Difference between revisions of "George A. Berlinghof (1858-1944), Architect"

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McCook Junior High School (1922), McCook, Nebraska.[[#References|[98]]]
 
McCook Junior High School (1922), McCook, Nebraska.[[#References|[98]]]
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Proposal for enlarging Elks Club building (1923), 13th & P Streets, Lincoln, Nebraska.[[#References|[106]]][[#Notes|[ah]]]
  
 
[[:File:RG3134-AM_19_1w.jpg|'''First Presbyterian Church (1923)''']], NE corner 8th & A, Schuyler, Nebraska.[[#References|[7]]] (CX06-024)  
 
[[:File:RG3134-AM_19_1w.jpg|'''First Presbyterian Church (1923)''']], NE corner 8th & A, Schuyler, Nebraska.[[#References|[7]]] (CX06-024)  
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ag. ''Improvement Bulletin'' notes in 1908 that Berlinghof was preparing plans for a library near the City Hall.  That effort apparently failed.  Seward built a combined Carnegie Library/YMCA/auditorium building on Courthouse Square in 1912-14, from designs by [[Tyler & Brandt, Architects|Tyler & Brandt]].[[#References|[96][97]]]
 
ag. ''Improvement Bulletin'' notes in 1908 that Berlinghof was preparing plans for a library near the City Hall.  That effort apparently failed.  Seward built a combined Carnegie Library/YMCA/auditorium building on Courthouse Square in 1912-14, from designs by [[Tyler & Brandt, Architects|Tyler & Brandt]].[[#References|[96][97]]]
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ah. ''Lincoln Star'' of January 3, 1923 reported on a meeting of the Lincoln Elks Club that unveiled "a large picture in water colors" of a proposal to construct two additional stories atop the existing three-story clubhouse, and to build an eight story annex to the north.  Berlinghof is noted as the architect of the proposal. A photograph of the watercolor rendering shows the unmistakable hand of Berlinghof's oft-used renderer, Francis W. Fitzpatrick.[[#References|[106]]] (Architect Matt Hansen of Lincoln uncovered the photograph as well as the explanatory newspaper material.)
  
 
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''Return to Top of [[#Notes|Notes]]
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105. "Notice to Contractors" soliciting proposals for a new school building, ''(Lincoln) Nebraska State Journal'' (April 7, 1924), 9.
 
105. "Notice to Contractors" soliciting proposals for a new school building, ''(Lincoln) Nebraska State Journal'' (April 7, 1924), 9.
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106. "Elks Planning A Great Structure. Drawing of Proposed Enlarged Building Shown at Tuesday Dinner." ''Lincoln (Nebraska) Star'' (January 3, 1923), 5.
  
 
''Return to Top of [[#References|References]]''
 
''Return to Top of [[#References|References]]''

Revision as of 19:38, 13 September 2021

BerlinghofGeorgeA_1937portrait_RG081w.jpg.
George A. Berlinghof, 1937
Omaha, Beatrice, and Lincoln, Nebraska, 1892-1944


Born in Frankfort-on-the-Main (present-day Germany), July 24, 1858 [11], Berlinghof was educated at the Polytechnic School of Darmstadt, graduating in 1879, two years after the technical school had been elevated to university status by the Grand Duke of Hesse.[b] After graduation, he was Assistant Supervising Architect at the Industrial Exhibition held at Frankfort-am-Main in 1880. Mr. Berlinghof was also a master mason with skills in brick and stone work, and in plastering. In 1881 he established residence in Omaha and was with the firm of Mendelssohn, Fisher & Lawrie, Architects for nine years, during which time he had full charge of the First National Bank. He practiced with Charles E. Bell in Council Bluffs, Iowa and Omaha, then independently in Omaha [15] before he removed, first to Beatrice in 1898 and then in 1905 to Lincoln. In 1907 he was chosen architect for the State of Nebraska.[1] Berlinghof was a principal in several architectural partnerships, perhaps most notably with Ellery Lothrop Davis in the firm of Berlinghof & Davis, Architects. He was married to Anna L. Coutts, of Galt, Canada, and died May 30, 1944, in Lincoln.[1][9][10][11]

This page is a contribution to the publication, Place Makers of Nebraska: The Architects, and to Place Makers of Lincoln, Nebraska. See the format and contents page for details on the compilation and organization of the pages.

File:RG3372-3-50 SFN27375 11.jpg
Beatrice Carnegie Library, 1902-1903. (Nebraska State Historical Society)

Compiled directory listings

Council Bluffs, Iowa, 1889-1892

Omaha, Nebraska, 1891, 1892, 1894 (1891-96 [8:156])

Beatrice, Nebraska, 1898, 1900, 1902, 1904 (1897-1904 [8:156])

Lincoln, Nebraska, 1907-10, 1918, 1920-21, 1922, 1924-43

Educational & Professional Associations

1877-1879: Polytechnicum (architecture, planning, design, rendering), Darmstadt, Germany.[1][11][a]

1879-1882: master mason training, Germany.[1][11]

1880: assistant supervising architect, Industrial Exposition, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.[1][11]

1881-1890: first assistant, Mendelssohn, Fisher & Lawrie, Architects, Omaha, Nebraska.[1][11][f]

1883-1884: draftsman, Dufrene & Mendelssohn, Architects, Omaha, Nebraska.

1885: draftsman, Mendelssohn & Fisher, Architects, Omaha, Nebraska.

1886: draftsman, F. M. Ellis, Architect, Omaha, Nebraska.

1888: draftsman, Mendelssohn, Fisher & Lawrie, Architects, Omaha, Nebraska.

1888-1889: Creedon & Berlinghof, Architects, Omaha, Nebraska.

1889: architect, Omaha, Nebraska.

1890: artist, Omaha, Nebraska.

1890: Bell Creedon & Berlinghof, Architects, Omaha, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa.

1890-1893: Bell & Berlinghof, Architects, Council Bluffs, Iowa and Omaha, Nebraska.[15]

1896: architect, Omaha, Nebraska.

1898-1905: George A. Berlinghof, Architect, Beatrice, Nebraska.[1][11]

1900-1902: Berlinghof & Grant, Architects, Beatrice, Nebraska.

