The Neihardt Foundation offers another excellent conference on Saturday, April 28th at the Neihardt State Historic Site in Bancroft, Nebraska. This year’s theme is “Neihardt’s World: 1900-1948” examining what was going on in Nebraska and the world during the poet’s most prolific writing years. Each of the participating scholars has a tremendous wealth of knowledge on their chosen topic. Neihardt’s father left to serve in the Spanish-American War and never returned to the family. Thomas Thiessen, National Park Service archeologist, will address Nebraska’s role in providing troops and horses for that conflict. The political stance of Populism was created in Nebraska, and one of the most ardent supporters was George Norris. Former senator David Landis will speak about Norris and his impact on the politics and economics of the State. Native tribes were undergoing many changes prior to World War II, including those precipitated by the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 and the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934. Sam Deloria, a Standing Rock Lakota and Director of the American Indian Graduate Center, will look at the far-reaching and long-lasting effects of that legislation. In the 30s and 40s, decisions were also made about the Missouri River which would have tremendous impact on Nebraska’s history and even current issues. Robert Schneiders, author and river systems environmentalist will speak on the Army Corps of Engineers and its battle to control the great river.
Conference moderator is Charles Trimble, Oglala Lakota businessman and historian from Omaha. Registration can be made by mail, phone, or e-mail. Cost is $20 per person and $15 for students. Lunch reservations at $8 must be made by April 25th. The conference day begins at 8:30 am, first presentation at 9:00 am and ends at 4:30 pm. Lunch will be served at the Country Pub, 409 Main Street. Presenters’ books will be available for sale and signing. Funding has been provided by the Neihardt Foundation, Nebraska Humanities Council, and Wayne State College School of Arts and Humanities. To register, call 402-648-3388 or toll free 1-888-777-4667; by mail: PO Box 344, Bancroft NE 68004; by e-mail at Neihardt@gpcom.net ; or through the website at www.neihardtcenter.org . The Neihardt State Historic Site is located at 306 West Elm Street, Bancroft and is a branch museum of the Nebraska Historical Society.
