We are the Proud Home of Johnny Carson
NORFOLK, NE
ABOUT JOHNNY
Johnny was born on October 23, 1925 in Corning, Iowa. Although born in Iowa, Johnny moved to Norfolk, NE at age 8 and always considered it his hometown. He graduated from Norfolk Senior High and the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. In 1946, he joined the Navy where he entertained many people including the Secretary of the Navy.
His career in show business began by performing his magic act for many local organizations in Norfolk! Later, he worked at KFAB Radio in Lincoln, NE and WOW Radio in Omaha, NE before moving to California. He started on The Tonight Show on October 1, 1962 and continued for 30 years until his last show on May 22, 1992. Johnny passed away January 23, 2005.
Fan Sites to See
The Boyhood Home of Johnny Carson
306 S. 13th Street, Norfolk, NE
Johnny Carson’s childhood home is in Norfolk, Nebraska. It is a private residence, but there is a large sign in the front yard, marking the location.
Johnny Carson Mural
3rd and Norfolk Ave., Norfolk, NE
This large mural shows the progression of Johnny Carson’s career. This is a great spot to take a picture!
Elkhorn Valley Museum
515 Queen City Blvd., Norfolk, NE
elkhornvalleymuseum.org
Heeeeere’s Johnny! The Johnny Carson Gallery opened in September 2002. It contains items that Johnny himself chose to exhibit in his hometown of Norfolk, Nebraska. The gallery is a showcase of Johnny’s formative years, his 30 years on the Tonight Show, and the six Emmys he received during that time. Johnny Carson videos are available in the Museum Gift Shop.
Great American Comedy Festival
See www.greatamericancomedyfestival.com for ticket information.
This local festival pays tribute to the legacy of Johnny Carson. It brings world-class comedians to Norfolk every June.
Johnny Carson Theatre and Track
801 Riverside Blvd., Norfolk, NE
Many community events are held here at Johnny’s alma mater – Norfolk Senior High School
Donations
Johnny Carson made many generous donations to the community of Norfolk. Some of his most prominent gifts are the Carson Cancer Center located on the campus of Faith Regional Health Services and the Norfolk Arts Center located in downtown Norfolk.
