic appearance and character of the building. 39. 6057 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Web Feierman Jewelers DO09:0557-031 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 2, west half of Lot 2 Date of Construction: ca. 1900, ca. 196045 Building Description: This building was built along with 6053 and 6055; however, its façade has been substantially altered. The Web Feierman Jewelers Building is a one-story commercial block building with a flat roof and rectangular plan. Permastone clads the primary elevation. A Modern era aluminum storefront defines the lower half of the elevation. Two aluminum display cases on high bulkheads flank a central recessed entrance which contains and aluminum door with glazing and sidelights. A wide aluminum frame borders the storefront. Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the historic district due to the façade alterations. However, if these can be documented to date to the period of significance, the building’s eligibility should be reevaluated. 40. 6059 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Benson Theatre DO09:0557-032 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights Rep 3, Lot 1 Date of Construction: ca. 191546 Building Description: This one-story one-part commercial block has a flat roof and rectangular plan. A non-historic wood slat sheath obscures the primary elevation; it is unclear if the historic masonry surface remains intact underneath. A non-historic anodized aluminum storefront is centered on the elevation and deeply recessed to form a small patio. Non-historic aluminum clads the recessed walls. An overhead door with fifteen-light glazing defines the east half of
45 This building appears on the 1910 Baist map. The 1918 city directory lists a confectioner at this address. The current façade appears to date to mid-century. Web Feierman had a jewelry store here by 1951 and through at least 1959. However, the date of the current façade is unknown. 46 This building first appears on the 1918 Sanborn as a moving picture theater that the city directory from that year calls the Benson Theatre. 32 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
the storefront while a pedestrian entrance and fixed display window occupy the west half. A non-historic sign is centered on the wood sheath. Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the historic district due to the façade alterations. The non- historic sheathing and storefront significantly alter the elevation and obscure the historic character. No historic material remains visible at the primary elevation. 41. 6061 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0557-033 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights Rep 3, Lot 2 Date of Construction: ca. 195047 Building Description: This is a one-story, one-part brick commercial block with a flat roof and flat roof. The primary elevation has a subtle brick motif at the parapet level but is otherwise unornamented. A non-historic aluminum storefront system spans the facade. The west end of the system is deeply recessed and contains the entrance. Fixed display windows fill the reminder of the masonry opening. The lower three-quarters of the elevation is clad in dark red brick while the upper quarter is clad in light brick. Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the historic district due to the façade alterations. 42. 6065 Maple Street Contributing Building J.M. McDonald Company DO09:0557-034 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 2, Lot 4 Date of Construction: ca. 194848 Building Description: The J.M. McDonald Company building is a one-story, one-part brick commercial block. A historic nine-part anodized aluminum storefront spans the primary elevation. The center three parts are recessed and include a center entrance and two fixed, single pane windows. The adjacent parts are fixed windows angled to meet the outer windows which fall in line with the primary elevation plane. An aluminum awning shelters the storefront and a non-historic sign extends from the center of the upper brick façade.
47 A two-story wood frame building occupied this lot in 1918, according to the Sanborn from that year. City directories through 1945 list both 6061 and 6061-½, indicating the lot still had a two-story building here. Only 6061 is listed in 1951, and the 1962 Sanborn shows a one story masonry building at this address. 48 The address 6063-6065 appears in the 1951 city directory with JM McDonald general merchandizing company. 33 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Integrity: The J.M. McDonald Company building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. The façade is a relatively intact example of commercial building constructed toward the end of the period of significance. 43. 6067 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0557-006 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 2, east half of Lot 5 Date of Construction: ca. 192849 Building Description: This is a narrow one-story, one- part brick commercial block. Three bays organize the primary elevation. The outer bays contain non-historic rounded arch windows accented with terra cotta springers and keystones while the center bay contains the primary entrance. A wide terra cotta lintel tops the entrance bay. Narrow brick pilasters separate the bays and the brick between pilasters is recessed slightly and laid in a basketweave pattern. A non-historic aluminum sign is centered in the upper façade. Integrity: This building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although windows and entrance door have been replaced, they fill historic openings and preserve the historic fenestration pattern. 44. 6069 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Reed Home Made Ice Cream DO09:0557-035 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 2, west half of Lot 5 Date of Construction: ca. 194050 Building Description: This one-story, one-part commercial block has a rectangular plan and flat roof behind a parapet. A non-historic cast concrete false front with Neo-Classical detailing clads the primary elevation. A five-part non-historic aluminum storefront system characterizes the elevation. Fixed display windows flank a center entrance. Cast pilasters flank the storefront. A second set of pilasters rests atop the first set.
49 This date is from a previous survey; the address first appears in the 1931 Sanborn housing a jeweler and a florist. 50 Reed Homemade Ice Cream Company first appears at this address in 1940 city directory and remains here through at least 1951. 34 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the historic district due to the façade alterations. The application of the non-historic false front has resulted in a loss of integrity in material and design and significantly reduces the historic character of the building. 45. 6073 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building International Order of the Oddfellows (IOOF) Hall DO09:557-005 Photo: 6 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 2, north 96 ft of Lot 6 Date of Construction: ca. 190051 Building Description: The IOOF Hall is a wood frame two-story, two-part commercial block. Non-historic synthetic cladding obscures the historic material. A non- historic eleven-part aluminum storefront system spans the first story at the primary elevation and includes a center entrance flanked by fixed display windows atop brick bulkheads. A historic beltcourse separates the first and second stories. Three bays organize the second story. Three non-historic one-over-one vinyl windows define the center bay while single non-historic one-over-one vinyl windows define the outer bay. Wide eaves accent the corners and feature modillions and dentils. The center of the parapet is stepped with gently curving margins. Historic photos indicate the building had a decorative cornice and window trim. Integrity: The IOOF Hall is non-contributing to the historic district. The application of non-historic cladding combined with the loss of the historic storefront and windows has resulted in a loss of integrity in material and design.
2700 Block of North 61st Street – East Side
46. 2739 North 61st Street Non-Contributing Building Metropolitan Building & Loan Assn. DO09:0557-036 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 2, South 32 Ft of Lot 6 Date of Construction: ca. 196052 Building Description: This Modern Movement commercial building connects to the rear of the IOOF building via an ell. The concrete block building has a square footprint and a low slope hipped roof with gravel.
51 This building is on the 1910 Baist map. Its exact date of construction is unknown, but as the only wood frame building remaining in Benson, it may be one of the oldest buildings. 52 First appears on the 1962 Sanborn. 35 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Permastone wing walls ornament the primary (west) façade on either side of the entry bay. This bay features three display windows separated by wooden mullions and resting atop a wooden bulkhead. This wall is splayed, leading to the entry door which is set within a north-facing wall. Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the historic district as it was constructed outside the period of significance.
6100 Block of Maple Street (formerly Military Avenue) – North Side
47. 6102 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0559-035 Photo: 8, 15 Legal Description: Beercade, Lot 1 Date of Construction: ca. 191553 Building Description: This is a one-story, one-part brick commercial block with a roughly rectangular plan. The southeast corner is angled toward intersection and contains the primary entrance. A non-historic aluminum storefront system spans the south elevation and contains a series of fixed display windows and the entrance. Ornament is limited to the south elevation and includes a narrow brick panel bracketed by two terra cotta stringcourses and glazed tile square and diamond motifs. The parapet fronting Maple Street to the south is arched while the remaining parapet to the east and north are stepped. Two small additions extend from the rear and were historically separate buildings. The additions are clad in non-historic wood plank siding. The northernmost addition has a flat roof while the middle addition has a shed roof. Both are one story in height; however, they follow the ground slope and do not meet the primary roofline. Integrity: This building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the storefront is non-historic, it fills the historic masonry opening and is complementary in style. While non-historic wood siding clads the rear additions, they are only visible from the secondary and rear elevations.
53 First appears on the 1918 Sanborn and is visible in historic photos from circa 1914. 36 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
48. 6104 Maple Street Contributing Building John Sorenson Building DO09:0559-007 Photo: 8, 9, 15 Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, Lot 24, east 7 inches of Lot 23, & west 27 Ft of Lot 23 Date of Construction: 1913 Building Description: The John Sorenson Building is a two-story, two-part brick commercial block. Two bays organize the first story. A pedestrian entrance defines the west bay and accesses the second story. It contains a non- historic aluminum door with glazing. A four-part non- historic aluminum storefront system defines the east bay. A pair of doors with glazing and a fixed transom defines the fourth part while the others are fixed display windows. A terra cotta stringcourse separates the stories and is line with the stringcourse of the adjacent building at 6102 Maple Street. A brick panel with tile corner accents sits between the stringcourse and second-story bays. Five rectangular window bays with stone sills organize the second story. Each bay contains a non-historic one-over-one window. A second terra cotta stringcourse is located above the window bays. Three brick panels with tile corner accents and a narrow cornice with decorative terra cotta brackets accents the top of the elevation. The parapet is gently curved and capped in terra cotta. A date/name stone embossed “19 JOHN SORENSON 13” is centered on the parapet. Integrity: The John Sorenson Building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the storefront and second-story windows are non-historic, they are complementary in style, and second story windows fill historic openings. A change in brick color at the first story suggests this elevation was altered at an unknown date; however, the first story brickwork references the second story as well as the adjacent building at 6102 Maple Street and may be a historic alteration.