1905-1910: George A. Berlinghof, Architect, Lincoln, Nebraska.[1][25]

1907: Chosen architect for the state board of public lands and buildings, Lincoln, Nebraska.[1]

1910-1917: Berlinghof & Davis, Architects, Lincoln, Nebraska.

1917-1944: George A. Berlinghof, Architect, Lincoln, Nebraska.

DM197807_SF-009_11w.jpg
Nemaha County Courthouse, 1899-1900 (D. Murphy)

Other Associations

1908-1925: repeatedly engaged "consulting architect" F. W. Fitzpatrick of Washington, DC for renderings.

Buildings & Projects

1880s

For most of Berlinghof’s first decade in America he was employed in Omaha, principally by Louis Mendelssohn (1842-____), Architect, another German who arrived there in 1880.

AA&BN 562 18861002 11w.jpg
H. F. Cady House (1886), Nebraska City
917.8238.G76g 22 11w.jpg
First National Bank (ca. 1886), Omaha

H. F. Cady house (1886), Nebraska City, Nebraska.[g]

First National Bank (ca. 1886), SE corner 13th & Farnam, Omaha, Nebraska.[1][h]

1888-1893

During this period Berlinghof was a partner in a string of related firms, including Creedon & Berlinghof, Architects, Bell Creedon & Berlinghof, Architects, and Bell & Berlinghof, Architects, the last two having offices in both Omaha and Council Bluffs, Iowa.[15] While Bell states the Bell & Berlinghof partnership was formed in 1883, it is clear that is reference to the original establishment of Bell’s own practice there. Buildings presently associated with the latter firm are all in Council Bluffs; Berlinghof’s impact on the Bell & Berlinghof buildings there is presently unknown. After dissolution of the partnership, ca. 1894, Berlinghof established his own practice in Beatrice, and then, in 1905, in Lincoln.

1894-1910

When Berlinghof settled in Beatrice in the 1890s, Richard W. Grant was already a well-established local architect. In 1900 the two architects moved into a partnership with an announcement that Grant would establish a Lincoln office and Berlinghof would maintain the Beatrice practice. Berlinghof & Grant may have initially operated from both cities, but by 1901 Beatrice appears to have been their sole base and in 1902 their association ended. During the brief span of the partnership, their joint work included both major and minor projects in Beatrice and beyond, and both men appear to have undertaken independent work as well. See Berlinghof & Grant, Architects for the firm’s work. Berlinghof relocated to Lincoln in 1905 and took an office in the Burr Block.[25][q]

DM201304_438_11w.jpg
Carnegie Library, 1907-1909 (D. Murphy)
File:DM201604 244 21w.jpg
Seward County Courthouse, 1904-1907 (D. Murphy)
DM201604_174_11w.jpg
J. F. Goehner Building, 1908 (D. Murphy)

Nemaha County Courthouse (1899-1900), 1824 N St, Auburn, Nebraska. [1][9][13:69][14][61] (NHO1-085) National Register narrative

Brick business building for N. E. Furlough (1899), Auburn, Nebraska.[62]

A "modern residence" for Peter Berlet (1899), Auburn, Nebraska.[63]

Two-story store and hall for Modern Woodmen (1900), Hanover, Kansas.[64][r]

Two fire-proof wings at Norfolk State Home (1901), Norfolk, Nebraska.[1][50][p]

Frame church for the Mennonite society (1901), Beatrice, Nebraska.[51]

A "modern frame residence" (1901) for J. H. Cooley, Hebron, Nebraska.[52]

Beatrice Carnegie Public Library (1902-1903), 220 N. 5th, Beatrice, Nebraska [1][6][14] (GA03-244) National Register narrative

Thayer County Courthouse (1902-1903), Hebron, Nebraska.[1][2][13:70][19] (TY10-040)

One-story brick bank for G. Rippen (1902), Hallam, Nebraska.[53]

A "modern dwelling" for J. P. Weisel (1902), Fairbury, Nebraska.[54]

Store and lodge building for Narka Building Association (1902), Narka, Kansas.[55]

Dwelling for William Kraemer (1902), Marysville, Kansas.[54]

Electric light and power house (1902), Beatrice, Nebraska.[56]

Grundy County Courthouse (1902-1905), Trenton, Missouri.[1][20]

Lawrence City Library (1903-1904), NW corner 9th & Vermont, Lawrence, Kansas.[1][21]

Chapel (1903), Peru State Normal School, Peru, Nebraska.[1][67][t]

School (1903), Genoa, Nebraska.[82]

School (1904), Beatrice, Nebraska.[83]

Crawford County Courthouse (1904-1905), Denison, Iowa.[1][17]

Oklahoma County Courthouse (1904-1906), Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.[1][22]

Seward County Courthouse (1904-1907), 6th & Main St., Seward, Nebraska.[1][9][13:73][14] (SWO9-093) National Register narrative

Administration Building - Mickey Building (1903-1905), Nebraska Normal School, Kearney, Nebraska. Demolished, 1984.[12][57][85]

Dormitory and power house (1904-1906), Nebraska Normal School, Kearney, Nebraska.[12][57]

New library for Peru State Normal School (1905), Peru, Nebraska.[59][60] (NH09-022)

Dr. A. O. Thomas House (1906), 2222 9th Ave, Kearney, Nebraska.[14] (BFO5-136) National Register narrative

Turner (Turnverein) Hall (1906), Marysville, Kansas.[66]

Hitchcock County Courthouse (1906), Trenton, Nebraska.[68][u]

First National Bank (1906-1907), Ord, Nebraska.[69]

Kearney County Courthouse (1906-1907), Minden, Nebraska.[1][14][65][s] (KN04-001) National Register narrative

Addition to State Penitentiary (before 1907), Lincoln, Nebraska.[1][v]

Storage Building for Dick Bros. (1907), 327-222 S. 8th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[24]

Administration Building (1907-1908), Soldiers and Sailors Home, Milford, Nebraska.[1][72]

Hospital addition at Soldiers and Sailors Home (1907-1908), Grand Island, Nebraska.[1][72]

A fire-proof cottage for girls and one for boys at Beatrice State Home (1907-1909), Beatrice, Nebraska.[1][77]

