Thomas P. Kennard House
Nebraska's oldest home in Lincoln, a stunning 1869 Italianate mansion offering a glimpse into early state history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festive holiday tours
Thomas P. Kennard House
Best Time
Festive holiday tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nebraska's oldest home in Lincoln, a stunning 1869 Italianate mansion offering a glimpse into early state history.
"A neat house with cool history of Lincoln to see, rooms are set up to that era."
🎯 Attend Special Events
Look out for holiday events like the December 8th festive tours for a unique experience.
🗣️ Engage with Guides
Tour guides are patient and knowledgeable, perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Italianate Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the elegant Italianate style of this 1869 mansion, a statement of early Lincoln's prosperity.
First Secretary of State's Home
Throughout the house
Explore the rooms where Thomas Kennard, Nebraska's first Secretary of State, lived and worked.
Holiday Decorations
Throughout the house
Experience the house adorned in old-fashioned holiday style during special seasonal events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
Preserving History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Attend Special Events
Look out for holiday events like the December 8th festive tours for a unique experience. 
🗣️ Engage with Guides
Tour guides are patient and knowledgeable, perfect for curious minds of all ages.
🏛️ Appreciate the History
The house is set up to reflect its era, offering a cool glimpse into Lincoln's past.
👻 Possible Ghost Sightings
Some believe Livia Kennard's spirit lingers here; keep an eye out for paranormal activity!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Attend Special Events
Look out for holiday events like the December 8th festive tours for a unique experience.
🗣️ Engage with Guides
Tour guides are patient and knowledgeable, perfect for curious minds of all ages.
🏛️ Appreciate the History
The house is set up to reflect its era, offering a cool glimpse into Lincoln's past.
👻 Possible Ghost Sightings
Some believe Livia Kennard's spirit lingers here; keep an eye out for paranormal activity!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Thomas P. Kennard House for its beautiful historical setting and the engaging, patient guides who make learning fun for all ages. It's a neat glimpse into Lincoln's past, with rooms authentically set up for the era. Some visitors also note the house's reputation for paranormal activity.
"Went there with our Cub scout troop. The girls loved it. They were asking all kinds of questions. Our tour guide was so patient and answered all of them. The house is beautiful. We will definitely visit again."
Ronnette Dovenbarger
"One of the early houses in Lincoln that is still standing. The rooms are set up to that Era and very neat house. Cool history of lincoln to see."
Bryan Martin
"Beautiful Histroical home"
Michael Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Thomas P. Kennard House is located within the original plat of Lincoln, Nebraska. While specific public transport routes can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Parking information should be checked closer to your visit date.
Information on dedicated parking for the Kennard House can be limited. It's advisable to check for nearby street parking or public lots before your visit, especially during special events.
As an historic home, accessibility can be a consideration. It's recommended to contact the venue directly to inquire about specific accommodations for visitors with mobility challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, especially for special events. For instance, free tours were offered on December 8th. It's best to check the official website or social media for the most current hours.
While general admission might have a fee, special events like the holiday tours have been offered for free. Always confirm ticket requirements and pricing before your visit.
Information on private tours is not widely available. For group visits, like scout troops, it's recommended to inquire directly with the venue about booking options.
Specific discount information is not readily available. However, free tour events are sometimes hosted, so keeping an eye on their announcements is a good strategy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the beautifully preserved rooms set up to reflect the era, learn about Thomas Kennard's life and role in Nebraska's history, and admire the Italianate architecture.
Yes, children often enjoy visiting the Kennard House. They can ask questions and learn about history in an engaging way, as experienced by Cub Scout troops.
Built in 1869, it's the oldest home in the original plat of Lincoln, Nebraska. It was home to Thomas Kennard, the first Secretary of State, and played a role in selecting Lincoln as the state capital.
Yes, guided tours are often available, with guides who are patient and happy to answer visitor questions.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with the venue upon arrival or beforehand to confirm if photography is permitted inside the historic home.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its Italianate architecture, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the period-decorated rooms provide a charming backdrop, though photography rules should be confirmed.
Photography policies for historic homes can differ. It's advisable to inquire with the staff upon your visit to ensure you comply with any restrictions.
Architectural photography of the exterior and interior details, as well as lifestyle or historical reenactment photography (with permission), would be well-suited here.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during special events, like the holiday tours, which can add an extra layer of fun and wonder. The historical setting, combined with the opportunity to learn about early Nebraska life, makes for a memorable outing that can spark a lifelong interest in history.
+1🏛️ History Buffs
+1 Explore the meticulously preserved rooms, appreciate the Italianate architecture, and delve into the stories of the Kennard family and their domestic staff. Don't miss the chance to learn about the house's role in selecting Lincoln as the state capital. The historical context and the tangible connection to the past make this a deeply rewarding experience for anyone passionate about American history and architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Gem of Lincoln
+1The house is not just an architectural marvel but also a historical landmark, being the oldest remaining building within the original plat of Lincoln. This makes it an invaluable resource for understanding the city's early development and the lives of its prominent citizens. The preservation of such structures is vital for maintaining a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to experience the historical ambiance firsthand.
Recent archaeological testing has even explored the site of a demolished rear wing, further contributing to our understanding of the house's evolution. This ongoing research underscores the importance of the Kennard House as a site of historical and archaeological interest, offering layers of discovery for those who visit.
A Glimpse into Early Nebraska Life
Beyond the Kennard family, the house also sheds light on the lives of domestic servants who were integral to the functioning of such households. While often overlooked in historical narratives, their presence and contributions were essential. Learning about them adds another dimension to the story of the house and the people who inhabited it.
During special events, particularly around the holidays, the house is often decorated in an old-fashioned style, enhancing the immersive historical experience. These seasonal transformations make the Kennard House a particularly charming destination, offering a festive and educational outing for individuals and families alike.
+1The Paranormal Presence?
This spectral association adds an intriguing layer to the historical significance of the house. Visitors interested in the paranormal might find themselves looking for subtle signs or experiencing the unique atmosphere that such legends create. It's a reminder that historic places often carry stories that transcend time and conventional understanding.
While the focus of the Kennard House is its rich history and architecture, the tales of Livia's presence offer a different kind of allure. It's a topic that sparks curiosity and conversation, adding a touch of mystery to an already fascinating historical site.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit