About Us
Who We Are
Administration
The Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS) was founded in 1878 by citizens who recognized Nebraska was going through great changes and they sought to record the stories of both indigenous and immigrant peoples. It was designated a state institution and began receiving funds from the legislature in 1883. Legislation in 1994 changed History Nebraska from a state institution to a non-code state agency. In 2024, NSHS was designated a code state agency. The organization is headed by Interim Director Cindy S. Drake.
Our Mission
The Nebraska State Historical Society collects, preserves, and opens to all, the histories we share.
Origins
The Nebraska State Historical Society was founded in 1878 to “encourage historical research and inquiry, spread historical information . . . and to embrace alike aboriginal and modern history.” In 1883, it was designated a state institution and began receiving financial support from the legislature. Legislation in 1994 changed NSHS from a state institution to a state agency.
Governance
NSHS is a Nebraska state agency led by a director appointed by the governor.
NSHS is also a membership organization. Members elect twelve trustees, four from each of the state’s three congressional districts, to staggered three-year terms. Three trustees are appointed by the Governor, one from each congressional district. Nominations are made by a board-appointed nominating committee. The Board of Trustees serves as an advisory board to the director and determines the various levels of membership available to the public.
Institutional Values
- Accountable. We make decisions based on the best interest of the public and own those decisions.
- Adaptable. We adapt to change and find ways to succeed.
- Customer Service. We serve the public and put the needs of the public first.
- Integrity. Our ethics and actions are based on returning a profit to the taxpayer.
- Teamwork. We treat all members of our team and the public with respect and equality.
Location and Hours
Headquarters:
1500 R Street, Lincoln, NE, 68508
Open: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
Closed: Federal and State Holidays, including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Arbor Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Become a Member!
Our members make history happen.
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What We Do
Archeology
Archeology is the Nebraska clearinghouse for prehistoric and historic sites, including those threatened by highway and other construction. Archeological resources are investigated under provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act.
Collections
The NSHS Collections team collects, preserves, and provides access to materials that document the human history of Nebraska.
Conservation
The Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center, adjacent to the Ford Birthsite and Gardens, Omaha, provides modern laboratories for the conservation of historical documents, textiles, and museum objects.
Historic Preservation
NSHS, whose director is the state historic preservation officer, implements Nebraska’s compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Related responsibilities include the Nebraska Historic Buildings Survey, the National Register of Historic Places program, archeological survey, review and compliance for federal undertakings, review of projects seeking preservation tax incentives, and local participation in historic preservation.
Interpretation and Education
Learn more through firsthand experiences with Nebraska objects, people, and places! Engaging programs for all ages, innovative exhibits, and docent-led tours help our shared history unfold.
Publications
NSHS publishes a quarterly magazine, Nebraska History, and books and documents on Nebraska and Great Plains history.
Library/Archives
This division collects, manages, and preserves a wide spectrum of published and unpublished documentary materials, and provides access to them.
Hours and Location
NSHS Headquarters (Map)
1500 R Street, Lincoln, NE 68508
8:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday – Friday
See above for state holiday closures.
Office number: 402-471-3270
Library / Reference Room Hours:
1500 R Street, Lincoln, NE, 68508
Friday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Wednesday and Thursdays by Appointment
Phone: 402-471-4751
Help Shape History
Become a Member
Being a member is the easiest way to be involved in our mission to preserve and share our state's rich history. Find out how!
Volunteer
Volunteers work with NSHS staff members to support our mission
Start Your Career
Interested in joining the NSHS team? Keep an eye on job listings!
