The cost they found would be about forty-eight hundred dollars, and there was a valuation in the district so that the limit of a bond issue was fourteen hundred dollars. The matter was finally solved by the issuance of warrants to make up the amount, and these were sold by John A. Orr.

The building was of frame, and veneered with brick. From the beginning the schools of Scottsbluff have been crowded to the limit of possible attention.

Among the early residences of Scottsbluff were those of Robert G. Walsh, who moved over from Gering ; Wilse Earnest, who moved in from the Snake creek ranch ; E. T. Westervelt, Harvey Walker and the Harrisons. In North Scottsbluff, Frank Smith, G. L. Shumway and L. L. Raymond were the first.

The first real estate firm was Wright, Orr & Howard -- William H. Wright, John A. Orr, and T. M. Howard. They also wrote the first insurance, both fire and life, that was written here. When Mr. Wright died, the firm continued as Orr & Howard. Later Mr. Howard passed on, and John A. Orr still continues the business in 1921. This veteran of the valley and city has seen many of his dreams come true.

The first contractors and builders were Winfield Evans and Charles E. Dooley. The elder

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Mr. Andrews did some carpenter work, as did also Andy McClenahan. Charles H. Simmons also used the saw and hammer to a limited extent, while later his sons have built many fine houses in the city.