Fire-proof wing, cottage and storeroom at Hastings state hospital for the insane (1907-1909), Hastings, Nebraska.[1][71][77]

Northeast Branch Carnegie Library (1907-1909), 27th & Orchard, Lincoln, Nebraska.[5][6] (LC13:D10-133)

North Wing - Schellenberger Building (1907, 1909-1911), Nebraska State Normal School Administration Building, Kearney, Nebraska. Demolished, 1984.[70][85]

South Wing - Aldrich Wing (1907, 1911-1912), Nebraska State Normal School Administration Building, Kearney, Nebraska. Demolished, 1984.[85]

Cottage and a brick barn at boys' industrial school (1908-1909), Kearney, Nebraska.[73][77]

J. F. Goehner Building (1908), 444 Seward St, Seward, Nebraska.[14] (SWO9-182)

Evans Laundry (1908), 329 N 12th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[23] (LC13:C09-032)

City Hall (1908), Seward, Nebraska.[96]

Plans for a library (1908), Seward, Nebraska.[97][ag]

Auditorium for the State Fair Association (1908), Lincoln, Nebraska.[27][ae]

Plans for a two-story school building (1908), Deshler, Nebraska.[104]

Plans for a two-story and basement school building (1908), Adams, Nebraska.[104]

Proposal for Nebraska State Historical Society (ca. 1908-1909), 16th & H, Lincoln, Nebraska.[1][4][19][74]

Nebraska Military Academy (for D.B. Haywood) (1909), west of Lincoln, Nebraska.[26][b]

High School (1909), Ord, Nebraska.[75]

High School (1909), Ravenna, Nebraska.[75]

Bank and business building for S. N. Bentley (1909), Ravenna, Nebraska.[76]

Proposal "for extending the third floor of the city hall over the council chamber, including ornamental ceiling...Alternative bids...taken on plastered and steel ceiling" (1909), Lincoln, Nebraska.[78]

Remodel storefront (1909), 1109 O, Lincoln, Nebraska.[42]

St. Wenceslaus Church I (1909-1911), NW corner 3rd & Elm, Bee, Nebraska.[79] (SW02-020)

Thomas Building (1910), 426-432 Seward St, Seward, Nebraska.[14] (SW09-181)

Peru Normal School, Administration Building (1910-1911), Peru, Nebraska.[94][95][af]

Lincoln Commercial Club (1910-1912), 218 N. 11th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska.[80][w]

Chadron Normal School, Administration Building (1910-1911), Chadron State College, Chadron, Nebraska. [28]

Chadron Carnegie Library (1910-16), 507 Bordeaux, Chadron, Nebraska.[6][14] (DW03-091)

1910-1917

In mid-1910, Berlinghof formed a partnership with his young draftsman, Ellery L. Davis, in the firm of Berlinghof & Davis, Architects. The brief partnership was awarded several of the most important early twentieth century commissions in Lincoln. The partners also did independent and semi-independent work, or were the lead architect for the firm on selected buildings during this period. Those attributed to Berlinghof are listed below, but see the Berlinghof & Davis buildings and projects for the firm’s work.

YostHouse.Lincoln.ca1915_1w.jpg
Yost house, 1912 (City of Lincoln)
RG3134-AM 07 1w.jpg
Howard County Courthouse, 1912 (Nebraska State Historical Society)
Image:DoyleHouse.WestElevation.1916_1w.jpg
Doyle house, 1916 (City of Lincoln)
DM197906-9_1w.jpg
German Lutheran Church, 1916-1917 (D. Murphy)
KoopHse 11w.jpg
Koop House, 1915 (Ed Zimmer)

John and Christina Yost house (1912), 1900 S. 25th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[14][44[k]

Greeley County Courthouse (1912-1914), Greeley, Nebraska.[13:82][45][l] (GY02-002) National Register narrative

Howard County Courthouse (1912), St. Paul, Nebraska.[9][46][m] (HW11-038) National Register narrative

Amel H. Koop House (1915), 1401 S. 15th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[14][100] (LC13:D06-294)

Thomas J. Doyle house (1916), 1806 D, Lincoln, Nebraska.[14][47][n]

Deutsche Evangelisch Lutherische Zion Kirche (1916-1917), Marysville, Staplehurst vicinity, Seward County, Nebraska. [14][o] (SW00-052) [Berlinghof attribution] National Register narrative

1917

Rudge & Guenzel Department Store (1917), 1224 N & 141 S. 13th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[16][29][j]

Ashland High School (1917-1919), Ashland, Nebraska.[35,84][ad]

The Rudge & Guenzel project was underway at the time the Berlinghof & Davis partnership collapsed. Both partners worked on the building, as did Gilbert H. Ellsworth, who provided structural engineering and superintendent work. Ellsworth stepped in after Davis departed, and the building permit was issued to Berlinghof & Ellsworth, Architects. Rudge & Guenzel is the only known product of this partnership. Ellsworth subsequently worked for many years as a superintendent of construction for Davis & Wilson; see Gilbert H. Ellsworth (1864-1947), Superintendent for details.

1917-1944

DM197906_SF-038_3w.jpg
Lincoln County Courthouse, 1919-1924 (D. Murphy)
RG3134-AM_19_1w.jpg
First Presbyterian Church, 1923 (Nebraska State Historical Society)
DM201304_391_11w.jpg
Berlinghof Apartments, 1931 (D. Murphy)

Following the demise of the partnership with Davis, Berlinghof again established a solo practice in Lincoln, and maintained it until his death in 1944. He continued to design major public buildings, including courthouses.

St. Paul Community Building (1917), St. Paul, Nebraska.[30][81][x]

Knights of Columbus Building (1917), Greeley, Nebraska.[81][y]

Byron Grade School (1917), Byron, Nebraska.[81][z]

Pollock Auto Co. Garage (1917), Plattsmouth, Nebraska.[81][aa]

Franklin Kindergarten School (1917), Franklin, Nebraska.[81][ab]

Bank for C. E. Boulby (1917), Friend, Nebraska.[81][ac]

George A. & Anna Berlinghof house (1917), 1515-1517 S 21st St, Lincoln, Nebraska. (LC13:D06-0570)

R. O. Stake House (1918), 145 S. 28th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[31]

Alterations, Harry T. Jones House (1918), 135 N Columbia, Seward, Nebraska.[14] (SWO9-074) National Register narrative

H. E. Wood Garage (1918), 1332-1336 P, Lincoln, Nebraska.[32]

Proposal for an eight-story office building (1918), probably 13th & O, Lincoln, Nebraska.[19][d]

LeRoy DeBrown Garage (1919), 1717 O , Lincoln, Nebraska.[33]

F. W. Titler Welding Shop & Residence (1919), 328 S. 10th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[34]

Colfax County Courthouse (1921-1922), SE corner C & E 11th, Schuyler, Nebraska.[13:91][14] (CXO6-001)

Lincoln County Courthouse (1919-1924), SE cor 3rd & Dewey, North Platte, Nebraska.[13:94][14] (LNO6-063)

Luther Hall & Auditorium (1922), NW corner Park & 4th, Hebron, Nebraska.[101] (TY10-071)

Prague Public School (1922), Prague, Nebraska.[36]

Pierce Public School (1922), Pierce, Nebraska.[98]

McCook Junior High School (1922), McCook, Nebraska.[98]

Proposal for enlarging Elks Club building (1923), 13th & P Streets, Lincoln, Nebraska.[106][ah]

First Presbyterian Church (1923), NE corner 8th & A, Schuyler, Nebraska.[7] (CX06-024)

Chris & Ethel Abbott House (1923), Hyannis, Nebraska.[37] (GT02-045)

Franklin High School (1924), Franklin, Nebraska.[88]

Avoca High School (1924), Avoca, Nebraska.[89]

School house for School District 40 (1924), Utica, Nebraska.[105]

Franklin County Courthouse (1924-1926), SE corner 15th & N, Franklin, Nebraska.[13:95][14][90]

Proposal for an apartment house (1925), 21st and Washington, Lincoln, Nebraska.[19][93][c]

Garage of Earl O. Eager (1925), 1325 P Street, Lincoln, Nebraska.[102]

Proposal for a twelve-story office building (ca. 1925-1930), for SE corner of 12th and N, Lincoln, Nebraska.[19][e]

Garland Public School (1926), Garland, Nebraska.[91]

Saint Teresa Elementary School (1926), 616 S. 36th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[99]

Freadrich Bros. Grocery Store (1927), 2025 S. 13th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[38]

Scotia High School (1928), Walnut & Butter, Scotia, Nebraska. (GY05-024)

Freadrich Bros. Grocery Store (1928), NE corner 27th & Vine, Lincoln, Nebraska.[39]

Vance Apartments-Lapaz Apartments (1929), 1000-1004 L & 310 S 10th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[40]

Ong Public School (1929), Ong, Nebraska.[92] (CY09-032)

Charles and Leah Smith House (1930), 2818 S 25th, Lincoln, Nebraska.[86]

Berlinghof Apartments (1931), 2031-2037 Washington St, Lincoln, Nebraska.[41][93][c]

Undated

Proposal for a chateauesque style mansion (n.d.), unknown location.[19]

Proposal for University Place High School (n.d.), University Place, Nebraska.[19]

Proposal for a public building, probably a school (n.d.), unknown location.[19]


Return to Top of Buildings & Projects

Visual Arts

AA&BN_562_18861002_11w.jpg
H. F. Cady House (NSHS)
RG3134-AM_08_1w.jpg
Thayer County Courthouse (NSHS)
RG3134-AM_24_1w.jpg
Office Bldg proposal (NSHS)
RG3134-AM_18_1w.jpg
Mansion proposal (NSHS)
RG3134-AM_06_1w.jpg
Business block proposal (NSHS)

Engraved (pen and ink) perspective of the H. F. Cady House, Nebraska City, Nebraska, for Mendelssohn, Fisher & Lawrie, Architects; 1886, signed.[3]

Watercolor rendering of the Thayer County Courthouse, Hebron, Nebraska, ca. 1902; attributed to Berlinghof.[19][i]

Pencil and watercolor rendering of an eight-story office building, probably 13th & O, Lincoln, Nebraska; 1918, signed.[19][d]

Watercolor rendering of an unidentified chateauesque mansion; undated and unsigned.[19][103][i]

Watercolor rendering of an unidentified, three story, round-arched brick business block; undated and unsigned.[19][i]

Notes

a. Darmstadt Polytechnic, the Technische Hochschule zu Darmstadt. It was founded as a higher trade school in 1836, became a technical school in 1864, and a polytechnical school in 1868. It was elevated to university status by the Grand Duke of Hesse in 1877, including architecture and engineering curricula.[18]

b. Plans on file at Nebraska State Historical Society, Historic Preservation Office.

c. The George A. Berlinghof Manuscript Collection at Nebraska State Historical Society includes a rendering for a two-story, brick and stucco apartment house with a red tile roof, set diagonally on a corner lot. The rendering is signed “Fitzpatrick ‘25” and inscribed “Geo. A. Berlinghof Architect.” F. W. Fitzpatrick had a national practice as a consulting architect and renderer. He prepared watercolor presentation drawings for Berlinghof as early as 1909 and as late as 1925, as well as many watercolor images for Berlinghof & Davis. The 1925 apartment house drawing was published in Lincoln Star on June 28, 1925 as "New Type of Apartment House For Lincoln." The caption describes the project as an 8-unit apartment house for Mrs. Anna Berlinghof, to be built at 21st and Washington Streets in Lincoln. Anna and George Berlinghof built a similar, though less elaborate four-unit apartment house at 21st and Washington in 1931.[19][93]

d. The George A. Berlinghof Manuscript Collection at Nebraska State Historical Society includes a rendering for an eight-story office building, inscribed “Geo. A. Berlinghof—Arch’t--1918.” The setting is a corner parcel which is very narrow on one frontage and much longer on the other street façade. The site is unidentified and the surrounding buildings are depicted in a generic manner, but the proportions of the parcel are characteristic of downtown Lincoln’s main commercial street—O Street—which features 25’x142’ lots in the Original Plat of 1867.

