20th century, Black History, business, Crime, Culture, Economics, North 16th Street, Race riot, society6 Comments

A History of the Ohio Fish Market in North Omaha

March 1, 2016July 28, 2022 Adam F.C. Fletcher

The Ohio Fish Market was a North Omaha institution for 25 years. Discover the history of this iconic restaurant and store… Continue reading A History of the Ohio Fish Market in North Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Belvedere, Civic Infrastructure, Fontenelle Boulevard, History of Nebraska, Houses, Miller Park, North 30th Street10 Comments

A History of North Omaha’s Belvedere Point Neighborhood

March 1, 2016April 25, 2024 Adam F.C. Fletcher

A history of the Belvedere neighborhood in North Omaha, Nebraska. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Belvedere Point Neighborhood

20th century, Architecture, Civic Infrastructure, Government, History of Nebraska, Military, North 72nd Street5 Comments

A History of the North Omaha Radar Station

February 7, 2016November 2, 2019 Adam F.C. Fletcher

During the 1940s and 1950s, Omaha was the location of several Cold War initiatives outwardly intended to keep the country safe from nuclear war, but ulteriorly designed to frighten and captivate a passive populace. With sparse housing around it but … Continue reading A History of the North Omaha Radar Station

19th century, Biographies, Cuming Street, Guest author, History of Nebraska, Politics, society, WealthLeave a comment

A Biography of Nebraska Territorial Governor Thomas B. Cuming by Ryan Roenfeld

February 5, 2016May 30, 2017 Adam F.C. Fletcher

One of North Omaha’s landmark roadways that has always intrigued me is Cuming Street. My dad used to take my brother and I to Canfield’s, where we’d comb the aisles for what seemed like hours. Creighton University seemed like a … Continue reading A Biography of Nebraska Territorial Governor Thomas B. Cuming by Ryan Roenfeld

20th century, 21st century, Civic Infrastructure, East Omaha, historic preservation, Lost history, North 16th Street, Politics, Race riot, Saratoga, Streets, White flight17 Comments

A History of 16th and Locust Historic District in North Omaha

December 23, 2015August 19, 2026 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The N. 16th and Locust Street intersection was a beehive of commercial activity for more than a century. The Locust overpass of the MoPac Railroad was a key. Learn more. Continue reading A History of 16th and Locust Historic District in North Omaha

Biographies, Black History, Culture, History of Nebraska, North 24th Street, society, storytelling1 Comment

A Biography of North Omaha’s Dr. Marguerita Washington

December 10, 2015November 3, 2022 Adam F.C. Fletcher

This story begins with the death. On November 2nd, 1989, Mildred Brown passed away. Easily the mother of North Omaha pride, Mildred co-founded The Omaha Star in the late 1930s and ran it by herself for almost 50 years. She promoted the community mercilessly, building pride, power and purpose through her paper, and her death was a massive loss to everyone in North Omaha, especially the African American community. Continue reading A Biography of North Omaha’s Dr. Marguerita Washington

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Culture, Florence, Government, History of Nebraska, Lost history, North 30th Street, Pioneer era, Settlements21 Comments

A History of the Florence Neighborhood

December 2, 2015February 4, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The history of Florence begins with the tangled clopping of horse hooves and rattling of the sideboards on beat up wagons. The story of the town begins with people leaving, people coming back, a town booming, a town shrinking, and then getting annexed into Omaha and calming down. It’s a story that’s still being written every day, and lately things are on the up and up! Continue reading A History of the Florence Neighborhood

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Culture, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Lost history, Near North Side, North 30th Street, Religion, society5 Comments

A History of St. Clare’s Monastery in North Omaha

December 1, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a history of one of North Omaha’s hidden holy grounds built as St. Clare’s Monastery. Continue reading A History of St. Clare’s Monastery in North Omaha

20th century, 24th and Lake, Black businesses, clubs, Clubs, Demolished buildings, Lost history, nightlife2 Comments

A History of Club Harlem In North Omaha

November 29, 2015September 21, 2024 Adam F.C. Fletcher

This is a history of Club Harlem, a vibrant center of the North Omaha jazz scene in the 1940s. Continue reading A History of Club Harlem In North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Culture, Cuming Street, Historic houses, historic preservation, Walnut Hill16 Comments

