The Czech Capital of Nebraska – Wilber

Visited on: Monday, July 1, 2024

As I drove into Wilbur, I knew I wouldn’t have very much time, but when I saw a historical marker identifying the town as the Czech capital of Nebraska, I knew I’d have to spend a couple of minutes exploring.

A historical plaque titled "Czech Capital" stands surrounded by flowerbeds and two flags, the American flag and another with red, white, and blue stripes. In the background, a large feed mill is visible under a cloudy sky. A "Nebraska Heritage Community" sign and a red fire hydrant are in the foreground.

I probably was lucky that the museum was closed, or I would’ve extended my few minutes and arrived at my next destination in the dark.

Exterior of the Wilber Czech Museum in a brick building, featuring a sign with its name and symbols of red hearts and yellow lions. The storefront displays Czech cultural items with mannequins in traditional attire. An American flag is on a lamppost outside under a cloudy sky.
Mannequins dressed in traditional Eastern European clothing are gathered around a table with various foods, including bread and fruit. Behind them is a display of country flags and traditional decor. A ceiling with intricate patterns is visible above.

Wilber, Nebraska, is a charming town with a vibrant history deeply rooted in Czech culture. Founded in 1873 by Charles D. Wilber, the town became a beacon for Czech immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By then, Czechs had become the predominant ethnic group, bringing with them a rich tapestry of traditions and customs that continue to shape the community today.

One of Wilber’s most remarkable stories is its journey to becoming the county seat of Saline County. Originally, Swan City held this title, but after a series of elections and a dramatic event in 1878, Wilber was chosen. The transfer of county records involved a procession of 300 people from Wilber, marking a pivotal moment in its history. This sense of community and determination has been a hallmark of Wilber’s residents ever since.

The town’s commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in its many historic buildings and cultural events. Wilber is home to several landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places, including the 1882 W.H. Mann mansion and the 1928 Saline County Courthouse. The Wilber Czech Festival, founded in 1962, is a testament to the town’s vibrant cultural life. Held annually in August, it attracts tens of thousands of visitors with its parades, dances, and the Miss Czech-Slovak USA Queen Pageant.

Historic Hotel Wilber, built in 1895, features a two-story brick facade with white and maroon trim. It includes ornate architectural details, twin central lampposts, and a porch with decorative railing. Two visible wooden benches are on the porch, surrounded by potted plants.
A historic brick building labeled "Hotel Wilber" features a prominent wooden porch with decorative railings and columns. It has white trim and a sign designating it as a bed and breakfast inn. An American flag is on display nearby, with trees and a cloudy sky in the background.
A small town street features a building labeled "City Hall Cultural Center" with an Italian flag and "Parma Idaho" on the facade. To the right, there's a store with "Ag Air" and "Feed & Supply" signs. A grain elevator and overcast sky are visible in the background.
A small town street with overcast skies features a historic building painted with a vibrant mural of "Wilber." The two-story structure has green and white trim. Nearby, other businesses and a grain elevator are visible, creating a quaint, rural atmosphere.
A street view of a small-town scene, featuring brick buildings with one displaying the sign "ICKMAN LAW." Adjacent is a café with a red and white striped awning. A red pickup truck and a black car are parked in front. The sky is overcast, and the street is empty.
A historical marker titled "Czech Capital" stands against a backdrop of buildings. The plaque describes the Czech settlers' history and contributions in Nebraska, mentioning cities like Prague, Nezsdal, Schuyler, and Verdigre. It is topped with the Nebraska State Seal.

Wilber’s recognition as the “Czech Capital of Nebraska” and later as the “Czech Capital of the United States” underscores its cultural significance. Over the years, the town has welcomed numerous notable figures, from suffragette Susan B. Anthony to presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy. These visits reflect Wilber’s unique position as a cultural hub.

Despite economic challenges and natural adversities, Wilber’s residents have shown resilience. During the Great Depression, Saline County boasted one of the lowest bank failure rates in Nebraska, and the community consistently exceeded war bond quotas during World War II. Today, Wilber stands as a proud testament to its heritage, celebrating its past while looking forward to the future.

A black Jeep with a roof rack is towing a small, silver teardrop trailer decorated with stickers. They are parked on a dirt path beside a red building labeled "INFORMATION," near a large, beige feed mill with towering silos in the background. The sky is cloudy.
Journal Entry filed under:
Small Towns
Nebraska
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