Omaha’s history is indivisible with the Missouri River and the cattle that once roamed its legendary stockyards. It’s got a lawless history, with exciting tales of gambling, prostitution and other illicit activity. It grew out of the desire of some land grabbers and, over the years, became a city with a steady economy, a solid reputation, and an affordable cost of living.
Lincoln became Nebraska’s capital before it was barely even a city; it grew on the banks of a salt creek a few miles away from an Oregon Trail trading post. When the railroads came to town, they followed the path of those salt creeks, which led to traveling tributaries of transportation. Today it’s the home to the state’s flagship school, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln; a thriving network of outdoor trails; and the state’s singular, beautiful state capitol building.
Overview
As you read this book, you’ll notice that many parts of the culture—food, popular attractions—have ties to the history of Omaha and Lincoln. History is a deep part of the culture here, and Omaha and Lincoln are connected to the rest of the state of Nebraska in profound historical ways.
In the following pages, you will find only the highlights of Omaha and Lincoln’s history. It’s such a lengthy story that volumes could be written about it (and probably have been!). I’ve attempted to capture some of the important parts of a much longer story. As you explore the cities on your own, you’ll experience the history—and the unique cities it’s created—for yourself.