A History of the Walnut Hill Neighborhood in North Omaha

November 28, 2015September 1, 2023 Adam F.C. Fletcher

The Walnut Hill neighborhood is one of the most historically distinguished in North Omaha. Continue reading A History of the Walnut Hill Neighborhood in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, Carter Lake, Civic Infrastructure, East Omaha, Lost history1 Comment

A History of East Omaha’s Florence Lake

November 28, 2015August 7, 2022 Adam F.C. Fletcher

Along the wild timeline of the Missouri River, a little nest of water was created in East Omaha, Nebraska. When European settlers saw it, they called it Florence Lake. Here’s a short history of its appearance, some appreciation, and its disappearance. Continue reading A History of East Omaha’s Florence Lake

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Civic Infrastructure, Parks, Walnut Hill3 Comments

A History of North Omaha’s Walnut Hill Reservoir

November 26, 2015February 4, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Located immediately north of Mercer Park, the Walnut Hill Reservoir is bound by Hamilton Street and the Walnut Hill neighborhood on the west, North 38th Street on the east, Nicholas Street on the south, and Mercer Park Drive on the east. Walnut Hill is cut in half by the curvy Park Road, which extends from Mercer Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard. “Walnut Hill Reservoir” is chiseled into a concrete panel between the steps at North 38th Street. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Walnut Hill Reservoir

19th century, 20th century, Fontenelle Boulevard, Miller Park, North Omaha, schools14 Comments

A History of the Nebraska School for the Deaf

November 23, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

In 1869, a Deaf man named William DeCoursey French founded the Nebraska School for the Deaf on 23 acres northwest of the City of Omaha. Today, the school is gone and the former campus is blended in with the rest of North Omaha. Its legacy is far from over though. Continue reading A History of the Nebraska School for the Deaf

Civic Infrastructure, Culture, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Parks, Politics, Poverty, RacismLeave a comment

A History of North Omaha’s Kellom Pool

November 20, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The Near North Side neighborhood was packed with people for more than a century. People need places to hang out and cool off in Omaha’s hot summers, and in the late 1940s the City of Omaha Parks Department decided to … Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Kellom Pool

19th century, Biographies, Government, Politics, schools, StreetsLeave a comment

A Biography of North Omaha’s George B. Lake

November 14, 2015July 17, 2020 Adam F.C. Fletcher

There is a street that starts in North Omaha and shoots west, with a man so respected by Omahans that more than a century later they named another street after him. North Omaha has been filled with interesting people since the city was founded, and even before that. One of them was Judge George Baker Lake. Continue reading A Biography of North Omaha’s George B. Lake

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Black History, Economics, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Near North Side, North 24th Street4 Comments

A History of Black Hotels in Omaha

November 6, 2015January 20, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a history of Black-owned and operated hotels for African American customers in Omaha, Nebraska by Adam Fletcher Sasse for NorthOmahaHistory.com. Continue reading A History of Black Hotels in Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Architecture, business, Demolished buildings, Economics, Lost history, Near North Side, North 16th Street, society9 Comments

A History of North Omaha’s Storz Brewery

November 5, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Before Gottlieb Storz, a few other entrepreneurs tried their hand at brewing beer in North Omaha. Afterwards though, Storz dominated. For more than 75 years, his family ran Omaha’s beer industry, and even though the brewery closed in the 1970s, … Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Storz Brewery

19th century, 20th century, Culture, ghosts, Halloween, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, North 30th Street, North Omaha4 Comments

A History of Grave Robbing in North Omaha

November 2, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is the story of Prospect Hill Cemetery superintendent Daniel Callahan digging up the dead of North Omaha in 1909. Continue reading A History of Grave Robbing in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, ghosts, Government, Halloween, History of Nebraska, North 24th Street, North 30th Street1 Comment

A History of Ghosts at Fort Omaha

October 31, 2015October 28, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Fort Omaha was opened in 1878. Home to thousands of US Army troops over a century of service, many people lived and died at the Fort. Today, some of the buildings that still survive on the campus include the General … Continue reading A History of Ghosts at Fort Omaha

19th century, 20th century, ghosts, Halloween, History of Nebraska, North 30th Street6 Comments

A History of the Tunnels Beneath Immanuel Hospital

October 31, 2015February 7, 2020 Adam F.C. Fletcher

More than just an expedient way to move water, gas and electricity around their massive campus, there were once tunnels throughout the Immanuel Deaconess Institute in the Monmouth Park neighborhood. They were once used to move people, including the dying, … Continue reading A History of the Tunnels Beneath Immanuel Hospital

