National Willa Cather Center News

The Willa Cather Foundation has announced its plans to build the National Willa Cather Center, a public museum, archive, and arts and cultural center.

Heralded as Willa Cather's first great novel, O Pioneers! is coming off of a banner year in 2013. Not only was the book named as the "One Book One Nebraska" selection, but the novel also celebrated its 100th publication anniversary.

Currently on view in the Red Cloud Opera House Gallery is an exhibition by Lincoln artist, Gary Pummel.

Mr. Pummel utilizes a painting technique where both the oil paints and the canvas are kept warm, creating vibrant colors that have a remarkable level of transparency to them. Pummel's artwork has been featured in several galleries throughout the country, and we are thrilled to have him displaying his work in Red Cloud.

The Willa Cather Book Club has begun meeting again! Beginning with O Pioneers! (2013's One Book One Nebraska selection), the group plans to read a variety of Cather material, including letters, nonfiction, and an historical fiction murder mystery by author Sue Hallgarth, based on Cather's time in Grand Manan.

Willa Cather's 140th birthday is Saturday, December 7th. As a way of celebrating her place in American culture and raising some financial support for her Foundation, would you consider hosting a party in Willa's honor?

You choose the date--preferably within a month of her birthday--and you choose the kind of party, the number of guests and the amount of donation. For example, a morning coffee with some Cather-related readings and food might be $10-$20, while a plated dinner might be $100. Our office has created a party invitation for you to complete and send to your guests.

The Willa Cather State Historic Site/Red Cloud Opera House is one of 80 attractions included in the 2013 Nebraska Passport. The program, created by the Nebraska Tourism Commission, encourages travelers to explore Nebraska. Participants collect stamps from participating attractions and then redeem them for prizes.