Historic Old Market in Omaha
Omaha's Historic Old Market district, situated in downtown Omaha, Nebraska, is a prime example of historic preservation and neighborhood revitalization. This district, composed of several turn-of-the-century buildings, offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and serves as a popular tourist destination. The Old Market district originally began as a hub for produce and wholesale warehouses in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, spurred by its proximity to the Missouri River. As local industries evolved, so too did the use and character of the Old Market area.
The Historic Old Market's extensive transformation began in the 1960s when the district fell into disrepair and disuse. With the vision and efforts of a local investor and preservationist, Sam Mercer, the district began its renewal process. In a bold move to save the Old Market, Mercer led a band of like-minded individuals who sought to rehabilitate and repurpose the neglected buildings. Their hard work resulted in more than just an economic revitalization of the area; they breathed life back into a dying architectural and cultural landmark.
In this well-structured mix of commercial and residential areas lies the historic Brayton Home, situated on the west side of the 11th Street district entrance. Completed in 1890 by Gresham & Sawyer architects for former owner Cale Burton Brayton, the Brayton House represents just one of many excellent Victorian-era exhibits within the broader neighborhood. For travelers interested in fine dining, Baela Rose bar is also nestled in this charming district at 120 S 31st Avenue. At just two stories high, the building seems low-rise. Be admired by the exposed brick outside that has influenced interior that resembles one in Old Belgium.
Travelers can traverse through cobblestone streets that were cleverly repurposed from years past, while exploring restaurants and local galleries that cover wide grounds such artisan fine crafts stores, boutique hotel, galleries, antique dealers, gift emporium and souvenir exhibitions stores for a timeless and endearing experience.
The Old Market passageway remains remarkable as thousands of traveling people show up daily due in great part to a 'first wave of Nebraska frontier heritage' narrative which incorporates historical attractions embedded in the entire strip. Although not all its historic elements feature complete restoration, the well-maintained historic walls offer charm even in a post-industrial setting.
Although at times it may seem as though the authentic culture which abounds may dilute, since 'Old Market' and also so called culture vultures often set into such region; the history-based district atmosphere does manage to retain that vibrant but historically-tinted form of commercial elegance.
Historic Old Market further retains this romantic atmosphere at dusk using well-positioned streetlight lanterns and public city spaces and inarguably defines a town that has beautifully succeeded to integrate timeless yet 'once-in-a-lifetime' commercial encounters.
The Historic Old Market's extensive transformation began in the 1960s when the district fell into disrepair and disuse. With the vision and efforts of a local investor and preservationist, Sam Mercer, the district began its renewal process. In a bold move to save the Old Market, Mercer led a band of like-minded individuals who sought to rehabilitate and repurpose the neglected buildings. Their hard work resulted in more than just an economic revitalization of the area; they breathed life back into a dying architectural and cultural landmark.
In this well-structured mix of commercial and residential areas lies the historic Brayton Home, situated on the west side of the 11th Street district entrance. Completed in 1890 by Gresham & Sawyer architects for former owner Cale Burton Brayton, the Brayton House represents just one of many excellent Victorian-era exhibits within the broader neighborhood. For travelers interested in fine dining, Baela Rose bar is also nestled in this charming district at 120 S 31st Avenue. At just two stories high, the building seems low-rise. Be admired by the exposed brick outside that has influenced interior that resembles one in Old Belgium.
Travelers can traverse through cobblestone streets that were cleverly repurposed from years past, while exploring restaurants and local galleries that cover wide grounds such artisan fine crafts stores, boutique hotel, galleries, antique dealers, gift emporium and souvenir exhibitions stores for a timeless and endearing experience.
The Old Market passageway remains remarkable as thousands of traveling people show up daily due in great part to a 'first wave of Nebraska frontier heritage' narrative which incorporates historical attractions embedded in the entire strip. Although not all its historic elements feature complete restoration, the well-maintained historic walls offer charm even in a post-industrial setting.
Although at times it may seem as though the authentic culture which abounds may dilute, since 'Old Market' and also so called culture vultures often set into such region; the history-based district atmosphere does manage to retain that vibrant but historically-tinted form of commercial elegance.
Historic Old Market further retains this romantic atmosphere at dusk using well-positioned streetlight lanterns and public city spaces and inarguably defines a town that has beautifully succeeded to integrate timeless yet 'once-in-a-lifetime' commercial encounters.
