Upon Ogallalas incorporation in 1884, Spruce Street had quickly become designated as the Main Street of Ogallala. Businesses quickly fronted their establishments along this road. Even the government favored this road as the courthouse was built along it in 1888. With much of the livelihood of the village established along Spruce Street, it came as no surprise that the northern portion of this road quickly became the residential section of Ogallalas more affluent residents. Although a few important men of the day preferred the side streets to the East and West, lots quickly began to fill along Spruce Street. Anywhere between bankers, real estate agents, businessmen and Keith County Officials built there homes along the road.Some homes were modest in construction, while some large mansions were built quickly alerting residents that wealth ran in the family. By 1906, these wealthier families began installing private water lines, and placing concrete sidewalks along their gated yards. Trees were planted that would one day form canopies of shade. By 1912, electric lights were placed along Spruce Street as Ogallalas first electric plant was built. Many residents had their homes wired for electricity. Likely, these wealthy families were on the top of the list. Over the years, Spruce Street has changed views as more businesses and churches have built along it, but even today many of these once wealthy homes still line Spruce Street forever displaying their once eloquent life.
Posted on: Thu, 17 Jul 2014 04:10:30 +0000
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