37 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
49. 6108 Maple Street Contributing Building Bank of Benson DO09:0559-006 Photo: 8, 9 Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, Lot 23, excluding the east 7 inches Date of Construction: ca. 192354 Building Description: The Bank of Benson is a brick building with a terra cotta Classical Revival facade centered on the primary elevation. The terra cotta façade projects slightly from the main elevation plane and creates two outer brick wings. The terra cotta façade is three bays wide. The center bay contains the primary entrance. A large, non-historic fixed window is located above the entrance. Paired Corinthian pilasters flank the center bay and support a simple entablature above which is inscribed “BANK OF BENSON.” Large non-historic fixed windows fill the remaining bays. Brick panels ornament the upper façade of the outer brick wings. A non-historic metal canopy extends over the entrance. Integrity: The Bank of Benson retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the windows are non-historic, they fill historic openings and the fenestration pattern is preserved. While the current canopy is non-historic, historic photos indicate a canopy was historically present at this location. 50. 6110 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0559-036 Photo: 8, 9 Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, south half of Lot 22 (parcel address is 6118 Military Ave) Date of Construction: ca. 191555 Building Description: This brick two-story, two-part brick commercial block has a flat roof and rectangular plan. A historic aluminum storefront likely dating to the mid-century or preceding decade occupies the first story. Fixed single pane windows define the west half of the store front while the east half contains two entrances separated by a vertical display case. A historic aluminum canopy shelters the storefront. Corrugated metal clads the elevation on either side of the storefront and terminates at canopy level. Panels above the canopy support a metal sign structure. The historic brick
54 According to a previous survey. A 1924 Bostwick-Frohardt Collection photo at the Durham Museum shows the façade of the Bank of Benson (BF3085-001). The 1931 city directory shows the Farmers & Merchants Bank at this address. 55 This building first appears on the 1918 Sanborn map; the city directory from that year lists a soft drink distributor here; by 1925 it was a Piggly Wiggly grocery store. Various medical offices occupied the upper story. 38 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
surface remains visible at the second story. Two sets of vertical header bricks simulating columns flank the second story façade. Three narrow window bays organize the second story and contain non-historic one-over-one windows. A row of header brick, inset brick diamonds, and corbelled brick accent the cornice. Integrity: This building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing building to the district. While the storefront has been replaced, it is a historic alteration and reflects the continued occupation of the building.
6100 Block of Maple Street (formerly Military Avenue) – South Side
51. 6103 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Stoltenburg Building DO09:0557-037 Photo: 9, 10 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 3, Lot 1; parcel includes 2738-2740 North 61st Street. Date of Construction: ca. 191556 Building Description: The Stoltenburg Building is a one- story, one-part commercial block with a flat roof and rectangular plan. A mixture of stucco and non-historic corrugated metal clads the brick exterior and was added at an unknown date. A historic photo from 1930 shows an ornate brick facade.57 Three bays organize the primary elevation. The outer two bays each contain a non-historic fixed display window system atop stucco-clad bulkheads while the primary entrance defines the center bay; the building had a single use by 1951. The entrance contains an inset pair of non-historic aluminum doors with glazing and a fixed transom spans the bay. A non-historic metal awning shelters the bays. Non-historic corrugated metal clads the elevation between the awning and historic metal cornice. The parapet is stepped with a semi-circular center. The east elevation faces North 61st Street. This stucco-clad façade has faux timbering. Two storefronts pierce the south end of the elevation. A mid-century metal awning spans the north storefront which also has a faux stone bulkhead. Integrity: The Stoltenburg Building is non-contributing to the historic district. The application of stucco and alterations to the storefronts obscures the historic character of this building. It no longer retains sufficient integrity to communicate its historic associations.
56 First appears on the 1918 Sanborn; the city directory from that year lists it as the Stoltenburg Building with occupants at 6101 and 6103, as well as 2738. The addresses were first combined in 1951 as Sprague’s Benson Pharmacy. The storefronts along North 61st continued to occupy various commercial functions 57 See Bostwick-Frohardt Collection, Durham Museum photo HOFP-2769. See also BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 50. 39 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
52. 6105-6107 Maple Street Contributing Building Howard Building DO09:0557-004 Photo: 9, 10 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 3, Lot 2 Date of Construction: 190458 Building Description: The Howard Building is a two- story, two-part brick commercial block constructed in a restrained interpretation of the Queen Anne style. The historic wood storefront spans the first story and features a deeply recessed central entrance. The entrance includes three doors, angled to form a semi- hexagonal shape. Large, fixed display windows flank the entrance. A historic metal beltcourse separates the first and second stories. Six rounded arch bays organize the second story. Historic one-over-one wood windows are present in the east-three bays while non-historic fixed windows are in the west-three. The semi-elliptical transom of each bay is infilled and ornamented with filigree. A continuous metal sill extends below all six bays. Ornamentation includes medallions, filigree, and a decorative cornice. The parapet is stepped and “JAS. A. HOWARD” is located at the center. Integrity: The Howard Building retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. It retains its historic design including character defining ornamentation and historic wood storefronts. 53. 6109 Maple Street Contributing Building DO09:0557-038 Photo: 9, 10 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 3, east half of Lot 3 Date of Construction: ca. 191159 Building Description: This two-story, two-part brick commercial block incorporates restrained Queen Anne ornament similar to the Howard Building. A non-historic anodized aluminum storefront spans the first story. The entrance is deeply recessed and located at the west end of the elevation while fixed display windows on wood- clad bulkheads occupy the west-two thirds of the storefront. A non-historic wood sheath obscures the historic transom level. Three rounded arch bays organize the second story. Historic one-over-one wood windows have round arch transoms ornamented with filigree fill the bays. A continuous metal sill
58 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 40. 59 Not in the 1910 Baist map but is in place in the 1918 Sanborn housing the Knudson Grocery. Photos from circa 1911 in the Douglas County Historical Society, Benson Collection show this building. 40 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
extends above all three bays. Ornamentation includes medallions, filigree, and a decorative cornice. Centered in the cornice are an overlaid S and C (or C and S); it is currently unknown to what or to whom this refers. Integrity: This building retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. Although the storefront is non-historic, it fills the historic masonry opening and most other historic material remains intact. 54. 6111 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Hall Building DO09:0557-003 Photo: 9, 10 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 3, west half of Lot 3 Date of Construction: 1913; circa 196060 Building Description: The Hall Building is a two-story, two-part commercial block. It has a flat roof with parapet and brick cladding. Two sets of non-historic, aluminum, six-light fixed display windows organize the first story. A narrow non-historic, asphalt shingle-clad awning continues from the adjacent building (6113 Maple) to shelter the windows. The entrance into the building is through a door in the west wall of the first story, accessed through the recessed entry of 6113 Maple. Five rectangular window bays pierce the second story; these correspond to the historic masonry openings but contain non-historic one-over-one windows. A non-historic Tudor Revival false gable has been applied above the window bays and largely obscures a brick blind arcade. The parapet rises at a gentle slope and a date stone reading “1913” is centered within. Integrity: The Hall Building is non-contributing to the historic district. Alterations to the first story bays, the loss of historic windows and distinctive storefronts, and the application of an incompatible false gable significantly alter the integrity of design and materials.
60 It first appears on the 1918 Sanborn as the Hall Building with the Farmers & Merchants Bank. The current façade was in place by 1963. 41 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
6100 Block of Maple Street – South Side The following addresses were historically addressed as Main (Mayne) before annexation, and then Maple Street. City Directories indicate the Military Avenue intersected Maple at 6111.
55. 6113 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0557-039 Photo: 9, 10 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 3, east half of Lot 4 Date of Construction: ca. 1935, ca.196061 Building Description: This is a one-story, one-part commercial block with a flat roof and rectangular plan. An asphalt shingle-clad awning covers the primary elevation parapet and shelters the storefront below. The entrance occupies the east end of a non-historic aluminum storefront system. The entrance is deeply recessed, and the remainder of the storefront is angled to connect the entrance with the primary elevation plane, forming a roughly triangular porch. Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the historic district due to alterations to the façade. 56. 6115 Maple Street Individually Listed in NRHP Olson’s Market DO09:0557-023 Photo: 10 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 3, west half of Lot 4 Date of Construction: 191762 Building Description: Olson’s Market is a one-story, one-part brick commercial block with a flat roof behind a parapet and rectangular plan. The parapet is stepped with deep crenellations. A non-historic five-part wood storefront with a six-light transom dominates the primary elevation. The parapet and storefront are both recreations and were completed based on historic images prior to its listing in the National Register in 2013. Corbelled brick and square terra cotta accents ornament the elevation above the storefront.
