Stormy weather doesn't dampen spirit at Garrett House dedication

The Garrett House, owned by members of the C.K. Swanson family, was dedicated during a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday afternoon. The short-term rental property at 1001 Norris Avenue is a popular place for reunions, showers, family gatherings, community events, and intimate parties. Swanson family members present for the ribbon cutting include, from left, Makaley Evans holding Hadlee Evans, Melanie Goodenberger, Debra Swanson, Donna Swanson, Christi Evans, Jaxyn Evans, and Amanda Hueftle holding Karl Hueftle.

Shary Skiles/McCook Gazette

McCOOK, Neb. – Wind, hail, and even the threat of tornadoes could not keep members of the McCook Chamber, McCook Rotary, and the C.K. Swanson family from celebrating the dedication of the Garrett House Thursday afternoon.

The ribbon cutting/open house started just as severe weather descended on McCook, but property owner Melanie Goodenberger quickly reassured visitors of the iconic home located at 1001 Norris Avenue that the property has a massive basement that will keep everyone safe.

Besides, the covered porch and upper-level balcony of the home was a perfect vantage point for severe storm watching, as many Midwesterners are inclined to do whenever sirens warn of approaching weather hazards.

When the sirens died and threatening weather turned into a simple downpour, Goodenberger gave a brief history of the home that she purchased with other members of her family to turn into a short-term rental property. Built in 1915 by John Garrett and his son, the Swanson family purchased the home in 2022. After some minor renovations and deep cleaning, the home was ready to be a home-away-from-home for visitors to the community, family gatherings, as well as an event gathering place for groups and organizations.

In between the Garrett and the Swanson ownership, the home has been owned by a banker, used as a boarding house, a funeral home, and a photography studio. In 2014, McCook resident Mary Poore, who was the granddaughter of the builder, purchased the home. Mrs. Poore owned the home until 2022, when it was purchased by C.K. Swanson, Inc.

Goodenberger told the Gazette shortly after purchasing the home in 2022 that the undertaking was definitely a family affair. Swanson family members include siblings, Goodenberger, Christi Evans, Deb Swanson, and Jon Swanson. Even their mom, Donna Swanson, has been enlisted to pitch in to keep things running smoothly.

The home can easily accommodate more than 16 guests with its seven bedrooms and 3¾ bathrooms. Sleeping accommodations include one king bed, two queen beds, six twin beds, and three futons. It can be rented through Airbnb.com or by contacting Goodenberger at Golden Plains Realty, 907 West B Street in McCook.