Conrad Mansion Museum | Kalispell

The International Quilt Study Center & Museum is a dedicated facility for the preservation and exhibition of quilts, located in Lincoln, Nebraska, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The museum building is a modern structure with a facade primarily composed of brick and glass. Its design incorporates clean lines and ample natural light, intended to showcase the textile exhibits within. The interior features climate-controlled galleries with neutral wall colors to avoid distracting from the quilts.

Location & Access Logistics

The International Quilt Study Center & Museum is situated on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus at 1523 N. 33rd Street, Lincoln, NE 68583. It is approximately 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) northeast of the downtown Lincoln core. Parking is available in designated university lots, with hourly or daily rates. Public transport options include the StarTran bus system, with routes serving the university campus; specific route numbers and schedules should be verified with StarTran.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The International Quilt Study Center & Museum was established in 1997, consolidating collections from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the Nebraska Quilt Project. The building itself was constructed to house these extensive collections, serving as a central repository and exhibition space for quilts from around the world. Its purpose is to advance the study and appreciation of quiltmaking as an art form and historical record.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view rotating exhibitions of quilts from the permanent collection and traveling shows. The museum offers educational programs, lectures, and workshops related to quilt history and techniques. Research access to the collection is available by appointment for qualified scholars.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited seating is provided within the exhibition galleries. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the building. Food and beverage options are not available within the museum itself, but are accessible at nearby campus facilities or off-campus establishments.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round, Tuesday through Saturday. Specific exhibition opening and closing dates should be checked on the museum's official website. Natural light is controlled within the galleries to protect the textiles, so time of day for photography is less critical than for outdoor sites. Weather considerations are standard for indoor venues.

Facts & Legends

The International Quilt Study Center & Museum houses the largest public collection of quilts in the world, with over 5,000 items spanning centuries and continents. A unique aspect of its collection is the inclusion of quilts made from unconventional materials, challenging traditional definitions of the craft.

Nearby Landmarks

• Nebraska State Capitol (1.5km Southwest)
• Sheldon Museum of Art (2.0km Southwest)
• University of Nebraska–Lincoln Memorial Stadium (1.0km West)
• Sunken Gardens (2.5km South)