https://www.nps.gov/home News releases from Homestead National Historical Park. en-us https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2026-homestead-days.htm Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:11:00 EST Visitors to Homestead National Historical Park are invited to the park’s grounds at the Education Center on Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28 to participate in a full weekend of free activities, demonstrations, and performances. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2026-homestead-days.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2026-fiddle-festival.htm Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:17:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park invites fiddlers to share their talent and compete in the annual Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival, May 23, 2026. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., a workshop is scheduled to take place at 10 a.m., the jam session will start at 11 a.m., and the competition begins at noon. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2026-fiddle-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/prescribed-burn-home.htm Thu, 05 Mar 2026 11:00:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park plans to conduct a prescribed burn treating approximately 60 acres. The prescribed fire will occur on the first day in which favorable and safe conditions exist between now and May 1, 2026. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/prescribed-burn-home.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/air-2026.htm Mon, 08 Dec 2025 06:04:00 EST BEATRICE, Neb. - Homestead National Historical Park’s 2026 Artist-in-Residence Program is open for applications for artists seeking inspiration from Homestead National Historical Park’s rich cultural and natural resources. All visual (painters, photographers, sculptures, etc.), performing (drama, dance, music, composition, etc.) and literary artists are welcome to apply. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/air-2026.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/winter-fest-2026.htm Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:04:00 EST Beatrice, Neb. – Homestead National Historical Park is hosting its annual Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures now through January 3, 2026, at the Education and Heritage Centers. Special programs will be offered December 7, and December 14, 2025, at the Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/winter-fest-2026.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/naturalization-september-2025.htm Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:01:00 EST The National Park Service and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will welcome 25 United States citizenship candidates during a naturalization ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center in honor of Constitution Day. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/naturalization-september-2025.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/old-fashioned-spelling-bee-2025.htm Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:58:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park is hosting its annual Old-Fashioned Spelling Bee and Ice Cream Social on Monday, September 1, 2025, 10 a.m., at the Freeman School. Morgan Fox, Youth Services Librarian at Beatrice Public Library, will emcee the competition. Visitors can enjoy an ice cream social and self-guided nature writing activities after the spelling bee. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/old-fashioned-spelling-bee-2025.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/living-history-extravaganza-2025.htm Thu, 14 Aug 2025 07:56:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will present a day of living history activities at the Homestead Heritage Center on Saturday, August 30, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/living-history-extravaganza-2025.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/naturalization-ceremony-flag-day-2025.htm Tue, 03 Jun 2025 09:29:00 EST BEATRICE, Neb. – The National Park Service and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will welcome 25 United States citizenship candidates during a naturalization ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, June 13, 2025, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center in honor of Flag Day. The 25 citizenship candidates represent 16 countries including: Iraq, Mexico, Somalia, Cameroon, El Salvador, Ukraine, Cuba, Congo, and Iran. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/naturalization-ceremony-flag-day-2025.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/fiddle-festival-2025.htm Mon, 19 May 2025 10:52:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park invites fiddlers to share their talent and compete in the annual Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival, May 24, 2025, registration begins at 9:30 a.m.; a workshop is scheduled take place at 10:00 a.m., and the competition begins at noon. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/fiddle-festival-2025.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-welcomes-25-new-citizens.htm Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:31:00 EST BEATRICE, Neb. – The National Park Service and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services plan to welcome 25 United States citizenship candidates during a naturalization ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-welcomes-25-new-citizens.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2025-read-with-a-ranger.htm Mon, 13 Jan 2025 07:38:00 EST “Read with a Ranger” programs begin in January. Join the rangers at the park’s Education Center at 10 a.m. on the 3rd Tuesday and Saturday each month throughout 2025. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2025-read-with-a-ranger.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/film-festival-featuring-ken-burns-the-west.htm Thu, 02 Jan 2025 08:52:00 EST BEATRICE, Neb. – This year’s film festival kicks off at the Education Center on Saturday, January 4 at 2 p.m. with Episode 1 of Ken Burns’ film The West! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/film-festival-featuring-ken-burns-the-west.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kids-in-parks-solve-a-winter-critter-mystery.htm Thu, 02 Jan 2025 08:14:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come to the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, January 11, at 10 a.m. and join us in a ranger-led outdoor walk and indoor craft activity as we solve a mystery about critters that call the park home during winter. And of course, the event is FREE! Come dressed for the weather. Jackets, hats, and gloves are recommended. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kids-in-parks-solve-a-winter-critter-mystery.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/restored-historic-palmer-epard-cabin-reopens-to-the-public.htm Thu, 19 Dec 2024 06:19:00 EST The historic Palmer-Epard Cabin in Homestead National Historical Park is once again open to visitors following an approximately $180,000 restoration project funded by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Legacy Restoration Fund. Visitors to the small cabin are transported back to the 1860s and given a glimpse into the world of courageous homesteaders in search of a better life. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/restored-historic-palmer-epard-cabin-reopens-to-the-public.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2025-artist-in-residence.htm Mon, 16 Dec 2024 04:41:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park’s 2025 Artist-in-Residence program is now open to practicing artists seeking inspiration from Homestead National Historical Park’s rich cultural and natural resources! Homestead National Historical Park welcomes applications from artists practicing any form of artistic expression, including painting, sculpting, photography, performance, writing, video/filmmaking, musical composition, etc. To apply for the program, visit https://go.nps.gov/HomesteadAIR and follow the application requirements. The deadline for accepting applications is January 31, 2025. For applications to be considered, they must be postmarked on or before this date. Artists will be notified of selection results by the end of March 2025. Selected artists will channel their individual talent into one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by the homestead story and the park’s environment. Those selected will also conduct a public presentation related to their work as a part of the residency. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2025-artist-in-residence.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-gingerbread-cabin-kip.htm Mon, 02 Dec 2024 07:51:00 EST Attention kids of all ages. Join us at the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, December 14, at 10 a.m. for a ranger-led activity as we learn where homesteaders lived on the plains and construct our own homestead gingerbread cabins. And of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-gingerbread-cabin-kip.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures-2024.htm Thu, 21 Nov 2024 03:54:00 EST Go back in time this holiday season, November 29 through December 31, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center and Heritage Center, to see a beautiful tapestry of winter traditions of those who lived on the Great Plains. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures-2024.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/lakota-artist-presents-winter-count.htm Tue, 05 Nov 2024 09:50:00 EST BEATRICE, Neb. – On Sunday, November 10 at 2 p.m., Homestead National Historical Park will welcome Steven Tamayo from the Bluebirds Cultural Initiative. Tamayo will present a program on the deer skin Lakota winter count he created for Homestead National Historical Park’s Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures. This program will take place at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/lakota-artist-presents-winter-count.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kip-learn-about-bison.htm Tue, 05 Nov 2024 05:26:00 EST BEATRICE, Neb. – Attention kids of all ages! Come to the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, November 9, at 10 a.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we learn about the many uses Native Americans and early settlers had for the bison. And of course, the event is FREE! Come dressed for the weather. Jackets, sunscreen, and insect repellent are all recommended. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kip-learn-about-bison.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-howling-homestead.htm Fri, 11 Oct 2024 07:09:00 EST It’s time once again for Howling Homestead at Homestead National Historical Park! This exciting, fun, and family-friendly event will be held at the Heritage Center on Saturday, October 26, 2024, starting at 4 p.m. There will be a variety of stations to entertain and delight. Join presenters to learn about Lakota stories, have fun with the “mad scientist,” observe snakes and raptors and take a hike through the tallgrass prairie, plus so much more! There is no fee for this event and the first 100 children receive a free pumpkin to take home from the Friends of Homestead, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the park. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-howling-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-october-campfire-program.htm Tue, 08 Oct 2024 12:27:00 EST Join Park Guide Will Griggs at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. for a campfire program entitled “Nighttime Games on the Homestead.” This program will delve into the important role that leisure and games played in providing relief from the hardships of homesteading. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-october-campfire-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-october-turn-over-a-new-leaf.htm Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:11:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come to the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, October 12, at 10 a.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we learn about leaves and their characteristics, using detective skills to identify them. And of course, the event is FREE! Come dressed for the weather. Jackets, sunscreen, and insect repellent are all recommended. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-october-turn-over-a-new-leaf.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-family-history-month.htm Mon, 30 Sep 2024 10:13:00 EST Join Park Ranger Amber Kirkendall on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Homestead National Historical Park’s Heritage Center to learn how to locate and leverage National Park Service sites and digital public lands records to research and connect to your family history. The National Park Service protects and provides access to our Nation's natural and cultural heritage.  There are over 430 National Parks. These public lands tell various parts of the American story and can provide unique physical and digital resources that can help researchers learn more about the experiences of their ancestors. Kirkendall will discuss how to locate National Parks that connect to your family story via major topics, era, and location. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-family-history-month.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-october-seed-harvest.htm Fri, 27 Sep 2024 06:42:00 EST Discover the diversity of the vegetation of Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, October 5, 2024, by harvesting native seed to be used to repair and restore disturbed areas. Meet at the Education Center at 1 p.m. for a quick introduction to the activity before heading out to harvest seed. No experience is needed. Please wear long pants and closed toed shoes. Gloves are optional and will not be provided. Many people do like to wear gardening type gloves to protect their hands. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-october-seed-harvest.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-october-star-party.htm Wed, 25 Sep 2024 08:42:00 EST Attention star gazers of all ages! Come out to the Heritage Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, October 5 at 7:30 p.m. and join us in a ranger-led astronomy activity. Everyone is encouraged to dress for the weather and bring binoculars or telescopes to view the night sky. There will be three telescopes at the park. In the event the weather doesn’t cooperate, we will have a kid-friendly indoor activity. And of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-october-star-party.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-public-lands-day-inventory.htm Thu, 19 Sep 2024 11:39:00 EST Curious about the flora, funga, and fauna of Homestead National Historical Park? Venture out to the park on Saturday, September 28 for the 2024 National Public Lands Day - BioBlitz! A bioblitz is a community science effort to identify as many species as possible that can be found within a given space and time. Sunscreen and insect repellent are advised. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-public-lands-day-inventory.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-bauman-air-program.htm Mon, 09 Sep 2024 11:21:00 EST Come to Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on Sunday, September 15, at 2 p.m. and meet Artist-in-Residence Anita Bauman, who will present a demonstration of her sewing work as she creates a piece inspired by the homestead spirit. She is also inviting visitors to be involved in the sewing process by designing their own fabric blocks or by bringing old fabric they may have at home. Join Bauman as she highlights her enjoyment of sewing at Homestead National Historical Park. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-bauman-air-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-september-naturalization.htm Fri, 06 Sep 2024 11:39:00 EST U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the National Park Service will celebrate Constitution Day by hosting a Naturalization Ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Heritage Center. The 26 citizenship candidates represent 14 countries, including: Afghanistan, Brazil, Colombia, Congo, Cuba, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea, Guatemala, India, Iraq, Mexico, Nigeria, Sudan, and Vietnam. The public is invited and encouraged to attend as we welcome these new citizens and celebrate their accomplishment. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-september-naturalization.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-september-owl-kips-program.htm Thu, 05 Sep 2024 10:33:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come out to the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, September 14, at 10 a.m. for a ranger-led activity as we learn about mysterious owl pellets. These are the things the owl leaves behind after having a meal, so who knows what you may find as you look inside. And of course, the event is FREE! Come dressed for the weather. Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-september-owl-kips-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-economic-impact.htm Thu, 05 Sep 2024 10:16:00 EST A new National Park Service report shows that 49.8 thousand visitors to Homestead National Historical Park in 2023 spent $1.9 million in communities near the park. That spending supported 25 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $2.2 million. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-economic-impact.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-09-07-campfire-program.htm Tue, 03 Sep 2024 06:47:00 EST Join Park Guide Will Griggs at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. for a campfire program entitled “Nighttime Games on the Homestead.” This program will delve into the important role that leisure and games played in providing relief from the hardships of homesteading. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-09-07-campfire-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-winter-hours-change.htm Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:01:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will return to regular hours starting on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. The park visitor centers will be open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Freeman School will be opened by request as along as staffing permits. Parking areas and trails will continue to be open from sunrise to sunset. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-winter-hours-change.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-spelling-bee.htm Mon, 19 Aug 2024 08:07:00 EST On Monday, September 2, 2024, starting at 10 a.m. at the Freeman School, join in that time honored tradition of the annual Old-Fashioned Spelling Bee. Stick around after the spelling bee for a free ice cream social, complete with games and activities that schoolchildren would have played back in the homestead era. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-spelling-bee.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-living-history-extravaganza.htm Wed, 14 Aug 2024 07:51:00 EST It’s a Living History Extravaganza! Experience history at Homestead National Historical Park’s Heritage Center on Saturday, August 31, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Historic chore demonstrations and crafts will be led by volunteers. Hands-on crafts will include button toys, spinning, and cornhusk dolls. Starting at 10 a.m., Blue Valley Antique Club members will disk and drill the Heritage Center’s demonstration field with historic farm equipment. This demonstration of historic equipment will plant the field with winter wheat. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-living-history-extravaganza.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/founders-day-2024.htm Tue, 13 Aug 2024 07:32:00 EST Join Park Guide Tanner Christy at Homestead National Historical Park on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. for a special program celebrating the 108th birthday of the National Park Service. This program will delve into the early history of the National Park Service, the creation of Homestead National Historical Park, and the special natural and cultural resources that the National Park Service protects. This program will be held in the multipurpose room in the Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/founders-day-2024.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-kip-fishing-program.htm Tue, 30 Jul 2024 10:57:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come to the Heritage Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, August 10 at 10 a.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we learn about fish and their characteristics. Then try your luck as we practice fishing. We’ll have 10 fishing poles available for use, or bring you own. We’ll also have some bait available. All participants earn a Junior Ranger Angler badge. Of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-kip-fishing-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-2024-hidden-history-of-homesteading.htm Thu, 18 Jul 2024 05:44:00 EST Come to Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on Sunday, July 21, at 2:00 p.m. for a special program by Sara Gregg, Ph.D., whose work focuses on environmental change, agricultural history, and land policy. Gregg will present a program on her current project, “Little Piece of Earth: The Hidden History of Homesteading on the Great Plains”, which examines the process of state formation in the US West from the first years in the contact zone through the several Homestead Acts and into the present. She is excited to present this project, so we encourage those interested to join us for this wonderful program. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-2024-hidden-history-of-homesteading.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-2024_pictures-on-the-prairie_air.htm Wed, 17 Jul 2024 12:25:00 EST Come to Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on Saturday, July 20, at 10:00 a.m. to shoot photos with our artist-in-residence, Sara Gregg, and explore prairie wildlife and vegetation in the park. Learn some tricks on composition and lighting from Gregg, while experiencing the oldest restored prairie in the National Park Service. Participants are welcome to bring a digital camera, camera phone, or use instant cameras provided by the park. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-2024_pictures-on-the-prairie_air.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/butterfly-discovery-walk-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Wed, 17 Jul 2024 11:37:00 EST On July 19 and 20, 2024 at 2 p.m. become a citizen scientist and join Homestead’s Park Rangers to search and count butterflies! Meet at the Heritage Center for a brief introduction at 2 p.m. before heading outside. The current plan is to walk and make observations along a one-fourth of a mile prairie trail. Prepare for the weather with sun protection, close-toed shoes, and drinking water. Binoculars and cameras with telephoto lenses can be helpful in getting a good view of the butterflies. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/butterfly-discovery-walk-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-2024-inspiration-landscape-art.htm Fri, 12 Jul 2024 05:57:00 EST Come to Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on Sunday, July 14, at 2:00 p.m., and meet Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Abend, who will present a workshop on her artistic pursuits which involve the use of painting landscapes and descriptive texts to invoke thoughts and feelings about homesteading. Join Abend as she explores what it means to be a homesteader through the arts. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-2024-inspiration-landscape-art.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-2024-kip-prairie-plant-discovery.htm Mon, 08 Jul 2024 08:45:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come to the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, July 13 at 10 a.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we discover the plants on the prairie. We’ll take a short hike on the prairie and discuss some uses of native plants. Afterward, we’ll decorate a flowerpot and plant seeds that will grow into a plant to take home. All participants earn a Junior Ranger badge. Of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-2024-kip-prairie-plant-discovery.