February is Black History Month, but many Omahans may not know there’s a Black History Museum right here in North Omaha. The Great Plains Black History Museum relocated in 2017 to a new and historic address on 24th Street.
Eric Ewing, the executive director of the museum, said he has amassed a large collection of cultural artifacts that reflect both hate and hope.
“The building itself is a historical building. It’s the Jewel Building, home of the Dreamland Ballroom which was located upstairs,” said Ewing.
The Ballroom hosted the likes of Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong. In fact, the 24th Street District was the prime spot for Jazz in Omaha from the 1930s until the 1960s.
Jacori Hill, whose family has lived in North Omaha for over a century, expressed how important it is to have the history preserved.
“My grandpa was a huge part of the Omaha Jazz scene and I’m really happy that it’s alive and here for everyone to appreciate and look at,” he said.
The Great Plains Black History Museum highlights the past and aims to provide hope for a bright future in North Omaha, Ewing said.
For information on memberships and appointments you can visit gpblackhistorymuseum.org