61 A two-story wood frame building occupied this site at least through 1930. City directories indicate this building may have been constructed in the mid-1930s; it was in place by the early 1960s when the façade underwent a redesign. The exact date of construction is unknown. 62 Date is from the National Register nomination for this building. 42 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Integrity: Olson’s Market at 6115 Maple Street was individually listed in 2013 and continues to retain historic integrity. 57. 6117-6119 Maple Street Contributing Building Peska & Gravat Buildings DO09:0557-022 Photo: 10 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights Block 3, Lot 5 east half (6117) and west half (6119) Date of Construction: ca. 191063 Building Description: These two building are both two- story, two-part commercial blocks with buff brick, flat roofs, and rectangular plans. An ornate cast metal cornice spans both buildings; the Gravat Building (6119) formerly had a stepped center piece to its cornice. The first story storefront of the Peska Building (6117) has been modified and still contains two entrances. The east entrance is deeply recessed. Glass block fills the opening facing Maple Street while the door is in the west wall of the recessed are. The west entrance is in line with the main elevation plane and appears original to the building. The west entrance contains a paneled door and double-height transom which extends the height of the original masonry opening. Three fixed aluminum windows atop a high brick bulkhead separate the entrances and may be a mid-century alteration. Pressed wood infill surrounds the windows and east entrance. At first story of the Gravat Building (6119), an ornate, deeply recessed storefront characterizes the first story; this predates 1940. Six fixed display windows atop historic tile-clad bulkheads flank a central entrance. A nine-part art glass transom confirms to the arched ceiling of the storefront. A secondary entrance to the west contains a non-historic aluminum door with glazing. The former transom is boarded. Synthetic panels surround the storefront opening Three segmental arch window bays organize the second story of both buildings. Historic one-over-one windows fill the bays in the Peska Building while non-historic one-over-one windows fill the Gravat Building bays. Three rows of header brick form the lintels. Integrity: The Peska & Gravat Buildings retain integrity to be a contributing resource to the district.
63 These buildings appear on the 1910 Baist map. 43 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
58. 6121 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0557-040 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 3, Lot 6 and part of the south of Lot 5 Date of Construction: ca. 1939; alt. 2020 Building Description: This is a one-story, one-part brick commercial block currently undergoing extensive alterations. The façade has been removed and a new concrete block façade and storefront openings are under construction. Windows have been removed from all west elevation bays. Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the district due to the substantial alterations.
6200 Block of Maple Street (formerly Military Avenue) – North Side
59. 6200-6208 Maple Street Contributing Building B.H. Post Block DO09:0559-004 Photo: 8, 12, 13 Legal Description: Benson Block 9, south portions of Lots 18 & 19 (parcel address is 6214 Maple St.) Date of Construction: 1918 Building Description: The B.H Post Block is complex two-story brick commercial block with a flat roof and irregular plan. The south elevation faces Maple Street, the southeast corner is canted to front the intersection, and the northeast elevation faces Military Avenue. A decorative blind arch brick cornice lines the parapet walls. Four bays organize the first story of the south elevation. The west two bays feature non-historic metal storefronts with recessed entries at the east ends of the storefront system. A continuous metal panel covers the transom levels of these two bays. The second bay from the east is a narrow entry bay. A pair of non-historic aluminum and glass doors with glass transom open to a stair to the second story. Brick infills most of the east bay with display windows piercing the east end of the bay. A cloth awning spans the bay at the transom level and wraps around the corner of the building. A series of historic masonry openings pierce the upper façade. Each contains a non-historic window. Narrow brick pilasters define the entry bay and rise to a curved parapet. A date stone reading “1918” adorns the upper parapet of this bay. The southeast elevation is a second entry point into the Post Block. A non-historic glazed entry with transom fills the masonry opening on the first story. A cloth awning separates the two stories. Brick infills a former masonry opening in the upper façade. The parapet above this bay is shaped and stone accents the parapet walls. A stone name plate centered in the parapet wall reads “Post Block.”
44 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
The first story of the northeast elevation has a non-historic storefront display at the south end and a mid- century storefront at the north end. The aluminum north storefront features a pedestrian door and sidelight with Permastone bulkhead. A cloth awning covers this system. A cloth awning also covers the south window. Three unequally sized masonry openings pierce the first story wall between the two storefronts. Brick infills the south opening which retains its stone sill. The center opening was formerly a door; brick fills the bottom and a window fills the upper portion. A window fills the north opening. Two stone bands separate the first and second stories of the northeast elevation. Eight windows pierce the upper story; the three north windows are shorter than the others. Each window is a non-historic single light window within the historic openings. A band of soldier bricks and a stone band separate the upper story and the parapet level; brick diamonds ornament the parapet. Integrity: The Post Block retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. The most substantial alterations include the replacement of storefronts and upper story windows. Some masonry openings have been infilled, but the cumulative changes do not preclude this building from continuing to communicate its historic character and association. 60. 6212-6214 Maple Street & 6115-6121 Military Contributing Building Avenue – Williams Brother Garage DO09:0559-037 Photo: 12 Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, Lot 17, west and north halves of Lot 18, and north portion of Lot 19 (parcel address is 6214 Maple St.) Date of Construction: ca. 1918 Building Description: This one-story, one-part brick commercial building was constructed along with the Post Block. It has two primary elevations with 6212- 6214 Maple Street facing south and 6115-6121 Military Avenue facing northeast. This was built as a garage with the address and entrance from Military Avenue with storefronts on Maple. A one-story brick addition roughly triangular in plan was constructed to the north of the Post Block and connected to the east side of the garage between 1918 and 1962. The south elevation exhibits ornamental brick panels along the parapet level. Five uneven bays organize the storefront level and contain non-historic storefronts and display windows. The west bay is a display window; to its east is a storefront with entry; another display window is to the east of the entry. The fourth bay from the west contains a centered, recessed entry accessed by a set of concrete steps. Display window flank the entry. The east bay contains a storefront system with entry at the east end. Display windows have brick bulkheads, and brick piers separate the bays. A continuous metal panel spans the façade at the transom level. The elevation facing Military Avenue is an uneven wall plane. The south, main portion of the façade is the addition. This one-story brick addition has a flat roof and a canted northeast corner. Most of the addition features a non-historic storefront system on short brick bulkhead. An inset entrance bay abuts the Post Block to the south, and the north end of the addition steps away from the 1918 portion of the 45 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Williams Brother Garage which forms the north end of the building’s elevation. The 1918 portion of this façade matches the details of the Maple Street-facing elevation; its one bay features a historic masonry opening, a former garage bay, that now has a glazed storefront with entry door. Integrity: The Williams Brother Garage retains integrity to be a contributing building to the district. The most substantial alterations include replacement storefronts that fill historic masonry openings. 61. 6220 Maple Street Contributing Building Benson Medical Center DO09:0559-003 Photo: 12 Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, Lot 13-16 Date of Construction: 193764 Building & Landscape Description: The Benson Medical Center is a free-standing brick building with a roughly cruciform plan. The center block rises several feet above the remainder of the building and the roof is flat in all wings. The primary elevation is nine bays wide. The center block contains the center three bays. Non- historic fixed windows flank the central entrance. Moderne influenced brick ornament emphasizes the entrance. The doorway is recessed and surrounded by several rows of stepped concentric brick. Heavy brick pillars inset with glass block flank the entrance. The outer six bays are located within the east and west wings. Non-historic one-over-one windows define the six bays. Concrete steps with historic metal railings access the front of the building from the public sidewalk while a concrete ramp provides access from the east. Paved surface parking lots occupy the rear corners of the lot while a grassy lawn and deciduous trees and shrubs characterize the primary landscaping and set the property apart from surrounding resources. Integrity: The Benson Medical Center retains integrity to be a contributing building in the district. Alterations appear limited to replacement window which, although non-historic, fill historic openings and preserve the fenestration pattern.
