The history of African Americans in Omaha, Nebraska, has happened in all sorts of places. However, due to the systematic erasure of Black people from the city’s historical record, many of these places have been lost. This is a listing of places for Black heritage and history in Omaha.

1. Nebraska Territory Capitol—From 1854 to 1867, this was the place where white lawmakers debated promoting the enslavement of Black people in the Nebraska Territory. Visit the site of the one-time Capitol at 124 N 20th St, Omaha, NE 68102
2. Barber Bill Lee—In 1856, the first recorded Black business owner in Nebraska opened a barbershop in Omaha. Bill Lee’s business was located at the Douglas House. Visit the site at 1301 Harney Street, Omaha NE 68102
3. Howard Kennedy School—In 1878, the original Omaha View School opened. It eventually became Howard Kennedy Elementary School and was one of Omaha’s five original segregated schools and stayed that way until 1976. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the school at 2906 N 30th St Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
4. Long School—In 1881, Omaha Public School opened Long Grade School, which was one of Omaha’s five original segregated schools and stayed that way until 1976. In 1895, Lucinda Gamble was hired as the first African American teacher in the Omaha School District to teach at Long School. Dr. Eugene Skinner became Omaha’s first African American principal, beginning his service at Long School in 1947. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the school, 2520 Franklin St Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
5. Nebraska Civil Rights Law—In 1885, after the federal Civil Rights Act was struck down in 1884, the Nebraska Legislature adopted a law to “protect all citizens in their civil and legal rights.” Establishing punishment for breaking the law, they established a fine from $25 to $200 plus the cost of prosecution. It passed the Legislature unanimously. Time showed that fine was rarely imposed. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
6. Statement of Gratitude—On March 19, 1885, the McCook (NE) Weekly Tribute published a paragraph saying, “Colored citizens of Omaha passed a resolution saying: “We do publicly express our thanks to the friends of equal rights, Hon. B. Wright, Robert M. Taggart, Thomas C. Brunner, George Micklejohn, Geo. W. Chives and others, members of the legislature of Nebraska, for their indefatigable efforts in urging the successful passage of the civil rights bill.”
7. Newspaper Battles—In June 1885, the Omaha Daily Bee attacked the Omaha Republican newspaper. Apparently the Republican had attacked Omaha’s leaders for not standing up for the civil rights of an African American man in Kentucky who was stabbed by a white man in a plainly racist stabbing. The case couldn’t be tried because a jury couldn’t be found, and the newspapers wrote a few articles back and forth against each other.
8. Suburban School Packed, Becomes Black—In 1885, originally located at 1518 North 26th Street in the upscale Kountze Place neighborhood, the Lothrop Grade School opened. It became one of Omaha’s five original segregated schools and stayed that way until 1976. Because of de facto segregation, it was referred to as a Black school. Visit the school, 1518 N 26th St Omaha, NE 68131.
9. Judgmental School Named for a Judge—In 1888, Lake Grade School opened. It was one of Omaha’s five original segregated schools and stayed that way until 1976. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the school, 2410 N 19th St Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
10. Downtown School Becomes Majority Black—In 1888, the Webster School was opened. Built to serve a growing neighborhood in the western hills of Omaha, students in the Webster Grade School were mostly Black when it was demolished in 1969. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the site of the building, 618 N 28th Ave Omaha, NE 68131.
11. Ex-Slave Pension Bill—In 1890, William Connell, a Nebraska Republican representative who supported the movement to secure pensions for former slaves, introduced the first bill in the US Congress in support. Connell lived in Omaha. Modeled after the military pension plan for Civil War veterans, H.R. 11119 wasn’t passed.
12. The Lynching of George Smith—1891 was the first record of community violence against Black people in Omaha. It occurred when an African American man called George Smith (or Joe Coe) was lynched by a vigilante mob for allegedly raping a white girl. The lynching was outside the second Douglas County Courthouse. Visit the site of the lynching outside the second Douglas County Courthouse, 1701 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68183. Learn more here »
13. First African American Legislator—In 1892, Dr. Matthew O. Ricketts was elected from North Omaha to become Nebraska’s first African American state legislator. Visit the site of his home, 2236 Ohio St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
14. Early Community Organizing—In 1892, the “most prominent colored citizens” of Omaha formed the Afro-American Civil Rights Club in July. Seeking to influence African American voters, the club discussed methods and more. Visit the site of their meeting, 112 S 12th St, Omaha, NE 68108.
15. Second Black Newspaper in Omaha—In 1892, Cyrus Bell launched the second Black newspaper in Omaha called The Afro-American Sentinel. It ended its run in 1899, when Bell’s wife died. Bell kept early offices at the African Baptist Church for many years. Visit the site of the African Baptist Church, 1216 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102.
16. Massive Black School Opens—In 1892, Kellom School was opened. Started as the Paul Street School, Kellom Grade School was one of Omaha’s five original segregated schools and stayed that way until 1976. Built as a huge brick warehouse-style building, it was rebuilt in the 1950s. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the school, 1311 N 24th St Omaha, NE 68102. Learn more here »
17. A Meeting To Move Forward—In 1893, Vic Walker said, “Friends, brethren, my people, we are not here tonight as insurrectionists or revolutionists. Our brothers who have talked of force have allowed their indignation to control their tongue to an extent they have not dreamed of, and which they would be quickest to disclaim as their thoughts in their calmer moments. We do not believe… in dynamite, in a resort to arms.” After “many years” of meetings, Black leaders in Omaha gather to discuss a campaign for civil rights. Visit the site of
18. Nebraska Statutes Section 4000, Chapter 10—In 1893, the first Civil Rights law for the State of Nebraska was adopted by the Nebraska Legislature. It says, “Civil rights of persons: All persons within the state shall be entitled to a full and equal enjoyment of the accommodations, advantages, facilities and privileges of inns, restaurants, public conveyances, barber shops, theaters, and other places of amusement, subject only to the conditions and limitations established by law and applicable alike to every person.” The same law said, “A civil right is a right accorded to every member of a district, community or nation.” Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
19. The Enterprise Newspaper—In 1893, George F. Franklin launched The Enterprise. It changes hands and runs through 1920. Visit the site of the Crouse Block where the newspaper’s offices were, 1601 Capitol Ave, Omaha, NE 68197.
20. Omaha Fire Department First Black Firefighters—In 1895, the first Black firefighters were hired by the Omaha Fire Department to work at Hose Company #11. Dr. Matthew Ricketts requested they be hired to serve the nearby Black community. Visit the site of former station #14, 2032 Lake Street, Omaha, NE 68110.