Another perspective drawing--inscribed “Ellery Davis Archt.”--was published in 1918 depicting a proposal for a building of matching height and proportions. The location was identified as the northwest corner of 13thand O streets in downtown Lincoln.[48] Berlinghof and Ellery L. Davis had dissolved their partnership in the preceding year. By 1918 they apparently were competing to design an office building for the prominent corner directly north of the Miller & Paine Department Store, designed by them in partnership. The caption accompanying the published design by Davis explained that the leaseholders on the northwest corner lot held a 99 year lease “with the proviso that a new fireproof building of at least six stories in height…be erected there within a given number of years.”[48]

Five years later in 1923, the lease requirement was met with a six-story bank and office building constructed for National Bank of Commerce. Its architect was Frederick C. Klawiter (1889-1983) of Saint Paul, Minnesota, in association with Davis and Wilson of Lincoln.[49] Klawiter specialized in Neo-classical banking temples, with one-story examples in Highland and Knoxville, Illinois; Gays Mills, Wisconsin; and Minot, North Dakota. Davis and Wilson presumably supplied not only local knowledge and superintendence, but also experience with much taller downtown buildings.[19]

e. The George A. Berlinghof Manuscript Collection at Nebraska State Historical Society includes a rendering for a twelve-story office building, inscribed “Geo. A. Berlinghof, Archt.” The scene includes a portion of the Lincoln Theatre building at 1220 N Street in Lincoln, indicating that the proposal was for the southeast corner of 12th and N. The theatre opened in 1924, so this proposal apparently postdates construction of that building.[19]

f. Omaha City Directory listings (following) give a more detailed, and perhaps more accurate, look at his period in Omaha.

g. The architect of record was Mendelssohn & Fisher, Architects, but Berlinghof was “first assistant” with the firm at the time. He was the delineator of the published drawing, indicating he may have had a hand in the design.[3]; see also references [1][8].

h. The architect of record was Mendelssohn & Lawrie, Architects (see "Mendelssohn & Lawrie," The (Omaha) Herald (January 1, 1887), but Berlinghof was “first assistant” in the firm at the time, and stated that he had “full charge” of this building.[1]; see also reference [8].

i. Two unsigned renderings, one of the Thayer County Courthouse, and the other of a brick business block, generally resemble another in the Berlinghof Collection of a chateauesque mansion, signed with a monogram “GB.” The attribution of the two renderings to Berlinghof is based upon this resemblance.[19]. Ronald H.L.M. Ramsay of Plains Architecture shared a Harvey Ellis pen and ink rendering of a chateauesque mansion by Eckel & Mann, Architects, published in American Architect & Building News of September 20, 1890. Berlinghof's is an exact, reversed copy of the Ellis rendering of the Eckel & Mann design. The "story" remains unknown.[103]

j. It appears the project had contributions from multiple individuals. Kaspar cites several sets of drawings for this building: Berlinghof & Davis sets for 1917 and 1920; G. H. Ellsworth, Architect, tracings for 1917, 1918, and 1920; and Ellery Davis tracings for 1918.[16] The potential attributions are complex. Ellery L. Davis claims design in a list of his early projects in a 1946 A.I.A questionnaire.[43] The City of Lincoln Building Permit #7249, however, lists “Berlinghof & Ellsworth” as the architects, and drawings associated with the permit also bear the name of that new partnership. This suggests the project became Berlinghof’s when the partnership with Davis dissolved.[29] Ellsworth was principally an engineer who later worked for Rudge & Guenzel, and then as a superintendent for Ellery Davis’s subsequent partnership, Davis & Wilson (see Gilbert H. Ellsworth (1864-1947), Superintendent.

k. George Berlinghof’s 1937 application to the State of Nebraska for registration as an architect [11] includes an identification of “J. A. Yost, 1900 South 25th Street” as “Client.” Based on this source, the style, and the materials of the Yost House, an editor (EZ) credits Berlinghof as the lead designer of this building.

l. Local sources indicate that Berlinghof was the lead architect if not the principal designer.[45]

m. Local sources indicate that Berlinghof was the lead architect if not the principal designer.[46]

n. Note the drawings for this house are inscribed “George A. Berlinghof, Arch't,” not "Berlinghof & Davis," as recorded in the building permit.[47]

o. While the National Register correctly lists Berlinghof & Davis as the architect of record, an editor (DM) credits Berlinghof with the lead on this building. Aside from German-inscribed cornerstone, Berlinghof had done a number of buildings in the Seward County German-American community.

p. Berlinghof's work on the Norfolk asylum began during his partnership with Richard W. Grant in Beatrice. Bidders "for furnishing materials and labor for rebuilding the west wing of the insane institution at Norfolk" were directed to Grant in Beatrice to see plans for the work. It was also noted that "Payment of the work will be deferred until the legislature appropriates the funds."[50]

q. "George A. Berlinghof, architect, who recently removed from Beatrice, Neb., to Lincoln, Neb., has opened offices in rooms 129-31, Burr block."[25] The Burr Block at 12th & O Street was then the tallest office building in downtown Lincoln. Ten years after moving to Lincoln, Berlinghof & Davis, Architects would design a virtual rebuilding of Burr Block as Security Mutual Insurance Company Building.

r. A postcard view of "Woodmen Hall, Hanover, Kansas" is available at http://www.usgwarchives.net/ks/washington/postcards/wdhall.jpg (accessed December 26, 2015).

s. Bids for the Kearney County courthouse in Minden, Nebraska, were accepted in January and February, 1906, and "were too high and were rejected" in March. A contract was let to Shall and Assenmacher of Seneca, Kansas, for $78,000 in April, 1906.[65]

t. The Peruvian yearbook of Nebraska Normal School in Peru, in the 1909 edition, noted "In 1903 the appropriation for a much-needed chapel building, which had been vetoed in 1901 by the governor, was secured and received the governor's signature. It was the granting of this building that settled the question of the permanency of the Normal School at Peru." The structure is further described as "...a fine, new chapel building, also providing room for a finely-equipped gymnasium."[67]

u. The simple brick courthouse erected in 1906 in Trenton, Nebraska for Hitchcock County is typically credited to the architectural firm of Eisentraut, Colby, Pottenger Co. of Sioux City, Iowa, and Kansas City, Missouri. See http://courthousehistory.com/gallery/states/nebraska/counties/hitchcock However, it appears that firm's design was rejected and one by Berlinghof was erected instead.

