Preserving the past

In 1928, the red brick building, located at the intersection of Main and Nebraska streets, in Clearwater, opened as Contois Bros. Service Station.

An early advertisement for the premises lured customers with the promise of "a free box of chocolates for each customer that fills their gas tank, at our new service station." In all capital letters, and off center, the ad concludes with "TODAY."

The modern filling station featured a ladies restroom and shower baths for both men and women, with hot and cold water.

Ninety-five years after opening for business along Highway 108, the building still maintains its art deco charm on the outside.

A new entryway and windows offer a view for watching business carry on, as usual, on Main Street.

Inside, the transformation shows the year-long progress of the Clearwater Historical Society, a group of local residents who gave a breath of new life to the building, saving it from the wrecking ball.

On May 27, the Clearwater Museum opened its doors, welcoming its first guests to look at school and community memorabilia.

"It's wonderful," said Janice Bolling, who attended the soft opening with several family members.

The museum features multiple displays, covering various facets of Clearwater's history.

The first display inside the original front door includes tidbits about former businesses in town, including the theater, garages and eating establishments.

Deb Bolling, who serves on the historical society, said the group received a lot of compliments on the building renovation.

"We still need to add to the town's history section of the museum, so all donations are encouraged and welcome," Deb Bolling said.

An early telephone, complete with telephone book from the days of the party line, hangs on a wall.

Information on Clearwater's Big Rodeo and archaeological artifacts from near the Elkhorn River fill a display case.

A big draw: school memorabilia.

Benita Beutler, who sits on the historical society board, said, "It was so good to see the alumni who had come for the banquet reminisce when they viewed the school displays.

The museum showcases the history of Clearwater Public School, complete with a base drum skin, athletic and activities trophies, cheerleading and athletic uniforms, letter jacket, yearbooks, band major uniform and the Cardinal mascot.

Historical society member Kathy Patras said there was a good turnout for the first day.

"It was great connecting with people about the memories of Clearwater, the school, in the building that we remodeled," she said.

Multiple comments were received about how the remodeled building draws attention to Main Street.

Historical society president Carla Jacob said she received several comments about the efforts to save the old structure.

"I heard, '(I'm) so glad we saved that old building. It's well built and was worth it,'" Jacob said.

Historical society treasurer Linda Hankla said the museum will be searching for additional business histories and photos. The group is searching for a photo of the building when built.

To learn more about the museum, make a donation or tour the facility, contact any historical society member, including Jacob, Bolling, Beutler, Patras, Hankla or LuAnn Schindler.