Nebraska’s once-controversial ‘500-mile Sculpture Garden’ celebrates 50 years

To mark America's 250th birthday, the Nebraska Arts Council is planning a series of events to celebrate the sculptures installed for the bicentennial in 1976.

By: Paul Hammel

Outlets: Nebraska Examiner

Published: June 15, 2026

Words: 1,269

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 2 days ago

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LINCOLN — A collection of outdoor sculptures that stirred criticism and conversations 50 years ago is about to take another ride into the spotlight.

To mark the 250th birthday of the United States, the Nebraska Arts Council is planning a series of events to celebrate the eight sculptures placed at Interstate 80 rest stops as part of the nation’s bicentennial in 1976.

The largest and most controversial of the sculptures, entitled “Erma’s Desire,” sparked nationwide …

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