Improvement Bulletin of May 5, 1906, stated "Trenton, Neb.--The county clerk will receive bids until 3 pm., May 8, for the erection of a brick and stone court house, on plans by the Eisentraut-Colby-Pottenger Co., architects, Sioux City, Iowa." However, a report on May 19, 1906 stated simply "Trenton, Neb.--All bids for the erection of a courthouse were rejected." Subsequently, the project was apparently redesigned and rebid, as reported on July 14, 1906: "Trenton, Neb.--John H. Bowen, county clerk, will received bids until 2 p.m., July 30, for the erection of a brick court house, on plans by George A. Burlinghof [sic], architect, Lincoln, Neb." On August 8, 1906, the success of the second effort was reported: "Trenton, Neb.--Marxen & Rokahr, of Avoca, Iowa, received the contract for the erection of the court house, of brick, at $10,000. G. A. Burlinghof [sic], architect, of Lincoln."[68]

v. This project may be the Penitentiary rebuilding accomplished by Berlinghof & Grant in 1901.

w. The Lincoln Commercial Club building was constructed (1911-1912) during the association of Berlinghof & Davis but its design may have been begun by Berlinghof prior to the beginning of their partnership, when Davis was a draftsman in Berlinghof's office. Improvement Bulletin noted on March 19, 1910 "Lincoln, Neb.--The Commercial club has plans for a 4-story building, 71x100, at P and 11th sts. Cost $100,000. It will have elevator, billiards rooms etc. George A. Berlinghof, architect."[80] See Berlinghof & Davis for further information on this project.

x. American Contractor of Oct. 6, 1917, states: "Community Bldg.: $50,000. 3 sty. 50x110. St. Paul, Nebr. Archt. Geo. A. Berlinghoff...Lincoln. Owner city of St. Paul...Press & com. brk., Bedford or Carthage cut stone, t. c., Portland cement, tar & gravel or comp. rfg. Plans drawn."[81]

y. American Contractor of Oct. 6, 1917, states: "Society Bldg.: $40,000. 3 sty. 50x120. Greely, Nebr. Archt. Geo. A. Berlinghoff...Lincoln. Owner K. of C....Press & com. brk., Bedford or Carthage cut stone, t. c., Portland cement, tar & gravel or comp. rfg. Plans drawn."[81]

z. American Contractor of Oct. 6, 1917, states: "Grade School: $25,000. 2 sty. 36x58. Byron, Nebr. Archt. Geo. A. Berlinghoff...Lincoln. Owner B. of E....Press & com. brk., Bedford or Carthage cut stone, tar & gravel or comp. rfg. Plans drawn."[81]

aa. American Contractor of Oct. 6, 1917, states: "Garage: $25,000. 1 sty. 60x120. St. Paul, Nebr. Archt. Geo. A. Berlinghoff...Lincoln. Owner Pollock Auto Co., Plattsmouth. Press & com. brk., re. conc., tar & gravel or comp. rfg. Plans drawn."[81]

ab. American Contractor of Oct. 6, 1917, states: "Kindergarten School: $20,000. 1 sty. Franklin, Nebr. Archt. Geo. A. Berlinghoff...Lincoln. Owner B. of E....Press & com. brk., stone trim, tar & gravel or comp. rfg. Plans drawn."[81]

ac. American Contractor of Oct. 6, 1917, states: "Bank: $15,000. 1 sty. & bas. Friend, Nebr. Archt. Geo. A. Berlinghoff...Lincoln. Owner C. E. Boulby, Friend. Press & com. brk., Bedford or Carthage cut stone, tar & gravel rfg. Plans drawn."[81]

ad. Ashland High School was another project that began in 1917 during the Berlinghof & Davis partnership, but was completed over an extended period, apparently under Berlinghof.[35,84]

ae. Improvement Bulletin of July 11, 1908, reports: "Lincoln, Neb.--Geo. A. Berlinghof, architect, has let the general contract to William Assenmacher for a 1-story auditorium for the State Fair Association. Cost, $15,000."[27]

af. American Contractor of June 11, 1910 listed "Normal School: 2 sty & bas. 100x50. $40,000. Peru, Nebr. State Architect Geo. A. Berlinghof...Work just starting."[94] The design is related to Berlinghof's designs for high schools at Ord and Ravenna (1909) and even more closely related to the Berlinghof & Davis design of 1910 for Fullerton High School.

ag. Improvement Bulletin notes in 1908 that Berlinghof was preparing plans for a library near the City Hall. That effort apparently failed. Seward built a combined Carnegie Library/YMCA/auditorium building on Courthouse Square in 1912-14, from designs by Tyler & Brandt.[96][97]

ah. Lincoln Star of January 3, 1923 reported on a meeting of the Lincoln Elks Club that unveiled "a large picture in water colors" of a proposal to construct two additional stories atop the existing three-story clubhouse, and to build an eight story annex to the north. Berlinghof is noted as the architect of the proposal. A photograph of the watercolor rendering shows the unmistakable hand of Berlinghof's oft-used renderer, Francis W. Fitzpatrick.[106] (Architect Matt Hansen of Lincoln uncovered the photograph as well as the explanatory newspaper material.)

Return to Top of Notes

References

1. “Berlinghof, Geo. A.,” J. Sterling Morton and Albert Watkins (eds.) Illustrated History of Nebraska (Lincoln: Jacob North & Co., 1907), III:A, 536.

2. Lincoln Trade Review 1:42 (1903), cover photo.

3. American Architect & Building News 20:562 (October 2, 1886), plate; Berlinghof was the delineator of the drawing, for Mendelssohn & Fisher.

4. Correspondence of C. S. Paine, December 28, 1908; Nebraska State Historical Society Archives, RG14, s.1, s.g. 1; and architect’s rendering.[19]

5. Annual Report of the City of Lincoln Library Board (1908), 4.

6. Nebraska State Library Commission, Card file on Libraries & Architects.

7. Schuyler Sun (July 12, 1923), 6.

8. Paul Clifford Larson with Susan M. Brown, eds. The Spirit of H. H. Richardson on the Midland Prairies: Regional Transformations of an Architectural Style (Ames: Iowa State University Press, 1988), 156-57, 159 (listed also as draftsman contributing to design work for Fisher & Lawrie, Architects, and Mendelssohn Fisher & Lawrie, Architects).

