Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska state, founded in 1854 and named after the native American tribe. Since its founding, Omaha has been regional manufacturing, transportation, and trade hub of Nebraska. In the 1880s, Omaha was said to be the fastest-growing city in the United States and emerged as the top livestock markets in the world and leader in the meat-processing industry. Thousands of immigrants came to work in the Union Stockyards and slaughterhouses of South Omaha. The 20th century began with raid development, cultural growth, and population growth. Several new residents established communities throughout the city. Omaha was hit hard by the Great Depression; however, the federal government provided relief to the city and funded vital public projects. By the 1950s, Omaha surpassed Chicago as the world’s top livestock market. The stockyards closed in 1999, but meatpacking remained a significant part of the local economy.

Here below are some historical photos of Omaha from the 1930s that capture streets, roads, cityscapes, landmarks, and everyday life.