Thomas P. Kennard House

The Thomas P. Kennard House is a residential building in Renaissance Revival style with symmetrical forms, ornate windows, and a cupola tower on top. The two and a half story structure sits on a low-pitched hip roof and displays the elegant design elements of this architectural period.

The house was built in 1869 by Thomas P. Kennard, Nebraska's first Secretary of State, and is among the oldest structures remaining from Lincoln's original city design. It represents the early phase of urban development when the capital was newly established.

The house serves as the Nebraska Statehood Memorial and displays exhibits about Lincoln's role as the state capital. Visitors can explore how the city became the center of political life in the state.

The building is located on H Street and offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the architectural features of Renaissance Revival design. Educational programs allow you to discover more about the house's historical importance and construction methods of the period.

During restoration, the building was returned to its original appearance using materials from both local creeks and outside suppliers. This approach mixed locally sourced resources with materials brought from elsewhere to match the authentic original construction.