9. “G. A. Berlinghof Taken by Death,” Lincoln Evening State Journal (May 31, 1944), 1.

10. “G. A. Berlinghof, Architect, Dies Suddenly at 82,” Lincoln Star (May 31, 1944), 1:7.

11. Application for Registration to Practice Professional Engineering or Architecture, Nebraska State Board of Examiners for Professional Engineers and Architects, December 29, 1937. Nebraska State Historical Society, RG081 SG2.

12. Cody Cowboy (March 8, 1906), 1:6.

13. Oliver B. Pollak, Nebraska Courthouses: Contention, Compromise, and Community [Images of America Series] (Chicago: Arcadia Publishing, 2002).

14. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).

15. “Bell and Berlinghof,” Biographical History of Pottawattamie County (Iowa) (Lewis Publishing Co., 1891), 485-86.

16. Tom Kaspar, comp. Inventory of architectural records in the archives of Davis Fenton Stange Darling, Architects, Lincoln, Nebraska, 1996. Nebraska State Historical Society, RG3748, Box 16.

17. “Laying of the Court House Cornerstone,” Denison Bulletin (July 28, 1904), 1. The contractor was Marxen & Rokahr, Avoca, Iowa.

18. “Darmstadt University of Technology,” Wikipedia accessed November 30, 2010 (corroborated by other websites) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darmstadt_University_of_Technology

19. George A. Berlinghof Manuscript Collection, Nebraska State Historical Society, RG3134.AM: George A. Berlinghof.

20. Marian M Ohman, “Missouri Courthouses: Grundy County,” accessed October 1, 2012, http://extension.missouri.edu/p/UED6039

21. Richard Pankratz, “Old Lawrence City Library,” National Register of Historic Places, Inventory-Nomination Form (Topeka: Kansas State historical Society, November 21, 1974), accessed October 3, 2012, http://www.kshs.org/resource/national_register/nominationsNRDB/Douglas_OldLawrenceCityLibrary.pdf

22. “Proposals. Courthouse, At Oklahoma, Okla. Ter.,” in American Architect & Building News LXXXIV:1487 (June 25, 1904).

23. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application) #2458, May 14, 1908, Building & Safety Dept.

24. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application) #1471, Feb. 16, 1907, Building & Safety Dept.

25. Improvement Bulletin (January 6, 1906), 40.

26. Lancaster County (Nebraska) Register of Deeds, Mechanic’s Lien M:639 & M:544, 1910, for materials supplied beginning 1909 “for the erection of a Military Academy.”

27. Improvement Bulletin (July 11, 1908), 29.

28. Con Marshall, Chadron State College: a century of service (Virginia Beach, VA: Donning Company Publishing, 2011), 23-24.

29. City of Lincoln Building Permit, application, and plans, #7249, October 13, 1917, Building & Safety Department. Rudge & Guenzel, Berlinghof & Ellsworth.

30. The Bridgemen’s Magazine (1917), 613.

31. David A. Gaspers and Edward F. Zimmer, “R. O. Stake House,” National Register of Historic Places Registration Form (Lincoln: Lincoln/Lancaster County Planning Department, December 1, 2004), accessed December 2, 2012, http://www.nebraskahistory.org/histpres/nebraska/lancaster/LC13-E08-416-RO-Stake-H.PDF

32. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application), #7582, Sept. 6, 1918, Building & Safety Dept.

33. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application), #8127, Aug. 30, 1919, Building & Safety Dept.

34. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application), #8217, Oct. 2, 1919, Building & Safety Dept.

35. “Ashland is Building $150,000 High School,” in Nebraska State Journal (November 2, 1919).

36. Prague Centennial, 1887-1987: Celebrating a Century of Czech Heritage, July 31-August 1-2 [Waterloo, Neb. : Pub. Printing of Nebraska, 1987?], 12.

37. Jesse Nunn, “Abbott Ranch Headquarters,” National Register of Historic Places Registration Form (Lincoln: Nebraska State Historical Society, Draft, May, 2010).

38. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application), #16865, Sept. 19, 1927, Building & Safety Dept.

39. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application), #17736, June 30, 1928, Building & Safety Dept.

40. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application), #18519, April 17, 1929, Building & Safety Dept.

41. City of Lincoln Building Permit #19898, Jan. 16, 1931, Building & Safety Dept.

42. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application), #3228, July 14, 1909, Building & Safety Dept.

43. Davis and Wilson, Architects’ Roster Questionaire, 1946, The American Institute of Architects Archives, The AIA Historical Directory of American Architects, s.v. “Davis and Wilson,” (ahd4001335), accessed January 20, 2013, http://www.aia.org/about/history/aiab082017 (http://communities.aia.org/sites/hdoaa/wiki/AIA%20scans/Rosters/DavisWilson_roster.pdf)

44. “Specifications—Residence Building Mr. & Mrs. J. H. Yost, 25 & Franklin Sts. Lincoln, Nebr. Berlinghof & Davis, Architects,” typescript copy at Lincoln/Lancaster County Planning Dept.

45. Barbara Beving Long, “Greeley County Courthouse,” National Register of Historic Places Registration Form (Lincoln: Nebraska State Historical Society, November 8, 1989) http://www.nebraskahistory.org/histpres/nebraska/greeley/GY02-002_Greeley_CntyCthse.pdf

46. Barbara Beving Long, “Howard County Courthouse,” National Register of Historic Places Registration Form (Lincoln: Nebraska State Historical Society, November 8, 1989) http://www.nebraskahistory.org/histpres/nebraska/howard/HW11-038_Howard_Cnty_Cthse.pdf

47. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application) #6641, June 15, 1916, Building & Safety Dept. “Architect: Burlinghoff (sic) & Davis." Drawings for the 1916 project are attached to City of Lincoln Building Permit #40042 of 1945 for conversion to apartments; those are inscribed, “George A. Berlinghof, Arch't.”