64 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 89. 46 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
6200 Block of Maple Street (formerly Military Avenue) – South Side
62. 6201 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building Dworak Grocery/Searson’s Drugs DO09:0557-041 Photo: 11 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 4, Lot 1 Date of Construction: ca. 191165 Building Description: The Dworak Grocery is a one- story, one-part brick commercial block with a flat roof and rectangular plan. Two large bays organize the primary elevation. The east bay contains a non-historic five-part aluminum storefront system that fronts Maple Street at an angle. Fixed display windows flank the central entrance and a metal pole supports the corner overhang. The second bay contains two eight-light non-historic fixed display windows with two-light fixed transoms. A simple cornice featuring solider brick and corbelled brick is the only ornamentation. A non-historic addition dominates roof of the building. Non-historic metal railings encircle the rooftop to enclose the deck. Integrity: The Dworak Grocery is non-contributing to the district. Alterations to the first story bays, the loss of historic windows and distinctive storefronts, and an incompatible rooftop deck significantly alter the integrity of design and materials. 63. 6205-6207 Maple Street Contributing Building Post Building DO09:0557-042 Photo: 11 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 4, Lot 2 (parcel address is 6505) Date of Construction: ca. 191266 Building Description: The Post Building is a two-story, two-part brick commercial block. The elevation is clad primarily in white glazed brick, however recessed sections of red brick are utilized as ornament throughout. The east and west halves mirror each other in ornament and arrangement. Non-historic six-part aluminum storefronts fill both first-story bays. A recessed panel of red brick is positioned above each bay and the recessed brick within is concave. Four window bays organize the second story. The outer two bays contain narrow one-over-one non-historic windows while the center two bays each contain one pair of one-over-one non-historic windows separated by a wide mullion. White glazed brick pilasters flank
65 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 25. This building was constructed after a fire 1911. 66 Constructed after the 1911 fire; appears on the 1918 Sanborn. Name referred to in caption for photo 2006.007.178 in the Douglas County Historical Society, Benson Collection as well as BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 45. 47 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
each second story bay and a terra cotta stringcourse spans the elevation below the bays to form a continuous sill. A wide glazed brick pilaster separates the second and third bays, dividing the second story into east and west halves. A recessed panel of brick is centered within each half and the recessed brick within the panel is concave. A corbelled red brick cornice spans the elevation and the parapet above is clad in glazed brick. Integrity: The Post Building retains integrity to be a contributing building in the district While the storefronts and second story windows are non-historic, they fill historic openings and most other historic material remains. 6205-6207 Maple Street is a contributing building in the district. 64. 6209 Maple Street Non-Contributing Building DO09:0557-043 Photo: 11 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 4, Lot 3 and east 1 ft of Lot 4 Date of Construction: ca. 191167 Building Description: This one-story, one-part commercial block has a flat roof and rectangular plan. A non-historic wood sheath clads the primary elevation. A non-historic, nine-part aluminum storefront dominates the primary elevation. The second and ninth parts contain entrances while the other parts are fixed display windows. Non-historic metal and electric signage is centered on the primary elevation directly above the storefront. Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the district due to substantial alterations including a replacement storefront and the application of wood that completely obscures the historic exterior surface. No historic material remains visible and historic character of the building has been lost. 65. 6223 Maple Street Contributing Building Benson Station Post Office DO09:0557-002 Photo: 11 Legal Description: Halcyon Heights, Block 4, west 44 ft of Lot 4 and all Lots 5 and 6 and half the vacant alley Date of Construction: 1940 Building Description: The Benson Post Office is a one- story Works Project Administration (WPA) Moderne designed by Louis Simon. The tan brick building has a flat roof. The plan is irregular and features a character defining rounded northwest corner. Five historic six- light vertical windows separated by concrete columns occupy the corner and serve as the focal point of the exterior. Three bays organize the primary elevation. The first and second bays contain historic thirty-
67 Constructed after the 1911 fire; appears on the 1918 Sanborn. 48 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
two and forty-light windows, respectively. Concrete steps with historic metal railings access the primary entrance in the third bay. The entrance is recessed and contains a pair of non-historic aluminum doors with glazing. Two bays organize the west elevation. The north bay is a secondary entrance and contains a single door and sidelight. A historic twenty-light window defines the second bay. Cast eagles and “Benson Station” signage are located above both entrances while a simple cornice embossed “UNITED STATES POST OFFCE OMAHA NEBRAKSA” wraps around the street-facing elevations. A series of historic loading docks occupy the rear of the building. Integrity: The Benson Station Post Office retains integrity to be a contributing resource to the district.
6100 Block of Military Avenue – Northeast Side
66. 6112-6118 Military Ave. Contributing Building Olson-Wiley Motor Co. Garage DO09:0559-005 Photo: 14 Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, Lots 20-22 Block 9 (shares a parcel with 6110 Maple St; parcel address is 6118 Military Ave.) Date of Construction: ca. 191568 Building Description: This one-story brick commercial block has a flat roof and roughly triangular plan. The north half served as an auto garage while the south contained related storefronts. Nine irregular bays organize the primary elevation and include a mixture of vehicular bays, storefronts, and pedestrian entrances reflecting the building’s varied uses. The south two bays have been mostly infilled (by at least 1965, but the exact date is unknown); the historic masonry openings remaining discernible. The second through fourth bays have been partially infilled to convert the historic vehicular openings to display windows. Brick columns ornamented with header brick and terra cotta motifs separate each bay. Corbelled brick brackets and a terra cotta course span the elevation above the bays. Three terra cotta and brick arches interrupt the south half and correspond to storefronts below. Integrity: The Olson-Wiley Motor Company Garage retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing resource to the district. The building continues to communicate its historic associations mostly through the extant masonry openings and brickwork, and the majority of openings remain open.
68 This building first appears on the 1918 Sanborn map; a variety of specialty stores occupied the storefronts with the Olson- Wiley Motor Company garage occupying the north portion and addressed 6118. 49 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
67. 6120 Military Ave Contributing Building Hulac Chevrolet Co. DO09:0559-038 Photo: 14 Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, Lots 4-6 Date of Construction: 1947, 195869 Building Description: This is a two-story auto garage with an irregular plan and flat roof. It is constructed of concrete block and an elevated ell projects over the alleyway to the south. Pressed wood siding clads the first-story at Military Avenue. Four bays organize the first story at the primary elevation and correspond to the historic office/lobby space. The primary entrance defines the third bay and contains paired non-historic aluminum doors with single pane sidelights. Fixed one-over-one windows with vertical muntins define the remaining bays. A curved aluminum canopy shelters the first story bays. Two window bays pierce the second story. The north bay contains a pair of one-over-one aluminum windows which appear historic. The second bay contains a one-over-one aluminum window. A non-historic metal sign projects from the north half of the elevation. Concrete ramps accessed via the alley provide access to the interior parking. Integrity: The Hulac Chevrolet Co. building retains integrity to be a contributing resource to the district. It retains its historic design, most materials, and continues to serve an automobile related use. This resource was constructed towards the end of the period of significance and reflects the growing popularity of automobiles as streetcar use waned. 68. 6124 Military Ave Contributing Building Farmers and Merchants Bank DO09:0559-017 Legal Description: BENSON LOT 6 BLOCK 9 S 26 N 95 FT Date of Construction: ca. 190770 Building Description: This bank building is a one-story brick building with flat roof and irregular plan. The primary elevation parapet is dramatically stepped, providing the appearance of a false front. Three, pointed arch bays organize the primary elevation. The north two bays contain non-historic fixed windows with three-part transoms. The primary entrance is in the south bay. It contains a non-historic aluminum door with glazing, single-pane sidelight, and a three-part transom accented by non-historic stained glass. Terra
69 Noted on the 1962 Sanborn. 70 According to previous survey. A brick band building does appear at this location on the 1910 Baist map. 50 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
cotta and soldier brick keystones and springers accent each arch and a short run of corbeled brick brackets is located above. Integrity: The Farmers and Merchants Bank Building retains integrity to be a contributing resource to the district. It retains its historic design and although the windows and door are not historic, they fill historic bays and preserve the distinctive fenestration pattern. 69. 6130 Military Ave Non-Contributing Building DO09:0559-018 Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, north 69 feet of Lot 6 and all Lot 7 Date of Construction: ca. 193071 Building Description: This is a one-story brick auto garage. It has an irregular plan and roof. Two additions constructed post-1962 abut adjacent buildings to the east and south; it is unknown if internal connections exist. The circa 1930 main block is clad in red brick and is angled parallel to the street. A non-historic aluminum parapet encircles the roofline. Five bays organize the elevation. The second bay contains the primary entrance. Two one-over-one aluminum windows flank the center bay. These bays correspond to the historic office/lobby. Two historic garage door openings define the south bay. The south half of the building rises slightly higher than the north to accommodate the garage. A large corrugated metal addition to the south is set back substantially from the street and contains an additional vehicular bay. A second addition at the rear elevation is located on a raised earthen mound and may serve as a pedestrian corridor between the building and an adjacent parking garage. Integrity: This building is non-contributing to the district. Multiple additions constructed outside the period of significance and alterations to the roofline substantially alter its form and appearance.