21. National Federation of Colored Women—In 1896, Ella Lillian Davis Browne Mahammitt helped co-found the National Federation of Colored Women nationally, including starting a chapter in Omaha this year. By the 1920s, there were five chapters in North Omaha with more than 750 members. Visit the location of the main chapter, which met at the original St. John’s AME Church, 617 N 18th St, Omaha, NE 68178.
22. Congress of White and Colored Americans—In 1898, a three-day gathering brought hundreds of attendees to the Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition to discuss, learn and advocate for interracial progress across the region and nationally. Visit the site at Kountze Park, Omaha, NE 68111.
23. Western Negro Press Association—In 1898, Thomas P. Mahammitt, the new editor of The Enterprise, joined the executive committee of the Western Negro Press Association. Mahamitt also served two terms as the City of Omaha Inspector of Weights and Measures, and became a leading caterer in the city. Visit his former home at 2116 N 25th St, Omaha, NE 68111.
24. Harry Haywood—In 1898, an influential and respected member of the international Communist movement, Harry Haywood was born in South Omaha this year. Becoming involved with the African Blood Brotherhood, Haywood later became a leading African American member of the Communist Party of the United States. He was active from the 1920s to his death in 1981. Visit South Omaha where Haywood lived and was active along S. 24th St, Omaha, NE 68107.
25. James A. Smith Died—In 1899, an African American named J. A. Smith died under conspicuous circumstances after being arrested by Omaha police. He was arrested for “loud talking.” Visit the site of the old Omaha Police Department, 1101 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102. Learn more here »
26. Monmouth Park School—In 1903, a school that became segregated was opened. Built for a suburban white community in the early 20th century, Monmouth Park Grade School was predominantly African American by the 1960s. Closed in 1985, it was demolished in 1993. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the site of the school, 4508 N 33rd St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
27. National Afro-American Press Association—In 1905, Thomas P. Mahammit, editor of The Enterprise, joined the executive committee of the National Afro-American Press Association. Visit his former home at 2116 N 25th St, Omaha, NE 68111.
28. First Female Black Magazine Editor—In 1906, Lucille Skaggs Edwards is the first black woman to publish a magazine in Nebraska, called The Women’s Aurora. Visit the site where the office might have been at 2502 1/2 N 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110.
29. Progressive League of Douglas County—In 1906, Black members of the Omaha community formed a group called the “Progressive League of Douglas County” to pressure the county Republicans to include blacks on the legislative ticket. Their meeting location is unknown, but may have been the Druid Hall. Visit the Druid Hall at 2412 Ames Ave, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
30. Jack Johnson Riot—In 1910, after Black boxer Jack Johnson won a major upset in Reno, Nevada, a riot happened in downtown Omaha’s Sporting District as whites learned about the defeat. Visit the former site of the Sporting District, S 16th St and Harney St, Omaha, NE 68102. Learn more here »
31. Fairfax School—In 1911, a simple two-room school building with an outhouse was built. The Fairfax Grade School served mostly African American students by 1966. It was demolished in 1974, and there’s no sign of it today. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the site of the building, 3708 N 40th St, Omaha, NE 68111.
32. Interracial Marriage Still Illegal—In 1911, the Nebraska Legislature made another law to declare marriages between whites and Black people illegal. They also declared that marriages between whites and those persons with “one-quarter or more Negro blood” were void. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
33. The Monitor Newspaper—In 1915, Rev. John Albert Williams launched The Monitor, which closed in 1929. Visit the site of their offices at 1119 N 21st St, Omaha, NE 68102.
34. Violent Segregationist—In 1915, Claude Nethaway was a Florence real estate agent. In 1917, his wife was murdered and a transient African American named Charles Smith was controversially convicted of the crime. Two years later, Nethaway was one of only two men tried for lynching Will Brown during the 1919 race riot. After two trials, he was set free. In 1921, he ran for city council and lost, and in 1932 he ran for US Representative for Nebraska and lost. Visit his former home, 3022 Filmore St, Omaha, NE 68112.
35. Omaha NAACP (1918) An early organized effort for civil rights in the city was the Omaha Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, with Rev. John Albert Williams playing the role of first president, and Harrison Pinkett acting as executive secretary. National co-founder Mary White Ovington spoke in Omaha that year. Visit the site of St. Phillip’s Episcopal Church where Rev. Williams was minister, which was located at 1121 N 21st St, Omaha, NE 68102. Learn more here »
36. Hamitic League of the World (1917) George Wells Parker founded the Hamitic League of the World in Omaha and gave a classic talk to the Omaha Philosophical Society. In 1918 the League published a popular pamphlet called Children of the Sun. The Hamitic League was committed to black nationalism. After moving to New York, Cyril Briggs became editor of their journal, The Crusader. It later became the journal of the African Blood Brotherhood (ABB). Parker lived with his parents. Visit the site of Parker’s home, 2517 Caldwell St, Omaha, NE 68111.
37. The Crusader Magazine (1917) George Wells Parker launches a national magazine called The Crusader in Omaha. Later partnering with Cyril Briggs of the African Blood Brotherhood, The Crusader became the later organization’s publication in 1922. Visit the site of Parker’s home, 2517 Caldwell St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
38. Druid Hill School (1917) Built as a suburban neighborhood school, Druid Hill Grade School was mostly African American by 1966. In the fall of 1996, Druid Hill relocated to a new building. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the original school building, 3030 Spaulding St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
39. Will Brown (1919) Another lynching occurred in 1919 when a white mob stormed the Douglas County Courthouse to take Will Brown, an African American accused of raping a young white woman. The lynching occurred at at intersection downtown. Visit the site of the lynching at the intersection of 17th and Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102. Learn more here »
40. Colored Commercial Club (1920) Organized to help blacks in Omaha secure employment and to encourage business enterprises among African Americans, the Omaha Colored Commercial Club was like a commerce and employment bureau. Led by Harrison Pinkett, Rev. Russell Taylor, and others, the office for the was located in the Elks Club. Visit the Elks Club, 2420 Lake St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
41. William Monroe Trotter Speaks (1921) William Monroe Trotter (1872–1934), a powerful national civil rights activist, spoke at Zion Baptist Church. This was testament of Omaha’s early relevance in the national civil rights movement. Visit Zion Baptist Church, 2215 Grant St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
42. Newspaper Struggles (1921) Harrison Pinkett launches The New Era, and Count Wilkinson took control of The New Era in 1922. It closed in 1926.Visit Pinkett’s former home at 2118 N 25th St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
43. Earl Little and Louise Little (1922) In the 1920s, the Baptist minister Earl Little founded the Omaha chapter of Marcus Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association, or UNIA. Little was renowned for preaching on street corners in the heart of the African American business district. Visit the site of his organizing and preaching at the intersection of N. 24th and Lake Streets, Omaha, NE 68110.
44. The Omaha Whip Newspaper (1922) George Wells Parker launches The Omaha Whip and it ends in the same year. Visit the site of Parker’s home, 2517 Caldwell St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
45. Technical High School (1923) Opened to serve Omaha’s emerging middle class, Tech High was one of three Omaha schools that graduated African Americans when it was closed in 1984. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the former school at 3215 Cuming St Omaha, NE 68131. Learn more here »
46. Rev. Russel Taylor (1924) The African American minister of St. Paul Presbyterian Church, a Black congregation, was removed from his church because his Civil Rights activism made the congregation uncomfortable. After advocating for segregated schools and communities for Omaha’s African American for a decade, he was fired. Visit the site of his former church, 2531 Seward Street, Omaha, NE 68110.
47. Malcolm X (1925) Born in Omaha in 1925 as Malcolm Little, Malcolm X’s family moved away from the city while he was young after the KKK repeatedly attacked it for his father’s activism through the UNIA. Visit the site of his home and birthplace and the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation, 3448 Evans St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
48. The Omaha Guide Newspaper (1926) Herman J. Ford, C. C. Galloway and B. V. Galloway launch The Omaha Guide. It ended its run in 1958. Visit the former Omaha Guide Printing Company, 2418 Grant St, Omaha, NE 68111.
49. Urban League of Omaha (1927) The first chapter in the American West of the Urban League was founded in Omaha. Visit the current office, 3040 Lake Street; Historic offices, 3022 N 24th St, and; 2213 Lake Street, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
50. More Mixed Marriages Illegal (1929) The Nebraska State Legislature forbidded marriages between whites and those persons with one eighth or more Asian blood. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
51. McKinley Park Swimming Pool (1930) In June, African Americans began going to the City of Omaha’s McKinley Park swimming pool. De facto segregation had kept them away, and when white crowds became increasingly confrontational, the City drained it. African American lawyer and NAACP head John Singleton protested, and the pool was eventually refilled. However, that was brief, and today the pool is still gone. Visit the park at 2808 Harrison St, Omaha, NE 68107.
52. Knights and Daughters of Tabor (1930) A secret African American organization founded in Omaha was called Knights and Daughters of Tabor and was also known as the “Knights of Liberty.” It’s goal was “nothing less than the destruction of slavery.” Their meeting location is unknown, but may have been the Druid Hall. Visit the Druid Hall at 2412 Ames Ave, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
53. NAACP Youth Council (1936) Formed in 1936, the Omaha NAACP Youth Council led Civil Rights campaign through the 1960s. Their work led to integration in several Omaha businesses, and because they worked together with other organizations, their legacy lasts today. The organization continues. They didn’t have an office, but met frequently at the Near North YMCA. Visit the former Near North YMCA, 2309 North 22nd St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
54. Robert H. Johnson (1922) Harrison Pinkett served as the attorney for African American Robert H. Johnson, a political agitator who supported M. L. Endes for police commissioner and who was arrested and held in jail the week of the election. Pinkett claimed in court that Johnson’s right of habeas corpus was illegally taken and the acts of the police were in retaliation for Johnson’s politics. Visit Pinkett’s former home at 2118 N 25th St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
55. Burning Cross (1930) On the evening of April 16, two men placed an iron cross covered with oil-soaked burlap on the lawn of Singleton’s son, former state senator Dr. John Singleton, and set it afire. John was away, but his wife and niece were there. John’s father Millard arrived shortly afterwards and tore down the cross in front of a large crowd. Visit the site of Dr. John Singleton’s home, 2932 N. 28th St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
56. Omaha Star Newspaper (1938) Mildred Brown her husband S. E. Gilbert launch the Omaha Star. Starting with a circulation of 6,000, it eventually became the city’s only African-American newspaper, and continues today. Visit the Omaha Star office, 2216 N 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
57. National AFL Denies Black Painters (1940) The Omaha Star launched a campaign against the National AFL and a local union when African Americans were required to have union membership to get a job painting the Logan Fontenelle public housing projects. Visit the site of the Logan Fontenelle Homes at 1465 N. 24th, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
58. Almost All Mixed Marriages Illegal (1943) The Nebraska Legislature passed a law prohibiting marriage of whites with anyone with one-eighth or more Negro, Japanese or Chinese blood. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
59. DePorres Club (1947) A group of high school and college students established the DePorres Club. Named after the “patron saint of all those seeking racial harmony,” the DePorres Club led the struggle for Civil Rights in Omaha for many years without the support of the city’s traditional African American leaders. Visit Creighton University Administration Building, 2500 California Plaza, Omaha, NE 681114. Learn more here »
60. People’s Hospital (1948) Dr. Aaron McMillan, former Nebraska Legislator and the first American medical missionary to Angola, establishes the People’s Hospital in the Near North Side to provide free and affordable healthcare to community members. Learn more here »
61. Human Rights Institute (1948) Religious leaders around Omaha met for a one-day meeting to discuss Civil Rights sponsored by the Urban League. Their major request was the establishment of a Mayor’s Commission on Civil Rights in Omaha, which was passed unanimously, but never enacted by the mayor. Visit the site where the institute was held, Rome Hotel, 1116 Jackson St, Omaha, NE 68102. Learn more here »
62. DePorres Center (1948) In October, the DePorres Center opens for activities including weekly forums on racism, dances, and youth groups. Visit the site of the DePorres Club, 1914 North 24th St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
63. Dixon’s Restaurant Sit-In (1948) The DePorres Club staged Omaha’s first sit-in at Dixon’s Restaurant in the Douglas County Courthouse. 30 members joined, and the restaurant eventually committed to desegregation. Visit the courthouse, 1701 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68183. Learn more here »
64. Bertha Calloway Versus Harry’s Restaurant Trial (1948) Bertha Calloway takes Harry’s Restaurant to court for discrimination and wins. Visit the site of the restaurant at the site of the old Omaha City Hall, 1819 Farnam St Omaha NE 68183.
65. Dunk Donuts Trial (1949) In February, members of the DePorres Club take Dunk Donuts to court under an 1893 Nebraska law against racial discrimination and won a judgment of $25 against the owner. Visit the former Dunk Donut Shop, 2409 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68138. Learn more here »
66. Interracial Youth Rally (1949) In April, the Interracial Youth Rally is held in the auditorium at Tech High School. Visit the former school, 3230 Cuming St, Omaha, NE 68131.
67. Whitney Young, Jr. (1950) National civil rights leader Whitney Young, Jr. became the leader of the Omaha Urban League and stayed in the position until 1954. He was also a professor of social work at the University of Nebraska in Omaha. Visit the site of the former Urban League Social Service Center where Young worked, 2213 Lake St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
68. Roy Wilkins Speaks (1950) Roy Wilkins, the leader of the NAACP spoke in April at Zion Baptist Church. Visit Zion Baptist Church, 2215 Grant St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
69. Manuel Talley Speaks (1950) In May, Manuel Talley visits the DePorres Club. As the founder of the Los Angeles chapter of the Congress on Racial Equity, or CORE, he is highly regarded by Omaha’s Civil Rights community. Visit the original site of the club’s meetings, Creighton University Administration Building, 2500 California Plaza, Omaha, NE 681114. Learn more here »
70. Edholm-Sherman Laundry Boycott (1950) In July, the DePorres Club launched a boycott against Edholm-Sherman Laundry for their racist hiring practices. The company’s owner defended her practice of barring Black people from working in the main office or driving delivery trucks. Citing the effects of the protest, the laundry closed permanently in 1951. Visit the site of the Edholm-Sherman Laundry at 2401 Lake St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
71. Coca-Cola Boycott (1951) In May, the DePorres Club starts boycotting Omaha’s Coca-Cola Bottling Company against their racist hiring practices. It ends in June when an African American is hired there. Visit the former site of the bottling plant, 3200 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
72. Omaha Bus Boycott Happens (1952) The DePorres Club launches a citywide boycott of streetcars and buses after the bus company shows a long trend of not hiring African American drivers. The Omaha and Council Bluffs Street Railway and Bus Company was the employer. Visit the site of the Omaha and Council Bluffs Street Railway and Bus Company Bus Barn, 2222 Cuming St, Omaha, NE 68102. Learn more here »
73. Kellom Swimming Pool (1952) The governor of Nebraska cut the ribbon at the opening of the Kellom Pool. It was built explicitly to keep African Americans from swimming in Omaha’s other pools. Visit the site on the southeast corner of N 24th and Paul Street, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
74. Reed’s Ice Cream Boycott (1953) In January 25, the DePorres Club launched a boycott of Reed’s Ice Cream in Omaha, along with the NAACP Youth Council. It lasts five months before the company changes their racist hiring practices and hires a single African American. The business closed in 1959. Visit the site of Reed’s Ice Cream plant and headquarters at 3106 N 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
75. Technical Junior High School (1953) Tech Junior High was the only junior high with African American students while it was open through 1972, when it was closed. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. Visit the former school, 3215 Cuming St Omaha, NE 68131. Learn more here »
76. Fair Deal Cafe (1954) Community activists begin to gather informally at North Omaha neighborhood locations during the Korean War. Visit the site of the Fair Deal Cafe, 2118 N. 24th St, Omaha, NE 68111; and the location of the former Carter’s Cafe, 2510 N. 24th St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
77. Creighton University (1954) The DePorres Club is forced to stop meeting at Creighton University. Longtime ally Mildred Brown offers her office at the Omaha Star, and the club’s activities continue. Visit the Omaha Star office, 2216 N 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
78. State of Nebraska v. Peony Park (1955) In this trial, the Nebraska attorney general took Peony Park to district court over its segregated swimming policy. The court found that Peony Park discriminated against African American swimmers. In September, Peony Park was fined $50 and costs of the trial – but the park owners simply paid the fine and continued to discriminate. Visit the site of the former park at 7910 Cass St, Omaha, NE 68114.
79. Goodwin’s Spencer Street Barbershop Opens (1956) Opened this year, Goodwin’s became an informal home to many Civil Rights leaders. Nebraska’s Civil Rights lion, the young Ernie Chambers, was a barber here in the 1960s. Visit the shop, 3116 N. 24th Street, Omaha, NE 68111
80. City of Omaha Human Rights and Relations Board (1956) The City of Omaha begins operating a Human Rights and Relations Board. Visit the Omaha City Hall, 1819 Farnham St, Omaha, NE 68183.
81. Omaha Fire Department Integrated (1957) The Omaha Fire Department became integrated and the seniority system of advancement came to an end. Visit the Omaha Association of Black Professional Firefighters, 2028 Lake St, Omaha NE 68110.
82. Concerned and Caring Educators (1958) A group of African American educators in Omaha Public Schools started a professional caucus called CACE that continues to this day.
83. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Speaks (1958) The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke at a national Baptist conference in Omaha and preached at Salem Baptist Church in North Omaha. Visit the site of the original Salem Baptist Church,  2120 Seward St, Omaha, NE 68111.
84. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Speaks Again (1960) In October, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. came back to Omaha for the Western Baptist Bible College. At the Civic Auditorium, he gave a speech called “The Church in National Affairs,” in which he predicted that “within five years we will see a breakdown of the massive resistance to integration.”
85. Peony Park Reinforced Segregation (1963) On June 4, an African American airman at Offutt Air Force Base named Fred Winthrop went to Peony Park for a swim. A lifeguard told him that he couldn’t use the pool. Winthrop brought the matter to the city of Omaha, which said it was a case for the Human Relations Board. Their inaction led to more action that summer.
86. Citizens Civic Committee for Civil Liberties (1963) A group of African American ministers from North Omaha formed a group called the 4CL. The group rallied throughout the city to demand civil rights for all African Americans through picketing, stand-ins during city council meetings and other efforts. They didn’t have a regular office, but met frequently at Zion Baptist Church, and hosted several events there, too. Visit Zion Baptist Church, 2215 Grant St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
87. City Hall Pray-In (1963) In October, 4CL held a pray-in at the old Omaha City Hall to promote the establishment of a local equal opportunity employment and housing ordinance. The organization estimated 10,000 people showed up, including 500 school-age students. 45 people were arrested, including dozens of ministers. Visit the site of the old Omaha City Hall, 1819 Farnam St Omaha NE 68183. Learn more here »
88. Protesting Tokenism (1963) Rev. Rudolph McNair leads a 4CL march of 150 people against the creation of the Omaha Human Rights Commission (HRC), which was intended to placate Civil Rights activists. It didn’t work. Visit the site of the old Omaha City Hall, 1819 Farnam St Omaha NE 68183. Learn more here »
89. Woolworth’s Segregation Sit-In (1963) Omaha civil rights icon and journalist Charles B. Washington helped stage a sit-in at Woolworth & Co. store in downtown Omaha to protest discrimination against blacks in public places. Visit the site of the former store, 124 S 16th St, Omaha, NE 68102.
90. Peony Park Segregation Protests (1963) After a 1955 court finding against Peony Park’s Jim Crow practices, Black swimmer Fred Winthrop was turned away from swimming at the park. As a result, the NAACP Youth Council led a summer-long protest against the park to end segregation there. After suffocating their business, the park relented and allowed Black swimmers. Visit the site of the former park at 7910 Cass St, Omaha, NE 68114. Learn more here »
91. Nebraska Equal Housing Bill (1963) North Omaha state senator Edward Danner advanced the act through the Legislature to enact a state policy of equal housing, citing the fact that fewer than 50 of the 10,000 new homes in Omaha were available to Blacks. The bill was not passed. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
92. Malcolm X Speaks (1964) Malcolm X spoke in North Omaha. Visit the site of his speech, Elks Club, 2420 Lake St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
93. Iconic Leader Speaks (1964) A. Philip Randolph, founder and president of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, spoke in North Omaha. Visit the Elks Club, 2420 Lake St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
94. Youth Freedom Rally (1965) On March 29, the NAACP Youth Council held a Youth Freedom Rally at the Near North Side YMCA to stand in solidarity with the March on Selma. Visit the former Near North YMCA, 2309 North 22nd St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
95. OPS School Clubs Integrated (1965) The NAACP Youth Council won the integration of Omaha Public Schools clubs and after school activities. Visit the site of many members’ protests at Omaha Central High School, 124 N 20th St, Omaha, NE 68102. Learn more here »
96. Nebraska Fair Employment Practice Act (1965) FEPA was enacted by the Legislature (NE Rev. Stat. Sec. 48-1101 et seq). It prohibits discrimination against employees or job applicants on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex including pregnancy, disability, or marital status at workplaces with at least 15 employees. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
97. Nebraska Equal Opportunities Commission (1965) The NEOC, is authorized by statute to receive, investigate, and pass upon charges of unlawful discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, or familial status. Visit the NEOC, 1313 Farnam St # 4, Omaha, NE 68102.
98. First Civil Rights Riot (1966) In what are largely regarded as screams for civil rights, the first of the North Omaha riots happened in July, with a second riot in August. Both of these caused a great deal of damage to the North 24th Street corridor. Visit N. 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
99. City of Omaha Human Rights Commission (1966) The City of Omaha creates a Human Rights Department after the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Its goal is to “eliminate unlawful discrimination through investigation, education and outreach.”
100. Bryant Center (1966) Opened in the backyard of a Catholic school, the Bryant Cage Center was opened after a riot for neighborhood youth in and named for longtime North Omaha African American musician and band leader George Bryant (1877-1971). Later the 1926 school was repurposed for a community center. Visit the Bryant Center at 2417 Grant St Omaha NE 68111 Learn more here »
101. Saratoga School Becomes a Black School (1966) Opened as a one-room pioneer school in 1866, Saratoga Elementary School was mostly African American students by 1966. Because of de facto segregation, white students moved away and it became a predominantly Black school. The elementary school was closed in 2019 and today it is a special services facility for the school district. Visit the school, 2504 Meredith Ave Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
102. Omahans March for Slain Heroes (1966) This June article from the June 13, 1966 Omaha World-Herald details a march in honor of slain Civil Rights activists nationwide. 100 marchers participated; the motorcyclists pictured harassed the marchers. The march began at 24th and Binney and went to 22nd and Willis.
103. A Time for Burning (1966) The Oscar-nominated documentary tracked the sentiment of 1960s white Omaha towards African Americans. In 2005, it was added to the National Film Registry. Some of the film is recorded at Augustana Lutheran Church. Visit Augustana Lutheran Church, 3647 Lafayette Ave, Omaha, NE 68131.
104. Gale Sayers Breaks Color Line (1967) The former Tech High player became the first African American NFL player to share a room with a white player. Visit his alma mater, the former Technical High School, 3230 Cuming St, Omaha, NE 68131.
105. Black Association for Nationalism Through Unity (1967) BANTU, was a unique Omaha youth activism group that organized African American students in the city’s high schools. Focusing on black power and self-determination, BANTU claimed concessions from the Omaha City Council. BANTU maintained a unique relationship with the Omaha chapter of the Black Panther Party (BPP). One of their most active sites was North Omaha’s former Tech High. Visit the former Technical High School, 3230 Cuming St, Omaha, NE 68131. Learn more here »
106. Omaha Black Panthers (1967) In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Black Panthers were actively organizing Freedom Schools in Omaha’s public housing projects. They were blamed for starting several of the riots in the 1960s. Visit the site of Black Panthers Headquarters, 3508 N 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
107. Marlin Briscoe Breaks Color Line (1968) A football star and graduate of South High, Briscoe became the first Black quarterback in the American Football League. Visit his alma mater, Omaha South High School, 4519 S. 24th St, Omaha, NE 68107.
108. Students Walkout of Mann Junior High School (1968) In March, 1,000 students walked out of Horace Mann Junior High School to protest against police brutality and for civil rights. Visit the former Horace Mann Junior High School, 3720 Florence Blvd Omaha, NE 68197.
109. Robert Kennedy Speaks in North O (1968) A month before he was assassinated, in May, the presidential hopeful visited North Omaha during his presidential campaign. He gave an impromptu speech in the neighborhood, and later spoke at Creighton University in support of Omaha’s civil rights activists. Visit the northwest corner of the intersection at N. 24th and Erskine, Omaha, NE 68110.
110. First Malcolm X Day (1968) Honoring its fallen son, African American activists in North Omaha celebrate the first Malcolm X Day on May 19, his birthday. Learn more here »
111. George Wallace Visit Sparks Rioting (1968) In March, the NAACP Youth Council and others protested an appearance of racist presidential candidate George Wallace. After counter-protesters began acting violently toward the activists, police brutality led to dozens of protesters being injured. During the melee, Howard Stevenson, a sixteen-year-old African-American youth, was shot and killed by a police officer. Visit the site of the former Omaha Civic Auditorium, 1804 Capitol Ave, Omaha, NE 68102.
112. Policeman Shoots Child (1969) A 14-year-old student named Vivian Strong was killed on June 26 by an Omaha policeman named James Loder, sparking several days of rioting. Visit the site of the break-in leading to the murder at 1701 N 21st St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
113. Nebraska Act Providing Equal Enjoyment of Public Accommodations Discrimination (1969) This the the year the Nebraska Legislature enacted a law saying that discrimination cannot happen in the enjoyment of places of public accommodation on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, or sex. Any establishment offering goods and services to the general public is affected, except for limited exemptions for bona fide private clubs and public accommodations owned or operated by religious organizations. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
114. Vivian Strong Liberation School (1969) The United Front Against Facism, which took up the cause of Black liberation promoted by Omaha’s defunct Black Panthers chapter, launched their version of a Freedom School in North Omaha. Visit the former school at 2616 Parker St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
115. Fair Housing Act (1969) When the federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 made it illegal to discriminate in the area of housing because of a person’s race, color, religion, or national origin, the City of Omaha adopted an open housing ordinance this year, effectively ending the effect of redlining and racial housing covenants throughout the city. The Omaha Human Relations Department (OHRD) is a FHAP that is responsible for the investigation, elimination, and prevention of all forms of prohibited discrimination in the City of Omaha. Visit the OHRD, 1819 Farnam St, Suite 502, Omaha, NE 68183.
116. Malcolm X Memorial Park (1969) At a rally celebrating Black power and the resistance to white supremacy, leaders of the Omaha Black Panthers informally renamed a neighborhood park in honor of Omaha’s most notable son. Descendants of the park’s original namesake rejected the renaming and the park still has its original name. Visit Kountze Park, 3505 Florence Blvd, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
117. Black Liberators for Action on Campus (1969) BLAC was a student-led activism campaign at UNO designed to raise issues related to African Americans, including the creation of a Black Studies program at the university. 55 After more than 50 Black students conducted a sit-in in the office of the UNO president, some of their demands were met. Visit the Administration Building at the University of Nebraska Omaha, 6001 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE, 68182.
118. Ernie Chambers Elected (1970) The local barber and law school graduate was elected to the Nebraska State Legislature as the newest African American state legislator, preceded by several other African American politicians, including Edward Danner, John Adams Sr. and his son John Adams Jr. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508. Learn more here »
119. Black Panthers Imprisoned (1970) Black Panther leaders David Rice and Edward Poindexter were charged and convicted of the murder of Omaha Police Officer Larry Minard with a bomb. Their case continues to be controversial, as Omaha Police allegedly withheld exculpatory evidence at trial. Targeted by the FBI’s COINTELPRO, Rice and Poindexter are supported by Amnesty International with calls for retrial or release. The Nebraska Parole Board has recommended the men for release, but political leaders have not acted on these recommendations. Visit the site of the bombing, 2867 Ohio St, Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
120. United States v. School District of Omaha (1975) The federal government found Omaha Public Schools segregated white students from African American students and the US Supreme Court ordered the district to desegregate. Visit Omaha Public Schools, 3215 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68131. Learn more here »
121. Great Plains Black History Museum (1976) Bertha Calloway, leader of the Negro History Society, formally opened the regionally-focused museum in 1976 with the goal of celebrating African American contributions to the city and region. Visit the site of their first facility, 2213 Lake St, Omaha, NE 68110, and the current site, 2221 N 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
122. Omaha Public Schools Desegregation Plan (1976) Omaha Public Schools, or OPS, began a busing program to integrate schools. White student enrollment in OPS dropped dramatically as white families move to suburban districts or enroll white students in private schools. The burden of busing fell on African American students to predominately white schools, instead of vice versa. The program ended in 1999 when the district adopted an open enrollment program based on income instead of race. Visit Omaha Public Schools, 3215 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68131. Learn more here »
123. Racist House Burning (1981) An Omaha Housing Authority scattered-site duplex under construction in East Omaha is burned down by arsons, and as of 2018, the crime remains unsolved. Visit the site, 4841 N 14th St Omaha NE 68110.
124. Omaha Public Library Charles B. Washington Branch (1986) Charles B. Washington (1923-1986) began his journalism career working for the Omaha Star in 1946. During his 50-year career in the community, he influence the Civil Rights movement and strove for Black excellence in the media. Visit the Omaha Public Library Charles B. Washington Branch at 2868 Ames Ave, Omaha NE 68111. Learn more here »
125. Malcolm “X” Birthsite (1987) A historical marker marks the childhood home of El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, born Malcolm Little on May 19, 1925. Placed by the Nebraska State Historical Society. Visit the site at 3448 Pinkney Street, Omaha, NE 68111. Text of the Nebraska Historical Marker. Learn more here »
126. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School (1988) Built to replace a historic school nearby, this school was named in honor of the slain Civil Rights leader. Visit the school at 3706 Maple Street, Omaha NE 68111.
127. King Science and Technology Magnet Center (1988) Opening in a former junior high, this magnet school for grades 5-8 draws students from across the community. Visit the school at 3720 Florence Blvd. Omaha, NE 68110 https://www.ops.org/domain/1051
128. Prospect Hill Cemetery (1988) A historical marker identifies Omaha’s pioneer cemetery, home of the burial places of many prominent early Omahans. Placed by the Nebraska State Historical Society. Includes many African American burials. Located at 3202 Parker Street. Read the text of the marker here. Learn more here »
129. Captain Alfonza Davis Marker (1988) A historical marker placed by the V.F.W. Alfonza Davis Post #1364 and Auxillary and located outside the Great Plains Black History Museum, 2221 North 24th Street, Omaha NE 68111. Photograph of the Plaque
130. The Omaha Star Continued (1989) Dr. Margarite Washington took control of The Omaha Star. She passed away in 2016, and the paper continues running today with new leadership. Visit the Omaha Star office, 2216 N 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
131. Housing Discrimination Banned (1991) The Nebraska Fair Housing Act Discrimination is enacted by the Legislature. It bans discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability or familial status is prohibited in Nebraska. Residential property owners, property managers, realtors and multiple listing services are targeted. Exemptions exist for dwellings owned or operated by religious organization and bona fide private clubs for non-commercial purposes; housing for older people; and owner-occupied private homes in which no more than three sleeping rooms are rented. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
132. Lizzie Robinson Avenue (1992) A street sign was placed on Erskine Street from North 24th to North 27th Street, Robinson was an influential leader in the Church of God in Christ. Learn more here »
133. Blackburn High School (1995) Omaha Public Schools named this alternative school in memory of longtime African American community educator, youth worker and educator Beverly Blackburn (1937 – 1973). Visit it at 2606 Hamilton St, Omaha, NE 68131. Learn more here »
134. Racist Car Burning (1995) At the same location as a previously torched Omaha Housing Authority duplex, a recently moved-in African American tenant’s car is tipped over and torched by arsons. As of 2018, the crime is still unsolved. Visit the site, 4841 N 14th St Omaha NE 68110.
135. Butler-Gast YMCA (1995) A massive new facility that replaced two smaller, dated buildings was opened this year and partly named in memory of African American community leader John R. Butler (1904-1966). Visit the Butler-Gast YMCA, 3501 Ames Ave, Omaha, NE 68111.
136. Skinner Magnet School (1996). Omaha Public Schools named this new K-6 school after Eugene W. Skinner (1914-1993). A lifelong educator, Skinner was the the third African American teacher, the first Black principal, and the first district leader of color. Visit the school at the OPS Teacher Administrative Center in the former Tech High at 4304 N. 33rd St. Omaha, NE 68111. Learn more here »
137. Davis Community Complex (1999) The Omaha Association of Black Professional Firefighters bought old Station 14 from the City of Omaha, and named it the Herbert Davis Community Complex in memory of Herbert Davis, the first African-American battalion chief in the Omaha Fire Department. Visit the Davis Community Complex at 2032 Lake St., Omaha NE 68111.
138. Bob Gibson Boulevard (1999) A street sign was placed on from Deer Park Boulevard in 1999. Gibson was a noted MLB player and a Tech High star in several sports. Learn more here »
139. Rev. J.C. Wade Post Office (2000) The federal government renamed a neighborhood post office in memory of one of the most prominent ministers in Omaha history. Rev. Wade guided the Salem Baptist Church for more than 50 years and was a leader in the Omaha Civil Rights movement. Visit the Rev. J.C. Wade Post Office at 3030 Meredith Ave, Omaha NE 68111
140. Martin Luther King Jr Cornerstone Memorial (2002) A historical marker marks a commemoration of the life of Rev. Dr. King. Visit the marker on the northwest corner of N. 24th & Lake Streets. Learn more here »
141. Dr. Bernice Stephens Dodd Street (2004) A street sign was placed on North 25th Street from Lake from Wirt Street in 2004. Dodd was the longtime leader of the Omaha Opportunities Industrialization Center.
142. Race Equity Week (2005) Omaha mayor Mike Fahey proclaims September 26-30 as Race Equity Week. Visit the Omaha City Hall, 1819 Farnham St, Omaha, NE 68183.
143. Re-segregate Omaha Schools (2006) Ernie Chambers proposed re-segregating public schools in Omaha. Nebraska Legislative Bill 1024 was passed by the Legislature and signed into law by the governor, creating three racially identifiable districts. After a case by the NAACP against Omaha Public Schools, the plan was retracted. Omaha Public Schools remain segregated today. Visit the Nebraska State Capital, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
144. Racist Store Burning (2007) Bob’s Food Mart was started in East Omaha in the 1920s. In the 2000s, Ethopian immigrant Kassahun Goshime and his sister Tsedey ran the store. Regularly harrassed, in February the store was graffitted regularly. Then, Goshime was abductred, bound with duct tape, locked in the basement and his store was set on fire. He escaped, but the store was completely destroyed. Visit the site, 5301 N 16th St, Omaha, NE 68110.
145. Affirmative Action Eliminated (2008) In November, Nebraska voters decided to eliminate Affirmative Action Plans in public entities. The City of Omaha’s Minority Small Business program is ended because of this. Visit U.S. Small Business Administration, 10675 Bedford Avenue #100, Omaha, NE 68134.
146. Mildred Brown Memorial Strolling Park (2008) This small park was dedicated next to the Omaha Star building in honor of her professional accomplishments and Civil Rights contributions. Visit the park, 2222 N 24th St, Omaha NE 68110.
147. Mildred Brown (2008) A historical marker marks the site of an Omaha journalism great with a memorial bust and more. Located at in the Mildred Brown Strolling Park. Learn more here »
148. Steve Hogan Golf Course (2009) The City of Omaha renamed the course at Miller Park after 40-year employee and the first Black member of the PGA in Nebraska, Steve Hogan (1953-2008). Visit the course at at 6315 N 30th St, Omaha NE 68111. Learn more here »
149. Davis Middle School (2013) Opened in west Omaha, this facility is named for Captain Alfonza W. Davis, a highly distinguished African American pilot who died in World War II. Visit the school at 8050 N. 129th Ave. Omaha, NE 68142.
150. John E. Mitchell Sr. Street (2013) A street sign was placed on Fort Street from North 24th to North 25th Street in 2013. Mitchell was the founder of the Tabernacle of Faith Church of God in Christ. Learn more here »
151. Marlin Briscoe Way (2014) A street sign was placed on “M” Street in 2014. Briscoe was a noted NFL player and South High football star. Learn more here »
152. Gene R. Haynes Street (2014) A street sign was placed on North 36th Street at Ames Avenue in 2014. Haynes is a lifelong educator and longtime leader of North High School. Learn more here »
153. Dorothy Eure Avenue and Lerlean Johnson Avenue (2015) A street sign was placed on North 30th and Cuming Streets. Eure and Johnson were 1970s leaders of the movement to integrate Omaha Public Schools. Learn more here »
154. Mildred D. Brown Study Center (2015) Founded to help African American students establish careers as journalism and communications. Visit the center at 2221 N. 24th St.; Omaha, NE 68110. Learn more here »
155. Johnny Rodgers Street (2015) A street sign was placed on Burt Street from North 30th to North 33rd Street in 2015. Rogers was a noted NFL player, star Cornhusker player, and Tech High football star. Learn more here »
156. Girls Inc. Katherine Fletcher Center (2016) Repurposing a former elementary school, this nonprofit’s building was named in honor of longtime African American educator and the first Black principal in a predominantly white school. Visit the center at 2811 N. 45th Street, Omaha, NE 68104.
157. A Statue of “The Magician” (2016) In 1968, Marlin “The Magician” Briscoe (1945-2022) became the first African American quarterback in professional football playing for the Denver Broncos. In 2016, the University of Nebraska at Omaha dedicated a statue of him on campus. Visit it near the Arts and Science Hall on the UNO campus at 6001 Dodge Street, Omaha NE 68182.