18th century, 19th century, 20th century, Americans, Cemeteries, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, Halloween, History of Nebraska, North 30th Street8 Comments

A History of Missing Cemeteries in North Omaha

October 30, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Prospect Hill Cemetery was not Omaha’s first cemetery. This article explores that, and shares information about the city’s actual first cemeteries, including a few others lost to time. Continue reading A History of Missing Cemeteries in North Omaha

19th century, Crime, ghosts, Government, Halloween, History of Nebraska, North 16th Street, Omaha Claim Club1 Comment

A History of the Execution of Cyrus Tator in North Omaha

October 28, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Since before the Nebraska Territory was founded in 1854, executions including lynchings, shootings and hangings happened in Omaha. The Omaha Claim Club, established by the city’s founders, used intimidation, threats, and drownings in order to enforce their homesteading over anyone … Continue reading A History of the Execution of Cyrus Tator in North Omaha

18th century, 19th century, 20th century, Americans, Black History, Economics, Government, History of Nebraska, North Omaha, Omaha, Politics, Poverty, Race riot, Racism, society, White flight7 Comments

A Timeline of Racism in Omaha

October 26, 2015March 24, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Race and racism has dominated Omaha has history of movement, organizing and activism for civil rights for African Americans and others that goes almost back to the founding of the city. Following is a timeline of race and racism in North Omaha. Continue reading A Timeline of Racism in Omaha

19th century, 20th century, Black History, Culture, Economics, History of Nebraska, Industry, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Politics, Poverty1 Comment

History of the Omaha Colored Commercial Club

October 26, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Omaha’s Colored Commercial Club was an business referral, employment agency, and community building org for almost a decade. This is it’s history… Continue reading History of the Omaha Colored Commercial Club

19th century, Historic houses, Kountze Place, North 24th Street, Streets, White flight13 Comments

A History of North Omaha’s Binney Street

October 26, 2015April 29, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

North Omaha’s historic Binney Street is packed with historical houses, churches and more from 140+ years ago in Nebraska history. This is a recounting of some of that past. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Binney Street

19th century, 20th century, Architecture, Culture, Economics, Historic houses, History of Nebraska, Near North Side, North 16th Street, Omaha Claim Club, society1 Comment

A History of the A.J. Poppleton Mansion in North Omaha

October 15, 2015January 26, 2026 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is the story of A. J. Poppleton’s North Omaha estate called Elizabeth Place. Continue reading A History of the A.J. Poppleton Mansion in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, Architecture, Culture, Economics, Historic houses, History of Nebraska, North 16th Street, Politics, societyLeave a comment

A History of the J. J. Brown Mansion in North Omaha

October 15, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The J. J. Brown Mansion belonged to one of Omaha’s early industrialists, and became one of Omaha’s first hospitals. Discover it’s story… Continue reading A History of the J. J. Brown Mansion in North Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Culture, Historic houses, History of Nebraska, Kountze Place, North 24th Street, society4 Comments

A History of North Omaha’s McCreary Mansion

October 15, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

In the 1870s, businessman John McCreary built a fine Italianate mansion in present-day North Omaha. Here’s a history. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s McCreary Mansion

19th century, 20th century, Architecture, Culture, Economics, Historic houses, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Kountze Place, Near North Side, North 24th Street7 Comments

A History of the Redick Mansion in North Omaha

October 15, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The most famous mansion built in North Omaha is probably the Mayne Mansion, also known as the Redick Mansion. Clifton E. Mayne was a pioneer real estate investor and salesman in the city. In the 1870s, a farmer built a little house along Saunders Street leading north out of Omaha. He sold ten acres and his little farmhouse to Mayne in 1885. Continue reading A History of the Redick Mansion in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Black History, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Omaha, Politics, Poverty, Race riot, Racism, society, White flight4 Comments

A History of the Near North Side Neighborhood in North Omaha

October 13, 2015April 29, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

As far as I’m concerned, the history of Omaha’s Near North Side neighborhood is the richest in all of Omaha. It has been home to working class families, poor people, and the wealthy; northern Europeans, African Americans, and eastern Europeans; Lutherans and Catholics, Jews and Black Muslims; slums, family homes, and mansions; looked like a pioneer town, had country gentleman farms, been a suburb, and had slums; professional offices, warehouses, manufacturing plants, local storefronts, printing presses, training centers, supermarkets and pop-up shops; giant churches and synagogues, and tiny storefront temples and more. So much has happened here, and clearly its story is still being written… Continue reading A History of the Near North Side Neighborhood in North Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Culture, Economics, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Kountze Place, Near North Side, North 24th Street, North Omaha, Politics, Racism, society, White flight11 Comments