71 No brick building appears at this location in the 1910 Baist or 1918 Sanborn maps. This first appears in the 1931 city directory as an auto-related building, a function it retained throughout the period of significance. 51 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
2900 Block of North 61st Street – West Side
70. 2918 North 61st Street Non-Contributing Structure
Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, Lot 3 and parts of lots 1 and 2 Date of Construction: ca. 1966 Building Description: This structure is an asphalt surface parking lot. A small commercial building occupied the site through the streetcar period; however, it was demolished prior to the construction of the parking lot in the 1960s. Integrity: The parking lot is non-contributing to the district. It was constructed after the period of significance and does not possess associations with the context for which the district it significant. 71. 2922 North 61st Street Contributing Building DO09:0559-039 Photo: 15 Legal Description: Benson, Block 9, north portions of lots 1 through 3 Date of Construction: ca. 194672 Building Description: This one-story Moderne building has a brick (painted) primary elevation that faces onto North 61 Street while all other exterior masonry is concrete block. The primary elevation is three bays wide and features distinctive rounded corners. Two projecting rounded brick planes define the outer bays. Each contains a non-historic fixed aluminum display window. The center bay recedes and contains the primary entrance. A non-historic entry system contains a pair of aluminum doors, sidelights, and a three-part transom. A non-historic yet complementary neon sign is centered above the entrance. Non-historic fixed display windows pierce the secondary elevations at regular intervals. The four historic vehicular bays on the west end of the north elevation contain operational fifteen-light overhead doors. A non-historic rectangular monitor pierces the roof northeast of center and contains non-historic fixed windows. Integrity: This building retains integrity to be a contributing resource to the district. Although the windows and doors are non-historic, they fill historic openings and preserve the historic fenestration pattern. The character-defining rounded brick features at the primary elevation are extant. The monitor appears is set back from the elevations.
72 This address first appears in the 1951 city directory. 52 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
2900 Block of North 61st Street – East Side
72. 2919-2925 North 61st Street Contributing Building Benson Cleaners Building DO09:0559-040 Photo: 15 Legal Description: Benson, Block 8, 45.1 Ft (2919) and N 82.9 Ft (2925) of Lots 11 and 12 Date of Construction: ca. 1949, ca. 196973 Building Description: The Benson Cleaners Building is a one-story free-standing building with a roughly L- shaped plan and flat roof. The circa 1949 block clad in glazed tile forms the primary block while a circa 1969 rectangular concrete block garage extends to the north. Three bays organize the primary elevation of the main block. A non-historic overhead door, wood infill, and a non-historic pedestrian door fill the north bay and replace a historic storefront. A historic three- part wood window defines the center bay. The south bay is recessed and contains portions of a historic wood storefront combined with wood infill; the form of the storefront is historic.74 The north half of the storefront is extant and includes a pedestrian entrance flanked by display windows; wood infills the south half of the bay. The circa 1969 addition extends from the east end of the north elevation and is set back several yards from the street. Three bays pierce the elevation. A pedestrian entrance defines the first bay while garage bays define the remaining two bays. All three bays are boarded. Integrity: The Benson Cleaners Building retains sufficient integrity to be a contributing resource to the district. Although the storefronts are primarily non-historic, some historic storefront elements remain, and the historic masonry openings are intact. The character-defining glazed tile cladding on the primary elevation is extant. The circa 1969 addition is complementary in size, form, and style and does not obscure the earlier historic associations of the main block.
District Integrity The commercial cluster centered on Maple Street between North 59th and North 63rd streets retains integrity from its associations with the Omaha Streetcar-era and meets the integrity requirements described in the cover document.75 This commercial cluster fronts the primary street on which the streetcar ran, and all contributing buildings within the district were constructed within the streetcar era. The commercial cluster retains its historic density and massing and possesses a cohesive streetscape. The commercial district remains highly intact. Buildings remain in their historic locations within their historic setting
73 The address 2919 first appears in the 1949 city directory with Benson Cleaners. They remained here at least through 1959. Aerial images show the north garage bays added between 1966 and 1969. 74 See Douglas County Historical Society, Benson Historical Society Collection photo 2006.007.116.2. 75 Lenhausen & Loughlin, “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha,” F-39 53 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
within a predominantly residential area of Omaha. Overall, the buildings retain their historic materials and design.
# C/NC Site Number Address # C/NC Site Number Address 1 C DO09:0448-017 5908 Maple St 38 NC DO09:0557-007 6055 Maple St 2 C DO09:0448-018 5910 Maple St 39 NC DO09:0557-031 6057 Maple St 3 NC DO09:0448-019 5912 Maple St 40 NC DO09:0557-032 6059 Maple St 4 C DO09:0448-016 5914 Maple St 41 NC DO09:0557-033 6061 Maple St 5 C DO09:0448-015 5916-18 Maple St 42 C DO09:0557-034 6065 Maple St 6 C DO09:0448-020 5920 Maple St 43 C DO09:0557-006 6067 Maple St 7 C DO09:0448-021 5922 Maple St 44 NC DO09:0557-035 6069 Maple St 8 C DO09:0446-002 5901-05 Maple St 45 NC DO09:0557-005 6073 Maple St 9 NC DO09:0446-147 5907 Maple St 46 NC DO09:0557-036 2739 N 61 St 10 NC N/A 5909-11 Maple St 47 C DO09:0559-035 6102 Maple St 11 C DO09:0446-145 5913 Maple St 48 C DO09:0559-007 6104 Maple St 12 NC DO09:0446-146 5915 Maple St 49 C DO09:0559-006 6108 Maple St 13 NC DO09:0446-148 5919 Maple St 50 C DO09:0559-036 6110 Maple St 14 C DO09:0446-016 2817-21 N 60 St 51 NC DO09:0557-037 6103 Maple St 15 NC N/A -- N 60 St 52 C DO09:0557-004 6105-07 Maple St 16a NC N/A 6000 Maple St 53 C DO09:0557-038 6109 Maple St 16 C DO09:0559-008 6008 Maple St 54 NC DO09:0557-003 6111 Maple St 17 NC DO09:0559-022 6014 Maple St 55 NC DO09:0557-039 6113 Maple St 18 C DO09:0559-023 6016 Maple St 56 NR DO09:0557-023 6115 Maple St 19 C DO09:0559-024 6020 Maple St 57 C DO09:0557-022 6117-19 Maple St 20 NC DO09:0559-025 6022 Maple St 58 NC DO09:0557-040 6121 Maple St 21 NC DO09:0559-026 6026 Maple St 59 C DO09:0559-004 6200-08 Maple St 22 NC DO09:0559-027 6052 Maple St 60 C DO09:0559-037 6212-14 Maple St 23 NC DO09:0559-028 6054 Maple St 61 C DO09:0559-003 6220 Maple St 24 C DO09:0559-029 6056-58 Maple St 62 NC DO09:0557-041 6201 Maple St 25 NC DO09:0559-030 6060-62 Maple St 63 C DO09:0557-042 6205-07 Maple St 26 C DO09:0559-031 6064 Maple St 64 NC DO09:0557-043 6209 Maple St 27 C DO09:0559-032 6066 Maple St 65 C DO09:0557-002 6223 Maple St 28 C DO09:0559-033 6068 Maple St 66 C DO09:0559-005 6112-18 Military Av 29 NC DO09:0559-034 6070 Maple St 67 C DO09:0559-038 6120 Military Av 30 NC DO09:0557-024 6001-03 Maple St 68 C DO09:0559-017 6124 Military Av 31 NC DO09:0557-025 6005-07 Maple St 69 NC DO09:0559-018 6130 Military Av 32 C DO09:0557-026 6009-11 Maple St 70 NC N/A 2918 N 60 St 33 C DO09:0557-027 6013 Maple St 71 C DO09:0559-039 2922 N 61 St 34 C DO09:0557-028 6015 Maple St 72 C DO09:0559-040 2919-25 N 61 St 35 C DO09:0557-008 6023 Maple St C 41 36 C DO09:0557-029 6051 Maple St NR 1 37 C DO09:0557-030 6053 Maple St NC 31
54 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
8. Statement of Significance
Applicable National Register Criteria Areas of Significance (Mark “X” in one or more boxes for the criteria qualifying the (Enter categories from instructions.) property for National Register listing.) COMMERCE
COMMUNITY PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT X A Property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to ARCHITECTURE the broad patterns of our history. B Property is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. X C Property embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or represents the work of a master, or possesses high Period of Significance
artistic values, or represents a significant circa 1890-1957 and distinguishable entity whose components lack individual distinction. D Property has yielded, or is likely to yield information important in prehistory or Significant Dates history. 1917: Benson annexed into City of Omaha 1948: Streetcar service ends in Benson Criteria Considerations 1957: Radial Highway opened (Mark “X” in all the boxes that apply.) Significant Person
(Complete if Criterion B is marked above.) Property is: N/A A Owned by a religious institution or used
for religious purposes. B Removed from its original location. Cultural Affiliation C A birthplace or a grave. N/A D A cemetery. A reconstructed building, object, or E structure. F A commemorative property. Architect/Builder G Less than 50 years of age or achieved Guth, Joseph P. significance within the past 50 years. Prin and Nelson Texaco Co. Nye, Charles M. Simon, Louis (Work Projects Administration)
55 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Statement of Significance Summary Paragraph (Provide a summary paragraph that includes level of significance, applicable criteria, justification for the period of significance, and any applicable criteria considerations.)
