Built 1872 Opened 1872 | NRHP Reference # 79001451 Added to NRHP 13 March 1979 | |
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Location 1517 18th St Central City, Nebraska Architectural style Western false front architecture | ||
The Patterson Law Office is located in Central City, Nebraska. It is a false-front building of frame construction built in 1872. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places; its historical significance derives from its age, its architectural design, and its association with John Patterson and with author-photographer Wright Morris.
Contents
Patterson law offices p a felonies and misdemeanors
History and description
The Patterson Law Office was built in the same year as John Patterson, a native of Ireland, came to Lone Tree (now Central City), Nebraska. Patterson built a law practice in Merrick County housed in this building. He was a well-known trlal lawyer and county attorney, played an important role in the development of Central City and Merrick County, and served as county superintendent of schools.
The law office is a one story, false-fronted building with gable roof. It rests on a stone foundation and exhibits Greek Revival elements in the door, window, pilaster and cornice detailing. It has two rooms lined with wainscot paneling.
The building is historically significant for several reasons. It is one of the earliest known false-frame commercial buildings in Nebraska predating the majority of 19th century commercial buildings in Nebraska by nearly 20 years. It is associated with a significant figure, John Patterson, in the development of Central City and Merrick County. It also has relationships to Wright Morris appearing in his literary works.