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/june-2024-sean-astin-at-homestead-days.htm Wed, 12 Jun 2024 12:02:00 EST BEATRICE, Neb. – Actor Sean Astin will be at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, June 22, at 3:00 p.m., as part of Homestead Days activities. Sean Astin is known for his roles in “The Goonies”, “Rudy”, “Stranger Things 2”, “The Conners”, “The Lord of the Rings”, and many more. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/june-2024-sean-astin-at-homestead-days.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/june-2024-naturalization.htm Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:18:00 EST U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the National Park Service will celebrate Flag Day by hosting a Naturalization Ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, June 14, 2024, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center. The 25 citizenship candidates represent 18 countries, including: El Salvador, Vietnam, Burma, Portugal, and Canada. The public is invited and encouraged to attend as we welcome these new citizens and celebrate their accomplishment. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/june-2024-naturalization.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/05-2024-kip-spinning.htm Fri, 31 May 2024 08:12:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come to the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, June 8 at 10 a.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we discover the world of wool spinning and dyeing. Create a bookmark or bracelet for yourself to take home and earn a Junior Ranger badge. Of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/05-2024-kip-spinning.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-june-bird-walk.htm Thu, 23 May 2024 10:38:00 EST Join staff at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on June 7 and/or June 8 at 8 a.m. for a ranger-led bird walk. All ages and abilities are welcome. During the walk, which will take about two hours and cover about a mile of trail, participants will work together with the ranger to find and identify as many of the songsters as possible. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-june-bird-walk.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/05-16-learn-to-draw-the-birds-of-homestead.htm Mon, 20 May 2024 11:24:00 EST Come to Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on Friday, May 24, at 10:00 a.m. and meet Artist-in-Residence, Nikki Raitz, who will present a workshop on how to draw the many birds you can see at Homestead. Join Raitz as she explores the wonders of nature at Homestead National Historical Park through her love of drawing and the arts. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/05-16-learn-to-draw-the-birds-of-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-fiddle-festival-klug.htm Tue, 14 May 2024 04:37:00 EST Join us Sunday, May 26, to see Hillary Klug. Klug will participate with guests in a jam session and buck dancing workshop from noon-1 p.m., so bring your instruments and dancing shoes. She will then perform a concert with local musicians from 1 p.m.-2 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-fiddle-festival-klug.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-fiddle-festival.htm Mon, 13 May 2024 10:11:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park invites you to join us on Saturday May 25, 2024, and Sunday, May 26 for the Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival. This year’s festival will feature two days of activities dedicated to remembering the musical traditions of the Homestead Era. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-fiddle-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-may-critter-count.htm Fri, 03 May 2024 08:36:00 EST Curious about the plants and animals of Homestead National Historical Park? Then be at the park on Saturday, May 11, 2024, for the 2024 Critter Count - Bioblitz! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-may-critter-count.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/5-3-24-bird-walk.htm Fri, 26 Apr 2024 05:45:00 EST Do you enjoy slow walks while being serenaded by elusive songsters? If you answered yes (or even maybe), be sure to be at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on May 3 and/or 4 at 8 a.m. for a ranger-led bird excursion. All ages and abilities are welcome. During the stroll, which will take about two hours and cover about a mile of trail, participants will work together with the ranger to find and identify as many of the songsters as possible. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/5-3-24-bird-walk.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-arbor-day-walk.htm Wed, 24 Apr 2024 12:38:00 EST Celebrate National Park Week at Homestead National Historical Park, April 20-28! Homestead National Historical Park is having a Ranger-led Arbor Day Woodland Walk where you can learn about the woodland and prairie ecosystems and earn your Junior Ranger Badge. This program will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at our Education Center. So come on out and enjoy a ranger-guided walk as we continue our celebration of National Park Week! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-arbor-day-walk.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-april-naturalization-ceremony.htm Mon, 22 Apr 2024 08:00:00 EST U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the National Park Service will welcome 25 U.S. Citizenship candidates to be naturalized during a ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center in honor of National Park Week. The 25 citizenship candidates represent 14 countries, including: Sudan, Vietnam, Burma Morocco, and Ukraine. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-april-naturalization-ceremony.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-wichita-war-dancer-to-perform-at-homestead.htm Tue, 09 Apr 2024 09:04:00 EST Celebrate National Park Week at Homestead National Historical Park, April 20-28! Homestead National Historical Park will start the festivities at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, 2024 with the Wichita War Dancer at the Homestead Education Center. Greg Victors, also known as the Wichita War Dancer, is an Indigenous performer dedicated to preserving traditional Native American culture through the War Dance. In addition to performing native dances, Victors will also help the audience learn more about Indigenous culture. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-wichita-war-dancer-to-perform-at-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-eclipse-at-homestead.htm Thu, 28 Mar 2024 05:06:00 EST Attention eclipse fans of all ages! Bring your lunch and lawn chairs to the Heritage Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Monday, April 8 at noon. and join us for the partial solar eclipse. We will be making pinhole cards to view the eclipse safely, and the first 200 visitors will receive eclipse viewing glasses. Weather permitting, hourly prairie walks will occur at noon, 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m., because the eclipse not only affects humans, but animals as well. This is the last in a 7-year chain of solar eclipses that started with the total solar eclipse in 2017. The next solar eclipse over the United States will be 20 years from now in 2044. Everyone is encouraged to dress for the weather, and participants can earn Eclipse Explorer Junior Ranger badges. And of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-eclipse-at-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2-26-24-build-a-bat-house.htm Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:22:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come to the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, March 9 at 10 a.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we discover many things about bats. Then join us as we build bat houses to encourage these cute misunderstood animals to nest in your yard and eat bugs. Take your bat house home, along with a Junior Ranger badge, and of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2-26-24-build-a-bat-house.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-genealogy-program.htm Fri, 23 Feb 2024 07:38:00 EST Do you enjoy Genealogy? Do you want to learn about your family history? Join Homestead National Historical Park to learn about the ins and outs of genealogy on Saturday, March 9 at 2 p.m. at the Education Center. Park Guide Tanner Christy will go over the basics of how to start in your genealogy journey. This free ranger-led program will look at the many resources available to research your family and how to use them effectively to put your family story together. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-genealogy-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2-25-24-star-gazing-activity.htm Thu, 22 Feb 2024 06:56:00 EST Attention star gazers of all ages! Come out to the Heritage Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Friday, March 8 at 7:30 p.m. and join us in a ranger-led astronomy activity. Everyone is encouraged to dress for the weather and bring binoculars or telescopes to view the night sky. There will be three telescopes at the park. In the event the weather doesn’t cooperate, we will have a kid-friendly indoor activity. And of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2-25-24-star-gazing-activity.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-women-s-history-month-program.htm Thu, 15 Feb 2024 05:20:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park is proud to recognize March as Women’s History Month by offering two FREE ranger-led programs exploring women’s roles in understanding Great Plains landscapes and in developing United States public lands on Sunday, March 3, and Sunday, March 24. Both programs start at 2 p.m. at the park’s Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-women-s-history-month-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-photo-exhibit-contest.htm Fri, 09 Feb 2024 06:44:00 EST Do you love National Parks? Do you have a photo or three you want to show off? Homestead National Historical Park is pleased to announce its third annual National Parks Photo Contest. We invite everyone to share their favorite snapshots of their time visiting America’s national parks. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-photo-exhibit-contest.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2-10-2024-kids-in-park-birds.htm Wed, 31 Jan 2024 07:10:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come out to the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, February 10 at 10 a.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we discover the many bird species that call the prairie and woodland home in the wintertime. Then join us as we create a bird or woodland critter with a bead craft project to take home. Participants will earn a Junior Ranger badge, and of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2-10-2024-kids-in-park-birds.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-roots-deep-in-the-south-documentary.htm Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:11:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park is proud to share its mini-documentary production entitled Homestead Roots Deep in the South on February 4, 2024, at 2PM at the park’s Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-roots-deep-in-the-south-documentary.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-kip-january-animal-detective.htm Fri, 05 Jan 2024 10:28:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come out to the Education Center at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, January 13 at 10 a.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we learn what critters call the prairie home in the wintertime and solve the mystery of where they go when it’s cold and snowy. Then join us as we create a woodland critter with a bead craft project to take home. Participants will earn a Junior Ranger badge, and of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-kip-january-animal-detective.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-film-festival.htm Wed, 27 Dec 2023 04:43:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park’s 2024 Film Festival will feature films by Ken Burns. This year’s film festival will be held at the Education Center throughout the weekends of January. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-film-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-artist-in-residence-application.htm Thu, 21 Dec 2023 05:03:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park is looking for practicing artists wanting to find inspiration from our rich cultural and natural resources in 2024. To apply for the program, visit https://go.nps.gov/HomesteadAIR and follow the application requirements. The deadline for accepting applications is January 15, 2024. For applications to be considered they must be postmarked on or before this date. Artists will be notified of selections by the first week of March. Artists can be fine art painters, sculptors, fine art photographers, performers, writers, video/filmmakers, composers, etc. These artists will channel their individual talent into one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by the homestead story and park environment. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2024-artist-in-residence-application.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-star-party.htm Mon, 04 Dec 2023 10:23:00 EST Attention star gazers! Come out to Homestead National Historical Park’s Heritage Center on Friday, December 15, at 6 p.m. and join us for a ranger-led astronomy activity. Everyone is encouraged to dress for the weather and bring binoculars or telescopes to view the night sky. There will be three telescopes at the park, as well as hot cocoa. And of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-star-party.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-paper-moon-pastries-baking-program-and-contest.htm Thu, 30 Nov 2023 05:46:00 EST Join us Sunday, December 17, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center as Lindsey Oelling of Paper Moon Pastries shares holiday baking tips and traditions. The program will be directly followed by a fun baking/food creation competition inspired by the Palmer-Epard Cabin. The Palmer-Epard Cabin was built on the Palmer family homestead, about 14-miles from the park, in 1867. The cabin was moved to Homestead National Historical Park in 1950. The historic structure offers guests a peak into what life would have been like for homesteaders at the beginning of the Homestead Era. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-paper-moon-pastries-baking-program-and-contest.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-kip-build-a-homestead-cabin.htm Wed, 29 Nov 2023 05:37:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come out to Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, December 9, from 10 a.m. until noon. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we learn where homesteaders lived on the plains and construct our own homestead cabins. And of course, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-kip-build-a-homestead-cabin.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures.htm Wed, 22 Nov 2023 11:03:00 EST Go back in time this holiday season, November 24, thru December 31, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center, to see a beautiful tapestry of winter traditions of those who lived on the Great Plains at the beginning of the Homestead Era. The Homestead Act of 1862 served as an invitation for immigrants to seek free 160-acre homesteads in the United States, resulting in the arrival of a variety of cultural and ethnic traditions to the United States. The Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures remembers this rich heritage and celebrates some of these cultural traditions. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-purple-heart-program.htm Mon, 13 Nov 2023 04:35:00 EST Join Park Guide Tanner Christy at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. for a program entitled “A Witness to Sacrifice: History of the Purple Heart Medal.” https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-purple-heart-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-kip-turning-over-a-new-leaf.htm Wed, 18 Oct 2023 08:40:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come out to Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, October 28, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we learn about leaves and their characteristics, using detective skills to identify them. And of course, the event is FREE! Come dressed for the weather. Jackets, sunscreen, and insect repellent are all recommended. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-kip-turning-over-a-new-leaf.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-howling-homestead.htm Mon, 09 Oct 2023 09:10:00 EST It’s time once again for Howling Homestead at Homestead National Historical Park! This exciting, fun, and family-friendly event will be held at the Heritage Center on Saturday, October 21, 2023, starting at 4 p.m. There will be a variety of stations to entertain and delight. Join presenters to learn about the night sky, have fun with the “mad scientist,” observe snakes and raptors and take a hike through the tallgrass prairie, plus so much more! There is no fee for this event and the first 100 children receive a free pumpkin to take home from the Friends of Homestead, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the park. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-howling-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-family-history-month-dr-jake-friefeld-program.htm Fri, 22 Sep 2023 11:07:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park invites you to join a special Family History Month program at the Homestead Education Center on Sunday, October 1, at 2:00 p.m. Homestead National Historical Park is pleased to host Dr. Jake Friefeld, author of The First Migrants, and director of the University of Illinois-Springfield’s Center for Lincoln Studies. Dr. Friefeld’s program will share the epic story of Black Americans homesteading in the Great Plains after the Civil War. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-family-history-month-dr-jake-friefeld-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-blast-exhibit-showcasing-after-school-programs.htm Fri, 15 Sep 2023 10:06:00 EST Visit Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center now through November 15 to check out an exhibit showcasing activities elementary students in the Beatrice Learning After School Time (BLAST) program participated in during the 2022-2023 school year. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-blast-exhibit-showcasing-after-school-programs.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-public-lands-day.htm Thu, 14 Sep 2023 09:29:00 EST Join Homestead National Historical Park on September 23, 2023, at 1 p.m. to take part in the Nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort by helping to plant over 500 native prairie plants in the Native Plant Display Garden. Meet at the Education Center at 1 p.m. for a short introduction and to sign up as a volunteer. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-public-lands-day.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/09-2023-homestead-welcomes-23-new-citizens.htm Mon, 11 Sep 2023 09:12:00 EST U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the National Park Service will welcome 23 U.S. Citizenship candidates to be naturalized during a ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, September 15, 2023, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center. The 23 citizenship candidates represent thirteen different countries, including: Burma, El Salvador, Bhutan, Vietnam, Peru, the Philippines, Somalia, Sudan, the United Kingdom, Cuba, Mexico, Ukraine, and Guatemala. The general public is invited and encouraged to attend. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/09-2023-homestead-welcomes-23-new-citizens.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-kip-owl-pellets.htm Mon, 11 Sep 2023 05:36:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Come out to Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, September 16, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. and join us in a ranger-led activity as we look at owl pellets. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-kip-owl-pellets.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-fall-campfire-series.htm Tue, 05 Sep 2023 10:25:00 EST Join Homestead National Historical Park for our Fall Campfire Series throughout the month of September. These programs are scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 9, 16, and 30. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-fall-campfire-series.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/old-fashioned-spelling-bee-2023.htm Mon, 28 Aug 2023 13:30:00 EST On Monday, September 4, 2023, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Freeman School, join in that time honored tradition of the Annual Old Fashioned Spelling Bee. Stick around after the Bee for a free Ice Cream Social, complete with games and activities that schoolchildren would have played back in the homestead era. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/old-fashioned-spelling-bee-2023.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-living-history-extravaganza.htm Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:21:00 EST It’s a living history extravaganza! Experience history, at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on Saturday, September 2, from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-living-history-extravaganza.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-08-10-1863-the-year-that-changed-everything.htm Thu, 10 Aug 2023 08:09:00 EST Come to Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on Sunday, August 13, at 2:00 p.m. to hear artist in residence, Betsy Iversen, as she shares the research and thoughts she developed about the monumental year of 1863. Transferring of land from public domain to the people and using rail to connect the east coast to the west coast were just a couple of the projects that were kicked off in 1863 – changing everything. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-08-10-1863-the-year-that-changed-everything.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-07-26-genealogical-award.htm Wed, 26 Jul 2023 07:42:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park was awarded a Genealogy Tourism Award by the National Genealogical Society at their 2023 annual conference in Richmond, Virginia. The award recognizes leaders in the promotion of genealogical research. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-07-26-genealogical-award.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-07-21-kip-fishing.htm Fri, 21 Jul 2023 07:05:00 EST Attention kids of all ages! Fishing has been a way of life for people throughout the world for thousands of years. Join us at Homestead National Historical Park and try your luck as we go fishing! We’ll be at the Heritage Center pond on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at 10 a.m. Fishing poles and bait will be provided, or feel free to bring your own. Participants over 16 will need a Nebraska Fishing Permit if you plan to fish. As always, the event is FREE! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-07-21-kip-fishing.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-07-16-butterfly-walk.htm Tue, 11 Jul 2023 05:08:00 EST Join Master Naturalist and butterfly expert Jo Langabee and Natural Resource Specialist Jesse Bolli for a Butterfly Walk on Sunday, July 16, 2023 at 2 p.m. at Homestead National Historical Park. The walk will begin at the Education Center. You are encouraged to bring water, and binoculars or a camera with zoom to help with the identification of the butterflies. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-07-16-butterfly-walk.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-07-06-pictures-on-the-prairie.htm Thu, 06 Jul 2023 07:26:00 EST Come to Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on Thursday, July 13, at 6:00 p.m. to shoot photos with our artist in residence, Rachael Sebastian, and explore prairie wildlife and vegetation in the park. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-07-06-pictures-on-the-prairie.