A History of North Omaha’s Jewish Community

October 11, 2015August 22, 2026 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The Jewish people in North Omaha were tied together with the establishment and growth of the community for a century… Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Jewish Community

20th century, 21st century, Culture, Economics, Expo Grounds, History of Nebraska, Industry, Kountze Place, North 24th Street, Parks, Politics, society7 Comments

A History of the 1899 Greater America Exposition in North Omaha

October 9, 2015October 9, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a history of the 1899 Greater America Exposition in North Omaha. Continue reading A History of the 1899 Greater America Exposition in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Americans, Economics, Government, History of Nebraska, Miller Park, Native Americans, society11 Comments

A History of Fort Omaha

October 7, 2015July 20, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Nestled between the Miller Park neighborhood and Sorenson Parkway is a 150+ year old institution that’s been a powerhouse, a prison, a balloon school and a neglected surplus, and many other things. This is a short history of Fort Omaha. Continue reading A History of Fort Omaha

19th century, 20th century, Carter Lake, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, East Omaha, Florence, Government, Parks, society, StreetsLeave a comment

History of the River Drive in Omaha

October 5, 2015February 4, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Imagine a smooth, easy drive on a Saturday afternoon in the fall all of it weaving along nineteen miles of the city’s waterfront. There are long, calm curves and tall, stately oaks lining the boulevard, with walkers and bikes moving … Continue reading History of the River Drive in Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Culture, History of Nebraska, Kountze Place, North 24th Street, society1 Comment

A History of the Omaha Presbyterian Theological Seminary in North Omaha

October 5, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The Presbyterians were one of the congregations that grew along with Omaha. Arriving soon after the city’s founders, the first Presbyterian church in Omaha was opened in 1856. Over the next 25 years, more than 100 Presbyterian churches were founded in towns and cities across Nebraska. Their buildings became institutions for the faithful, for their communities and for the culture of the state. One institution made leaders for these flocks for more than 50 years. Continue reading A History of the Omaha Presbyterian Theological Seminary in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, Black politicians, Government, Healthcare, History of Nebraska, Legislators, North Omaha, Omaha, RacismLeave a comment

A Biography of North Omaha’s Dr. Matthew O. Ricketts

September 23, 2015July 31, 2026 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a biography of Nebraska’s first African American legislator, Dr. Matthew O. Ricketts. He served from 1893 to 1897. Continue reading A Biography of North Omaha’s Dr. Matthew O. Ricketts

20th century, Benson, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, historic preservation, Parks, White flight1 Comment

A History of North Omaha’s Adams Park

September 20, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a history of Adams Park in North Omaha, Nebraska Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Adams Park

20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Benson, Black History, Carter Lake, Culture, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Kountze Place, Minne Lusa, Near North Side, North 24th Street10 Comments

A History of Theatres and Movie Theaters in North Omaha

September 9, 2015February 3, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

While it has absolutely no active movie theaters today, the North Omaha community has been home to at least 20 (!) movie theaters over the last century. This is a short history of those theaters. Its really incomplete, as information has been hard for me to find. Continue reading A History of Theatres and Movie Theaters in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Black History, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Near North Side, North 24th Street, North Omaha4 Comments

History of Social Clubs and Social Halls in North Omaha

September 8, 2015October 30, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a history of the social clubs in North Omaha from the 1860s through present times. Continue reading History of Social Clubs and Social Halls in North Omaha

20th century, Biographies, Black History, Crime, Houses, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Race riot, Racism13 Comments

A History of the June 1969 Riot in North Omaha

August 22, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

While African Americans have known about police racism for more than a century, white people across the US are beginning to acknowledge the effects of legalized harassment, white privilege, systematic discrimination, the school-to-prison pipeline and other forms of white supremacy that constantly plunder communities and the entire nation of its potential, power and purpose. With a vibrant, vital, and obvious story, Vivian Strong must be remembered today. Continue reading A History of the June 1969 Riot in North Omaha

Civic Infrastructure, Economics, Historic houses, Near North Side, North 16th Street, North 24th Street, Race riot, Racism, schools, White flight12 Comments

