Polish Heritage Center Inc.

Explore the archives and unique displays to be found in the historic collection of  Ashton’s Polish Heritage Center Museum. Artifacts and genealogical records document the history of Polish settlers in this part of Nebraska. Communities such as Ashton, Farwell, Paplin, Loup city and Elba emerged as a result of  19th century efforts by the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America (PRCUA) to establish Polish colonies around the United States to preserve the culture and religion of the Polish homeland. Even today, Sherman County Nebraska has one of the highest percentages of Polish  Americans in the U.S.

In 1997 the Polish Heritage Center in Ashton was Incorporated in an effort to preserve the ancestral language, culture and traditions of early Polish settlers in the area. The project was an outgrowth of ideas set forth during the 1989 Ashton Centennial celebration. Elaine dart, a former Ashton resident  followed up on the notion and spearheaded the long process of bringing the center into reality. The original center was located in the old St. Francis parish convent. This building was purchased in March 2000 through generous  donations from Dr. Phillip and Ruth Maschka, the St. Francis parish and the Ashton alumni Association.  In 2018, a new building was dedicated to accommodate the ever expanding needs of the organization. You can join us in our preservation efforts by becoming a member of the Polish heritage center or as  a one-time visitor, the Museum will offer a rich cultural adventure! Free admission to members. Visitors a suggested donation of $5.00.