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-06-27-campfire-program.htm Tue, 27 Jun 2023 10:30:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park presents campfire program on Tuesday, July 4, at 7:00 P.M. Join Park Guide Tanner Christy for a campfire program entitled "Free Land for Free Men: The legacy of the Homestead Act for Service Members and Veterans." https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-06-27-campfire-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/marty-raney-at-homestead.htm Thu, 15 Jun 2023 10:56:00 EST Marty Raney, host of Discovery Channel's Homestead Rescue, will be at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, June 24, at 2:00 PM as part of our Homestead Days activities. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/marty-raney-at-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-06-16-homestead-days-schedule.htm Wed, 14 Jun 2023 06:57:00 EST Homestead Days 2023 is coming soon! We invite you to Homestead National Historical Park on Friday, June 23, 2023, through Sunday, June 25, 2023, to participate in this weekend full of free events, including a keynote presentation by Marty Raney, host of Discovery Channel’s Homestead Rescue. In addition to Marty Raney, this year’s stage presentations will feature music and dance from the various cultures impacted by the Homestead Act. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-06-16-homestead-days-schedule.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-06-02-artists-selected.htm Fri, 02 Jun 2023 08:38:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park is excited to announce the artists chosen for the 2023 Artist-in-Residence program. This is Homestead’s fourteenth year offering artists the opportunity to live at the park and create works of art inspired by the Homestead story and its environment. Homestead is just one of many National Park Service sites that host resident artists to help connect visitors with the park’s meanings using a variety of art forms. Plan to learn more about these artists through our social media channels or visit the park this spring through fall to interact with this year’s Artists-in-Residence while they work and create. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-06-02-artists-selected.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-05-15-homestead-tallgrass-prairie-fiddle-festival.htm Mon, 15 May 2023 12:36:00 EST Join Homestead National Historical Park on May 27, 2023 for our annual Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-05-15-homestead-tallgrass-prairie-fiddle-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-05-13-kids-in-parks-migratory-bird-day.htm Tue, 09 May 2023 12:25:00 EST BEATRICE, Neb. – Attention kids of all ages! Come out to Homestead National Historical Park, as we celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with a FREE Kids in the Parks Activity. We’ll have a fun craft to do, and a trail hike to view some cool critters! The fun begins at the Homestead Education Center on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at 10 a.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-05-13-kids-in-parks-migratory-bird-day.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-03-27-ycc-2023.htm Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:49:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park is now accepting applications for the summer 2023 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC). YCC is a summer employment program for young men and women, ages 15-18, who work and learn together on projects that further the development and conservation of the natural and cultural resources of the United States. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-03-27-ycc-2023.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-2-18-bird-walk.htm Wed, 08 Feb 2023 07:30:00 EST Join park rangers for a free nature program at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on February 18th at 10:00 a.m. The program will last one hour, weather permitting. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2023-2-18-bird-walk.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-closed-on-thanksgiving.htm Thu, 17 Nov 2022 10:48:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park’s Heritage and Education Centers will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 24, 2022. The trails and other outdoor areas are open from dawn to dusk every day, including Thanksgiving Day. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-closed-on-thanksgiving.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2022-winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures-celebration.htm Wed, 16 Nov 2022 11:07:00 EST Go back in time this holiday season, November 25 thru December 30, to see a beautiful tapestry of winter traditions of those who lived on the Great Plains at the beginning of the Homestead Era. The Homestead Act of 1862 served as an invitation for immigrants to seek free 160-acre homesteads in the United States and become citizens, resulting in the arrival of a variety of cultural and ethnic traditions to the United States. Our Winter Festival remembers this rich heritage and celebrates the cultures of those who settled the Great Plains as well as the cultural traditions that precede the Homestead Act. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2022-winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures-celebration.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-native-american-heritage-month.htm Fri, 04 Nov 2022 12:16:00 EST This program will take place at the Homestead Education Center at 2:00 p.m. Join Homestead National Historical Park’s historian Jonathan Fairchild for a history lesson to learn about the many National Park Service sites that honor Native American history, the history of Native Americans in what became the southern homesteading states, and the impact of the Homestead Act upon Native Americans. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-native-american-heritage-month.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-homestead-2022.htm Mon, 10 Oct 2022 08:32:00 EST It’s time once again for Howling Homestead at Homestead National Historical Park! This exciting, fun, and family-friendly event will be held at the Heritage Center on Saturday, October 22, 2022, from 4-7 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-homestead-2022.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-handwoven-tapestries-exhibit.htm Wed, 01 Jun 2022 06:44:00 EST Celebrating Our National Parks: A Woven Tribute. The exhibit will be on display in the Education Center from June 1 through July 31, 2022. Artwork in the show is inspired by National Park Service sites across the United States. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-handwoven-tapestries-exhibit.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-annual-fiddle-festival.htm Fri, 15 Apr 2022 08:30:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park hopes you will join us on May 28, 2022, to share your talent and compete in our annual Tallgrass Prairie Fiddling Festival. We look forward to hosting this yearly event that honors the musical traditions of the Homestead Era. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-annual-fiddle-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artists-selected-for-homestead-national-historical-park-s-2022-artist-in-residence-program.htm Wed, 23 Mar 2022 08:00:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park is excited to announce the artists chosen for the 2022 Artist-in-Residence program. This year five talented artists have been selected to live and work at the park. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artists-selected-for-homestead-national-historical-park-s-2022-artist-in-residence-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/accepting-applications-for-youth-conservation-corps-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Tue, 08 Mar 2022 07:15:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park is now accepting applications for the summer 2022 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC). The YCC is a summer employment program for young men and women, ages 15-18, who work and learn together on projects that further the development and conservation of the natural and cultural resources of the United States. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/accepting-applications-for-youth-conservation-corps-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-women-s-history-month-program.htm Mon, 07 Mar 2022 11:08:00 EST Hundreds of thousands of women took advantage of the Homestead Act of 1862, claiming land in their own name. Millions more women participated in the homesteading experience. Park historian Jonathan Fairchild will give a program on the stories of women homesteaders on Sunday, March 13, at 2 p.m. in the Education Center. The program will also be available virtually through our park Facebook account for those unable to attend in person. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-women-s-history-month-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/-cultivating-connection-black-homesteading-in-america.htm Mon, 14 Feb 2022 12:00:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will be sharing a video presentation entitled Cultivating Connection: Black Homesteading in America on Sunday, February 27, at 2:00 p.m. at the park’s Education Center and online. Produced by Park Guide Jessica Korgie, this presentation aims to share research tips for beginners and personal perspectives from four descendants who have uncovered and shared their homesteading history on the National Park Service website. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/-cultivating-connection-black-homesteading-in-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/betty-j-boyko-selected-as-superintendent-of-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:28:00 EST National Park Service (NPS) Regional Director Bert Frost announced the selection of Betty J. Boyko as superintendent of Homestead National Historical Park located in Beatrice, Nebraska. She currently serves as superintendent at both Fort Scott National Historic Site and Fort Larned National Historic Site in Kansas. She will assume her new role in mid-March. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/betty-j-boyko-selected-as-superintendent-of-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-native-american-heritage-month-with-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Fri, 05 Nov 2021 05:27:00 EST On Sunday, November 7th Homestead National Historical Park will present a program celebrating Native American Heritage Month. This program will take place at the Homestead Education Center at 2:00 p.m. Join Homestead National Historical Park’s historian Jonathan Fairchild for a history lesson to learn about the many National Park Service sites that honor Native American history, the history of Nebraska and Great Plains Indians, the impact of the Homestead Act upon Native Americans, as well as the story of Chief Standing Bear. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-native-american-heritage-month-with-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-living-history-demonstrations.htm Thu, 26 Aug 2021 12:21:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will host living history demonstrations on Saturday, September 4, from 10:00 AM-3:00 PM. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-living-history-demonstrations.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/night-sky-event-our-glorious-milky-way-galaxy.htm Tue, 24 Aug 2021 10:24:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will host an evening Night Sky Event, Friday, September 3, 2021, outside of the Heritage Center, starting at 8 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/night-sky-event-our-glorious-milky-way-galaxy.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hours-changing-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Tue, 24 Aug 2021 05:56:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will return to regular hours starting on Tuesday, September 7, 2021. The park will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hours-changing-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/final-campfire-program-of-the-season-to-feature-genealogy-and-blues-music.htm Mon, 02 Aug 2021 05:58:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will wrap up this year’s campfire series on Saturday, August 7th, at 7 PM. Beth Sparrow of the Nebraska State Genealogy Society will present an introductory program on family history research. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/final-campfire-program-of-the-season-to-feature-genealogy-and-blues-music.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/national-park-service-announces-partnership-with-the-university-of-nebraska-to-research-about-black-homesteaders-in-oklahoma.htm Thu, 29 Jul 2021 08:40:00 EST The National Park Service and University of Nebraska’s Center for Great Plains Studies will partner once again, to expand research about Black homesteaders. Working with the University of Oklahoma, they will explore the lives of Black homesteaders in Oklahoma in the turn of the century, and examine connections between land ownership, citizenship, and upward mobility for many who had recently been enslaved. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/national-park-service-announces-partnership-with-the-university-of-nebraska-to-research-about-black-homesteaders-in-oklahoma.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/living-historian-will-take-on-the-persona-of-george-shannon-youngest-member-of-the-lewis-and-clark-expedition-at-fourth-campfire-program.htm Tue, 27 Jul 2021 06:13:00 EST Summer Campfire programs will continue at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, July 31st at 7:00 PM! Historian, Bill Hayes will present the story of the Lewis & Clark Expedition through the eyes of its youngest member, George Shannon. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/living-historian-will-take-on-the-persona-of-george-shannon-youngest-member-of-the-lewis-and-clark-expedition-at-fourth-campfire-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-s-mussel-survey-and-restoration-project-to-be-featured-at-third-campfire.htm Mon, 19 Jul 2021 05:41:00 EST Summer Campfire programs will continue at Homestead National Historical Park on July 24, 2021, at 7 p.m.! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-s-mussel-survey-and-restoration-project-to-be-featured-at-third-campfire.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/fire-management-at-homestead-national-historical-park-is-finalized.htm Wed, 07 Jul 2021 05:14:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park has finalized its Fire Management Plan (FMP) and associated Environmental Assessment (EA) with the signing of the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) by Regional Director Herbert Frost, Ph.D. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/fire-management-at-homestead-national-historical-park-is-finalized.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-remembers-the-legacy-of-one-room-school-sunday-july-10-at-7-00-pm.htm Tue, 06 Jul 2021 05:09:00 EST Summer Campfire programs will continue at Homestead National Historical Park! Saturday, July 10, 2021, at 7:00 pm, Gary Mitchel Zabokrstky will present his program, My Experiences as a Country School Student and Teacher. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-remembers-the-legacy-of-one-room-school-sunday-july-10-at-7-00-pm.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-announces-outdoor-explorer-programs.htm Wed, 30 Jun 2021 06:30:00 EST Children of all ages and their families are invited to experience Homestead National Historical Park’s Outdoor Explorer Series as part of the Kids in the Parks Program. They are free of charge and will take place every Saturday from 10:00 am to 11:00 am beginning July 10th and ending on August 7th. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-historical-park-announces-outdoor-explorer-programs.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/it-s-baseball-homestead-national-historical-park-kicks-off-summer-campfire-series-on-sunday-july-4th-at-7-pm.htm Tue, 29 Jun 2021 06:22:00 EST Summer Campfire programs are back at Homestead National Historical Park! Join Park Historian Jonathan Fairchild on Sunday, July 4, 2021, at 7:00 pm, as he presents American As Apple Pie: Baseball and the Homestead Act. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/it-s-baseball-homestead-national-historical-park-kicks-off-summer-campfire-series-on-sunday-july-4th-at-7-pm.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-days-beatrice-s-homestead-harmonizers-to-perform-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Wed, 23 Jun 2021 07:25:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will be hosting the Homestead Harmonizers as a part of our annual Homestead Days event. The Homestead Harmonizers will be featured at the Education Center’s outdoor stage on Saturday June 26, 2021 at 3:00 PM. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-days-beatrice-s-homestead-harmonizers-to-perform-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-days-homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-trick-roper-joan-wells.htm Wed, 23 Jun 2021 07:02:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will be hosting Joan Wells as a part of our annual Homestead Days event. Joan Wells will be featured at the Education Center’s outdoor stage on Sunday, June 27, 2021 at 2:00 PM. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-days-homestead-national-historical-park-to-host-trick-roper-joan-wells.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/powwow-champion-oklahoma-fancy-dancers-to-perform-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Tue, 22 Jun 2021 06:07:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will be hosting the Oklahoma Fancy Dancers as a part of our annual Homestead Days event. The Oklahoma Fancy Dancers will be featured at the Education Center’s outdoor stage on Sunday, June 27, 2021 at 1:00 PM. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/powwow-champion-oklahoma-fancy-dancers-to-perform-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-days-friday-june-25-miss-v-presents-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Thu, 17 Jun 2021 11:59:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park will be hosting family entertainer, Miss V, as a part of our annual Homestead Days event. Miss V will be featured at the Education Center’s outdoor stage on June 25, 2021 at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-days-friday-june-25-miss-v-presents-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/youth-conservation-corps-applications-for-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Fri, 29 Jan 2021 05:02:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park is now accepting applications for the summer 2021 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC). The YCC is a summer employment program for young men and women, ages 15-18, who work and learn together on projects that further the development and conservation of the natural and cultural resources of the United States. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/youth-conservation-corps-applications-for-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/your-input-regarding-fire-management-at-homestead-national-historical-park-is-desired.htm Wed, 20 Jan 2021 05:06:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park has prepared a Fire Management Plan and associated Environmental Assessment that will guide wildfire response and prescribed fire use at the park for the next decade. Changes from the current plan include using prescribed fire within the oak woodland as a management tool and including the area east of the Heritage Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/your-input-regarding-fire-management-at-homestead-national-historical-park-is-desired.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-of-america-to-host-exhibit-all-black-towns-of-oklahoma.htm Wed, 13 Jan 2021 04:53:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is pleased to host an exhibit titled “All-Black Towns of Oklahoma.” The exhibit will run through March 1st in the Homestead Education Center, courtesy of the Oklahoma History Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-of-america-to-host-exhibit-all-black-towns-of-oklahoma.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/plains-tribes-and-the-homestead-act.htm Mon, 21 Dec 2020 03:30:00 EST Homestead National Historical Park’s virtual Winter Festival Performance Series concludes with a presentation by Nancy Gillis on Sunday, January 3, 2021 at 2:00 pm. Gillis’s program will cover the impact the Homestead Act had on the many tribes who inhabited the immense tract of land known as The Great Plains. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/plains-tribes-and-the-homestead-act.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-traditions-and-legacy-of-jewish-homesteaders.htm Wed, 02 Dec 2020 10:47:00 EST The Festival of Prairie Cultures continues with Jewish holiday traditions. Join Rebeca E. Bender, noted author, as she takes us to North Dakota to celebrate the holidays with over 80 families of Jewish descent. This presentation will be the final installment of Homestead National Monument of America’s virtual Winter Festival Presentation Series. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-traditions-and-legacy-of-jewish-homesteaders.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/portuguese-cooking-lesson-taught-live-from-lisbon-portugal.htm Wed, 02 Dec 2020 07:11:00 EST Chef Ana from Tables Less Traveled will teach a live holiday cooking lesson from her cooking academy in Portugal as part of Homestead National Monument of America’s virtual Winter Festival Presentation Series. The event will take place live on Facebook on Sunday, December 6, at 2:00 pm. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/portuguese-cooking-lesson-taught-live-from-lisbon-portugal.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/11-12-2020-winter-festival.htm Thu, 12 Nov 2020 08:14:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America invites guests to the Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures, being held Friday, November 27, 2020 through Sunday, January 3, 2021 at the Homestead Education Center, Homestead Heritage Center, and online. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/11-12-2020-winter-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-fun-for-everyone-2020.htm Tue, 20 Oct 2020 07:47:00 EST Join us live from our Facebook channel on Saturday, October 24, at 4:00 pm for a virtual Howling Homestead event. This livestream program will consist of four fifteen-minute educational programs including a “mad scientist”, observing raptors and owls, storytelling, and more! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-fun-for-everyone-2020.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/extend-recreational-access.htm Fri, 12 Jun 2020 10:14:00 EST Beginning Friday, June 12, 2020, Homestead National Monument of America will extend hours from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Friday and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday-Sunday https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/extend-recreational-access.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/home-modifying-operations-to-implement-latest-health-guidance.htm Sun, 22 Mar 2020 10:52:00 EST As of Sunday, March 22, 2020 Homestead National Monument of America’s Heritage Center, Education Center and the Palmer-Epard Cabin will close until further notice. All onsite programs will be cancelled at this time. Where it is possible to adhere to the latest health guidance, the grounds of the park will remain open from dawn to dusk. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/home-modifying-operations-to-implement-latest-health-guidance.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/square-dance-workshops.htm Wed, 08 Jan 2020 04:36:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America will host its first of three square dancing workshops being held at the Education Center. These workshops are free to participate in. Sessions will be held three consecutive Sundays in a row. Workshops are self-contained so you can get all needed instruction by attending any of the three events, or all of the three events. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/square-dance-workshops.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/film-festival.htm Mon, 30 Dec 2019 08:18:00 EST On Saturday, January 11, at 2:00 p.m., Homestead National Monument of America will kick off the 2020 Film Festival. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/film-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/holiday-hours-announced.htm Tue, 10 Dec 2019 04:42:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America’s Heritage Center, Education Center, and other park buildings will be closed for the holidays on: Wednesday, December 25th and Wednesday, January 1st. The Heritage Center and Education Center will be open on Tuesday, December 24 but will close early at 2:00 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/holiday-hours-announced.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/jerome-kills-small-to-share-oglala-lakota-winter-traditions.htm Tue, 10 Dec 2019 04:14:00 EST Jerome Kills Small from the Pine Ridge Reservation in Western South Dakota will be at Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center to share the Winter Traditions of the Oglala Sioux people, through songs and stories. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/jerome-kills-small-to-share-oglala-lakota-winter-traditions.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/lindsborg-swedish-folk-dancers.htm Mon, 02 Dec 2019 07:32:00 EST Celebrate winter traditions at Homestead National Monument of America with the Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers. On Sunday, December 8, at 2:00 p.m. the Lindsborg, Kansas group, consisting of 15 dancers and five violins will be performing at the Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/lindsborg-swedish-folk-dancers.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-closed-thanksgiving-day.htm Tue, 19 Nov 2019 07:30:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America’s Heritage and Education Centers will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 28, 2019. The trails and other outdoor areas are open from dawn to dusk every day, including Thanksgiving Day. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-closed-thanksgiving-day.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures.htm Mon, 18 Nov 2019 07:15:00 EST Go back in time this holiday season and see a beautiful tapestry of winter traditions of those who lived on the plains at the beginning of the Homestead Era. Homesteading brought a variety of cultural and ethnic traditions to the United States. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-american-indian-heritage-month-with-homestead-and-knife-river-indian-villages.htm Mon, 04 Nov 2019 05:19:00 EST On Sunday, November 10th Homestead National Historical Park will connect virtually with park rangers from Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site who will present their program: “People of the Earthlodge: Lifeways of the Hidatsa." This program with Knife River Indian Villages will take place at the Homestead Education Center at 2:00 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-american-indian-heritage-month-with-homestead-and-knife-river-indian-villages.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-fun-at-homestead.htm Tue, 15 Oct 2019 08:24:00 EST It’s time for Howling Homestead at Homestead National Monument of America! Join us to learn about the night sky, have fun with the “mad scientist,” observe snakes and raptors and take a night hike through the tallgrass prairie, plus so much more! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-fun-at-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/prescribed-burn-planned.htm Fri, 11 Oct 2019 05:32:00 EST Beatrice, Nebraska - Homestead National Monument of America plans to conduct a prescribed burn treating approximately 35 acres of its restored tallgrass prairie. This one day event will occur the first day in which favorable and safe conditions exist after October 15, 2019. Representatives from the National Park Service, local firefighters, and other federal firefighting agencies and departments will assist in igniting, monitoring and controlling the prescribed fire. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/prescribed-burn-planned.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-honors-volunteer-of-the-year-sue-sindlar.htm Thu, 10 Oct 2019 11:10:00 EST Beatrice, Nebraska - On October 6 Homestead National Monument of America recognized its volunteers at a special ceremony. From October 2018 through September 2019, over 600 volunteers provided 11,246 hours of service. Beatrice resident Sue Sindlar was also named Volunteer of the Year at the ceremony. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-honors-volunteer-of-the-year-sue-sindlar.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/carving-and-color.htm Tue, 08 Oct 2019 05:42:00 EST On Sunday, October 20 at 2 p.m. Homestead National Monument of America Artist-in-Residence Ben Bohnsack will present his program “Woodcuts for Nature Lovers” in the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/carving-and-color.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/international-observe-the-moon-night-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 30 Sep 2019 11:20:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America’s Heritage Center gates will be open through the night, Saturday, October 5, 2020 in honor of International Observe the Moon Night. International Observe the Moon Night is an annual worldwide public event that encourages observation and appreciation of the Moon. Each year, thousands of people participate at museums, schools, universities, observatories, parks, businesses, and backyards around the world. Anyone can participate. All you need to do is look up! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/international-observe-the-moon-night-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-family-history-month-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 27 Sep 2019 05:52:00 EST Have you ever wondered about your family’s story? Do you know where your great grandfather and great grandmother were married? Do you know if you have any homesteaders in your past? Join Homestead National Monument of America historian Jonathan Fairchild on Sunday, October 13 at 2 p.m. at the Homestead Heritage Center to learn the basics of genealogy research. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-family-history-month-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ann-weisgarber-author-of-novel-the-personal-history-of-rachel-dupree-to-visit-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 26 Sep 2019 09:36:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America will be hosting Ann Weisgarber. Ann is the author of several published novels. Her Debut novel, The Personal History of Rachel Dupree, takes place in 1917, and details the experiences of an African American homesteading family in the South Dakota Badlands. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ann-weisgarber-author-of-novel-the-personal-history-of-rachel-dupree-to-visit-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/picking-seeds-volunteers-needed.htm Wed, 25 Sep 2019 06:24:00 EST Help collect seed from Homestead National Monument of America’s tallgrass prairie. Interested volunteers are invited to meet at Homestead’s Education Center on October 12, 2019 at 1 p.m. for a short orientation to learn about the species that will be collected before heading out to the prairie to harvest seed. All ages are welcome; please bring gloves and wear long pants and long sleeve shirts along with sturdy shoes as you will be walking through the prairie. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/picking-seeds-volunteers-needed.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artists-in-residence-program-seeking-applicants.htm Tue, 24 Sep 2019 06:18:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is looking for practicing artists wanting to find inspiration from our rich cultural and natural resources in 2020. The deadline for accepting applications is October 31, 2019, via mail or email. Artists will be notified of selections by the end of November. Artists can be fine art painters, sculptors, fine art photographers, performers, writers, video/filmmakers, composers, etc. These artists will channel their individual talent into one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by the homestead story and park environment. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artists-in-residence-program-seeking-applicants.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/beatrice-public-library-monthly-book-discussion-on-september-26th-hosted-by-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 20 Sep 2019 04:50:00 EST On Thursday, September 26th, at 7 p.m. Homestead National Monument of America will host the monthly Beatrice Public Library Book discussion at the Homestead Education Center. In honor of the Midwest Archeological Center’s 50 years with the National Park Service, we will discuss When the Land Was Young: Reflections on American Archaeology by Sharman Apt Russell. Russell covers the rich history of archeology in the United States, including topics such as archeology at National Park sites, working with Native American tribal governments, feminism, and mammoths and saber-toothed cats. Homestead’s Historian, Jonathan Fairchild, will co-lead the book discussion with Beatrice Public Library’s Laureen Riedesel as well as shed light our nation’s epic homesteading story. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/beatrice-public-library-monthly-book-discussion-on-september-26th-hosted-by-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/learn-about-the-landmark-court-case-freeman-v-scheve-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 19 Sep 2019 04:49:00 EST The Honorable Judge Paul Korslund will give a program at Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center on Sunday, October 6, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. on the landmark court case Daniel Freeman v. John Scheve, et. al. The case covered the separation of church and state in public education and originated at the Freeman School, today a part of Homestead National Monument of America. The case made its way to the Nebraska Supreme Court. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/learn-about-the-landmark-court-case-freeman-v-scheve-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/a-tale-of-deals-dynasties-and-disasters-on-the-minnesota-prairie-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 18 Sep 2019 04:45:00 EST On Sunday, September 29 at 2 p.m. Homestead National Monument of America artist-in-residence Marjorie Savage will present her program “Major Tenney's Glorious Red River Valley Colony: A Tale of Deals, Dynasties, and Disasters on the Minnesota Prairie” in the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/a-tale-of-deals-dynasties-and-disasters-on-the-minnesota-prairie-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-national-public-lands-day-with-citizen-science-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 13 Sep 2019 05:31:00 EST Celebrate National Public Lands Day at your local National Park Service site: Homestead National Monument of America! On Saturday, September 28 the monument will host a series of nature discovery walks with Natural Resource Specialist Jesse Bolli. These walks are free and fun for all ages! During the walks, visitors are encouraged to engage in citizen science by helping the park to search for and take photographs of plants, insects, birds, and animals with their cell phones to be uploaded to iNaturalist so the species can be identified and archived into the future. Each walk begins and ends at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-national-public-lands-day-with-citizen-science-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2019-old-fashioned-spelling-bee-champions-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 12 Sep 2019 09:01:00 EST The Old Fashioned Spelling Bee at Homestead National Monument of America was a hit once again! More than twenty spellers competed at the Freeman School on Labor Day Monday, across five categories – under 7, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, and 16 to adult. Each age category awarded a first and second place trophy, courtesy of generous support from the Beatrice Daily Sun. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2019-old-fashioned-spelling-bee-champions-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/discovering-place-through-painting-with-artist-in-residence-nancy-lehenbauer-marshall-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 11 Sep 2019 05:08:00 EST On Sunday, September 22 at 2 p.m. Homestead National Monument of America artist-in-residence Nancy Lehenbauer Marshall will present her program “Discovering Place through Painting” in the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center. During her presentation, Nancy will show some of the many painting she has created over her forty year career and discuss how creating art allows us to feel empathy for place and for others. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/discovering-place-through-painting-with-artist-in-residence-nancy-lehenbauer-marshall-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-constitution-day-and-welcome-new-citizens-at-a-naturalization-ceremony-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 10 Sep 2019 05:17:00 EST In celebration of Constitution Day, Homestead National Monument of America will host a United States Citizenship and Naturalization Ceremony on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 at 2 p.m. new citizens will take their Oath of Allegiance to the United States at the ceremony. The ceremony will take place at the Homestead Education Center, and the general public is invited and encouraged to attend. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-constitution-day-and-welcome-new-citizens-at-a-naturalization-ceremony-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/harvest-festival-at-the-preserve.htm Mon, 09 Sep 2019 14:22:00 EST STRONG CITY, Kansas: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is pleased to announce the upcoming annual Prairie Harvest Festival on September 21st, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/harvest-festival-at-the-preserve.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hours-changing-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-2019.htm Wed, 28 Aug 2019 05:44:00 EST Fall, winter, and spring operating hours will begin at Homestead National Monument of America, starting on Tuesday September 3, 2019. The monument will be open daily Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Along with the changing winter hours, the monument will offer a wide variety of upcoming daily programs.   https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hours-changing-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-2019.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/annual-old-fashioned-spelling-bee-labor-day-weekend-monday-september-2-2019-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 27 Aug 2019 05:50:00 EST On Monday, September 2, 2019, from 10 am – 12 pm at the Freeman School, test your skills at spelling in the Annual Old Fashioned Spelling Bee. Contestants will be divided into five categories; under 7 years, 7 - 9, 10 - 12, 13 - 15, and 16 - adult. There is no entry fee or registration, and trophies will be awarded courtesy of the Beatrice Daily Sun. If you don’t want to compete, just come join us for the fun! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/annual-old-fashioned-spelling-bee-labor-day-weekend-monday-september-2-2019-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/it-s-a-living-history-extravaganza-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 21 Aug 2019 05:57:00 EST It’s a living history extravaganza! Experience living history activities the Saturday of Labor Day weekend; August 31, 2019.  Interactive demonstrations will be led by Park Rangers and volunteers at Homestead National Monument of America. Hands on activities include: cornhusk dolls, a quilt-square craft, candle dipping, and butter churning! The event will also feature demonstrations of traditional trades; including rag rug braiding, Dutch-oven cooking, lace making, wood working, and more. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/it-s-a-living-history-extravaganza-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/family-fun-labor-day-weekend-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 13 Aug 2019 06:17:00 EST Come to Homestead National Monument of America, August 31-September 2, 2019 for 3 days of exciting programs for the whole family! Every day of the weekend will have a different themes and will feature different activities.   https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/family-fun-labor-day-weekend-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/register-now-for-barn-quilt-workshop-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 07 Aug 2019 06:31:00 EST On Sunday, August 25, 2019 at 1 p.m., Homestead National Monument of America Artist-in-Residence Vickie MacMillan will present a public workshop in which participants create their own one foot by one foot barn quilt square at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/register-now-for-barn-quilt-workshop-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/save-the-date-homestead-era-car-show-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 06 Aug 2019 07:06:00 EST On Sunday, September 1, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. car enthusiasts can enjoy automobiles from the 1900’s through the 1980s; original/restored and modified cars and pickups will be on display at the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center. You are invited to come and view these vehicles, and if you have one you would like to show off, bring it along! Registration is FREE! You be the judge! There will be people’s choice awards by the decade. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/save-the-date-homestead-era-car-show-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/creepy-crawlers-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 02 Aug 2019 10:23:00 EST Enter the underwater world of the creepy creek crawlers. On Saturday, August 10th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center discover the macroinvertebrates that lurk in the muddy waters at the Monument and learn about the important role they play in aquatic ecosystems and how they benefit us. The Strangers from a Strange Land… program will be followed by a take-home craft activity. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/creepy-crawlers-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/language-movement-and-sound-with-artist-in-residence-altman-studeny-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 31 Jul 2019 07:35:00 EST On Sunday, August 11, 2019 at 2 p.m., Homestead National Monument of America Artist-in-Residence Altman Studeny will present a public program, “The Idea of Things More Than the Things Themselves” at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/language-movement-and-sound-with-artist-in-residence-altman-studeny-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/aliens-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 30 Jul 2019 07:25:00 EST Come to Homestead National Monument of America for an alien encounter! No not space alien variety. Come for a close encounter of the bug kind! Prairie insects often look alien, but these creatures shouldn’t be feared. On Saturday, August 3rd from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Homestead’s Education Center find out how the aliens all around help the prairie and us. The Aliens!? program will be followed by a take-home craft activity. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/aliens-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/campfire-program-stories-from-nebraska-s-agricultural-history-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 29 Jul 2019 07:17:00 EST Nebraska’s first Territorial Board of Agriculture president once said, “Nebraska, agriculturally, is a heaven-favored country, and must look principally to her agricultural developments for her future wealth, position and importance.” On Saturday, August 3, 7:00 p.m. to hear stories of Nebraska’s agricultural history from Jody Lamp, a Humanities Nebraska speaker and co-author of "A History of Nebraska Agriculture: A Life Worth Living." Following Lamp’s program, the Centenary Handbell Choir will give a musical performance. This program is offered as part of Homestead’s summer campfire series. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/campfire-program-stories-from-nebraska-s-agricultural-history-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/carbon-based-lifeforms-detected-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Thu, 18 Jul 2019 05:48:00 EST Explore the unique prairie plant universe and learn how these carbon based lifeforms thrive in their environment and impacted homesteaders! On Saturday, July 27 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Homestead’s Education Center discover the mysterious world of the plants of the tallgrass prairie. The Carbon Based Lifeforms Detected program will be followed by a take-home craft activity. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/carbon-based-lifeforms-detected-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-the-future-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 11 Jul 2019 05:49:00 EST Do you have what it takes to be a homesteader on a distant world? Find out on Saturday, July 20th at Homestead National Monument of America! From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center discover how homesteaders of the future might learn from those who homesteaded and proved up under the Homestead Act of 1862. The Homestead the Future program will be followed by a take-home craft activity. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-the-future-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/birding-on-the-prairie-experience-a-bird-walk-in-spanish-and-english.htm Wed, 10 Jul 2019 09:48:00 EST On Sunday, July 21, 2019, experience Spanish language programs at Homestead National Monument of America. Enjoy a Spanish language tour of the Heritage Center exhibits or a guided bird walk, and a family picnic in the park’s shaded picnic areas. At 3 p.m. we will offer a Spanish language tour of the Homestead Heritage Center. The tour will introduce visitors to Homestead, the Homestead Act of 1862 and its legacies. The bird walk will follow at 4 p.m. starting at the Heritage Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/birding-on-the-prairie-experience-a-bird-walk-in-spanish-and-english.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hands-on-art-with-artist-in-residence-heather-heckel-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 09 Jul 2019 10:43:00 EST On Sunday, July 21, 2019 at 2 p.m., Homestead National Monument of America Artist-in-Residence Heather Heckel will present an interactive craft class in which participants will create their own designs using radial symmetry. This class is free and open to all ages. All supplies will be provided. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hands-on-art-with-artist-in-residence-heather-heckel-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/cooking-up-fun-and-music-at-july-13-campfire-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 05 Jul 2019 04:49:00 EST Learn the art of dutch oven cooking with Wilbur Johnson on Saturday, July 13 at the Homestead Education Center. The program begins at 7 p.m. Johnson has practiced dutch oven cooking for decades. Following the dutch oven cooking demonstration there will be a musical performance by The Blueberry Boys, who placed second in Homestead National Monument of America’s Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival acoustic band contest. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/cooking-up-fun-and-music-at-july-13-campfire-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/nasa-scientist-to-present-at-50th-anniversary-of-apollo-11-lunar-landing-celebration.htm Thu, 04 Jul 2019 06:51:00 EST On Saturday, July 20, celebrate man’s first steps on the moon at Homestead National Monument of America! The day marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/nasa-scientist-to-present-at-50th-anniversary-of-apollo-11-lunar-landing-celebration.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/blast-off-with-birds-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 03 Jul 2019 05:07:00 EST On Saturday, July 13th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. come discover who some of the aerial masters of the prairie are at the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center. Learn how birds were able to master flight long before humans traveled into space and develop skills to identify some of these feathered flyers. The Blast off with Birds! program will be followed by a take-home craft activity. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/blast-off-with-birds-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-4th-campfire-program-celebrate-independence-day-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 27 Jun 2019 08:02:00 EST Summer Campfire programs are back at Homestead National Monument of America! Thursday, July 4, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. there will be a presentation on “Foundation Documents: The Declaration of Independence and the Homestead Act” by Jonathan Fairchild, Historian at the monument. This campfire program will take place at Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center.  https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-4th-campfire-program-celebrate-independence-day-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kids-in-parks-into-the-unknown-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 26 Jun 2019 04:49:00 EST National Parks… The final frontier. Explore the mysterious unknown of the prairie and help pave the way for the homesteaders of the future! Homestead National Monument of America continues to celebrate innovation during the homesteading era with Kids in Parks: Into the Unknown!. Bring your family and friends and discover who the alien creatures of the prairie are and how they interacted with homesteaders. Each program has an introduction, interactive discovery time, and take-home craft. The programs take place at Homestead’s Education Center from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kids-in-parks-into-the-unknown-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/jack-gladstone-star-city-kochavim-bill-behmer-and-the-kenny-janak-orchestra-to-appear-at-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 11 Jun 2019 08:23:00 EST Homestead Days 2019 is coming soon! This will be the 40th anniversary of the annual event and we invite you to Homestead National Monument of America on Friday, June 21, 2019 through Sunday, June 23, 2019 to participate in this weekend full of free events! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/jack-gladstone-star-city-kochavim-bill-behmer-and-the-kenny-janak-orchestra-to-appear-at-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/annual-butterfly-count-at-the-preserve.htm Mon, 10 Jun 2019 13:41:00 EST Strong City, KS: You are invited to join in a fun day of citizen science field research by counting butterflies in the Flint Hills on Saturday, June 22, 2019. The butterfly survey is named in honor of prominent biologist/naturalist Marvin Schwilling, who was born and raised in Chase County. The butterfly census will take place on and near the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/annual-butterfly-count-at-the-preserve.htm https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/birds-of-prey-program-at-the-preserve-on-june-15th.htm Mon, 10 Jun 2019 13:32:00 EST Strong City, KS - Come to Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and learn about birds with live birds. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day. All activities are free of charge. On Saturday, June 15th the ever popular Birds of Prey program will return, presented by Naturalist Vanessa Avara with the Milford Nature Center. Live birds are part of the program, offering a unique opportunity to observe these winged predators up close. There will be two presentations, both located in the historic limestone barn. The first program begins at 11:00 a.m. and the second at 12:30 p.m. Each program lasts approximately 45 minutes, followed by more fun after the presentation. A touch table with “birds on a stick” will be available, letting visitors discover different bird species, comparing their commonalities and differences. https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/birds-of-prey-program-at-the-preserve-on-june-15th.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/music-and-dance-on-the-saturday-of-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 06 Jun 2019 12:24:00 EST Homestead Days 2019 is coming soon! This will be the 40th anniversary of the annual event and we invite you to Homestead National Monument of America on Friday, June 21, 2019 through Sunday, June 23, 2019 to participate in this weekend full of free events! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/music-and-dance-on-the-saturday-of-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/strike-a-pose-homestead-era-fashion-show-and-interactive-music-show-friday-of-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 04 Jun 2019 12:36:00 EST Homestead Days 2019 is coming soon! This will be the 40th anniversary of the annual event and we invite you to Homestead National Monument of America on Friday, June 21, 2019 through Sunday, June 23, 2019 to participate in this weekend full of free events! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/strike-a-pose-homestead-era-fashion-show-and-interactive-music-show-friday-of-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/prairie-sounds-and-modern-music-with-artist-in-residence-benjamin-justis-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 29 May 2019 05:29:00 EST On Sunday, June 9, 2019, at 2 p.m., Homestead National Monument of America Artist-in-Residence Benjamin Justis will hold an interactive program on nature in music and modern composition followed by the group heading outside to create an improvised musical piece of their own on the prairie. This is a great creative program for visitors of all ages to learn about music and participate in musical composition. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/prairie-sounds-and-modern-music-with-artist-in-residence-benjamin-justis-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/music-and-dance-from-many-cultures-during-the-40th-annual-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 24 May 2019 17:26:00 EST Homestead Days 2019 is coming soon! This will be the 40th anniversary of the annual event and we invite you to Homestead National Monument of America on Friday, June 21, 2019 through Sunday, June 23, 2019 to participate in this weekend full of free events! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/music-and-dance-from-many-cultures-during-the-40th-annual-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-sharpshooters-woodwind-quartet-to-play-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 22 May 2019 05:06:00 EST The Sharpshooters Woodwind Quartet, a part of the Nebraska National Guard 43rd Army Band, will perform at Homestead National Monument of America on Saturday, June 22 at 4 p.m. Their performance will be a part of the monument’s annual Homestead Days events. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-sharpshooters-woodwind-quartet-to-play-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/star-lore-and-star-gazing-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm Thu, 16 May 2019 09:49:00 EST Learn the star lore of Native Americans and explore the night skies through telescopes on Friday, May 24 and Saturday, May 25 from 9-11 p.m. at Homestead National Historical Park’s Heritage Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/star-lore-and-star-gazing-at-homestead-national-historical-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/kid-s-farm-animals-and-wagon-rides-on-memorial-day-saturday.htm Tue, 14 May 2019 14:13:00 EST Strong City, KS - Come to Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve on Memorial Day Saturday and enjoy kid’s activities geared toward learning and making memories. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day. There is no entrance fee and all activities are free at the preserve. https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/kid-s-farm-animals-and-wagon-rides-on-memorial-day-saturday.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/summer-hours-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 10 May 2019 09:23:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America will begin extended hours for the summer starting on Saturday, May 25, 2019. The monument will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through Labor Day Weekend. Along with the extended summer hours, the monument will offer a wide variety of special programs. Beginning on May 25, 2019 the Freeman School will be open daily 1-4 p.m. The Freeman School will be opened by request other times as long as staffing permits. Parking areas and trails will continue to be open from dawn to dusk. Staff will be available to present short talks on a wide variety of topics ranging from the Last Homesteader’s tractor to prairie plants. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/summer-hours-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/one-book-one-nebraska-book-discussion-with-beatrice-public-library-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-on-thursday-may-16.htm Thu, 09 May 2019 08:52:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America will be hosting a book discussion in partnership with Beatrice Public Library on May 16th at 7:00 p.m. Park Historian Jonathan Fairchild will be leading discussion on the 2019 One Book, One Nebraska selection “This Blessed Earth: A Year in the Life of an American Family Farm” by Ted Genoways. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/one-book-one-nebraska-book-discussion-with-beatrice-public-library-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-on-thursday-may-16.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/get-creative-with-artist-in-residence-dr-jeffrey-lockwood-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 08 May 2019 08:53:00 EST On Sunday, May 19, Homestead National Monument of America Artist-in-Residence Dr. Jeffrey Lockwood will hold an interactive writing workshop at 2 p.m. in the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center. The workshop is offered free of charge and is open to all ages. During this interactive workshop, Dr. Lockwood will take visitors through a variety of short creative writing exercises. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/get-creative-with-artist-in-residence-dr-jeffrey-lockwood-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/get-a-tune-up-for-the-summer-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 07 May 2019 09:22:00 EST Does your fiddle need a tune up? Need some advice about your banjos broken bridge? If so, you need a luthier! A luthier is a person who makes and repairs stringed instruments. You are invited to bring your string instrument issues to the Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival at Homestead National Monument of America on Saturday, May 25, 2019 and visit with luthier Marilyn Wallin. While at the monument, Wallin will provide free tune-up services for string instruments and discuss repair options. She will be at Homestead starting at 10 a.m. and will continue to work with string instruments through the afternoon. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/get-a-tune-up-for-the-summer-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/21st-annual-fiddle-festival-returns-to-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 01 May 2019 12:20:00 EST The 21st annual Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival and Acoustic Band Contest has been set for Saturday, May 25, 2019. With free fiddle and harmonica workshops in the morning, a luthier on-site, jam sessions erupting throughout the day, and over $3,000 in award monies, it is sure to be an event you will want to get on your calendar. The Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival and Acoustic Band Contest is the place to be for musicians and music enthusiasts of all ages. The event will be free of charge and held at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/21st-annual-fiddle-festival-returns-to-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/public-archeology-event-at-homestead-national-historical-park-celebrating-midwest-archeological-center-s-50th-anniversary.htm Tue, 30 Apr 2019 10:48:00 EST On May 4, 2019 at 2 p.m. join the National Park Service in celebrating the Midwest Archeological Center’s 50th Anniversary with a program on archeology and Homestead National Historical Park. There will be several speakers discussing how archeology is used in parks and what has been found at Homestead since the first survey in 1948 as well as American Indian perspectives on the information found during this survey. Archeologists will investigate a Native American settlement site discovered in 1985 and search for the site of a brick kiln and other structures associated with the Freeman Homestead. Archeologists will be working in Homestead National Historical Park from April 29-May10. Visitors are allowed to watch the work being done. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/public-archeology-event-at-homestead-national-historical-park-celebrating-midwest-archeological-center-s-50th-anniversary.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/-un-driving-of-the-golden-spike-author-jim-reisdorff-speaks-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 29 Apr 2019 11:23:00 EST Author Jim Reisdorff will present his book “The Un-Driving of the Golden Spike.” This program will take place at the Homestead Education Center on Sunday, May 5 at 2 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/-un-driving-of-the-golden-spike-author-jim-reisdorff-speaks-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/bill-moos-university-of-nebraska-lincoln-director-of-athletics-joins-other-notable-americans-in-homestead-legacy-banner-series.htm Fri, 26 Apr 2019 11:46:00 EST Bill Moos, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Director of Athletics, is making history with the likes of Pulitzer Prize writer Willa Cather, aviator Charles Lindbergh and former Nebraska Football Coach Tom Osborne. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/bill-moos-university-of-nebraska-lincoln-director-of-athletics-joins-other-notable-americans-in-homestead-legacy-banner-series.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2019-birds-and-bagels-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 24 Apr 2019 05:43:00 EST Enjoy an early morning birding hike with Natural Resource Specialist Jesse Bolli at Homestead National Monument of America on Friday, May 3 and/or Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 7 a.m. This program will begin at the Homestead Education Center with a light breakfast of bagels followed by a short walk to investigate the birds of Homestead’s prairie and woodland. Limited numbers of binoculars will be available; you are encouraged to bring your own. One all-terrain wheel chair is available to check-out, as well.    https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2019-birds-and-bagels-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/explore-the-skies-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 22 Apr 2019 07:34:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is excited to host John and Brenda Nejedlo of GeoAstroRV as monument volunteers from April 30-May 28, 2019. John and Brenda are travelling the country in their RV and volunteering their astronomy knowledge at national park sites across the Midwest. GeoAstroRV will give both daytime and nighttime astronomy programs every day, weather permitting, during their stay at Homestead National Monument of America. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/explore-the-skies-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-national-park-week-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 17 Apr 2019 11:00:00 EST Celebrate National Park Week at Homestead National Monument of America April 20-28! Kick off the week on Saturday, April 20 with American Spring LIVE at the Homestead Education Center from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. American Spring LIVE marks the coming of spring through interactive citizen science projects, crafts, booths, and more! This event is free and open to all ages. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-national-park-week-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/paint-the-plains-with-artist-in-residence-cara-calvert-thomas-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 16 Apr 2019 05:53:00 EST On Sunday, April 28, 2019, Homestead National Monument of America artist-in-residence Cara Calvert-Thomas will hold an interactive painting workshop at 2 p.m. in the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center. The workshop is offered free of charge and is open to all ages. During this interactive workshop, visitors will be guided through the process of creating a watercolor landscape painting before imposing a photograph of a historical Nebraska figure or influential homesteader on it. Each participant will create a piece that they can take home with them. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/paint-the-plains-with-artist-in-residence-cara-calvert-thomas-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/youth-conservation-corps-applications-for-homestead-national-monument-of-america-2019.htm Wed, 03 Apr 2019 07:53:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is now accepting applications for the summer 2019 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC). The YCC is a summer employment program for young men and women, ages 15-18, who work and learn together on projects that further the development and conservation of the natural and cultural resources of the United States. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/youth-conservation-corps-applications-for-homestead-national-monument-of-america-2019.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/-reopening-the-frontier-homesteading-in-the-modern-west-author-brian-cannon-speaks-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 29 Mar 2019 07:12:00 EST Historian Brian Cannon will present and sign copies of his book “Reopening the Frontier: Homesteading in the Modern West.” This program will take place at the Homestead Education Center on Sunday, April 14 at 2 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/-reopening-the-frontier-homesteading-in-the-modern-west-author-brian-cannon-speaks-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/music-and-the-stars-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 21 Mar 2019 12:09:00 EST The date for the annual Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival and Acoustic Band Contest has been set for Saturday May 25, 2019. With free fiddle and harmonica workshops in the morning, a luthier on-site, jam sessions erupting throughout the day, and over $3,000 in award monies, it is sure to be an event you will want to get on your calendar. The Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival and Acoustic Band Contest is the place to be for musicians and music enthusiast of all ages. The event will be free of charge and held at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/music-and-the-stars-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/prescribed-fire-season-at-the-preserve.htm Wed, 20 Mar 2019 13:07:00 EST Strong City, Kansas – Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve announced its prescribed fire season beginning now through mid-April. Prescribed fire is one method used to promote a healthy prairie and maintain the cultural landscape of the preserve. It is also used by preserve land managers to remove woody and non-native vegetation, promoting native plant and animal diversity. For your safety, please do not cross fire lines or go beyond posted signs. https://www.nps.gov/tapr/learn/news/prescribed-fire-season-at-the-preserve.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/votes-for-women.htm Wed, 20 Mar 2019 06:43:00 EST Peru State College Student Hannah Earnhardt will be presenting her essay “Votes for Women: How Culture Impacted the Nebraska Women’s Suffrage Movement” on Sunday, March 31, 2019,  at 1 p.m. at the Homestead Education Center. Her talk will immediately precede a screening of the NET documentary film Willa Cather: The Road is All at 2:00 p.m.  Join Homestead National Monument of America in our ongoing celebration of Women’s History Month.   https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/votes-for-women.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-of-america-to-host-special-exhibit-on-historic-african-american-town-of-empire-wyoming-through-march.htm Fri, 08 Feb 2019 08:24:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America hosts special exhibit on the African American homesteading community of Empire, Wyoming through the end of March 2019. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-of-america-to-host-special-exhibit-on-historic-african-american-town-of-empire-wyoming-through-march.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/human-computers-hidden-figures-to-show-at-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 05 Feb 2019 08:03:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America's annual Film Festival continues with "Hidden Figures." See the Hollywood hit at the Homestead Education Center on February 16 and 17 at 2 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/human-computers-hidden-figures-to-show-at-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/transcontinental-railroad-the-railroads-that-tamed-the-west-to-be-featured-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-film-festival.htm Sat, 02 Feb 2019 07:41:00 EST 2019 marks the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad. "Transcontinental Railroad: The Railroads that Tamed the West", explores this undertaking initiated by Abraham Lincoln soon after the signing of the Homestead Act. Watch this documentary at Homestead National Monument of America's Education Center as part of our annual Film Festival. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/transcontinental-railroad-the-railroads-that-tamed-the-west-to-be-featured-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-film-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artists-selected-for-homestead-national-monument-of-america-s-2019-artist-in-residence-program.htm Tue, 29 Jan 2019 07:12:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is excited to announce the selections for the 2019 Artist-in-Residence program. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artists-selected-for-homestead-national-monument-of-america-s-2019-artist-in-residence-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/innovation-transportation-during-the-homestead-era-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 19 Dec 2018 10:30:00 EST Join us for the film festival, Innovation: Transportation During the Homestead Era, Saturdays and Sundays in January and February of 2019, at 2:00 p.m., in the Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center. This year’s film festival will kick-off on Saturday January 5, and will feature films that honor the first and last major transportation innovations during the Homestead Era, the development of the Transcontinental Railroad, and the Apollo program’s exploration of the space frontier. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/innovation-transportation-during-the-homestead-era-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-of-america-to-host-executive-director-of-american-historical-society-of-germans-from-russia.htm Mon, 10 Dec 2018 05:57:00 EST Sherry Loos Pawelko, the Executive Director of American Historical Society of Germans from Russia  will present on the unique history and culture that the Germans from Russia brought to the Great Plains region of the United States at the Homestead Education Center on Sunday, December 30 at 2:00p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-of-america-to-host-executive-director-of-american-historical-society-of-germans-from-russia.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/holiday-hours-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 07 Dec 2018 05:48:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America's visitor centers will be closed on December 24 from 2-5 p.m., December 25, and January 1 for the holidays. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/holiday-hours-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/learn-about-traditional-welsh-and-german-cultures-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-on-december-9-and-16-2018.htm Mon, 03 Dec 2018 05:41:00 EST Press release for the rescheduled performance of the German Men's Choir to December 16 and announcement of a program on Welsh holiday traditions for December 9. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/learn-about-traditional-welsh-and-german-cultures-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-on-december-9-and-16-2018.