By Sandhills POST
OGALLALA, Neb. — The Keith County Historical Society is preparing to open the doors of the Mansion on the Hill for its summer season this Memorial Day weekend, inviting the public to enjoy refreshments and explore recent updates to the historic home.
Guests can stop by the mansion at 1004 N. Spruce Street in Ogallala for cookies, lemonade, and tea on Friday, May 23, and again on Saturday, May 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, May 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, though donations are encouraged to support upkeep and student tour guides.
Built in 1887, the Victorian mansion has long been a historical landmark in Ogallala. Over the past year, the society has refinished the original hardwood floors on both the first and second levels, most recently completed by J & W Hardwood Flooring. In keeping with the period, area rugs have been added to preserve authenticity and help retain warmth in the house.
The third floor has also seen improvements, including the addition of a recreated maid’s quarters to give visitors a deeper look into the home’s original lifestyle.
Looking ahead, the historical society plans to replace the deteriorating original window frames, which have rotted over time. Fundraising for the window restoration project will begin during opening weekend and continue through The Big Give, a community-wide donation campaign taking place June 1–15.
Regular hours for the mansion are Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The mansion is closed on Mondays, but private tours and event rentals are available by appointment.
More information can be found on the Keith County Historical Society Facebook page or at kchsmansion.com.