A History of the Logan Fontenelle Housing Projects

August 20, 2015October 8, 2026 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Once upon a time, there was a massive public housing project located at the intersection of North 24th and Paul Streets in the Near North Side neighborhood. Originally named the “Northside Village Public Housing Project,” the name was officially changed in honor of the famous Omaha tribe leader Logan Fontenelle. Continue reading A History of the Logan Fontenelle Housing Projects

20th century, 21st century, Black History, Crime, Culture, Florence, Kountze Place, Miller Park, Minne Lusa, Near North Side, North 24th Street, North Omaha, Omaha, Omaha Claim Club, Politics, Racism, White flight17 Comments

A History of Redlining in Omaha

August 2, 2015March 24, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The history of North Omaha includes redlining starting during the 1920s, and being made illegal in the 1960s. This article explores that history, including the context in which it happened and some of the outcomes. Continue reading A History of Redlining in Omaha

20th century, Civic Infrastructure, Kountze Place, North 24th Street, Omaha, schools4 Comments

A History of Original Omaha University in North Omaha

August 2, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Along the tree-lined streets and fine middle and upper class homes of Kountze Place in North Omaha, the staff of Omaha’s Presbyterian Theological Seminary decided in the early 20th century to start a new university. For 30 years, the neighborhood was home to the eventual University of Nebraska at Omaha. This is a short history of that time, starting from the beginning. Continue reading A History of Original Omaha University in North Omaha

Architecture, East Omaha, Florence, Fontenelle Boulevard, Kountze Place, Miller Park, Minne Lusa, North 24th Street2 Comments

Architectural Styles in North Omaha

July 14, 2015October 9, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a summary of popular architectural styles in North Omaha. Continue reading Architectural Styles in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Black History, Crime, Culture, History of Nebraska, North 24th Street, Politics, Race riot, Racism, White flight11 Comments

A History of African American Politics in North Omaha

March 13, 2015December 18, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a history of African American politics in Omaha beginning in the post-Civil War era, evolving through various struggles for rights and representation. Continue reading A History of African American Politics in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, Benson, Black History, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, East Omaha, Kountze Place, Miller Park, Minne Lusa, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Omaha, Racism, Saratoga6 Comments

A History of Streetcars in North Omaha

March 12, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a history of streetcars in North Omaha, Nebraska. Continue reading A History of Streetcars in North Omaha

Historic houses, History of Nebraska, Kountze Place, Near North Side, North 16th Street, North 24th Street11 Comments

A History of North Omaha’s Wirt Street

February 24, 2015January 3, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Hidden deep in the heart of North Omaha is a jewel of a street, filled with abundant American foursquare houses, long yards and hints of its glory 100 years ago. This section of Wirt street, from north 16th to north 24th streets, was once home to some of the predominant names in the beautiful Kountze Place development. It was also home to more than simple Foursquare style homes. In addition to the stout middle class houses, there were some exquisite examples of high style in Omaha history. This article highlights those beauties, which suggest a future for the Wirt Street historic district. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Wirt Street

20th century, Civic Infrastructure, Miller Park, North Omaha, schools1 Comment

A History of the Fort Street Special School for Incorrigible Boys

February 22, 2015April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Just like school districts everywhere, Omaha Public Schools has had a challenge serving disengaged students ever since students were mandated to go to school by compulsory school law. In Nebraska, that year was 1887. After a few decades, they had an answer to the challenge these students posed. This is a history of the Fort Street Special School for Incorrigible Boys. Continue reading A History of the Fort Street Special School for Incorrigible Boys

Black History, Carter Lake, East Omaha, Florence, Fontenelle Boulevard, Kountze Place, Miller Park, Minne Lusa, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Saratoga, White flightLeave a comment

A History of North Omaha, Part 2: 1885-1945

February 13, 2015October 9, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Between 1870 and the 1950s, A LOT happened in North Omaha. This is a summary of the people, events, organizations and more that made history… Continue reading A History of North Omaha, Part 2: 1885-1945

20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Black History, Culture, Historic houses, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Miller Park, North 24th Street, Racism, schools, Streets, White flight44 Comments

A History of the Miller Park Neighborhood

February 13, 2015March 30, 2026 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The place where I grew up, Omaha’s Miller Park neighborhood, rushes through my imagination a lot. I want to see it acknowledged, appreciated and accentuated every day. This article is my acknowledgment of the past and contribution to the future. Continue reading A History of the Miller Park Neighborhood