48. “Building to Be Erected at the Northwest Corner of Thirteenth and O Streets by Turner & Holmes,” Sunday State Journal (Lincoln, Nebraska), January 6, 1918.

49. City of Lincoln Building Permit application, #11056, April 25, 1923. The Klawiter/Davis and Wilson design is depicted in Lincoln: Nebraska’s Capital City, 1867-1923 (Lincoln: Lincoln Commercial Club, 1923), 101.

50. Improvement Bulletin (November 2, 1901), 21; (November 23, 1901), 16.

51. Improvement Bulletin (December 21, 1901), 16.

52. Improvement Bulletin (December 21, 1901), 18.

53. Improvement Bulletin (June 7, 1902), 18.

54. Improvement Bulletin (August 2, 1902), 22.

55. Improvement Bulletin (August 2, 1902), 17.

56. Improvement Bulletin (August 16, 1902), 17; (August 30, 1902), 28.

57. Improvement Bulletin (March 12, 1904), 21; (April 9, 1904), 20; (May 7, 1904), 21; (May 6, 1905), 30.

58. Improvement Bulletin (July 8, 1905), 18.

60. The Peruvian [yearbook] (Nebraska State Normal School, Peru, Nebraska: 1908), 75 (illustrations of library exterior and interiors). http://issuu.com/psclibrary/docs/1908 Accessed December 25, 2015.

61. "Bids for Courthouse," Improvement Bulletin (July 29, 1899), 13, 21.

62. Improvement Bulletin (August 12, 1899), 11.

63. Improvement Bulletin (September 2, 1899), 16.

64. Improvement Bulletin (March 3, 1900), 19.

65. Improvement Bulletin (January 20, 1906), 26; (March 10, 1906), 23; (April 14, 1906), 21.

66. Improvement Bulletin (May 12, 1906), 19.

67. "Normal History," The Peruvian [yearbook] (Nebraska State Normal School, Peru, Nebraska: 1909), 13. http://issuu.com/psclibrary/docs/1909 Accessed December 27, 2015.

68. Improvement Bulletin (May 5, 1906), 26; (May 19, 1906), 20; (July 14, 1906), 19; (August 8, 1906), 21.

69. Improvement Bulletin (July 28, 1906), 22; (March 23, 1907), 22.

70. Improvement Bulletin (March 23, 1907), 20.

71. Improvement Bulletin (October 12, 1907), 21.

72. Improvement Bulletin (March 21, 1908), 19.

73. Improvement Bulletin (March 28, 1908), 19.

74. Improvement Bulletin (February 4, 1909), 27.

75. Improvement Bulletin (February 20, 1909), 26.

76. Improvement Bulletin (April 3, 1909), 26.

77. Improvement Bulletin (August 7, 1909), 30.

78. Improvement Bulletin (September 18, 1909), 25.

79. Improvement Bulletin (September 4, 1909), 27.

80. Improvement Bulletin (March 19, 1910), 25.

81. The American Contractor (October 6, 1917), 77.

82. School Board Journal (June, 1903), 31.

83. School Board Journal (January, 1904), 26-27.

84. The American Contractor (March 31, 1917), 81.

85. "Administration Building ('Old Main')," (University of Nebraska-Kearney Library, n.d). Online. Accessed April 17, 2016. http://library.unk.edu/archives/docs/Admin.pdf

86. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application), #19611, July 8, 1930, Building & Safety Dept.

87. "Notice to Contractors," Lincoln Star (March 26, 1922), 15.

88. "Notice to Contractors," Lincoln Star (August 24, 1924), 15.

89. "Notice to Contractors," Lincoln Star (October 8, 1924), 13; (October 17, 1924), 21.

90. "Franklin County to Have New and Modern Court House and Jail in Single Structure," Lincoln Star (November 23, 1924), 9.

91. "Building Plans Filed..." (of a new school at Garland), Lincoln Evening Journal) September 22, 1926, 4; "Notice to Contractors," Lincoln Evening Journal (June 29, 1926), 10.

92. "Notice to Contractors," Lincoln Star (September 30, 1926), 17.

93. "New Type of Apartment House For Lincoln," Lincoln Star (June 28, 1925), 12. Illustrations include rendering and site plan.

94. American Contractor (June 11, 1910), 63.

95. The Peruvian (yearbook of Peru Normal School), 1912, 15-16. For illustration, SEE https://issuu.com/psclibrary/docs/1912 Accessed January 23, 2017.

96. "Public Buildings...Seward, Neb.," Improvement Bulletin (September 19, 1908), 25.

97. "Public Buildings...Seward, Neb.," Improvement Bulletin (October 31, 1908), 25.

98. "Lincoln, Nebr...School (high & grade): $125,000" [Pierce, Nebr.] and "...School (jr. high): $100,000," [McCook, Nebr.] American Contractor (February 11, 1922), 71.

99. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application and drawings), #115453, May 20, 1926, estimated cost: $37,000.

100. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application), #6184, August 21, 1915, Building & Safety Dept.

101. "Notice to Contractors," (Lincoln) Nebraska State Journal (September 9, 1921), 10.

102. City of Lincoln Building Permit (and application and drawing), #14231, July 31, 1925, Building & Safety Dept.

103. R.H.L.M. Ramsay, Plains Architecture, to History Nebraska Help Desk, E-mail communication, September 28, 2019; and American Architect and Building News (September 20, 1890), No. 769.

104. "Educational," Improvement Bulletin (July 11, 1908), 23.

105. "Notice to Contractors" soliciting proposals for a new school building, (Lincoln) Nebraska State Journal (April 7, 1924), 9.

106. "Elks Planning A Great Structure. Drawing of Proposed Enlarged Building Shown at Tuesday Dinner." Lincoln (Nebraska) Star (January 3, 1923), 5.

Return to Top of References

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Page Citation

E. F. Zimmer and D. Murphy, “George A. Berlinghof (1858-1944), Architect,” in David Murphy, Edward F. Zimmer, and Lynn Meyer, comps. Place Makers of Nebraska: The Architects. Lincoln: Nebraska State Historical Society, September 13, 2021. http://www.e-nebraskahistory.org/index.php?title=Place_Makers_of_Nebraska:_The_Architects Accessed, March 28, 2024.


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