In 1916, there were less than 500 people in the place, but, in 1917, with the erection of the factory, the work was started on Webster avenue and within that time and this that street represents thousands of dollars in improvements and presents the appearance of a larger city with its two-story modern and fireproof business houses, constructed for the most part of fire brick.

Sixty-four businesses are represented at the present time, among them being three banks with combined resources of $1,303,263.20.

Extensive civic improvements have been made in that period. A $78,000 water system started in 1916, and extended in 1919. draws its supply from a well near the city. The water is pure and the system is fed by underground springs.

A sewerage system estimated at $44,600 was completed last year which makes the city absolutely safe from a standpoint of sanitation. Two miles of cement sidewalks and crossings will be laid within the next few months. A new $225,000 high school already is under the course of construction and will be completed

HISTORY OF WESTERN NEBRASKA

by the opening of the fall term. Electric power is supplied from up the valley, but with the completion of the huge government project below the Pathfinder dam it is thought that current may be taken in charge by the city. The erection of a $75,000 municipal building is but a matter of months, while at the same time modern fire-fighting apparatus also will be installed. The subject of paving had been discussed but is held over for the time being.