About Us
Who We Are
Administration
History Nebraska was founded in 1878 as the Nebraska State Historical Society 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 state agency. The organization is headed by Director and CEO Jill Dolberg.Â
Our Mission
History Nebraska collects, preserves, and opens to all, the histories we share.
Origins
History Nebraska 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 History Nebraska from a state institution to a state agency.
Governance
History Nebraska is governed by a fifteen-member board of trustees, twelve elected by History Nebraska members, and three appointed by the governor.
Institutional Values
- We Do It Better Every Time. We are always looking to improve. When we fail, we know why and learn from it.
- We Have Each Other’s Back. We work in groups. We candidly support one another for the betterment of the organization.
- We Own It. If we say we are going to do something, we do our best to get it done.
- We Are Curious. We never stop learning, and we encourage curiosity in others.
- We Are Inclusive. We seek multiple perspectives and value the uniqueness of each individual.
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 Division 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Center, adjacent to the Ford Birthsite and Gardens, Omaha, provides modern laboratories for the conservation of historical documents, textiles, and museum objects.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
The Society, whose director is 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
The division 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
History Nebraska Headquarters
1500 R Street, Lincoln, NE 68508
8:00am – 5:00pm Monday – Friday
Office number: 402-471-3270
Library / Reference Room Hours:
1500 R Street, Lincoln, NE, 68508
Friday 9:00am – 4:00pm
Tuesdays and Wednesdays by Appointment Only
Phone: 402-471-4751
Help Shape History
Become a Member
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