History Nebraska to Rebrand Again

 Lincoln, NE - 08/20/2024 - History Nebraska announced today it will return to its original, lawful name, the Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS), effective Sept. 3, 2024.

“Our return to the name Nebraska State Historical Society represents a recommitment to our mission to collect, preserve, and share the histories that unite us,” said Interim Director Cindy S. Drake. “For 140 years, the Nebraska State Historical Society name was synonymous with Nebraska history, and it will be once again.”

NSHS was established in 1878 by citizens who recognized that Nebraska was undergoing significant change and sought to document the stories of its people. It became a state institution in 1883. In 1994, it was designated as a non-code agency. With Governor Jim Pillen’s approval of LB1169 this year, the organization was designated a code agency and part of the Governor’s cabinet. As such, the director is appointed by the Governor instead of a member-elected board of trustees.

NSHS operates the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln as well as historic sites across the state including Chimney Rock Museum, Fort Robinson History Center, Neligh Mill State Historic Site, Thomas Kennard State Historic Site, Senator George Norris State Historic Site, John Neihardt State Historic Site, and more than 570 historical markers throughout Nebraska.

While the agency will revert to its prior name, it will continue to utilize the brand colors, design and marketing elements adopted when it was named History Nebraska.

“By merging all the best elements, the Historical Society will maintain its strong digital presence and familiarity,” said Director Drake. “As a state agency, we look forward to creating even more opportunities for Nebraskans and history enthusiasts to engage with our state history in interactive, educational and lasting ways.”

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About Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS)

NSHS collects, preserves, and shares Nebraska’s history for all people.  NSHS operates the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln and historic sites around the state including Chimney Rock Museum, Fort Robinson History Center, Neligh Mill State Historic Site, Thomas Kennard State Historic Site, Senator George Norris State Historic Site, John Neihardt State Historic Site, and over 570 historical markers placed across Nebraska. NSHS administers the State Archives and Library; the State Historic Preservation Office; the Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center; the Office of the State Archeologist; publishes Nebraska History Magazine and books; and is responsible for the administration of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission. More at https://history.nebraska.gov.