Nebraskaland Magazine
LINCOLN, Neb. – The living history events are back on the schedule at Arbor Lodge State Historical Park this fall. Nebraska City civic leaders have reached an agreement with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to provide resources and funding necessary to stage these and other events.
The popular living history events, in which volunteers portray life at Arbor Lodge in period costumes, are scheduled for Sept. 29, Oct. 6, Oct. 13 and Oct. 20. In addition, the Enchanted Arboretum Art Auction on Sept. 28 and the Enchanted Forest on Oct. 20 also will be staged by the city.
Game and Parks recently announced the temporary closure of all services and vehicle access at 24 state recreation areas and five state historical parks – including Arbor Lodge – from fall to spring. Except for the dates of the reinstated events, Arbor Lodge will be closed Sept. 23 and reopen April 23.
The reason for the temporary park closures is to redirect Game and Parks staff and resources from the closed areas in an effort to reduce the more than $30 million backlog of deferred maintenance needs and meet compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and environmental requirements.
“Nebraska City is grateful for the support and cooperation received from Games and Parks and involved citizens to keep Arbor Lodge open,” said Jack Hobbie, Nebraska City mayor. “It’s one of the traits that makes Nebraska City great.”
“This is a great example of how partnerships can come together to get things done,” said Jim Douglas, director of Game and Parks. “People in Nebraska City have done a great job stepping up so that these events can continue to provide enjoyment this fall. It is gratifying that we can work together.”
