Petrified Wood Gallery

Located at 418 East 1st, Ogallala
Phone: (308) 284-9996
Open Year-Round
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday-Friday

This “little gem” of a gallery all began with a couple of rockhounds.

Born in 1928, twin brothers Howard and Harvey Kenfield did everything together. They were drafted into the Korean War at the same time, served in the same regiment, returned to their hometown, got married, started work at the same local manufacturing plant, and began collecting rocks and artifacts in their spare time. In 2000, the Kenfield brothers donated their amazing collection for display, with the stipulation that it remain in Ogallala.  (Please see the memorial tribute to the Kenfield brothers at the foot of the page.)

The collection contains ancient woods, gemstones, fossils, and Native American arrowheads and artifacts. Some of the most unique items include artwork and music boxes constructed of petrified wood pieces.

Visitors to the Gallery will also see displays from visiting artists, and exhibits on loan from other collectors., including an arrowhead collection on loan from the Pete Peters family, and a contemporary Native American art collection on loan from Fr. Art Faesser. The gift shop features artwork, hand-crafted jewelry and other treasures from local and regional artists. Please call with any questions at 308-284-9996.

The Gallery’s special events room contains the Cowboy Capital Rodeo Exhibit. The display includes prize rodeo and trick-riding saddles on loan from Eddie Guynan, Denny Peterson and others. Most of the saddles were crafted by local master saddle maker Wes Feusner.  Vintage photos and souvenir advertising round out the exhibit.

IN MEMORIUM: Howard Kenfield passed away in March of 2023, three days shy of his 95th birthday. Harvey passed away in June of 2023.  Please enjoy a wonderful tribute to the Kenfield brothers and their collection in the Nebraska Stories video below.