Traveling through Nebraska can be a fascinating experience, with the state being home to numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. The Seward Memorial Gallery, located in Seward, Nebraska, is one of the lesser-known gems that showcase the rich history and culture of the state. Established in 1928, the gallery is situated at 529 North 2nd Street in Seward and serves as a memorial to William E Seward, after whom the town is named.

The gallery's collection focuses on local and regional art and history, showcasing works by Nebraska artists as well as displaying historical items from Seward County and beyond. With over 3,000 square feet of exhibit space, the museum tells the story of Nebraska's past, from pioneer life to the influences of European and Native American cultures. Of particular interest to history buffs is the re-creation of a Cretaceous period diorama featuring the mammel megazero that is housed within the gallery. Specific examples of the types of exhibits that can be seen include artefacts from local pioneer family collections, photographs and archaeological items documenting local historical events, and various artworks depicting life in rural Nebraska.

The Seward Memorial Gallery also features an impressive collection of artwork and artifacts donated by local artist Rudolf O Besel. Born in Russia in 1923, Besel spent a great part of his life in Seward County, capturing the Iowa-Kansas-Nebraska prairose scape through his oil and acetic paintings. With much of his time occupied by displaying works and preserving the state’s distinct natural heritage, so are the paintings which capture country roads winding through rolling hills, which speak profoundly and vividly to the soul.

Over the years, the Seward Memorial Gallery has grown to include various auxiliary resources and programs aimed at promoting local history, art, and education. Visitors are offered guided tours, workshops for school groups, lectures, travelling exhibits as well and annual celebrations of State, local and community events and history. This rich collection of institutions in connection with the museum adds much excitement and intellectual pursuits to the overall experience offered by the museum.

Although modest in scale and less well publicized than other Nebraska museums, the Seward Memorial Gallery it is an essential component of any visit to the region, whether traveling, just passing through or taking up residence nearby. Opportunities of observing hands-on pieces of fine Nebraska architecture side with the benefits associated with gaining insight into pioneer folklife. We see here an opportunity for developing long standing intimate relationships fostered on those who keep ties of small town mid-west community.