Omaha's Historic Old Market
Omaha's Historic Old Market is a district located in downtown Omaha, Nebraska, United States, that has been a hub of commercial activity since the mid-19th century. The area is bounded by 11th and 13th Streets from the east and west, and by Farnam and Jackson Streets from the south and north. The district's origins date back to the 1860s when the city of Omaha was expanding rapidly due to its strategic location on the banks of the Missouri River.
During this period, a large number of fruit and vegetable warehouses were built in the area to meet the demand for fresh produce. The area was also known for its railroad depot, which made it a major transportation hub for goods and people moving in and out of the city. Over the years, many of the warehouses were converted into office buildings, stores, and bars, which have given the area its distinctive character.
In the early 1970s, a local preservationist named Sam Mercer led an effort to preserve the area's historic buildings and turn them into a vibrant arts and cultural district. This effort resulted in the formation of the Old Market Association, which has played a crucial role in maintaining the character of the area and overseeing its redevelopment. Today, the Old Market district is known for its unique collection of turn-of-the-20th-century buildings, which have been expertly restored to retain their original charm.
Some of the notable buildings in the area include the Swanson Hardware building, which was built in 1889 and features a striking example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Another notable building is the Paxton & Gallagher building, which was built in 1884 and has a distinctive Victorian-era façade. Many of the buildings in the area also feature historic signage and ornamentation that have been preserved and restored over the years.
In addition to its rich history and architecture, the Old Market is also known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The area is home to numerous art galleries, boutiques, and performance venues, which showcase the work of local and regional artists. Visitors to the area can also explore a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafes, which offer everything from traditional Nebraska cuisine to contemporary vegetarian and vegan options.
The Old Market is also home to the Omaha Farmers' Market, which has been held every Saturday morning since 1975. The market features a wide variety of vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, who come to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of this lively community gathering.
Throughout the year, the Old Market also hosts a range of festivals and events, which celebrate the area's rich cultural heritage. These events include the annual Old Market Poetry Slam, the Omaha Summer Jazz Festival, and the November downtown Omaha Holiday Lights Festival.
In conclusion, Omaha's Historic Old Market is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Its carefully preserved historic buildings, vibrant arts scene, and lively community events make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Nebraska.
During this period, a large number of fruit and vegetable warehouses were built in the area to meet the demand for fresh produce. The area was also known for its railroad depot, which made it a major transportation hub for goods and people moving in and out of the city. Over the years, many of the warehouses were converted into office buildings, stores, and bars, which have given the area its distinctive character.
In the early 1970s, a local preservationist named Sam Mercer led an effort to preserve the area's historic buildings and turn them into a vibrant arts and cultural district. This effort resulted in the formation of the Old Market Association, which has played a crucial role in maintaining the character of the area and overseeing its redevelopment. Today, the Old Market district is known for its unique collection of turn-of-the-20th-century buildings, which have been expertly restored to retain their original charm.
Some of the notable buildings in the area include the Swanson Hardware building, which was built in 1889 and features a striking example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Another notable building is the Paxton & Gallagher building, which was built in 1884 and has a distinctive Victorian-era façade. Many of the buildings in the area also feature historic signage and ornamentation that have been preserved and restored over the years.
In addition to its rich history and architecture, the Old Market is also known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The area is home to numerous art galleries, boutiques, and performance venues, which showcase the work of local and regional artists. Visitors to the area can also explore a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafes, which offer everything from traditional Nebraska cuisine to contemporary vegetarian and vegan options.
The Old Market is also home to the Omaha Farmers' Market, which has been held every Saturday morning since 1975. The market features a wide variety of vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, who come to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of this lively community gathering.
Throughout the year, the Old Market also hosts a range of festivals and events, which celebrate the area's rich cultural heritage. These events include the annual Old Market Poetry Slam, the Omaha Summer Jazz Festival, and the November downtown Omaha Holiday Lights Festival.
In conclusion, Omaha's Historic Old Market is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Its carefully preserved historic buildings, vibrant arts scene, and lively community events make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Nebraska.