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/singenden-wanderer-german-men-s-choir-to-perform-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-s-winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures.htm Thu, 29 Nov 2018 04:24:00 EST The Singenden Wanderer German Men's Choir will perform at the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center on Sunday, December 9 at 2 p.m. The performance is a part of the annual Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/singenden-wanderer-german-men-s-choir-to-perform-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-s-winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/experience-the-geminid-meteor-shower-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 28 Nov 2018 05:10:00 EST Come view the show from the Homestead National Monument of America Heritage Center grounds! The lights in this famous winter show will streak across the sky on December 13 into 14. The meteors will peak at 2 a.m. but can be seen as early as 9 or 10 p.m. The gates will remain open the evening of Thursday, December 13 allowing visitors into the parking lot to view this amazing astronomical event. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/experience-the-geminid-meteor-shower-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-the-season-with-music-from-around-the-world-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 26 Nov 2018 04:55:00 EST Humanities Nebraska speaker David Marsh will give his program and demonstration of music from around the world on Sunday, December 2 at the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center as part of the annual Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-the-season-with-music-from-around-the-world-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-honors-volunteers.htm Fri, 16 Nov 2018 05:17:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America recognized volunteers for their service during a ceremony on November 11, 2018. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-honors-volunteers.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/find-your-roots-during-winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures-with-beth-sparrow-of-the-nebraska-state-genealogical-society.htm Wed, 14 Nov 2018 05:09:00 EST Beth Sparrow, president of the Nebraska State Genealogical Society, will give an introductory presentation on genealogy at the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/find-your-roots-during-winter-festival-of-prairie-cultures-with-beth-sparrow-of-the-nebraska-state-genealogical-society.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/closed-thanksgiving-day.htm Thu, 08 Nov 2018 04:58:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America will be closed on Thursday, November 22 for the Thanksgiving holiday. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/closed-thanksgiving-day.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/learn-about-the-omaha-indian-nation-and-the-homestead-act-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-on-november-4-with-dr-rudi-mitchell.htm Thu, 01 Nov 2018 05:44:00 EST Dr. Rudi Mitchell of the Omaha Indian National will present a free program at the Homestead National Monument of America Education Center on November 4, 2018 at 2 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/learn-about-the-omaha-indian-nation-and-the-homestead-act-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-on-november-4-with-dr-rudi-mitchell.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-fun-for-everyone-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 15 Oct 2018 07:05:00 EST Join us for a fun, family friendly, educational event on Saturday, October 27 from 6-9 p.m. at the Homestead National Monument of America Heritage Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-fun-for-everyone-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/cars-and-trucks-on-display-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Sun, 19 Aug 2018 07:15:00 EST On Sunday of Labor Day weekend, September 2, 2018, from 10:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the shade of the Education Center at Homestead National Monument of America. Car enthusiasts can enjoy cars from the 1900’s through the 1980s; original/restored and modified cars and pickups will be on display. You are invited to come and view these vehicles, and if you have one you would like to show off, bring it along! Registration is FREE! You be the judge! There will be people’s choice awards by the decade. Also, join Southeast Community College professor Preston Shires at the Homestead Education Center at 1 p.m. for his program “Prelude to the Homestead Act.” https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/cars-and-trucks-on-display-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/musician-gathers-inspiration-for-a-solo-album-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 15 Aug 2018 07:31:00 EST Devon Reynolds, a musician and singer will give a presentation on her work on Sunday, August 26, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. This free presentation will be held at Homestead National Monument of America in the Education Center. This is a great opportunity to learn how landscapes and sense of place can inspire and influence music and songs. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/musician-gathers-inspiration-for-a-solo-album-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/join-us-for-a-lesson-on-precision-agriculture-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 03 Aug 2018 11:32:00 EST The final 2018 Campfire program at Homestead National Monument of America will be on August 11, 2018, at 7 p.m at the Homestead Education Center. Wesley Hedges will present his program, titled “All Original, All Nebraska,” which is about Precision Agriculture. Wesley is the Precision Ag Manager for Farmers Cooperative. He utilizes his expertise in digital ag technology and agronomy to help growers make economic, yield increasing decisions. At the same time, he focuses on being a good steward of the land for the benefit of future generations by making agronomic recommendations that optimize the placement and rate of the products applied. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/join-us-for-a-lesson-on-precision-agriculture-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/view-the-perseid-meteor-shower-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 02 Aug 2018 12:04:00 EST View the Perseid meteor shower the evening of August 11, 2018 at the Homestead National Monument of America’s Heritage Center! The Heritage Center gates will be open all night between the 11 th and 12 th allowing visitors into the parking lot to view the Perseid Meteor shower on one of the celestial event’s peak evenings. Some projections predict up to 100 visible meteors per hour! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/view-the-perseid-meteor-shower-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-days-stage-line-up-for-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 21 May 2018 08:57:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America announces the Homestead Days Line Up for 2018!! The 2018 Homestead Day stage lineup is set and will feature topics and performances of music and programs featuring one-room and country schools, Lessons Learned from President Lincoln, Traditional Irish Dance, and much more! We invite you to Homestead National Monument of America on Friday, June 22, 2018 through Sunday, June 24, 2018 to participate in this weekend full of free events! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-days-stage-line-up-for-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2018-youth-conservation-corps-applications-for-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 28 Mar 2018 10:00:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is now accepting applications for the summer 2018 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC). The YCC is a summer employment program for young men and women, ages 15-18, who work and learn together on projects that further the development and conservation of the natural and cultural resources of the United States. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2018-youth-conservation-corps-applications-for-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homesteading-on-mars-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-film-festival.htm Tue, 30 Jan 2018 07:20:00 EST What would homesteading look like on Mars? Come see with "The Martian" starring Matt Damon. This film is shown as part of Homestead National Monument of America's annual Film Festival. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homesteading-on-mars-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america-film-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/call-for-2018-artist-in-residence-applicants.htm Mon, 08 Jan 2018 08:42:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is looking for practicing artists wanting to find inspiration from our rich cultural and natural resources. The deadline for accepting applications is January 31, 2018, via mail or email. Artists will be notified of selections by the end of February. Artists can be fine art painters, sculptors, fine art photographers, performers, writers, video/filmmakers, composers, etc. These artists will channel their individual talent into one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by the homestead story and park environment. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/call-for-2018-artist-in-residence-applicants.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/register-for-the-interactive-snowcatcher-children-s-blizzard-workshop-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 27 Dec 2017 06:00:00 EST The Blizzard of 1888 made a deep impact on many Nebraskans families. Register now and join us on Sunday, January 7, 2018 beginning at 2:00 p.m. for an interactive workshop that utilizes creative thinking and theatrical expression to explore this meaningful historical event. This hands-on workshop will involve theatrical scenarios centered on the blizzard of 1888. These scenarios will provide historical information and a fresh perspective on what settlers truly faced as the blizzard blew over. This workshop is presented by Homestead National Monument and Beatrice Community Players and offered to everyone aged 8 and up. Admission is free of cost. This event will be held in the Homestead Education Center. To register for the workshop, please contact home_information@nps.gov or 402.223.3514. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/register-for-the-interactive-snowcatcher-children-s-blizzard-workshop-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/one-room-millions-of-memories-film-festival-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 12 Dec 2017 05:30:00 EST The film festival will open with a showing of Days of the One Room Schoolhouse. This documentary explores the schools that once peppered the Midwestern states, with a focus on stories from Northwest and West Central Ohio, one of our Nation’s 30 Homesteading States. The film relates school history, how they changed over time, and what a typical school day was like through interviews with those who remember life in the one room schools. This film will screen Saturday, January 13, and Sunday, January 14, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. in the Education Center at Homestead National Monument of America. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/one-room-millions-of-memories-film-festival-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/photographing-the-solar-eclipse-workshop-with-brad-goetsch-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 26 Jul 2017 12:53:00 EST Attention photographers of all skill levels! Learn how to make two and a half minutes in the shadow last forever. Homestead National Monument of America will be hosting on Sunday, August 6th at 2:00 PM a photography workshop by Brad Goetsch. This free workshop will focus on photographing the solar eclipse. The program will be held at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/photographing-the-solar-eclipse-workshop-with-brad-goetsch-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/eclipse-parking-and-transportation-plan.htm Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:26:00 EST Special parking along with a bus transportation system is being put in place for the solar eclipse weekend at Homestead National Monument of America, August 19-21, 2017. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/eclipse-parking-and-transportation-plan.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-of-america-is-an-official-nasa-viewing-location-for-the-total-solar-eclipse.htm Thu, 25 May 2017 12:16:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America has been designated as one of the official NASA Broadcast Sites, for the upcoming August 21, 2017 Total Solar Eclipse. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/homestead-national-monument-of-america-is-an-official-nasa-viewing-location-for-the-total-solar-eclipse.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/pbs-kids-ready-jet-go-joins-homestead-national-monument-of-america-this-summer-to-explore-the-solar-eclipse.htm Wed, 05 Apr 2017 08:00:00 EST PBS KIDS’ Ready Jet Go! Joins Homestead National Monument of America this Summer to Explore the Solar Eclipse. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/pbs-kids-ready-jet-go-joins-homestead-national-monument-of-america-this-summer-to-explore-the-solar-eclipse.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2017-tallgass-fiddle-festival.htm Tue, 04 Apr 2017 08:00:00 EST The date for the annual Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival and Acoustic Band Contest has been set for Saturday May 27, 2017, starting at 12:00 noon. With a free fiddle and harmonic workshop in the morning, a luthier on-site, jam sessions erupting throughout the day, and over $3,000 in award monies, it is sure to be an event you will want to get on your calendar. The Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival and Acoustic Band Contest is the place to be for musicians and music enthusiast of all ages. The event will be free of charge and held at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2017-tallgass-fiddle-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/fiddle-festival-returns-to-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 04 Apr 2017 08:00:00 EST The date for the annual Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival and Acoustic Band Contest has been set for Saturday May 27, 2017, starting at 12:00 noon. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/fiddle-festival-returns-to-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/youth-conservation-corps-applications.htm Tue, 07 Mar 2017 09:28:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is now accepting applications for the summer 2017 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC). The YCC is a summer employment program for young men and women, ages 15-18, who work and learn together on projects that further the development and conservation of the natural and cultural resources of the United States. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/youth-conservation-corps-applications.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/digitized-homestead-records-for-arizona-illinois-indiana-nevada-and-ohio-now-online.htm Tue, 21 Feb 2017 06:06:00 EST For the first time, Homestead Land Entry Case Files from the National Archives for Arizona, Indiana, Illinois, Nevada, and Ohio have been digitized and are available online. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/digitized-homestead-records-for-arizona-illinois-indiana-nevada-and-ohio-now-online.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/nebraska-150-film-festival-press-release.htm Thu, 29 Dec 2016 09:13:00 EST Celebrate the State of Nebraska during its 150th sesquicentennial year! To kick off this momentous year of events, Homestead National Monument of America invites you to join us for the Nebraska 150 Film Festival featuring nine movies that honor Nebraska’s heritage and highlight individuals that have helped Nebraska grow to what it is today. Films will show every Saturday and Sunday of January, February and the first weekend of March at 2:00 p.m. at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/nebraska-150-film-festival-press-release.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/beatrice-public-library-to-cosponsor-book-discussion-on-september-22-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 22 Sep 2016 10:43:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America will host the monthly Beatrice Public Library Book discussion at the Homestead Heritage Center on Thursday, September 22, at 7 p.m. In honor of the National Park Service Centennial, as well as the Monument’s 80th Birthday, Superintendent Mark Engler will lead a discussion about the Homestead Administrative History. Visitors will learn about the efforts that resulted in the creation of this National Monument four miles west of Beatrice. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/beatrice-public-library-to-cosponsor-book-discussion-on-september-22-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-meaning-of-names-author-karen-gettert-shoemaker-to-appear-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Thu, 22 Sep 2016 09:28:00 EST Family History Month will be celebrated at Homestead National Monument of America on Sunday, October 16, 2016 with a presentation by Karen Gettert Shoemaker, author of the historical novel The Meaning of Names. This event will begin at 2 p.m. at the Education Center, and the author will read from her novel and discuss how she uses family stories and historic research in her work. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-meaning-of-names-author-karen-gettert-shoemaker-to-appear-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/iranger.htm Wed, 21 Sep 2016 11:08:00 EST “Engage, Interact, and Learn” through homesteading history and the natural tallgrass prairie on the new ranger for your pocket (http://iranger.org), a mobile interpretive resource at Homestead National Monument of America. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/iranger.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/let-the-2016-hedge-apple-games-begin-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 20 Sep 2016 11:02:00 EST Join park rangers and volunteers for the Hedge Apple Festival on Sunday, October 9, 2016 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Homestead National Monument of America to have fun with hedge apples! This fun event will begin with hedge apple crafts and games at 2:00 p.m. at the Homestead Heritage Center. See who creates the most exciting and unique creation using the provided hedge apples and craft supplies! After that, kids and visitors of all ages can join in on the Homestead Hedge Apple Games, a series of fun activities outside near the Palmer-Epard Cabin. Games will include a hedge apple on a spoon race, hedge apple bucket toss, and more! This event is free and offers exciting fun for the whole family! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/let-the-2016-hedge-apple-games-begin-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/bee-bioblitz-a-centennial-celebration-of-biodiversity-in-the-national-park-service.htm Fri, 16 Sep 2016 05:36:00 EST Help discover the species of bees that inhabit Homestead National Monument of America by joining rangers during the Bee BioBlitz on Sunday, October 2, 2016. To celebrate 100 years of stewardship, the National Park Service is planning a shared Nation-wide quest to discover and document biodiversity – the variety of living organisms in a place. You are invited to be part of the National Park Service Centennial celebration during this engaging event to discover the biodiversity of bees within YOUR national parks. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/bee-bioblitz-a-centennial-celebration-of-biodiversity-in-the-national-park-service.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/fall-deer-survey-provides-public-lands-day-volunteer-opportunity-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 14 Sep 2016 05:48:00 EST On Saturday, September 24, 2016 from 9:30 a.m. – noon, Homestead National Monument of America will participate in National Public Lands Day by offering the public the opportunity to help conduct a fall deer survey. Meet at Homestead’s Education Center and help the monument staff count deer during this exciting centennial year! No experience is needed; just show up for a 9:30 a.m. orientation; wear long pants, long sleeved shirt, good walking shoes, and a coat appropriate for the weather. You can be a walker or a counter - the walkers will hike approximately 3/4 of a mile through the prairie – which happens to be the oldest tallgrass prairie restoration project in the National Park Service! Those who do not desire or are unable to walk that far are needed to watch monument boundaries and count deer as they exit. The survey will be completed by noon. Motorists on State Highway 4 need to be alert for deer crossing the highway as they drive through the monument on the morning of Saturday, September 24, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/fall-deer-survey-provides-public-lands-day-volunteer-opportunity-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artist-in-residence-lindsy-davis.htm Tue, 13 Sep 2016 05:27:00 EST Artist-in-Residence Lindsy Davis, a paper and printmaker, will be at Homestead National Monument of America October 3 - 17, 2016. Davis will give a special presentation on papermaking on Sunday, October 9, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Homestead Education Center. Davis has a passion for working from the ground up. Her background in papermaking, woodblock printmaking, farming, drawing, and sculpture will help her explore a series regarding landscape prints on the landscape itself. She has led lectures and demonstrations on woodblock printmaking and papermaking. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artist-in-residence-lindsy-davis.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2016-prairie-visions-photography-festival-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 13 Sep 2016 05:12:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is hosting the Prairie Visions Photography Festival on Sunday September 25, 2016 at Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Photographer Matt Elwood will lead a discussion on taking good photographs. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2016-prairie-visions-photography-festival-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/naturalization-ceremony-celebrating-constitution-day-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 12 Sep 2016 05:40:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is honored to host a United States Citizenship and Naturalization Ceremony on Friday, September 16, 2016. New citizens will take their Oath of Allegiance to the United States at the ceremony, which will take place at 2 p.m. in the Homestead Education Center’s courtyard. The public is encouraged to attend. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/naturalization-ceremony-celebrating-constitution-day-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hours-changing-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 02 Sep 2016 05:42:00 EST Fall, winter, and spring operating hours will begin at Homestead National Monument of America, starting on Tuesday September 6, 2016, the monument will be open daily Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Along with the changing winter hours, the monument will offer a wide variety of upcoming daily programs. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hours-changing-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/join-an-old-fashioned-spelling-bee-on-labor-day-weekend.htm Wed, 31 Aug 2016 12:14:00 EST The 8th Annual Old-Fashioned Spelling Bee will be held at Homestead National Monument of America’s Freeman School at 10 a.m. on Labor Day, Monday, September 5, 2016. Spelling Bees were not only a chance for good spellers to be recognized but were also social events for homesteaders. There is no entry fee or registration, and trophies will be awarded courtesy of the Beatrice Daily Sun. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/join-an-old-fashioned-spelling-bee-on-labor-day-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/centennial-car-show-revs-up-sunday-of-labor-day-weekend-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 30 Aug 2016 12:23:00 EST Labor Day Weekend activities at Homestead National Monument of America will include a “Homesteading Era” original car show on Sunday, September 4, 2016 from 10 am – 4 pm at the Heritage Center. Cars from the 1920’s through the 1980s will be on display. There will be people’s choice prizes by the decade. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/centennial-car-show-revs-up-sunday-of-labor-day-weekend-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/preparefortotality.htm Thu, 18 Aug 2016 04:55:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America will be the perfect venue for the August 21, 2017 total solar eclipse. At Homestead totality is expected to last 2 minutes 37 seconds. To learn more about the 2017 solar eclipse, Homestead National Monument of America will be hosting a special presentation by solar eclipse expert and enthusiast Derryl Barr. The program will take place at the Homestead Education Center on August 25, 2016 starting at 1 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/preparefortotality.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/100th-birthday.htm Sun, 14 Aug 2016 04:43:00 EST Beatrice, NE – The National Park Service is turning 100 years old on August 25 and Homestead National Monument of America wants you to join the party! Come to the park and join us for birthday cake from 1-3 pm at the Homestead Education Center. Visit the National Homesteading Museum and enjoy the award winning film “Land of Dreams”. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/100th-birthday.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/labor-day16.htm Wed, 10 Aug 2016 05:49:00 EST Living history activities, vintage cars and a spelling bee make for a fun-filled Labor Day weekend at Homestead National Monument of America! The event will kick off on Saturday, September 3, 2016 from 10 am – 4 pm with visitors getting to see living history and try their hand at homesteading skills at the Homestead Heritage and Education Centers. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/labor-day16.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/stringbeans16.htm Wed, 20 Jul 2016 05:11:00 EST Come on out to enjoy the String Beans in concert at Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center on Saturday July 30, 2016 at 7 p.m! This summer Homestead is celebrating its 80th birthday and the Centennial of the National Park Service with a Centennial Concert Series on Saturday evenings through mid-August. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/stringbeans16.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/toastedponies.htm Thu, 07 Jul 2016 12:10:00 EST Enjoy music drifting across the tallgrass prairie as Homestead National Monument of America celebrates its 80th birthday and the Centennial of the National Park Service with the evening Centennial Concert Series. The program Saturday, July 16, 2016 starts at 7 p.m. at the Homestead Education Center and will feature the Toasted Ponies. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/toastedponies.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/michael-murphy-in-concert.htm Fri, 01 Jul 2016 05:25:00 EST Enjoy music drifting across the tallgrass prairie as Homestead National Monument of America celebrates its 80th birthday and the Centennial of the National Park Service with the evening Centennial Concert Series. The program Saturday, July 9, 2016 starts at 7 p.m. at the Homestead Education Center and will feature Michael Murphy. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/michael-murphy-in-concert.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/concertseries16.htm Fri, 24 Jun 2016 09:14:00 EST Beginning July 9, every Saturday through August 13, 2016, Homestead National Monument of America will host outdoor evening concerts at 7 p.m. at the Homestead Education Center. During 2016 Homestead is celebrating its 80th Birthday and the Centennial of the National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/concertseries16.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kip2016.htm Thu, 23 Jun 2016 08:06:00 EST Hey Kids! The park rangers at Homestead National Monument of America need YOU and your families to join them at the Education Center on Saturdays in July and early August, from 10 a.m. to noon, to become Nature Detectives! Homestead is seeking the help of all sleuths and spies, the inquisitive and the curious. The rangers need Nature Detectives by their side to search for clues on the ground and up in the sky. We will prowl the tallgrass prairie and into the forest, but don’t be wary! You will discover birds, bugs, tracks and trails, plants, animals and whatever else our sleuthing unveils! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kip2016.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-the-centennial-of-the-national-park-service-with-4th-of-july-campfire-program-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 22 Jun 2016 09:57:00 EST Celebrate Independence Day and the Centennial of the National Park Service at Homestead National Monument of America on July 4, 2016, 7 p.m. at the Education Center. Join National Park Service Park Guide Nick Manes for a campfire program on the connection between the Declaration of Independence, the American Dream and homesteading. It has been said the American Dream was first manifested in the Declaration of Independence, which describes an attitude of hope, stating that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed…with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness”. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/celebrate-the-centennial-of-the-national-park-service-with-4th-of-july-campfire-program-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/airmyers.htm Mon, 20 Jun 2016 09:49:00 EST Heather Myers, a botanical artist, is the fifth artist of Homestead National Monument of America’s Artist-in-Residence program. She will be at the Monument from June 27 – July 10, 2016. A special program given by Myers will take place at the Homestead Education Center on Sunday, July 3, 2016, at 2:00 p.m. Myers will show her drawings and talk about botanical art. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/airmyers.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/harmonizaers16.htm Thu, 16 Jun 2016 08:01:00 EST The Homestead Harmonizers will start off a weekend of special programs and musical performances during Homestead Days at Homestead National Monument of America. The Harmonizers will be on stage Saturday, June 18 at noon. Other musical groups performing over the weekend include Danish Fiddlers, River Boys Polka Band (come and dance on Saturday!), Die Singen Wanderers, and the Mighty Magic Pants Band! “We are excited about the diversity of programs, music and demonstrators at this year’s Homestead Days Celebration. Check out the entire line up for Homestead Days at Homestead National Monument of America below,” stated Superintendent Mark Engler. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/harmonizaers16.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/farmdemo16.htm Wed, 15 Jun 2016 07:29:00 EST Experience the life of a homesteader during the Homestead Days Celebration at Homestead National Monument of America on Saturday June 18th and Sunday June 19th. Demonstrations on the prairie and Heritage Center Farm Field will allow visitors to experience plowing behind a team of mules, the magic of herd dogs, stacking hay with a Jay Hawker stacker, a daily sheep herding demonstration, sitting on a saddle, playing in a pile of corn, grinding wheat into flour and much more. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/farmdemo16.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/photonatcermeony.htm Mon, 13 Jun 2016 06:42:00 EST What: Welcome 50 of America’s newest citizens during a citizenship and naturalization ceremony. This is a colorful, patriotic event so bring your camera! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/photonatcermeony.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/two-speakers-kick-off-programs-for-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Sun, 12 Jun 2016 11:23:00 EST Homestead Days activities at Homestead National Monument of America begin on Friday, June 17, 10 a.m. at the Homestead Education Center with a variety of demonstrations of traditional arts, crafts, and skills necessary for homesteaders. In addition, two speakers, Audrey Kalivoda and Ellen Kuhl, will be featured at the Heritage Center at 2 and 3 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/two-speakers-kick-off-programs-for-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/airkuhl.htm Sat, 11 Jun 2016 11:38:00 EST Ellen Kuhl, a painter, sculptor and weaver from Stamford, Nebraska, is the fourth artist of Homestead National Monument of America’s 2016 Artist-in-Residence program, working in the park June 12- 25, 2016. A special program given by Kuhl will take place at the Homestead Heritage Center on Friday, June 17, 2016 at 3 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/airkuhl.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/childrenfest16.htm Fri, 10 Jun 2016 05:04:00 EST Come one, come all and enjoy games, activities, races and more at the 2016 Homestead Days Children’s Festival on June 18th and 19th from 12-4 pm at the Homestead National Monument of America’s Heritage Center! This free carnival of centennial commemoration will be filled with amusements for the entire family. Grab a potato sack and race across the homestead, or test your steady hand in an egg and spoon race. Earn a prize by completing games and competitions! Each day there will be complimentary performances at 1 and 3 p.m. by the Mighty Magic Pants Band. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/childrenfest16.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/picnicinthepark.htm Thu, 09 Jun 2016 06:03:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is excited to invite you to “Picnic in the Park” on International Picnic Day, June 18, 2016, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. National parks across the United States will be welcoming to picnic in honor of the National Park Service’s Centennial. Join others in a “virtual picnic” on June 8. Take pictures of yourself and your picnic and post them on social media to compete for virtual awards by posting them and hash tagging #picnicinthepark and #findyourpark. Watch social media to see what other people are doing across the country at their “Picnic in the Park”. Awards will be given the following week for a variety of categories. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/picnicinthepark.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/alaskarestofstory.htm Wed, 08 Jun 2016 07:35:00 EST Come and meet members of the Kilcher family during Homestead Days 2016 at Homestead National Monument of America on June 18 and 19 from 1-3 p.m. at the Homestead Education Center. The Kilcher family is featured on the Discovery Channel’s show “Alaska: The Last Frontier”. The show focuses on the two Kilcher brothers experiences as homesteaders – come to Homestead to hear from 5 of the 6 sisters and learn “the rest of the story”. Family members visiting Homestead for Homestead Days 2016 include: Catkin Burton, Fay Graham, Anna Graham, Mossy Kilcher, Sunrise Sjoeberg, Stellavera Kilcher, Charlotte Adamson, Otto Kilcher, Eivin Kilcher, and Shane Kilcher. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/alaskarestofstory.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/naturalization16.htm Wed, 08 Jun 2016 06:22:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is honored to host a United States Citizenship and Naturalization Ceremony on Tuesday, June 14, 2016. New citizens will take their Oath of Allegiance to the United States at the ceremony. The ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. in the Education Center’s Courtyard. The public is encouraged to attend. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/naturalization16.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/armybrassband.htm Sat, 04 Jun 2016 13:06:00 EST In celebration of the Centennial of the National Park Service and the 80th anniversary of Homestead National Monument of America, the United States Army Field Band Brass Quintet will perform at the Homestead Education Center on June 14, 2016 at 1 p.m. Following the concert, at 2 p.m., is a United States Citizenship and Naturalization Ceremony. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/armybrassband.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/mediatractor.htm Thu, 02 Jun 2016 06:29:00 EST Media Advisory - Photo Opportunity - Media Advisory See the Start of the Monument to Monument Tractor Relay Across Nebraska!! What: Help send off 80-100 tractors at they conduct the Monument to Monument Tractor Relay Across Nebraska https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/mediatractor.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/posse.htm Thu, 02 Jun 2016 04:59:00 EST Take a literary ride with the Most Intrepid Western Author’s Posse as they travel through the Great Plains of Nebraska and visit Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center on Saturday, June 11, 2016, from 11 am – 1 pm. The Most Intrepid Western Author’s Posse is comprised of five published, award-winning western authors who love to tell exciting tales of the Old West – some true, some with a twist. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/posse.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/birds-and-bagels-this-weekend-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 31 May 2016 10:53:00 EST Enjoy an early morning birding hike with Park Guide Nicholas Manes at Homestead National Monument of America on Friday, June 3 or Saturday June 4 at 8 a.m. This program will begin at the Homestead Education Center with a light breakfast of bagels followed by a short walk to investigate the birds of Homestead’s prairie and woodland. Limited numbers of binoculars will be available; you are encouraged to bring your own. One all-terrain wheel chair is available to check-out, as well. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/birds-and-bagels-this-weekend-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ffresults16.htm Sat, 28 May 2016 10:47:00 EST There were contestants for six states 2016 Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival Results Homestead National Monument of America – May 28, 2016 Junior Division https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ffresults16.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ffprize.htm Wed, 25 May 2016 04:51:00 EST The sound of fiddlers playing hoedowns, waltzes and other tunes from the homesteading era will fill the air on Saturday, May 28, 2016 at the Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival at Homestead National Monument of America! The day begins at 10 a.m. with fiddling and harmonica workshops led by Deb Greenblatt and David Seay. The competition begins at noon with fiddlers competing for $3,350 in award monies, along with a chance to win a new violin! Chairs will be provided at this outdoor event or guests can bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ffprize.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/whittier.htm Wed, 25 May 2016 04:38:00 EST The second artist of the 2016 Artist-in-Residence program at Homestead National Monument of America, Casey Whittier, will be presenting a program based on her work at the monument on Sunday, June 5, 2016, 2 p.m. at the Education Center. Whittier is a ceramicist and installation artist https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/whittier.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/extendedhours.htm Wed, 25 May 2016 04:24:00 EST Operating hours for the summer will be extended at Homestead National Monument of America starting Saturday May 28, 2016. The monument will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through Labor Day Weekend. Along with the extended summer hours, the monument will offer a wide variety of special programs. Beginning Sunday, May 29, 2016 the Freeman School will be open daily 1-4 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/extendedhours.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/riverboyspolka.htm Fri, 20 May 2016 04:38:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is excited to announce a polka dance led by the River Boys Polka Band during Homestead Days on Saturday, June 18, 2016 from 4-6 p.m. The dance will take place at the Education Center near the stage. On Sunday, June 19, 2016 they will perform from 4-5 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/riverboyspolka.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/memorialarts.htm Wed, 18 May 2016 05:36:00 EST Saturday, May 28, 2016 spend the day surrounded by music at the Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival! This FREE event takes place at the Education Center and starts at 10 a.m. with a fiddle workshop, followed by a harmonica workshop at 11 a.m. Then from 12 noon to 5 p.m. you are invited to compete in, or simply enjoy, an amazing competition of fiddlers of all levels. Sunday, May 29, 2016, at 2 p.m. learn about an unusual art form with tape artist Chad Farnes at the Education Center. Mr. Farnes will talk about and demonstration on his chosen medium - duct tape! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/memorialarts.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/centennial-bioblitzs-across-the-country.htm Tue, 17 May 2016 12:05:00 EST Curious about the plants and animals of Homestead National of America, then be here on Saturday, May 21, 2016 for the Centennial Bioblitz! To celebrate 100 years of stewardship, the National Park Service is planning a shared nation-wide quest to discover and document biodiversity – the variety of living organisms in a place. You are invited to be part of the celebration as parks across the country host bioblitzes on May 21, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/centennial-bioblitzs-across-the-country.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/tractorrelay.htm Tue, 17 May 2016 05:00:00 EST In celebration of the Centennial of the National Park Service and the 80th anniversary of Homestead National Monument of America, the 2016 5TH Annual Tractor Relay Across Nebraska, sponsored by the Nebraska Antique Farming Association (NAFA), will travel from Monument to Monument, June 3 -12, 2016. The relay will start in eastern Nebraska, at Homestead National Monument of America near Beatrice, and end in western Nebraska, at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument near Harrison. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/tractorrelay.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/centennialbioblitz.htm Thu, 12 May 2016 10:22:00 EST Next Saturday, May 21, 2016 will be an exciting day at Homestead National Monument of America and parks across the country. Why? Because a Centennial Bioblitz is happening! To celebrate 100 years of stewardship, the National Park Service is planning a shared nation-wide quest to discover and document biodiversity – the variety of living organisms in a place. Everyone, young and old alike, is invited to be part of the celebration as national, as well as state, parks across the country host bioblitzs on May 21, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/centennialbioblitz.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/beatrice-public-library-monthly-book-discussion-on-may-26-hosted.htm Wed, 11 May 2016 06:14:00 EST On Thursday May 26, at 7 p.m. Homestead National Monument of America will host the monthly Beatrice Public Library Book discussion at the Homestead Education Center. In honor of the National Park Service Centennial, as well as the Monument’s 80th Birthday, we will be discussing “Homestead National Monument of America” by Rose Houk, covering the history of the Homestead Act of 1862 and the Monument. Homestead’s historian, Dan Ott will, be leading the book discussion as well as shedding light our nation’s epic Homesteading story. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/beatrice-public-library-monthly-book-discussion-on-may-26-hosted.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/knisely.htm Tue, 10 May 2016 10:42:00 EST The Artist-In-Residence program at Homestead National Monument of America will soon begin for the season! The first artist, writer Michael Knisely, will spend May 15 – 28, 2016 at Homestead, offering public workshops on May 15, May 21, and May 22, starting at Homestead’s Education Center. There is no registration necessary and the program is free. This is the eighth year of the monument's Artist-in-Residence program https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/knisely.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/bioblitz.htm Tue, 10 May 2016 10:32:00 EST Help discover the species that inhabit Homestead National Monument of America by joining the Homestead Critter Count and Biodiversity Festival on Saturday, May 21, 2016. To celebrate 100 years of stewardship, the National Park Service is planning a shared nation-wide quest to discover and document biodiversity – the variety of living organisms in a place. You are invited to be part of the celebration as parks across the country host bioblitzes on May 21, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/bioblitz.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/luthier.htm Wed, 04 May 2016 09:36:00 EST Does your fiddle need a tune up? Need some advice about your banjos broken bridge? If so, you need a luthier! A luthier is a person who makes and repairs stringed instruments. You are invited to bring your string instrument issues to the Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival at Homestead National Monument of America on Saturday, May 28, 2016 and visit with luthier Marilyn Wallin. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/luthier.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/birdsbagels.htm Sat, 30 Apr 2016 12:06:00 EST Enjoy an early morning birding hike with natural resource specialist Jesse Bolli at Homestead National Monument of America on Friday, May 6 or Saturday May 7 at 8 a.m. This program will begin at the Homestead Education Center with a light breakfast of bagels followed by a short walk to investigate the birds of Homestead’s prairie and woodland. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/birdsbagels.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/tourismeconomics.htm Fri, 22 Apr 2016 11:58:00 EST Beatrice, NE – A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 78,739 visitors to Homestead National Monument of America in 2015 spent $2.5 million in communities near the park. That spending supported 40 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $2.7 million. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/tourismeconomics.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/catherland.htm Thu, 21 Apr 2016 11:56:00 EST Catherland is billed as “a new Nebraska ghost musical.” The production takes a minimalist approach to staging, focusing on storytelling through song. Cast members include Eric Moyer, Sasha Dobson, Natalie McClue, Tyler Hale, Robin McKercher, and Melissa Epp. Writers Becky Boesen and David von Kampen are two incredible artistic talents. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/catherland.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ducttapeart.htm Thu, 21 Apr 2016 11:24:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is excited to announce a new art exhibition for May, 2016 – National Parks in Duct Tape! The exhibit features landscape pictures made from duct tape by tape artist Chad Farnes. This National Park Service Centennial art exhibit will be at the Homestead Education Center from May 3 – 28, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ducttapeart.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/wingo.htm Thu, 21 Apr 2016 10:49:00 EST Dr. Rebecca Wingo, from Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota, will be sharing new research on women homesteaders during this special presentation at the Homestead Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/wingo.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2016rxfire.htm Thu, 21 Apr 2016 10:24:00 EST Prescribed fire happening at Homestead National Monument of America on Friday, April 22, 2016. Fire includes testing of a small Unmanned Aircraft System. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/2016rxfire.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/participate-in-an-instameet-at-homestead-national-monument.htm Thu, 14 Apr 2016 07:34:00 EST From 1:00pm to 3:00pm on April 23, parks across the country will participate in the "Find Your Park InstaMeet". You can join in the fun from wherever you are using the hashtags #FindYourParkInstaMeet as well as #FindYourPark and #NPS100 on Instagram or other social media platforms. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/participate-in-an-instameet-at-homestead-national-monument.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artists-selected-for-2016-centennial-artist-in-residence-program.htm Wed, 13 Apr 2016 04:48:00 EST Artists have been selected for this year's Centennial Artist-in-Residence Program. The first of twelve selected artist arrives May 15, 2016 and the remaining artists will be at the park through October 30, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/artists-selected-for-2016-centennial-artist-in-residence-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/meet-the-kilcher-family-televisions-alaska-the-last-frontier-homesteaders-during-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 01 Apr 2016 07:45:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is excited to announce the Kilcher Family –Alaska Homesteaders - will be featured during Homestead Days 2016 in June. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/meet-the-kilcher-family-televisions-alaska-the-last-frontier-homesteaders-during-homestead-days-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/tallgrass-prairie-fiddle-festival-prize-money-raised-3350.htm Tue, 16 Feb 2016 10:49:00 EST Musicians will be competing for a record $3,350 at this year's Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival. Music fans will be able to listen and watch musicians; fiddlers and acoustic bands, as they compete at this year's festival, held at Homestead National Monument of America near Beatrice, Nebraska, Saturday, May 28, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/tallgrass-prairie-fiddle-festival-prize-money-raised-3350.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/valentines-day-2016-program.htm Tue, 02 Feb 2016 10:29:00 EST Join us February 14, 2016 at 1 p.m. at Homestead National Monument of America's Education Center. Marcia Rowley will present a program about the making and giving of Valentines. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/valentines-day-2016-program.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/extended-hours-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 15 May 2015 04:53:00 EST Summer operating hours will begin at Homestead National Monument of America. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/extended-hours-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/find-your-passion-volunteer-for-a-new-scanning-project-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 27 Apr 2015 07:26:00 EST Volunteers are needed for a new scanning and indexing project at Homestead National Monument of America. Through this project, the activities and events at Homestead National Monument of America will be documented for future use. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/find-your-passion-volunteer-for-a-new-scanning-project-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/New-Title-Same-Event-at-Homestead-National-Monument-of-America.htm Sun, 22 Mar 2015 05:51:00 EST News Flash! The Monumental Fiddling and Acoustic Band Championship will now be known as the Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/New-Title-Same-Event-at-Homestead-National-Monument-of-America.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-homestead-quarter-will-soon-be-here.htm Thu, 29 Jan 2015 10:07:00 EST Beatrice High School will be the place to be on February 10, 2015 for the launch of the Homestead Quarter! From 9 a.m. to noon everyone is invited to be a part of the program which will end with the public’s first opportunity to get a Homestead Quarter. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-homestead-quarter-will-soon-be-here.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/volunteers-wanted-help-organize-dempster-archive.htm Wed, 07 Jan 2015 11:07:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America has launched a project to begin processing the Dempster Mill Manufacturing Company archival records. Volunteers are needed to help with this huge archival project. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/volunteers-wanted-help-organize-dempster-archive.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-quarter-is-coming-save-the-date.htm Tue, 23 Dec 2014 05:55:00 EST Soon you will be able to carry a piece of the homesteading story in your pocket!The Homestead quarter will be officially launched on February 10, 2015. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-quarter-is-coming-save-the-date.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/spend-your-holiday-with-the-birds.htm Mon, 22 Dec 2014 11:13:00 EST Join Natural Resource Specialist Jesse Bolli on Tuesday, December 30, 2014 as he explores the trails of Homestead to discover which of our feathered friends spend the holidays at Homestead. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/spend-your-holiday-with-the-birds.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/scottish-festivities-and-traditions.htm Mon, 08 Dec 2014 09:46:00 EST Learn all about the festivities and traditions of the Scottish culture at a Winter Festival program by Lori McAlister. Join her at Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center on Sunday, December 14, 2014 at 2 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/scottish-festivities-and-traditions.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/who-lived-in-nebraska-from-10000-bc-to-the-1800s.htm Tue, 14 Oct 2014 11:16:00 EST Learn about the ancient residents of Nebraska in honor of Native American Heritage Month. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/who-lived-in-nebraska-from-10000-bc-to-the-1800s.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/october-at-homestead.htm Mon, 29 Sep 2014 09:32:00 EST Learn what's going on at Homestead this month. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/october-at-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/labor-day-extravaganza-of-events-at.htm Thu, 31 Jul 2014 12:58:00 EST Join us at Homestead National Monument of America this Labor Day weekend for the Arts and Living History Extravaganza. Events are scheduled Thursday August 28 through Monday September 1. The programs are suitable for all age groups, so bring the entire family. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/labor-day-extravaganza-of-events-at.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/night-hike-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Tue, 15 Apr 2014 12:31:00 EST Enjoy a rare opportunity to hike the trails at night at Homestead National Monument of America! Experience the park in a new way with a ranger-led trail walk from the Education Center on April 26 from 8:30-9:30 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/night-hike-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/scavenge-around-for-fun.htm Fri, 11 Apr 2014 06:05:00 EST Be part of an exciting new event at Homestead National Monument of America: the Prairie Prowl Scavenger Hunt! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/scavenge-around-for-fun.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/travel-down-the-road-to-valhalla-with-a-special-film-premiere.htm Mon, 10 Feb 2014 08:33:00 EST An exciting special premiere of Road to Valhalla will be shown on Saturday, February 15. In addition to seeing this new documentary, meet the filmmakers who will be guests at the premiere! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/travel-down-the-road-to-valhalla-with-a-special-film-premiere.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/junior-rangers-explore-your-winter-world.htm Thu, 16 Jan 2014 05:08:00 EST Calling all kids! Join park rangers at Homestead National Monument of America to “Explore Your Winter World” on Saturday, January 25 at 10 a.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/junior-rangers-explore-your-winter-world.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/pressing-play-on-the-2014-homestead-film-festival.htm Fri, 20 Dec 2013 06:27:00 EST Take in an exciting selection of fun and powerful movies at this year's Homestead Film Festival! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/pressing-play-on-the-2014-homestead-film-festival.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ice-sculpture-carving-followed-by-special-holidays-presentation.htm Thu, 21 Nov 2013 07:18:00 EST Don’t miss all the unique programs at Homestead National Monument of America on Sunday, December 8, 2013, at the Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ice-sculpture-carving-followed-by-special-holidays-presentation.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/nature-detectives-investigate-and-explore-your-winter-world.htm Tue, 19 Nov 2013 07:05:00 EST Use your outdoor investigating skills to become a winter Nature Detective at Homestead! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/nature-detectives-investigate-and-explore-your-winter-world.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/prairie-festival-of-winter-cultures.htm Mon, 11 Nov 2013 10:36:00 EST See sparkling decorations from many countries showcasing ethnic traditions of people who lived on the Great Plains during the homesteading era. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/prairie-festival-of-winter-cultures.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/karmin-to-unveil-legacy-banner.htm Tue, 29 Oct 2013 11:46:00 EST Karmin unveil her Homestead Legacy Banner, conduct a question answer period, and sign autographs. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/karmin-to-unveil-legacy-banner.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-homestead-is-saturday.htm Mon, 21 Oct 2013 10:42:00 EST Come one, come all to Howling Homestead 2013 at Homestead National Monument of America! Join park rangers, volunteers, and special guest presenters for a night full of family fun on Saturday, October 26. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/howling-homestead-is-saturday.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/native-prairie-seed-harvest.htm Fri, 27 Sep 2013 07:36:00 EST On Saturday, October 5 celebrate the last day of Homestead National Monument of America’s Prairie Appreciation Week by getting hands-on with the amazing plants in the monument’s tallgrass prairie. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/native-prairie-seed-harvest.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ready-for-a-howling-good-time.htm Tue, 24 Sep 2013 07:31:00 EST Come one, come all to Howling Homestead 2013! Join park rangers, volunteers, and special presenters for a night full of family fun. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/ready-for-a-howling-good-time.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-dirty-thirties-comes-to-life.htm Tue, 17 Sep 2013 09:40:00 EST In recognition of Prairie Appreciation Week, Homestead National Monument of America will have a special program by Historian Blake Bell titled The Dust Bowl: An American Legacy. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-dirty-thirties-comes-to-life.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/let-the-games-begin.htm Mon, 16 Sep 2013 09:35:00 EST Join rangers at Homestead to have fun at the Hedge Apple Festival! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/let-the-games-begin.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/volunteers-needed-for-homestead-deer-count.htm Tue, 10 Sep 2013 08:51:00 EST Help with Homestead's annual fall deer survey September 28. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/volunteers-needed-for-homestead-deer-count.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/new-citizens-to-be-sworn-in-as-part-of-constitution-day.htm Fri, 06 Sep 2013 05:37:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America is honored to host a United States Citizenship and Naturalization Ceremony on Monday September 16, 2013. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/new-citizens-to-be-sworn-in-as-part-of-constitution-day.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/nebraska-jazz-orchestra-concert.htm Tue, 03 Sep 2013 09:24:00 EST This award winning group will use music to travel back through time to the Big Band Era. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/nebraska-jazz-orchestra-concert.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/learn-about-printmaking-from-artist-in-residence.htm Fri, 16 Aug 2013 07:47:00 EST Bring the whole family to join Homestead National Monument of America’s Artist-in-Residence Erica Shirk for printmaking demonstrations and workshops! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/learn-about-printmaking-from-artist-in-residence.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/old-fashioned-spelling-bee-to-be-held-at-homestead.htm Thu, 15 Aug 2013 07:39:00 EST Spelling Bees were not only a chance for good spellers to be recognized but were also social events for homesteaders. To celebrate this tradition, an Old-Fashioned Spelling Bee will be held at Homestead National Monument of America’s Freeman School at 2 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 2, 2013. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/old-fashioned-spelling-bee-to-be-held-at-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/national-park-service-founders-day-commemorated-with-special-exhibits-and-refreshments.htm Wed, 14 Aug 2013 07:19:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America would like to announce a Civil War open house for its newest special exhibits - Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War and The Civil War in the West. The open house begins at 2 p.m. on Sunday August 25, 2013 in the Education Center. This date is also the 97th anniversary of the founding of the National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/national-park-service-founders-day-commemorated-with-special-exhibits-and-refreshments.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/opening-of-lincoln-exhibit-delayed-one-week.htm Fri, 26 Jul 2013 07:48:00 EST Opening of the Lincoln exhibit will be delayed one week. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/opening-of-lincoln-exhibit-delayed-one-week.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/lincoln-the-constitution-and-the-civil-war.htm Fri, 19 Jul 2013 12:45:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America would like to announce the opening of our newest exhibit titled Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War. Come check it out starting July 28th! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/lincoln-the-constitution-and-the-civil-war.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/marcos-and-sabor-concert.htm Tue, 16 Jul 2013 06:34:00 EST Enjoy Lively Latino Music with a Free Concert from Marcos & Sabor at Homestead National Monument of America https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/marcos-and-sabor-concert.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kids-in-parks.htm Sat, 29 Jun 2013 07:10:00 EST Kids and families--be a Nature Detective with Park Rangers at Homestead on Saturdays in July and the first Saturday in August. Investigate a different part of nature every week! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kids-in-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-4th-living-history-activities.htm Wed, 26 Jun 2013 07:16:00 EST Celebrate America's Heritage with July 4th Living History Activities at Homestead. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/july-4th-living-history-activities.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/life-and-times-of-laura-ingalls-wilder.htm Mon, 10 Jun 2013 11:46:00 EST Stacy Wullschleger will give a program about one of the most beloved pioneer girls: Laura Ingalls Wilder. Come see it during Homestead Days! https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/life-and-times-of-laura-ingalls-wilder.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kids-in-parks-explore-your-winter-world.htm Mon, 11 Feb 2013 07:03:00 EST Kids in Parks Explore Your Winter World. Dress appropriately to explore outside to look for signs of animals. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/kids-in-parks-explore-your-winter-world.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/a-pioneer-family-in-alaska.htm Fri, 08 Feb 2013 06:33:00 EST See "A Pioneer Family in Alaska" at the Homestead National Monument of America's Education Center on Saturday and Sunday, February 23 & 24, 2013 at 2 p.m.This is the final film in the 2013 "Year of the Homesteader Film Festival" series. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/a-pioneer-family-in-alaska.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/keepers-of-the-land-three-montana-families-and-their-homestead-legacies.htm Fri, 01 Feb 2013 06:28:00 EST See “Keepers of the Land: Three Montana Families and Their Homestead Legacies” at the Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center on Saturday and Sunday, February 16 & 17, 2013 at 2 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/keepers-of-the-land-three-montana-families-and-their-homestead-legacies.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/back-by-popular-demand-dr-ken-winkle-returns-to-homestead-national-monument.htm Thu, 17 Jan 2013 07:08:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America will observe Black History Month with a special program by University of Nebraska-Lincoln professor Dr. Kenneth Winkle on Sunday, February 3, 2013 at 1 p.m. at the Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/back-by-popular-demand-dr-ken-winkle-returns-to-homestead-national-monument.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/blizzard-exhibit-comes-to-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Wed, 09 Jan 2013 04:38:00 EST An Omaha Children’s Museum traveling exhibit inspired by the poetry book, “The Blizzard Voices,” will be at Homestead National Monument of America on January 12 through May 7, 2013. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/blizzard-exhibit-comes-to-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-homestead-series-featured-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 15 Oct 2012 12:08:00 EST The Homestead Series, a collection of twelve beautiful paintings, will be on exhibit at Homestead National Monument of America’s Education Center from October 2012 through April 2013. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/the-homestead-series-featured-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/multi-park-celebration-of-archeology-day-to-be-held-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 15 Oct 2012 10:50:00 EST Come see what archeologists are learning about effects of the Homestead Act in the northern Plains. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/multi-park-celebration-of-archeology-day-to-be-held-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/thanking-americas-armed-forces-active-duty-us-military-offered-free-entrance-to-all-national-parks.htm Thu, 24 May 2012 16:09:00 EST Beatrice, NE- To show our appreciation for those who serve in the U.S. Military, the National Park Service has started issuing an annual pass offering free entrance to all 397 national parks for active duty military members and their dependents. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/thanking-americas-armed-forces-active-duty-us-military-offered-free-entrance-to-all-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/folk-musics-renaissance-man-john-mccutcheon-headlines-monumental-fiddling-championship.htm Fri, 18 May 2012 05:16:00 EST Free, family entertainment will be heard on the tall grass prairie at Homestead National Monument on May 26, 2012, at 7 p.m. Renowned folksinger John McCutcheon will perform following a performance by the winners of the Monumental Fiddling Championship. The Monumental Fiddling Championship will begin at 1 p.m. at the Monument’s Education Center. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/folk-musics-renaissance-man-john-mccutcheon-headlines-monumental-fiddling-championship.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/get-wrapped-up-in-history-with-the-homestead-quilt-discovery-experience.htm Wed, 11 Apr 2012 06:56:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America will uncover the “Quilt Discovery Experience” on Saturday, April 28, 2012. Wrap yourself up in the history of America as it is seen through the eyes of a quilter. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/get-wrapped-up-in-history-with-the-homestead-quilt-discovery-experience.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/exciting-new-150th-commemoration-items-available-in-homestead-bookstores.htm Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:00:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America’s Eastern National bookstores announce the arrival of 150th items, commemorating the 150th Anniversary of the Homestead Act, including magnets, key chains, mugs, embroidered patches, and collectible coins. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/exciting-new-150th-commemoration-items-available-in-homestead-bookstores.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/quilt-commemorating-150th-anniversary-of-the-homestead-act-on-display-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:01:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America and the Nebraska State Quilt Guild are excited to announce the winner of the state-wide quilt design contest “Images of Homesteading”, Jan Stehlik, from Dorchester, NE. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/quilt-commemorating-150th-anniversary-of-the-homestead-act-on-display-at-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hunting-and-trapping-prohibited-in-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:50:00 EST With the fall hunting season underway, Homestead National Monument of America Superintendent Mark Engler reminds the public that hunting and trapping within the boundaries of the Monument are prohibited. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/hunting-and-trapping-prohibited-in-homestead-national-monument-of-america.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/youth-conservation-corps-applications-for-homestead.htm Sun, 27 Feb 2011 19:00:00 EST https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/youth-conservation-corps-applications-for-homestead.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/multiple-awards-received-by-homestead-national-monument-of-america-audio-description-tour.htm Thu, 11 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America’s was recently honored with two different awards, both for its new audio description tour at the Homestead Heritage Center. The tour delivers a verbal transcript of all text and descriptions of all photographs and objects found in the Heritage Center’s 24 indoor and outdoor exhibits so that visitors that are blind or visually impaired can experience them. This audio description tour is part of the monument’s efforts to make its services and programs fully accessible to all Americans. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/multiple-awards-received-by-homestead-national-monument-of-america-audio-description-tour.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/innovative-new-program-makes-homestead-national-monument-more-accessible-to-blind-visitors.htm Sun, 22 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST Visitors that are blind or visually impaired can now experience the exhibits at Homestead National Monument of America in a better, deeper way. The indoor and outdoor exhibits at the Homestead Heritage Center plus the Palmer-Epard Cabin now include an audio description tour designed to deliver a verbal transcript of the exhibit text and a description of the exhibit’s photographs and objects. To access the audio description visitors wear a handheld personal audio guide with headphones. As a visitor wearing a personal audio guide nears an exhibit the audio description is triggered. https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/innovative-new-program-makes-homestead-national-monument-more-accessible-to-blind-visitors.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/revolutionary-records-project-revealed.htm Sun, 21 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST Homestead National Monument of America and several partners recently announced plans to begin digitizing some of the estimated 30 million homestead records housed in the National Archives.  https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/revolutionary-records-project-revealed.htm https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/new-exibits.htm Tue, 05 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST New trailside exhibits were placed at Homestead National Monument of America.   https://www.nps.gov/home/learn/news/new-exibits.htm