158. Bertha Calloway Street (2016) A street sign was placed on Lake Street from North 22nd to 24th Street in 2016. Calloway was the founder of the Great Plains Black History Museum and an important civil rights activist. Learn more here »
159. Rodney S. Wead Street (2018) A street sign was placed on North 52nd Street from Ames Avenue to Fowler Avenue, Wead was an influential community leader. Learn more here »
160. Terence “Bud” Crawford Street (2018) A street sign was placed on Larimore Avenue from North 31st Avenue to North 33rd Street in 2018. Crawford is a professional boxer with multiple titles. Learn more here »
161. Preston Love Sr. Street (2018) A street sign was placed on North 24th from Lake to Ohio Streets in 2018. Love was an influential musician, noted journalist and local historian. Learn more here »
162. Cathy Hughes Boulevard (2018) A street sign was placed on a section of Paxton Boulevard in 2018. Hughes is a successful international business leader and entrepreneur. Learn more here »
163. Kyle Wayne LeFlore Street (2018) A street sign was placed on North 29th Street from Meredith to Fowler Avenue in 2018. LeFlore was a US Army Sergeant on leave at home when he was killed by gunfire. Learn more here »
164. Alonzo ‘Mitch’ Mitchell Street (2019) A street sign was placed on North 40th Street from Pratt Street to Spaulding Street. Mitchell was a longtime coach and neighborhood leader. Learn more here »
165. Dan Goodwin Sr. Street (2019) A street sign was placed on North 24th Street from Spencer to Wirt Streets in 2019. Goodwin is an influential entrepreneur and community leader. Learn more here »
166. LaRose R. Beasley Street (2019) A street sign was placed on Ohio Street from North 24th to North 22nd Street. Beasley is an influential entrepreneur in North Omaha. Learn more here »
167. Black Lives Matter (2020) Following a series of protests since 2016, Omaha African Americans lead the city in protesting the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. During the protests, an African American protester named James Scurlock is killed by an avowed white supremacist. Visit the site of James Scurlock’s killing at S. 12th and Harney Streets, Omaha, NE 68102.
168. Ernie Chambers Sr. Drive (2020) A street sign was placed on Florence Boulevard from Ames Avenue to Sprague Street in 2020. Chambers is the longest serving member of the Nebraska State Legislature. Learn more here »
169. Lynching of Will Brown (2021) A historical marker marks the Douglas County Courthouse, where Will Brown was lynched on September 27, 1919. Located at 1701 Farnam Street. Learn more here »
170. Lillian Clamens (Cobbin) Street (2021) A street sign was placed on Caldwell Street from North 24th to North 27th Street in 2021. Clamens was a soldier killed in Iraq.
171. Lynching of George Smith (2022) A historical marker identifies the place where, on October 10th, 1891, George Smith was taken from the Douglas County Courthouse and lynched. Located at 1701 Farnam Street. Learn more here »
172. John Beasley Street (2022) A street sign was placed on North 30th from Lake to Grant Street. Beasley is a renowned actor in movies, theater and television. Learn more here »
173. Rudy Smith, Sr. Street (2022) A street sign was placed on Lake Street from North 34th to 36th Street in 2022. Smith was a noted local photojournalist and civil rights activist. Learn more here »
174. Symone D. Sanders Street (2022) A street sign was placed on North 22nd Street at Sprague Street in 2022. Sanders is a noted political commentator and former political operative in the Democratic Party. Learn more here »
175. Petty Officer 1st Class Charles Jackson French Post Office (2022) The United States Postal Service office was renamed in honor of an African American WWII hero who lived in Omaha. Visit the Petty Officer 1st Class Charles Jackson French Post Office, 6223 Maple Street, Omaha NE 68104.

BONUS ITEMS

These items are related but not necessarily part of the timeline…

• Standing Bear v. Crook—In 1879, a U.S. district court judge at Fort Omaha set U.S. legal precedent by recognizing the personhood of Native Americans in the Trial of Standing Bear v. Crook. This granted American Indians the rights of citizens. People included were Standing Bear, Thomas Tibbles, Susette LaFlesche and General George Crook. Visit the site of the trial at Fort Omaha, 5730 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111.
• Racist Students Protest—In 1905, more than 800 students (mostly children of immigrant workers) in South Omaha protested the presence of Japanese students at their school, calling them “scabs”. The Japanese students were children of strikebreakers brought in by the Omaha Stockyards the previous summer during a fierce strike. White children then refused to attend classes and locked teachers out of the building. Visit the former South Omaha City Hall, 2411 O St, Omaha, NE 68107.
• Anti-Greek Rioting (1909) In February, a race riot in South Omaha broke out, targeting Greeks. Racist flames were fanned by the arrest of a Greek man by an Irish policeman. After destroying Greektown, almost almost Greeks had fled the city. Visit the former site of Greektown at S 26th Ave and Q St, Omaha, NE 68107.

You Might Like…

• Black History in Omaha
• A Tour of the Omaha Civil Rights Movement
• Historical Tour of North Omaha

MY ARTICLES ABOUT CIVIL RIGHTS IN OMAHA
General: History of Racism | Timeline of Racism
Events: Juneteenth | Malcolm X Day | Congress of White and Colored Americans | George Smith Lynching | Will Brown Lynching | North Omaha Riots | Vivian Strong Murder | Jack Johnson Riot
Issues: African American Firsts in Omaha | Police Brutality | North Omaha African American Legislators | North Omaha Community Leaders | Segregated Schools | Segregated Hospitals | Segregated Hotels | Segregated Sports | Segregated Businesses | Segregated Churches | Redlining | African American Police | African American Firefighters | Lead Poisoning
People: Rev. Dr. John Albert Williams | Edwin Overall | Harrison J. Pinkett | Vic Walker | Joseph Carr | Rev. Russel Taylor | Dr. Craig Morris | Mildred Brown | Dr. John Singleton | Ernie Chambers | Malcolm X
Organizations: Omaha Colored Commercial Club | Omaha NAACP | Omaha Urban League | 4CL (Citizens Coordinating Committee for Civil Rights) | DePorres Club | Omaha Black Panthers | City Interracial Committee | Providence Hospital | American Legion | Elks Club | Prince Hall Masons | BANTU
Related: Black History | African American Firsts | A Time for Burning | Omaha KKK | Committee of 5,000