VANCE E. NELSON
Curator, Fort Robinson Museum
Nebraska State Historical Society
Crawford, Nebraska
The Nebraska State Historical Society was founded as the State
Historical Society and Library Association in 1867, the year Nebraska
was admitted to the Union. It was reorganized as the Nebraska State
Historical Society in 1878. It was constituted as a state organization
by act of the Nebraska Legislature in 1883, and designated custodian of
all public records, documents, and other materials of historical value
by legislative act of 1905. It moved into its present air-conditioned,
fireproof building in 1953.
The Society was created to collect and preserve the record of Nebraska
and its people. It maintains archives, a library, and a museum for use
of the public. It is particularly anxious to secure valuable records and
materials now in private hands where they cannot be preserved.
In performing its important function, it solicits the support of all
public-spirited citizens—support which can best be expressed through
membership in the Society. Membership carries with it a voice in the
government of the Society, including election of the members of the
Executive Board. Members receive, without further payment, NEBRASKA
HISTORY, published quarterly; and the HISTORICAL NEWS LETTER, issued
monthly. Applicants for membership should address Marvin F. Kivett,
Director, Nebraska State Historical Society, 1500 R Street, Lincoln,
Nebraska, 68508.