Architecture, Black History, Guest author, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, North 24th Street, Saratoga, White flight3 Comments

A History of the Druid Hall in North Omaha by Karen Clopton

November 28, 2014April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

A guest article by Karen Clopton explores the history of the Prince Hall Masons and their century-old Druid Hall in North Omaha, Nebraska. Continue reading A History of the Druid Hall in North Omaha by Karen Clopton

Architecture, Biographies, Black History, Guest author, History of Nebraska, Kountze Place, Near North Side, North 24th Street3 Comments

A Biography of North Omaha’s ‘Cap’ Clarence Wigington by Linda Williams

October 30, 2014April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a guest post by Linda Williams, an architecture student in Omaha. Continue reading A Biography of North Omaha’s ‘Cap’ Clarence Wigington by Linda Williams

20th century, Black History, History of Nebraska, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Race riot, White flight3 Comments

A Street of Dreams

October 30, 2014April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

In 1994, NET helped reveal some of this history through a powerful documentary called “A Street of Dreams.” This is that documentary. Continue reading A Street of Dreams

20th century, Black History, Culture, History of Nebraska, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Politics, Racism, White flightLeave a comment

A Time for Burning

October 3, 2014April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

One of the most powerful documentaries to ever be made in Omaha is called A Time For Burning. Nominated for an Academy Award for documentary filmmaking in 1966, the film highlights then-barber/future Nebraska legislator Ernie Chambers. A graduate of the Creighton University Law School, he was elected Senator to the Nebraska Legislature in 1970. By 2005 he had become the longest-serving state Senator in the history of Nebraska. This is a powerful clip from the film featuring Chambers talking with the minister of a Lutheran church who was trying to integrate his congregation. Learn more about the film. You Might … Continue reading A Time for Burning

Architecture, Black History, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, Kountze Place, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Politics, Race riot, Racism, White flight55 Comments

A History of 24th Street in North Omaha

October 27, 2013February 4, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

North 24th Street in North Omaha, Nebraska, used to be a regular street of dreams. Home to immigrants and entrepreneurs, it hosted generations of families that made it. Then in the 1960s, several riots struck at the heart of the community. It hasn’t recovered in the 50 years since. Continue reading A History of 24th Street in North Omaha

20th century, Benson, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, Fontenelle Boulevard, historic preservation, Parks, White flight15 Comments

A History of Fontenelle Park in North Omaha

October 14, 2013January 2, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

A history of the Fontenelle Park in North Omaha, Nebraska by Adam Fletcher Sasse. Includes baseball, parks and recreation, fireworks and more! Continue reading A History of Fontenelle Park in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Ames Ave, Belt Line Railway, business, Carter Lake, Civic Infrastructure, East Omaha, Geography, Government, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Lost history, Missouri River, nightlife, Politics, Transportation, Water, Wrecked buildings15 Comments

A History of Carter Lake

September 28, 2013August 20, 2026 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Everything begins somewhere. For Omaha’s Carter Lake, it was as a fun-filled day in the water for all kinds of people. Following is the early history of the place. It includes a waterfront boardwalk, hotels, a resort, clubs and an amusement park. Continue reading A History of Carter Lake

Architecture, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, Florence, historic preservation, Kountze Place, Miller Park, Minne Lusa, Streets, White flight11 Comments

A History of the Florence Boulevard in North Omaha

September 23, 2013October 27, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Florence Boulevard in North Omaha has a historic treasure trove packed with homes, businesses, churches and more. Continue reading A History of the Florence Boulevard in North Omaha

Architecture, Civic Infrastructure, Florence, History of Nebraska, Minne Lusa17 Comments

A History of the Florence Water Works and Minne Lusa Station in North Omaha

September 22, 2013July 17, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

The Florence Water Works was once home to one of the most magnificent buildings in the entire city of Omaha. After being nearly-obliterated in 1970, MUD has rebuilt the structure to honor its 130-year history, and today the water there keeps wetting the whistle. This is a history of the Florence Water Works and Minne Lusa Pumping Station. Continue reading A History of the Florence Water Works and Minne Lusa Station in North Omaha

Benson, Black History, Carter Lake, Civic Infrastructure, East Omaha, Florence, Fontenelle Boulevard, Kountze Place, Miller Park, Minne Lusa, Near North Side, Omaha, Racism, Saratoga, schools, White flight50 Comments

