Heritage Tree

In 2017, Nebraska celebrated the Sesquicentennial of our state. To highlight this anniversary, the Brownville Historical Society chose the HERITAGE TREE as a part of the State’s celebration. This tree represents several symbols of Brownville’s rich history, from a riverboat to the Railroad, the Theater to the Concert Hall, the Civil War cannon to the Winery.

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Located in downtown Brownville, the Tree is modeled after similar civil monuments in Southern Germany called Stammbaums. This wood and steel structure stands 29 feet tall above ground.

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The significant heritage of Brownville began in 1854. Early settlers led by former Governor Robert Furnas, planted thousands of trees in the Loess soil. The apple tree at the top of the HERITAGE TREE represents this early Nebraska effort.

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The HERITAGE TREE came into being as businesses joined together to design, construct and finance this project. Brownville is a Preserve America Community; many properties reside in the National Historic District in Brownville.

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​Our museums are an important part of the BHS mission. We invite you to spend time in each of them and learn about Nebraska, the United States and our shared history. Our museums are always free to the public. Hours of Operation are 1 - 4pm CST Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from early April through October. Small or large group tours can be arranged by contacting Steve Woerth at scwoert@gmail.com.