Nebraskans Are Encouraged to Continue their Generous Support of this Historic Preservation Effort
On August 1st, 2024, the Pershing Mural Historic Preservation effort celebrated a key milestone when Nebraska’s First Lady, Suzanne Pillen led a groundbreaking ceremony, acknowledging the reinstallation of the Pershing Mural within Historic Wyuka Park. Work will begin on a retaining wall that will serve as a backdrop to a larger wall, formed horizontally and raised to a vertical position on which the majestic 140′ x 38′ mosaic, made up of 763,000 square-inch ceramic tiles, will be adhered in the spring of 2025.
Along with installing and restoring the Mural, the impact the Pershing Mural can make as an educational tool was also recognized and incorporated into the Project. As a result, academic curricula have been developed (supported by Humanities Nebraska), providing Nebraska educators and their students opportunities for deeper contextual appreciation for the Mural’s composition. In addition, a 3-D tactile model of the Pershing Mural will be created, allowing access to the blind/those individuals with low vision, to appreciate its composition.
Wyuka Cemetery and Park was established by the Legislature in 1869 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. When installed within Wyuka, the Pershing Mural will be one of the largest free-standing mosaic murals in the world. As an historic Nebraska landmark, its visitors are estimated to exceed 20,000 annually. Education, interpretation, and memories—this is what the Pershing Mural represents – as a cultural treasure and iconic work of Nebraska art.
Fundraising is ongoing and $1.3 million is needed to complete the $4.1 million overall goal to complete the restoration of the Mural’s 763,000 1” x 1” square ceramic tiles, cover the cost of its installation and provide funds for future maintenance. The Committee realizes that $1.3 million is indeed a great deal of money. However, there were many who thought it was unimaginable to safely remove the 140’ x 38’ Mural from the front of Pershing Auditorium.
Tax-deductible donations can be made online to the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation (the Project’s fiscal sponsor) or by sending a check to the NSHSF (noting Pershing Mural on the memo line) to 1201 Lincoln Mall, Suite 100, Lincoln, NE 68508.
The Committee committed to the historic preservation of the Pershing Mural reflects a kind of “grit” that defines the culture of Nebraska communities. In our State, we have a commitment to things that are out of the “ordinary,” in conditions that are often uncomfortable and on an impressive scale. That spirit and commitment are reflected in the Pershing Mural and is what makes Nebraska and Nebraskans “different.” Together we do big, difficult things in this State for the benefit of friends and family we have yet to meet. That’s who we are. That’s what the Mural says.
We are counting on support from this fundraising campaign to preserve this magnificent mural to be displayed for future generations of Nebraskans to enjoy. You can make a donation online at the secure links below, or by mailing to the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation (1201 Lincoln Mall, Suite 100, Lincoln, NE 68508), noting Pershing Mural Preservation Project in the ‘Memo’ line of the check.