Making its long anticipated return, the gift shop in the Nebraska State Capitol has re-opened for the first time since closing due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
(Tom Stanton, KLIN News)
But with Capitol foot traffic back to normal levels, shop workers were joined by Lt. Governor Joe Kelley and State Historical Society Director Daryl Bohac for a ribbon cutting Wednesday morning.
Bohac tells KLIN News reconstruction projects in the building also contributed to the decision to close the shop.
“It just seemed like a great opportunity for us to reestablish a presence in the Capitol and become a gateway to the rest of our museums here in Lincoln and historic sites across Nebraska,” Bohac said.
Patrons can expect to see the shop lined with Nebraska-themed goods, locally made products, basic sundries, and various snacks. Additionally, the Capitol’s de-facto mascot and popular feline resident Cameron the Capitol Cat will be immortalized with his own merchandise.
“When I mention that to others, their eyes light up,” said Bohac. “That’s going to be a unique item, not available anywhere else.”
Historical photos from the Historical Society’s collection will also be featured in the shop, including the work of the 19th century itinerant photographer Solomon Butcher, who spent most of his life documenting Central Nebraska.
“We just invite people to stop by and check us out. It’s a great way to experience some of Nebraska’s history and culture,” Bohac concluded.
The gift shop is located in Room 1417 on the first floor of the Nebraska State Capitol, 1445 K Street in Lincoln. The shop is open Monday though Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information, call 402-471-9406 or email hn.stores@nebraska.gov.
-
- Tom Stanton, KLIN News