Omaha History

Situated on the Missouri River, near the mouth of the Platte River, Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska and the seat of Douglas County. Prior to the arrival of settlers, the land was occupied by several Native American tribes, including the Omaha (which means either "Dwellers on the Bluff" or "Against the Current", depending on whom you ask). In 1854, just months after the Nebraska Territory was carved out by the Kansas-Nebraska Act, the federal government signed a treaty with the Omaha. Almost immediately, land speculators from Council Bluffs, Iowa rushed across the Missouri River to stake their claims in the newly opened land.

The building boom in Omaha was enhanced by the construction of telegraph lines, which bolstered the freight industry. In 1863, following the passage of the Pacific Railroad Act, Omaha was declared the eastern terminus of the new transcontinental railroad, securing its status as a major transportation center. The stockyards in South Omaha were originally constructed as a resting place for cattle en route to larger markets, but they eventually led to the expansion of Omaha's lucrative beef industry and meat packing operations.

Omaha's rapid expansion is reflected in its diverse architecture, which some say came about as a result of the city's growth being "one step ahead of the planners." From the ultramodern Holland Performing Arts Center to the atmospheric Orpheum Theater, visitors will marvel at the city's haphazard, yet oddly appealing mix of architectural styles. The Old Market Area features cobblestone streets winding among Victorian-era restaurants, shops, and galleries. To the north can be seen the modern high rises of downtown Omaha, as well as the flower gardens and public art displays of Gene Leahy Mall. Just to the south is the stunning art deco Union Station, which houses the Durham Western Heritage Museum.

Omaha was the birthplace of Gerald Ford. His boyhood home, twice destroyed by fire, has been reconstructed and now sits adjacent to the Betty Ford Rose Garden. Malcolm X was born in Omaha as well; sadly, his home no longer exists, but the National Registry of Historic Places has erected a monument to mark the location.

Every September, the city of Omaha celebrates its agricultural roots and western heritage with the River City Round-Up, a festival sponsored by a civic organization known as the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben (that's "Nebraska" spelled backwards, in case you're wondering). Other popular events include the summer-long Jazz on the Green and the annual Taste of the Nation.