The Benson Commercial Historic District in Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska is locally significant under the “Streetcar-Era Commercial Development in Omaha, Nebraska (1868-1955)” cover document.76 This district is an extant example of the End-of-Line Commercial Cluster property type defined within the cover document.77 The district is eligible under Criterion A in the areas of Commerce and Community Planning & Development. The district is also eligible under Criterion C in the area of Architecture for excellent examples of the architecture found at terminal points of the streetcar network. The Benson Commercial Historic District developed in association with the independent municipality of Benson established by Erastus Benson in 1887. As part of a scheme to lure buyers to the area, Erastus Benson immediately formed the Benson Motor Railway Company to provide streetcar service which would connect the young development with Omaha. Streetcar service commenced in 1887 and served the district for sixty-one years. During this period, the commercial resources concentrated along Maple Street between North 59th and North 63rd streets provided a variety of goods and services to support the surrounding residential development. The period of significance is circa 1890, capturing the approximate construction date of the earliest extant building and ends in 1957, the year the Radial Highway opened. This period captures includes 1917, when the City of Omaha annexed Benson, and 1948 when the Benson streetcar line ceased operation. The period between 1948 and 1957 represents commercial development during the transition from streetcar era to automobile era with the opening of the highway.
Narrative Statement of Significance (Provide at least one paragraph for each area of significance.)
Founding of Benson In 1857, the United States government built Military Road northwest of Omaha to transport goods to western forts.78 The route extended northwest from north 45th and Grant streets to North 72nd Street and the current Benson Park in the vicinity of Ames Avenue/Ames Circle.79 Although originally constructed for military use, westward moving settlers quickly began to use the route as well. This traffic attracted early settlers to the area and by 1887 between twenty-five and thirty people lived along Military Road.80 Recognizing the potential future value of property along the route, Iowan Erastus A. Benson (1854-1932) purchased a nine-hundred-acre farm approximately nine miles northwest of Omaha that year.81 Benson immediately platted the land for residential development on March 4, 1887. By the end of the year, Benson
76 Lenhausen & Loughlin, “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha,” F36-F40. 77 Lenhausen & Loughlin, “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha,” F36-F40. 78 Omaha Landmarks Heritage Preservation Commission (OLHPC), “A Comprehensive Program for Historic Preservation in Omaha,” (Omaha, NE: 1980), 46. Military Road is now known as Military Avenue. 79 Mead and Hunt, “Reconnaissance Survey of Selected Neighborhoods in Omaha, Nebraska,” (April 2002): 10. 80 OLHPC, “A Comprehensive Program,” 46. 81 Richard Orr, O&CB: Streetcars of Omaha and Council Bluffs (Omaha: R. Orr, 1996), 50. 56 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
and his partners reported one hundred houses were contracted to be built. However, national economic conditions hampered development during the following years. What little development occurred in Benson was centered on Mayne Street, now Maple Street, the primary transportation corridor.
Streetcar Arrival and Service Prior to platting the land, Erastus Benson instantly recognized the need for transportation to and from his development. A transportation link between Benson and Omaha was vital to his new town’s success. To fulfill this need and attract prospective home buyers, Benson planned a streetcar line to connect his eponymous town and Omaha to the southeast. Rather than embroil himself in the chaotic competition between streetcar companies in Omaha, Benson and associates C.A.E. Mayne and W.L. McCague formed the Benson Motor Railway Company. The project was ambitious from the beginning. Approval to construct the line was received on March 4, 1887, and service between the town of Benson and Omaha was expected to commence in May of that year however service did not begin until that fall.82
The new streetcar route ran from North 40th and Cuming streets northwest to North 63rd and Maple streets, linking the western Omaha city limits to the future commercial core of Benson (Figures 3 & 9). Unlike the streetcar lines in Omaha whose power modes were limited by city-granted franchises, the Benson Motor Railway Company faced no restrictions. When service began, the line ran on steam power. However, this novel power mode was short lived. Area farmers opposed the operation, claiming the loud steam engine frightened livestock.83 Within thirty days the route converted to horse-drawn streetcars.84
Approximately four years later, Erastus Benson joined a second streetcar venture in a bid to enhance the town of Benson. Chicago businessmen platted the Halcyon Heights residential subdivision south of Benson circa 1891. The subdivision encompassed land bound by North 60th and North 66th streets to the east and west, and Maple and Grant streets to the north and south.85 Together, Erastus Benson and the Halcyon Heights Company established the Benson and Halcyon Heights Railway Company and extended streetcar service west to 66th Street.86 This venture was short-lived. It remained unprofitable throughout its lifespan and in 1890 merged with the Omaha Street Railway Company.87 This merger extended Benson line service into downtown Omaha and the surrounding areas, and the improved service consequently encouraged Omaha workers to reside in Benson. As economic conditions and streetcar transportation improved, development recommenced in Benson.
82 Dorothy R. Mutz, Benson: A Residential Suburban Community (Master’s Thesis, Omaha, NE: University of Omaha, 1935) 8; BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 12-13; Orr, O&CB, 51. 83 OLHPC, “A Comprehensive Program,” 46. 84 Orr, O&CB, 58. 85 Maple Street was still named Mayne Street at this time. 86 Mead and Hunt, “Reconnaissance Survey of Selected Neighborhoods in Omaha, Nebraska,” 12; Orr, O&CB, 58. 87 Lenhausen & Loughlin, “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha,” E12. 57 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Streetcar Era Development in Benson Late-Nineteenth Century Through Annexation Streetcar transportation played a crucial role in establishing Benson as a recreational and commercial hub for Omaha and the surrounding area. Following the streetcar company merger in 1890, two significant recreational facilities were constructed. These facilities were easily reached using the streetcar system and consequently drew patrons from throughout the area. In 1895, George Tietz opened Teitz Park, which included a beer garden and dance hall. Upon Tiezt’s death in 1900, Fred Krug acquired the park and renamed it after himself. Krug expanded park amenities, adding picnic grounds, a swimming beach, and amusement rides.88 The Omaha Country Club, Nebraska’s first country club, was established in 1899 in an area generally bound by North 52nd, Maple, North 56th, and Blondo streets.89 The Omaha Country Club patrons were typically Omahans of the upper and wealthy classes, many of whom viewed Benson as a “country” escape from the noise and activity of downtown Omaha. Many club members built summer homes near the country club, adding to residential growth in Benson which in turn supported commercial activity.90
By 1897, the Benson population reached two hundred with residents all living within blocks of Maple Street.91 Benson incorporated as a village that year and within three years the population more than doubled to five hundred. Multiple subsequent population growth spurts followed as Benson became the commercial center for residents and surrounding farmers. By 1905, twenty-five businesses were in the commercial center on Maple Street and Military Avenue.92 Typical of early twentieth century commercial resources, these businesses catered to the basic needs and wants of area customers and included, among others, a general store, drug store, meat and butcher shops, a bakery, and dry goods stores.93 The Schneider-Leach Auto Service, one of the first automobile related business in Benson, was also established by this time.94 By 1907, the population soared to fifteen hundred, and Benson boasted, among other things, paved streets and sidewalks, a water plant, and its own fire department. As a result, Benson incorporated as a city. In the years immediately following incorporation as a city, the Benson population again increased dramatically, rising to over 3,100 by 1910. At this time, commercial and civic development remained concentrated at the intersection of Maple Street and Military Avenue from where
88 “Krug Park’s New Features.” Omaha Daily Bee (18 June 1905):4. 89 Mead and Hunt, “Reconnaissance Survey of Selected Neighborhoods in Omaha, Nebraska, 16. In 1926 the County Club land was sold and later redeveloped into a residential neighborhood. This neighborhood is NRHP listed as the Country Club Historic District. 90 Lynn Meyer and Geoff Tripp, “Country Club Historic District” National Register of Historic Places Registration Form, Omaha, NE, 2004, 8.1 91 Maple Street was named Mayne Street by this time. 92 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 44. 93 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 44. 94 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 44. 58 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
it spread east and west along Maple Street between North 59th and 63rd Streets, and north along Military Avenue to approximately Binney Street (Figure 3). Prominent buildings included the International Order of the Oddfellows hall at 6073 Maple Street, an auditorium at Maple and North 62nd streets, the Benson School at Maple and North 63rd streets, and one bank at Military Avenue and Binney Street (6124 Military Avenue). Most resources within this area were frame construction with narrow, rectangular plans and closely fronted the street.
