Christian Specht Building

The Christian Specht Building is a three-story downtown structure with an ornately detailed cast-iron facade typical of Renaissance Revival design. The building's exterior showcases the decorative metalwork that was prominent in commercial architecture during that era.

The building was designed and constructed in 1884 by the architectural firm Mendelssohn, Fisher and Lawrie. It gained official recognition nearly a century later when added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

The facade was manufactured locally by skilled metal workers who shaped and assembled its ornate details. Visitors can observe the craftsmanship in the cast-iron decoration, which demonstrates the technical abilities of 19th-century artisans.

The building now serves as loft apartments, so the cast-iron facade can be viewed and photographed from the street. Interior access is not available to the public since it houses residential units.

This is the only structure in Nebraska that retains an original cast-iron facade from the 19th century. This rarity makes it a singular example of period metalworking techniques in the state.

Location: Nebraska

Architects: Mendelssohn, Fisher and Lawrie

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture, Mediterranean Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 41.25879,-95.93106

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:23