A History of Schools in North Omaha

September 22, 2013January 29, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

If walls could talk, North Omaha’s schools would be much noisier, much more colorful, and much more complicated than anyone wants to hear. For more than 150 years, schools throughout the community have served students of all ages. With a deep history including segregation and school violence, its can be hard to remember all the positive people and events that emerged in the community’s schools. Following is my ever-growing history of the old schools in North Omaha. Continue reading A History of Schools in North Omaha

20th century, Black History, business, Civic Infrastructure, Crime, Economics, Government, Lost history, Near North Side, North 16th Street, North 24th Street, North 30th Street, North Omaha, Politics, Poverty, Race riot, Racism, society, White flight, Wrecked buildings7 Comments

A History of the North Omaha Riots

July 19, 2013October 9, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Because of when the riots happened and what they did, there are scars on North O that that haven’t healed almost 50 years later. Here’s a history of what happened. Continue reading A History of the North Omaha Riots

Black History, Culture, History of Nebraska, Near North Side, North 24th StreetLeave a comment

A Video History of the Dreamland Ballroom in North Omaha

March 18, 2013April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Here is a video by Waymaker Media with a short history of the Dreamland Ballroom on North 24th Street in North Omaha. Make sure you like the video and leave comments on YouTube! You Might Like… A History of the Jewell Building and Dreamland Ballroom A History of the 24th and Lake Historic District A History of the Carnation Ballroom in North Omaha A Short History of The Stage II Lounge A History of North Omaha’s Elks Hall and Iroquois Lodge 92 BONUS PICS! Continue reading A Video History of the Dreamland Ballroom in North Omaha

Architecture, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, East Omaha, Historic houses, History of Nebraska, Industry, Kountze Place, Near North Side, Saratoga, Streets, White flight19 Comments

History of 16th Street in North Omaha

November 30, 2012April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Long before becoming a decrepit pipeline for the neglect of old North Omaha, North 16th Street had a history almost as long as the city itself. Continue reading History of 16th Street in North Omaha

Architecture, Benson, Carter Lake, East Omaha, Florence, Fontenelle Boulevard, Kountze Place, Miller Park, Minne Lusa, Near North Side, Omaha, Politics, Race riot, Racism, Saratoga18 Comments

Historical Tour of North Omaha

November 8, 2012February 4, 2025 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Following is a list of places I would visit on a long, winding North Omaha history tour. If you have anything you would like me to write about, add, or otherwise know, please share here. I LOVE NORTH O! These are listed by neighborhood, starting at Dodge Street and heading northwards. Note that all links go to articles I created, either on Wikipedia or on this blog. Continue reading Historical Tour of North Omaha

24th and Lake, Black businesses, Black leader, Cafes, Demolished buildings, diners, Food, Restaurants5 Comments

A History of North Omaha’s Fair Deal Cafe

November 8, 2012April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Soul food was served in mighty heaps at Omaha’s old “Black City Hall.” Learn about the legacy of the original Fair Deal Cafe… Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Fair Deal Cafe

19th century, 20th century, Culture, Economics, History of Nebraska, North 24th Street, Saratoga6 Comments

A History of the Omaha Driving Park in North Omaha

January 15, 2012September 14, 2026 Adam Fletcher Sasse

A century ago, there was a race track tucked away in Omaha’s memory. Starting as a rugged race track for fast horses and wagon races, it become a proper driving park, the county and state fairgrounds, and home to several … Continue reading A History of the Omaha Driving Park in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Carter Lake, Culture, East Omaha, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Lost history, Omaha, Pioneer era, Saratoga, Settlements, Streets17 Comments

A History of the Saratoga Neighborhood in North Omaha

January 9, 2012August 10, 2026 Adam Fletcher Sasse

Saratoga was originally a large township on the Missouri River. What happened to it? Continue reading A History of the Saratoga Neighborhood in North Omaha

18th century, 19th century, 20th century, Cemeteries, Civic Infrastructure, ghosts, Halloween, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Prospect Hill Cemetery, society2 Comments

A History of North Omaha’s Prospect Hill Cemetery

December 30, 2010April 23, 2024 Adam Fletcher Sasse

There are places in Omaha where ghosts, legends and history come alive. With mysterious burial sites, whispy hauntings and grand memorial trees, the pioneer graveyard called Prospect Hill Cemetery may be the most haunted of all. Read on to learn more… Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Prospect Hill Cemetery