While Benson continued to expand, the neighboring city of Omaha was quickly outgrowing its limits. As early as the 1890s, outlying communities such as Benson and South Omaha were considered for annexation. In anticipation of annexation and fearing Omaha may not complete improvements in Benson, residents and the Benson City government sought to complete a number of their own. In 1915, the city contracted with architect Charles M. Nye and the Rasmussen Construction Company to build a new combined city hall and fire barn at 6008 Maple Street.95 Other proposals included the repaving of Maple Street, and new water fountains and lighting on Maple Street and Military Avenue to improve the business district.96
The year 1917 was an important year for Benson. The population reached five thousand residents, making it one of the largest cities in Nebraska, and the new city hall and fire barn, under construction since 1915, was finally completed in June.97 Although the Benson city government and residents opposed the forced annexation of Benson, Omaha passed the resolution to annex the city on May 10, 1917, and on June 7, Benson ceased to be an independent city.98
Early Twentieth Century Development: Annexation Through the Great Depression Benson continued to expand at a steady, though relatively slow, rate following annexation. Although most early commercial resources in Benson were frame construction, following a 1911 fire which destroyed the Eagles organization hall and the entire south side of the block between 62nd and 63rd streets, Benson passed an ordinance that required buildings constructed on Maple Street east of North 63rd Street and on Military Avenue between North 60th and Wirt streets to be masonry construction.99 The ordinance heavily influenced development in the Benson commercial core during the following years, and by 1918 most resources within this area were brick (Figure 4). Although some were constructed on empty lots, most replaced earlier frame structures. The 1918 city directory indicates businesses present at the time were
95 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 19; building cornerstone. 96 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 20. It is currently unclear if or when these improvements were completed. No known physical evidence remains. 97 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 19. 98 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 19; Orr, O&CB, 170. 99 BCBC, Benson, Nebraska, 18 & 25.
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Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
typical of early twentieth century commercial centers. Grocers, tailors, dry goods stores, and the Benson Post Office (6119) occupied buildings on Maple Street while the Olson-Wiley Motor Co. (6118) and additional clothing stores were located on Military Avenue.100
The Benson population slowly continued to grow. By 1920, the Benson population was 5,175, an increase of only 3.4 percent since 1917.101 Although population growth slowed in the previous decade, a population boom of over 100 percent between 1920 and 1930 spurred commercial development in Benson within this decade.102 As the population increased, growth within Benson’s commercial center continued into the 1920s. Between 1920 and 1930, twenty-four new businesses were constructed in the Benson Commercial Historic District. As before, these business housed typical neighborhood goods and services including doctors, dry goods stores, grocers, and clothing shops.103 In contrast, only seven buildings were constructed in the commercial core in the 1930s.104 Of these seven, one building, the Benson Medical Center (6220 Maple) served non-commercial functions while the others housed typical neighborhood businesses.
Rise of Automobile Resources and the End of the Streetcar Era This pattern of commercial growth and development within the Benson Commercial Historic District continued in the 1940s as resources nationwide were devoted to efforts associated with World War II. Between 1940 and 1950, only six new buildings were constructed within the district. Two were devoted to civic functions. A new Moderne post office in 1940 at 6223 Maple Street served Benson and surrounding areas, and the Benson Library (2918 N. 60th Street) was built two years later.105 One building, 6065 Maple Street, housed a general merchandise store, and the remaining three were associated with the automobile. The Paden Body & Paint Co./E&E Distribution Co. (2922 N. 61st Street) and a large auto sales and storage facility (6120 Military Avenue) were built along Military Avenue in the north half of the district while the Arnold Sundshoe Filling Station was constructed on a prominent lot at 6023 Maple Street.106
Auto-related resources were constructed within the city of Benson as early as 1907. However, few were constructed within the Benson Commercial Historic District until the automobile began to rise in
100 A new post office was constructed in 1940 at 6223 Maple Street. This reference refers the earlier location. 101 US Census records. 102 The US Census records the 1930 population of Benson as 11,266. 103 1920 and 1925 Omaha City Directories. 104 Extant buildings within the district boundary. 105 The library is not within the district boundaries due to integrity concerns. 106 The original occupant of the 6120 Military Avenue facility is currently unknown. 1962 Sanborn Maps indicate this facility was built in two sections dating to 1947 and 1958, however the sections cannot be identified in available maps.
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Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
popularity during the 1920s and onward. The construction of auto-related resources within the Benson Commercial Historic District followed trends typically associated with streetcar era commercial clusters in Omaha.107 While most garages or auto sales businesses were established on empty lots on the fringes of the commercial core, some were built on prominent lots along the main transportation corridor, which was also in use for streetcar service. The Arnold Sundshoe Filling Station, for example, was built on several lots fronting Maple Street. This location was ideal because it was easily seen and accessible by motorists traveling along the main transportation corridor in Benson.
The increasing number of automobile resources in the commercial core of Benson coincided with significant changes in streetcar service city-wide. Following the initial popularity of automobiles beginning in the 1920s and the introduction of bus service in 1925, the streetcar system faced increasingly difficult competition from alternative transportation modes.108 Streetcar ridership and income plummeted while traffic movement became strained as Omaha’s street infrastructure was stretched to its limits with streetcars, buses, and automobiles using the same thoroughfares. Conditions only worsened in the 1930s. To improve service and recoup profit losses the O&CB Railway began to convert many of its streetcar lines to bus routes in addition to creating wholly new bus routes. This pattern continued until the outbreak of World War II when wartime restrictions and the reallocation of resources forced the company to abandon its bus conversions and encourage streetcar travel instead. The streetcar system experienced a brief respite during the war; however, after its conclusion in 1945, the conversion and abandonment of streetcar lines resumed. Streetcar service in Benson continued for three years before it too was terminated in 1948.
When construction of the Northwest Radial Highway began one block east and two blocks north of the district in the 1950s, it reinforced the presence of the automobile in Benson as an increasingly popular transportation method for the area as streetcar service city wide was significantly reduced and ultimately terminated in 1955 (Figure 2). By the mid-1950s, development within the commercial core was largely complete. Between 1950 and 1960 only three new buildings were constructed within the nominated district. All were completed around 1950 and included a Safeway Store at 5908 Maple Street, an ice cream shop at 6069 Maple Street, and a cleaners at 2919 North 61st Street.109 Two additional buildings were constructed post-1950, but these are located outside the boundaries of the nominated district. A dentist office at the corner of Maple and North 63rd street (2746 North 63rd Street) and a small commercial building at 6035 Binney Street were constructed circa 1951 and circa 1954, respectively. Similarly, a number of resources have alterations that occurred during the 1950s, demonstrating architectural changes due to continued commercial significance. Few resources were constructed in the Benson commercial
107 Lenhausen & Loughlin, “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha,” E30-E33. 108 Information in this paragraph from Lenhausen & Loughlin, “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha,” E22- E29. 109 Later combined with 2925 North 61st Street. 61 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
core after 1960 and those that were built reflected the widespread use of the automobile rather than public transport and include one service station, an auto shop, and multiple asphalt surface parking lots. Conclusion The Benson Commercial Historic District in Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska is locally significant under the “Streetcar-Era Commercial Development in Omaha, Nebraska” cover document as an extant example of the End-of-Line Commercial District subtype.110 The district is located at the terminal end of a documented historic streetcar route, the Benson Line. Most buildings are pedestrian oriented, primarily non-auto related, and concentrated on the streets on which the streetcar ran. The district retains sufficient integrity to communicate its period of significance and associations with streetcar era commercial development in Omaha. The period of significance is circa 1890, capturing the approximate construction date of the earliest extant buildings, through 1957, the year the Northwest Radial Highway was completed, and commercial development began to shift away from the historic core.
The nominated district is locally significant under Criterion A in the area of Community Planning & Development for its association with the development of the City of Omaha. Erastus Benson platted Benson in 1887 and immediately initiated the construction of a streetcar line to entice and attract new residents. This streetcar line directly influenced the pattern in which Benson developed with commercial and civic resources concentrated along the streetcar line where they could be easily accessed and benefit from traffic. As an End-of-Line commercial cluster, the district documents a historic terminal point of the streetcar system as well as documents where Omaha expanded through annexation during the early twentieth century. Efficient, reliable streetcar transportation connected the outlying municipality to Omaha from the beginning and this link made Benson a logical selection for annexation in 1917.
The Benson Commercial Historic District is locally significant under Criterion A in the area of Commerce. The commercial resources within the district provided a variety of goods and services to support the surrounding residential community. Although occupants changed over time, the commercial resources continued to house businesses which catered to the nearby residents and illustrate the evolution of commerce in the area during the first half of the twentieth century. While streetcar service to Benson ended in 1948, the district remained the primary commercial hub of the area until 1957 when the completion of the Northwest Radial Highway diverted traffic from Maple Street and triggered the development of new commercial clusters elsewhere.
The district also is locally significant under Criterion C in the area of Architecture. Buildings such as the Masonic Hall and the Benson Post Office as well as smaller commercial blocks such as the Howard Building highlight the architectural integrity and diversity of the district and are good representations of the architecture constructed at the terminal ends of the Omaha streetcar network.
110 Lenhausen & Loughlin, “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha,” F39-F40. 62 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
9. Major Bibliographic References Bibliography (Insert bibliography here – cite the books, articles and other sources used in preparing this form.)
Alley, Poyner, Macchietto Architecture and Restoration Exchange Omaha. “Omaha’s Historic Streetcar System.” Intensive Level Survey Report. 2017 [digitized online] available from the Internet Archive https://archive.org/details/2017OmahaHistoricStreetcarILSFinalReportReduced (accessed 24 October 2019).
Baist’s Real Estate Atlas of Surveys of Omaha, Neb. 1910, 1918. Available at Omaha Public Library, W. Dale Clark Main Branch, Genealogy Room, Online Database.
