VALENTINE, Neb. - One of the oldest buildings in Valentine is getting new life. Brian Magiera, an American Family Insurance agent, has purchased the historic building on the southwest corner of Main Street and 2nd Street. The structure was built in 1887, and Magiera plans to relocate his business offices to the main floor, with the upper level converted into a Vrbo rental.

“We’re committed to the community and wanted to buy a building. We currently rent a space next door,” said Magiera.

Magiera said the building’s history played a major role in his decision. The stone bank building was constructed by Charles Sparks in the late 1800s after a fire destroyed the original log structure on the site.

The Valentine Public Library recently highlighted the building’s significance in a social media post.

“In Valentine’s old town, the circle formed by the intersections of Catharine (now 2nd Street) and Main Street was one of the most historic spots of the late 1800s. The four corner buildings each had corner entrances, giving them a distinctive rounded appearance,” the library posted on Instagram.

Magiera said he hopes the renovation will both preserve that history and bring renewed activity to the space. While there is no firm timeline, he expects the project to be completed sometime in 2026.

“I love the history of the building. It’s been in the community longer than any of us,” said Magiera.

Magiera lives in Ord and operates his main office in Grand Island. He has worked in the insurance industry for nearly 25 years and has maintained a Valentine location for the past five years.