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Famous Residents |
A National Historic Landmark, The George W. Norris Historical Site is located at 709 Norris Avenue. Norris bought the home in 1899 when he moved to McCook and it was his home until he died in 1944. He served 10 years as a United States Representative (1902 to 1912) and 30 years as a United States Senator (1912-1942). His home was donated to the State of Nebraska in 1968. Visitors can tour the restored home, view a videotape presentation, and see exhibits that explore Norris’s life as well as some of his personal memorabilia. Call (308) 345-8484 for more information.
On April 1, 1943, McCook Army Airbase opened 6 miles north of McCook. It was one of eleven Army training bases located in Nebraska during World War II. The McCook base covered 2,100 acres and trained more than 15,000 men before it closed on December 31, 1945. The McCook Army Airbase Historical Society has created a Memorial Garden on the original base grounds. Visitors can also view the Norden Bombsight Vault that was constructed in 1943 and used for training purposes. Every September World War II veterans who trained at the base gather in McCook for a reunion. For additional information about the McCook Army Airbase call (308) 345-6240.
McCook is home to one of the few Frank Lloyd Wright homes found west of the Mississippi River. The Sutton House is a two-story stucco with Wright’s famous prairie-style design. This Frank Lloyd Wright home was built in 1906 at 602 Norris Avenue for Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Sutton. Currently the home is a private residence and unavailable for public tours.
The Museum of the High Plains offers an excellent look into pioneer history and at the growth of McCook. Located at 413 Norris Avenue, the museum has an extensive collection of historic photographs and pioneer artifacts from the 19th century. Exhibits include a Railroad Room, a Political Room, a pioneer drugstore, and agricultural displays. To learn more about The Museum of the High Plains call (308) 345-3661.
McCook Community College was founded in 1926 and became Nebraska’s first two-year educational institution. The college started out with 43 students who met on the second floor of the McCook YMCA until a campus was established in 1935. In 1973 the college joined with two other area community colleges to become Mid-Plains Community College.