NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (Aug. 1, 2025) — The federal building in downtown North Platte now bears a new name, honoring a historic figure in Nebraska politics — former Congresswoman Virginia Smith.
A formal ceremony held this week commemorated the renaming of the building after Smith, who represented Nebraska’s Third Congressional District from 1975 to 1991. She remains the only woman from the state to have served in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The renaming was made possible through legislation introduced in 2024 by members of Nebraska’s federal delegation.
“Her legacy is still all over this Third District,” said Anna Castner Wightman, a former congressional staffer for Smith. “To come from these small towns and help Mrs. Smith serve a district and state we love, and watch her masterfully bring home projects like the Valentine Weather Station and the Heartland Expressway — it was inspiring.”
Current Third District Congressman Adrian Smith praised his predecessor’s dedication and work ethic.
“To serve in her footsteps is an honor,” he said. “She led the way with hard work, traveling the district and really setting the example for how to best serve Nebraskans.”
Lincoln County Commissioner Micaela Wuehler, the first woman elected to the board, called Smith a trailblazer.
“Virginia Smith was more than just the first congresswoman from Nebraska; she broke barriers with grace and grit,” Wuehler said. “She elevated agriculture on the national stage and showed what strong, compassionate representation looks like.”
A similar dedication ceremony is scheduled Friday in Lexington, where the post office will be renamed in honor of William E. and Elsie L. Barrett.