Benson Centennial Book Committee. Benson, Nebraska: From Buffalo Pasture to City. Marceline, MO: Walsworth Publishing Company, 1988.
Douglas County Assessor Office, Digital Property Records.
Douglas County Engineer, Land Survey Records.
Douglas County Historical Society. Benson Historical Society Photograph Collection. http://www.douglascohistory.org/photographs/
The Durham Museum. Photography Collections. Bostwick-Frohardt Collection, John Savage Collection. William Wentworth Collection. http://durhammuseum.contentdm.oclc.org/
Jansen, Christina. “Olson’s Market.” National Register of Historic Places Registration Form, Alley Poyner Machhietto Architecture, Omaha, NE, 2013
Lenhausen, Emily and Amanda Loughlin (Rosin Preservation, LLC). “Streetcar-era Commercial Development in Omaha, Nebraska (1868-1960).” National Register of Historic Places Multiple Property Documentation Form (May 2020).
Mead & Hunt, Inca. “Reconnaissance Survey of Selected Neighborhoods in Omaha, Nebraska.” April 2002.
Meyer, Lynn and Geoff Tripp. “Country Club Historic District.” National Register of Historic Places Registration Form. Omaha, NE, 2004.
Mutz, Dorothy Ruth. Benson: A Residential Community. Masters Thesis, Municipal University of Omaha, Department of Sociology, 1935. Available at Omaha Public Library, W. Dale Clark Main Branch.
Omaha & Council Bluffs Street Railway. Map of Omaha Street Car and Bus System, O&CB, ca. 1941. Omaha Public Library, “Frank F. Canlon Collection,” Vertical File, Folder 1, Local History Reference Room.
Omaha Directory Company. Omaha City Directory. Omaha, Nebraska: 1918.
Omaha Landmarks Heritage Preservation Commission. “A Comprehensive Program for Historic Preservation in Omaha.” 1980.
Orr, Richard. O&CB: Streetcars of Omaha and Council Bluffs. Omaha: R. Orr, 1996.
R.L. Polk & Co. Omaha City Directory. Omaha, Nebraska: 1920-1951
Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps. Digitized at the Library of Congress. https://www.loca.gov/collections/sanborn- maps/?fa=location:nebraska%7Clocation:omaha
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Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Previous documentation on file (NPS): Primary location of additional data: preliminary determination of individual listing (36 CFR 67 has been requested) X State Historic Preservation Office previously listed in the National Register Other State agency previously determined eligible by the National Register Federal agency designated a National Historic Landmark Local government recorded by Historic American Buildings Survey # University recorded by Historic American Engineering Record # Other (Name of repository) recorded by Historic American Landscape Survey #
Historic Resources Survey Number (if assigned): DO09-HD23 10. Geographical Data
Acreage of property 13.2 acres USGS Quadrangle Irvington, NE Latitude/Longitude Coordinates (See Figure 10) Datum if other than WGS84: A. Latitude 41.285427 Longitude -96.003531 B. Latitude 41.284523 Longitude -96.003528 C. Latitude 41.284549 Longitude -96.009573 D. Latitude 41.285455 Longitude -96.0095669 E. Latitude 41.285450 Longitude -96.008315 F. Latitude 41.285890 Longitude -96.008804 G. Latitude 41.285900 Longitude -96.006735 H. Latitude 41.285440 Longitude -96.006725
Verbal Boundary Description (Describe the boundaries of the property.) The approximately 13.2 acres comprising this historic district generally follow property lines of the associated resources and encompassing parcels west of North 59th Street, north of the east-west alley on the south side of Maple Street, the east side of North 63rd Street, south of the east-west alley behind the north side of Maple Street, and both sides of the 2900 block of North 61st Street between Maple and Binney streets.
Boundary Justification (Explain why the boundaries were selected.) This boundary incorporates the most intact cluster of commercial resources at this intersection where the streetcar line utilized Maple Street on its way to/from Benson and downtown Omaha. Although additional commercial resources exist to the north and east of this cluster, their integrity precludes listing and most post-date the period of significance for the district.
11. Form Prepared By name/title Emily Lenhausen/Historic Preservation Specialist & Amanda Loughlin/National Register Coord. organization Rosin Preservation, LLC date July 2020 street & number 1712 Holmes telephone 816.472.4950 city or town Kansas City state MO zip code 64108 email [email protected] & [email protected]
64 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Additional Documentation Submit the following items with the completed form:
Maps: A USGS map or equivalent (7.5 or 15 minute series) indicating the property's location.
Sketch map for historic districts and properties having large acreage or numerous resources. Key all photographs to map.
Additional items: (Check with the SHPO for any additional items.)
Photographs Submit clear and descriptive photographs. The size of each image must be 1600x1200 pixels (minimum), 3000x2000 preferred, at 300 ppi (pixels per inch) or larger. Key all photographs to the sketch map. Each photograph must be numbered and that number must correspond to the photograph number on the photo log. For simplicity, the name of the photographer, photo date, etc. may be listed once on the photograph log and doesn’t need to be labeled on every photograph.
Photo Log
Name of Property Benson Commercial Historic District
City or Vicinity Omaha County Douglas State Nebraska
Photographer Brad Finch Date Photographed July 1, 2020
Description of Photograph(s) and number; include description of view indicating direction of camera.
See Figure 11 for key plan.
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01 of 15. 5900 block of Maple Street, view NW.
02 of 15. 5900 block of Maple Street, Masonic Temple, view S. 66 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
03 of 15. 5900 block of Maple Street, view NE.
04 of 15. 6000 block of Maple Street, view NW. 67 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
05 of 15. 6000 block of Maple Street, view SE.
06 of 15. 6000 block of Maple Street, view SW. 68 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
07 of 15. 6000 block of Maple Street, view NE.
08 of 15. 6100 block of Maple Street, view NW. 69 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
09 of 15. 6100 block of Maple Street, view E.
10 of 15. 6200 block of Maple Street, view SE. 70 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
11 of 15. 6200 block of Maple Street, view SE.
12 of 15. 6200 block of Maple Street, view NE. 71 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
13 of 15. 6100 block of Military Avenue, view SW.
14 of 15. 6100 block of Military Avenue, view SE. 72 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
15 of 15. 2900 block of North 61st Street, view S.
Paperwork Reduction Act Statement: This information is being collected for applications to the National Register of Historic Places to nominate properties for listing or determine eligibility for listing, to list properties, and to amend existing listings. Response to this request is required to obtain a benefit in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended (16 U.S.CA.460 et seq.). Estimated Burden Statement: Public reporting burden for this form is estimated to average 100 hours per response including time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining data, and completing and reviewing the form. Direct comments regarding this burden estimate or any aspect of this form to the Office of Planning and Performance Management. U.S. Dept. of the Interior, 1849 CA. Street, NW, Washington, DCA. 73 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018
Benson Commercial Historic District Douglas County, Nebraska Name of Property County and State
Figure 1. Contextual map, showing location of Benson Commercial Historic District in relation to Omaha. Base map from Google.
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Figure 2. District map, boundary in red. Base map from Google Earth.
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Figure 3. Snippet of the 1910 Baist Real Estate Map, sheet 29R. Streetcar route is shown by dash-dot line heading west on Maple Street. District boundary added.
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Figure 4. 1918 Sanborn Map, combined sheets. District boundary in red.
Figure 5. 1962 Sanborn Map, combined sheets. District boundary in red.
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Figure 6. Maple (Mayne Street) view east, ca. 1913. John Savage Collection, Durham Museum.
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Figure 7. Maple Street at Military Avenue, view east, ca. 1930 vs. 2020. Homer O. Frohardt Collection, Durham Museum.
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Figure 8. Maple Street at Military Avenue, view east, 1965 vs. 2020. Robert Paskach Collection, Durham Museum.
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Figure 9. Google Earth image, showing Benson Line (bold line) from its eastern starting point at 38th & Cuming to its western point at Military Avenue/Maple & 65th Street. The Benson Commercial Historic District is within the bold rectangle along the line.
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Figure 10. Boundary map. Base map from Google Earth, July 2019 image.
Datum: WGS84 A. Latitude 41.285427 Longitude -96.003531 B. Latitude 41.284523 Longitude -96.003528 C. Latitude 41.284549 Longitude -96.009573 D. Latitude 41.285455 Longitude -96.0095669 E. Latitude 41.285450 Longitude -96.008315 F. Latitude 41.285890 Longitude -96.008804 G. Latitude 41.285900 Longitude -96.006735 H. Latitude 41.285440 Longitude -96.006725
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Figure 11. Photo key plan. Base map from Douglas County, Nebraska Assessor GIS.
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Figure 12. Map of Contributing (C ) and non-contributing (NC) resources, east half of district. Base map from Google Earth.
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Figure 13. Map of Contributing (C) and non-contributing (NC) resources, west half of district. Base map from Google Earth.
85