Traveling Through Nebraska: A Look into the Nebraska State Historical Society
As a traveler making their way through the vast plains of Nebraska, a visit to the Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS) is an essential stop for those interested in delving into the rich history of the Cornhusker State. Located in Lincoln, the state's capital, the NSHS serves as the primary organization for preserving and promoting the history of Nebraska. Founded in 1878, the organization has been tirelessly collecting and interpreting historical materials, with a focus on educating the public about the state's rich cultural and historical heritage.
The NSHS operates a network of historic sites and museums across the state, each offering a unique glimpse into a specific aspect of Nebraska's history. The Thomas P. Kennard House, located at 1627 H Street in Lincoln, is one such site, serving as a museum showcasing the life and times of one of Nebraska's earliest settlers. Another notable site is the Neligh Mill State Historic Site, situated in Neligh, which offers a glimpse into the state's early agriculture and milling industries. Both of these sites demonstrate the NSHS's commitment to preserving historic buildings and interpretive sites that tell the story of Nebraska's development.
In addition to its network of historic sites, the NSHS also manages a vast collection of historical artifacts and documents, many of which are housed in its research library in Lincoln. This extensive collection includes materials related to the early fur trade, the Oregon Trail, and Native American cultures, providing researchers with a wealth of information on the state's complex and diverse history. For instance, the NSHS has a significant collection of photographs taken by renowned photographer Solomon Butcher, documenting the settlement of the Great Plains in the late 19th century.
The NSHS also plays a crucial role in promoting Nebraska's history through a range of educational programs and publications. Its quarterly journal, Nebraska History, is a renowned publication that showcases the latest research and scholarship on the state's history. Moreover, the NSHS offers a range of educational programs for both schools and adults, designed to foster a deeper understanding of Nebraska's complex cultural and historical landscape.
One notable example of the NSHS's commitment to education is its "History Day" program, a state-wide competition that encourages students to engage with historical topics through research and creative projects. This initiative has helped to inspire a new generation of Nebraskans to take an active interest in their state's history, highlighting the organization's dedication to preserving and promoting the state's rich cultural heritage.
The NSHS is also actively involved in preserving and commemorating important historical events and anniversaries, such as the 150th anniversary of Nebraska's statehood in 2017. Through a range of events, exhibitions, and public programs, the organization helps to bring the state's history to life, highlighting its significance and relevance to contemporary society.
As a traveler making your way through Nebraska, a visit to the Nebraska State Historical Society is an essential stop for anyone interested in exploring the state's rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you visit one of its historic sites, explore its research library, or simply peruse its publications, the NSHS offers a wealth of opportunities to delve deeper into the fascinating world of Nebraska's past.
By engaging with the NSHS, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex historical forces that have shaped the Cornhusker State, from its earliest Native American inhabitants to its modern-day residents. This, in turn, can enrich their travel experience, providing a more nuanced understanding of the people, places, and landscapes that make Nebraska such a unique and captivating destination.
The NSHS operates a network of historic sites and museums across the state, each offering a unique glimpse into a specific aspect of Nebraska's history. The Thomas P. Kennard House, located at 1627 H Street in Lincoln, is one such site, serving as a museum showcasing the life and times of one of Nebraska's earliest settlers. Another notable site is the Neligh Mill State Historic Site, situated in Neligh, which offers a glimpse into the state's early agriculture and milling industries. Both of these sites demonstrate the NSHS's commitment to preserving historic buildings and interpretive sites that tell the story of Nebraska's development.
In addition to its network of historic sites, the NSHS also manages a vast collection of historical artifacts and documents, many of which are housed in its research library in Lincoln. This extensive collection includes materials related to the early fur trade, the Oregon Trail, and Native American cultures, providing researchers with a wealth of information on the state's complex and diverse history. For instance, the NSHS has a significant collection of photographs taken by renowned photographer Solomon Butcher, documenting the settlement of the Great Plains in the late 19th century.
The NSHS also plays a crucial role in promoting Nebraska's history through a range of educational programs and publications. Its quarterly journal, Nebraska History, is a renowned publication that showcases the latest research and scholarship on the state's history. Moreover, the NSHS offers a range of educational programs for both schools and adults, designed to foster a deeper understanding of Nebraska's complex cultural and historical landscape.
One notable example of the NSHS's commitment to education is its "History Day" program, a state-wide competition that encourages students to engage with historical topics through research and creative projects. This initiative has helped to inspire a new generation of Nebraskans to take an active interest in their state's history, highlighting the organization's dedication to preserving and promoting the state's rich cultural heritage.
The NSHS is also actively involved in preserving and commemorating important historical events and anniversaries, such as the 150th anniversary of Nebraska's statehood in 2017. Through a range of events, exhibitions, and public programs, the organization helps to bring the state's history to life, highlighting its significance and relevance to contemporary society.
As a traveler making your way through Nebraska, a visit to the Nebraska State Historical Society is an essential stop for anyone interested in exploring the state's rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you visit one of its historic sites, explore its research library, or simply peruse its publications, the NSHS offers a wealth of opportunities to delve deeper into the fascinating world of Nebraska's past.
By engaging with the NSHS, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex historical forces that have shaped the Cornhusker State, from its earliest Native American inhabitants to its modern-day residents. This, in turn, can enrich their travel experience, providing a more nuanced understanding of the people, places, and landscapes that make Nebraska such a unique and captivating destination.
