The Nebraska City Historical Society (NCHS) was established in 1937 as the Otoe County Historical Society by the Literature Department of the Nebraska City Women’s Club. The name was changed to the Nebraska City Historical Society in 1986. Their mission is to preserve the county’s past, including the story of its founding and settlement and the habits of its settlers.
NCHS operates two museums, the Nelson House and the Old Freighters Museum. Built in 1857 and altered somewhat by additions and other changes over the years, the Nelson House is located along one of the city’s historic brick streets. It was donated by Karl and Wealtha Nelson to the NCHS in 1982. It contains two exhibits. One shows how Nebraska City developed over the years. The other showcases the art of Frank J. Zimmerer, an American painter and commercial artist born in Nebraska City. The Nelson House was on the 2024 Nebraska Holiday Passport. The Old Freighters Museum shows how the freight and shipping industry was important to Nebraska City during the Overland Trail era.
NCHS has been busy. They just launched their new website and have plans for future updates to better showcase local history. They plan to add a podcast, a historic photo gallery, and other new features. NCHS is also looking to acquire more of Frank Zimmerer’s art.
Both museums are open seasonally. From Arbor Day to June 30: Friday-Sunday, 12 to 4 pm. From July 1 to September 30: Thursday-Sunday, 12 to 4 pm. The Nelson House is at 711 3rd Corso; the Old Freighters Museum is at 407 N. 14th St. You can find the NCHS at their website or on Facebook, or email them at Contact@nebraskacityhistoricalsociety.com.
