Lincoln's Historic Haymarket District
Located in the heart of downtown Lincoln, Nebraska, the Historic Haymarket District is a testament to the city's rich history and transformation. Once a thriving railroad hub and bustling marketplace, the district has evolved into a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. Dating back to the late 1800s, the area's unique blend of Victorian-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic railroad ties has been preserved and restored for modern-day visitors to enjoy.
During its heyday, the Haymarket District was a major commercial center, with trains from the Chicago & Rock Island Railroad and the Lincoln Street Railway converging on the area. The intersection of 9th and P Streets was particularly busy, earning the nickname "Nine-Pee" among locals. In the early 1900s, this same intersection was witness to a unique business model, the F&M Schennek's Haymarket Grocery, a German-inspired grocery store that catered to the city's influx of immigrant residents.
Today, visitors can experience the historic charm of the Haymarket District firsthand by wandering the cobblestone streets and admiring the beautifully restored 19th-century buildings. Many of these historic structures have been repurposed into trendy boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. For instance, the 1870s-era Burlington Northern freight depot, located at 1201 N. Street, has been lovingly restored to its former grandeur and now houses the popular Haymarket Brewing Company tasting room.
Local business owners and residents have also worked to preserve the district's heritage through various festivals and events, such as the annual Lincoln Haymarket Farmers' Market, which takes place from May to October. Additionally, the district plays host to a number of unique museums, including the Great Plains Art Museum, which is situated in the 19th-century Burlington Northern Railroad headquarters building at 1210 N. Street.
Visitors looking for a glimpse into the district's rich history can stop by the Haymarket Memorial Plaza, located near 9th and Q Streets, which honors the area's early residents, business owners, and immigrants who helped shape the city of Lincoln. Another popular destination is the Historic Haymarket Office, located at 305 S. 9th Street, where guests can pick up maps and brochures or meet with knowledgeable tour guides.
While some large buildings have been replaced with modern developments, the Heartland Trust has supported many local rehabilitation projects in an effort to preserve the architectural integrity of the original buildings and prevent excessive gentrification in Haymarket. The district's downtown revitalization has encouraged small businesses and local residents to care for historic spaces with high priority.
Urban planners seeking successful techniques of preserving historical neighborhood aesthetic may find the district's restoration a prime exemplar. Its conversion into trendy spaces gives a glimpse into what former Victorian era neighborhoods can aspire to.
As one of the area's premier attractions and destinations for both residents and travelers, the Lincoln Haymarket District represents an important part of Nebraska's past while embodying its character going forward.
During its heyday, the Haymarket District was a major commercial center, with trains from the Chicago & Rock Island Railroad and the Lincoln Street Railway converging on the area. The intersection of 9th and P Streets was particularly busy, earning the nickname "Nine-Pee" among locals. In the early 1900s, this same intersection was witness to a unique business model, the F&M Schennek's Haymarket Grocery, a German-inspired grocery store that catered to the city's influx of immigrant residents.
Today, visitors can experience the historic charm of the Haymarket District firsthand by wandering the cobblestone streets and admiring the beautifully restored 19th-century buildings. Many of these historic structures have been repurposed into trendy boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. For instance, the 1870s-era Burlington Northern freight depot, located at 1201 N. Street, has been lovingly restored to its former grandeur and now houses the popular Haymarket Brewing Company tasting room.
Local business owners and residents have also worked to preserve the district's heritage through various festivals and events, such as the annual Lincoln Haymarket Farmers' Market, which takes place from May to October. Additionally, the district plays host to a number of unique museums, including the Great Plains Art Museum, which is situated in the 19th-century Burlington Northern Railroad headquarters building at 1210 N. Street.
Visitors looking for a glimpse into the district's rich history can stop by the Haymarket Memorial Plaza, located near 9th and Q Streets, which honors the area's early residents, business owners, and immigrants who helped shape the city of Lincoln. Another popular destination is the Historic Haymarket Office, located at 305 S. 9th Street, where guests can pick up maps and brochures or meet with knowledgeable tour guides.
While some large buildings have been replaced with modern developments, the Heartland Trust has supported many local rehabilitation projects in an effort to preserve the architectural integrity of the original buildings and prevent excessive gentrification in Haymarket. The district's downtown revitalization has encouraged small businesses and local residents to care for historic spaces with high priority.
Urban planners seeking successful techniques of preserving historical neighborhood aesthetic may find the district's restoration a prime exemplar. Its conversion into trendy spaces gives a glimpse into what former Victorian era neighborhoods can aspire to.
As one of the area's premier attractions and destinations for both residents and travelers, the Lincoln Haymarket District represents an important part of Nebraska's past while embodying its character going forward.
