In 2025, its inaugural year, Cottonwood Society members contributed nearly $90,000, providing the Foundation and Society with flexible support throughout the year. That generosity helped make possible:

• 46 new Nebraska State Historical Society memberships through Cottonwood membership.
• All Lunch Box Lectures during 2025–2026 at the Nebraska History Museum.
• WanderNebraska booklet printing and postage, helping put the 2026 booklet into the hands of thousands of travelers across Nebraska.
• Alkali Trail Trek, bringing people together to explore the history of Fort Alkali and its importance in the great migration west.
• Honorariums for descendants of Chief Little Thunder and Brigadier General William S. Harney, bringing together family perspectives to share the history of Mni Tho Wakpala, the Blue Water, and the conflict known as the Battle of Blue Water at a reception at Ash Hollow.
• The America 250 reception, opening the exhibit to dignitaries, Society supporters, and Foundation members.
• The Japanese Hall reception, providing a special tour experience with Vickie Sakurada Schaepler for Cottonwood members and NSHSF donors.
• Free Admission Day at Nebraska State Historical Society sites, making our history accessible to everyone, along with quarterly free admission opportunities at the Nebraska History Museum.
• Cottonwood events and experiences, including the Below Nebraska reception featuring authors Rob Bozell and Courtney Ziska.

And importantly, your support helps us connect the next generation with Nebraska’s history through programs such as Junior Pathfinders and Our School, Our Story, giving children opportunities to visit historic places, discover local stories, and understand that they are part of Nebraska’s history, too.