Norris sculpture fitting tribute to a great man

The father of the Unicameral, Tennessee Valley Authority and the Twentieth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, otherwise known as the "Lame Duck" amendment, George W. Norris was one of eight U.S. senators spotlighted in John F. Kennedy's book, "Profiles in Courage."

But that doesn't guarantee he receives the recognition he deserves.

In fact, we've often felt the "gentle knight of progressive American ideals" has been sadly overlooked, both right here in McCook, and in Nebraska in general.

Yes, his home is a State Historic Site, but how many Southwest Nebraska residents have even visited it? And how many could even identify Norris or list a few of his accomplishments?

Norris House site coordinator Duane Tappe and his predecessor, Linda Hein, are known for doing all they can to get Norris' story out; and local teachers have always done their part, but something more is needed.

Yes, we all know about Norris Avenue, and most of us have spent many hours enjoying Norris Park, but something more tangible could be of great support to the effort.

Now we have a chance to see that happen.

As part of this year's quasquicentennial celebration for McCook, local sculptors Gary Ginther and Jon Leitner have been commissioned to create a bronze sculpture of "the fighting statesman" to be placed in front of the George Norris House at 706 Norris Ave.

The house, and all of its contents, were donated to the Nebraska State Historical Society by the Norris family in the late 1960s. The sculpture will capture the essence of Sen. Norris, with a depiction of him reading newspapers in the early 1940s.

To help fund the project, a limited edition of 200 small replicas, approximately 3 by 4 inches, will be cast in pewter and sold for $125, of which $100 will go to the Norris Foundation.

To order, indicate how many you would like to purchase, the name of the donor (to be listed in a dedication brochure), your address, and a check made out to the George W. Norris Foundation.

If they are to be mailed, $5 shipping should be included, for a total of $130 per piece.

Mail orders can be sent to the George W. Norris Foundation, c/o Leon Kuhlen, treasurer, 712 West L Street, McCook NE 69001. Or, orders can be dropped off to Duane Tappe during regular hours at the George Norris Home, 706 Norris Ave., or with Pam Hanson at McCook National Bank.

More information is available by e-mail at norris@mccooknet.com.

Making a donation to the Norris sculpture project won't relieve us of the duty to let our friends and children know just what a important personality George W. Norris was, and the difference he made in our society.

But it's a fitting tribute to a great man.