A Legacy of Preservation, A Commitment to Nebraska’s Future
The Cottonwood Society is the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation’s distinguished donor program, recognizing individuals, families, and organizations whose generosity helps safeguard and celebrate Nebraska’s rich history. Named after Nebraska’s state tree, the Eastern Cottonwood, a symbol of resilience, strength, and deep roots, this society honors those who invest in preserving our state’s past while shaping its future.
With a multi-tiered structure, The Cottonwood Society provides exclusive benefits and engagement opportunities based on annual giving levels, ensuring that each supporter experiences a meaningful connection to Nebraska’s history. Members receive special recognition, access to experiences, and invitations to exclusive events designed to highlight Nebraska’s historical legacy.
Giving Levels
Each tier of The Cottonwood Society is named after an iconic Nebraska state symbol, reflecting the unique elements that define our state’s identity and heritage. The program recognizes five distinct levels, with each successive level honoring donors who make an even greater impact.
Goldenrod Level ($500)
The Foundation of Preservation
Named after Nebraska’s state flower, the goldenrod, this entry tier recognizes those who plant the seeds of historical preservation, ensuring that Nebraska’s stories continue to flourish.
PHOTO: Markus Winkler/Pexels
BENEFITS INCLUDE:
- Annual Household Plus membership to the Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS) which gives free entry to all NSHS historic sites and museums and four issues of the Nebraska History journal
- Time Travelers reciprocal membership: this program gives members reduced or free admission to museums nationwide.
- Recognition in the Foundation’s annual donor report
- A Cottonwood Society lapel pin, featuring the program’s distinctive emblem
- Subscription to the Foundation’s quarterly newsletter, providing exclusive updates on preservation efforts
- Invitations to special member events, including behind-the-scenes tours and historical lectures
Western Meadowlark Level ($1,000)
The Voice of Nebraska
As Nebraska’s state bird, the Western Meadowlark is known for its distinctive and melodious song, a sound that has echoed across the Great Plains for generations. Donors at this level play a vital role in ensuring Nebraska’s history is heard and shared.
PHOTO: Cephas/WikiCommons
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS INCLUDE:
- Nebraska Game and Parks annual vehicle Park Entry Permit (Nebraska-licensed vehicle) providing entry to all Nebraska state parks and recreation areas (valid January 1-December 31)
- Subscription to Nebraskaland Magazine
- $100 discount on WanderNebraska Adventure Tours
- Exclusive guided tour of a Nebraska historic site, led by a preservation expert
- Advance access to select Foundation and NSHS publications and historical research
Blue Agate Level ($2,500)
A Precious Legacy
Honoring Nebraska’s state gemstone, the blue agate, this level is for donors who provide strong and lasting support, much like the striking stone that represents Nebraska’s unique geological past.
PHOTO: Ondra244/WikiCommons
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS INCLUDE:
- Annual America The Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Lands Pass providing access to more than 2,000 recreation areas managed by six Federal agencies
- A signed commemorative print featuring a Nebraska historical landmark
- VIP seating at Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation events
Mammoth Level ($5,000)
A Monument to the Past
The state fossil of Nebraska, the mammoth, is a towering testament to the deep history embedded in Nebraska’s landscape. Donors at this level make a profound and enduring impact, ensuring the preservation of artifacts, archives, and stories for future generations.
PHOTO: QuangTrungArt/Shutterstock
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS INCLUDE:
- Private luncheon or dinner with Foundation leadership, featuring an engaging discussion on preservation initiatives
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the NSHS’’s artifact collection and/or conservation labs
- $250 discount on WanderNebraska Adventure Tours
- Recognition on a permanent donor wall at the Nebraska History Museum
- Personalized historical research assistance, granting access to rare archival materials
Cottonwood Legacy Council ($10,000)
A Profound Commitment to History
For those whose generosity reaches the highest level, the Cottonwood Legacy Council is a special recognition for visionary donors who have made extraordinary contributions to Nebraska’s historical preservation efforts. Embodying the Eastern Cottonwood, this tier reflects strength, longevity, and a profound commitment to history.
PHOTO: Courtney Celley/USFWS
EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:
- Invitation to the Cottonwood Legacy Summit, an annual gathering with historical scholars, state leaders, and fellow philanthropists
- Opportunity for a named endowment or sponsorship, ensuring a long-lasting impact on Nebraska’s historical preservation
- Personalized VIP experience, such as a curated tour of Nebraska’s most treasured historical sites or an overnight stay at a historic landmark
- Custom-crafted award, commemorating their induction into the Cottonwood Legacy Council
All benefits are subject to change or periodic update. Membership dues may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law, less the fair market value of any benefits received.
Why Join The Cottonwood Society?
Membership in The Cottonwood Society is more than an annual contribution—it is a commitment to preserving Nebraska’s history for generations to come. Every donor, at every level, plays a crucial role in ensuring that Nebraska’s landmarks, stories, and artifacts remain protected and accessible.
Through The Cottonwood Society, you join a distinguished community of individuals who value history and believe in protecting Nebraska’s heritage. Your generosity ensures that future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate the stories that define Nebraska.
Join us today and take your place among Nebraska’s history-makers.
Membership is more than a gift— it’s how we ensure Nebraska’s stories endure. As a thank you, here are the ways we may recognize your contributions throughout the year.
- Your name featured in an annual donor report listing
- Receive event recognition as appropriate
- Receive a lapel pin at enrollment
For more information or to become a member, please contact the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation at lfattig@nshsf.org.
