Lincoln history

The history of Lincoln began in 1856, when a humble settlement named Lancaster was founded on these lands. Initially, it consisted of a few houses built of sod and was situated in an area rich in salt flats. By 1859, Lancaster had already received the status of the administrative centre of the county bearing the same name.

A turning point in the city's history occurred when the need arose to move the capital of the Nebraska Territory from Omaha to a location south of the Platte River. The choice fell upon the village of Lancaster. In 1867, shortly before Nebraska's admission to the United States, a decision was made to rename the settlement Lincoln in honour of the 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, who had been assassinated two years earlier. This move, proposed by political circles in Omaha in hopes of halting the capital's relocation, ultimately failed, and Lincoln officially became the capital of the new state.

Capital status provided a powerful impetus for the city's development. By 1870, a railway line had been laid to Lincoln, facilitating an influx of new settlers and the development of trade. The University of Nebraska, founded in 1869, quickly transformed the city into an important educational and cultural centre of the state. The economy of early Lincoln relied on servicing government needs, agriculture, and transport, laying the foundation for its future growth and prosperity.

1856 — The settlement of Lancaster is founded, marking the beginning of the future state capital.

1859 — Lancaster officially becomes the administrative centre of the county of the same name.

1862 — The passing of the Homestead Act promotes the active settlement of surrounding territories by farmers.

1867 — The settlement is renamed Lincoln and chosen as the capital of the new state of Nebraska.

1869 — Lincoln receives city status, and the University of Nebraska is founded within it.

1870 — The first railway reaches the city, providing a powerful impulse for its economic growth and population increase.

1888 — Construction is completed on the second State Capitol building, replacing the original one which had fallen into disrepair.

1911 — The Omaha-Lincoln-Denver (O-L-D) Highway passes through the city, improving transport connections.

1922 — Construction begins on the current, third Nebraska State Capitol building, famous for its unique tower design.

1961 — A section of the Interstate 80 (I-80) motorway opens, directly connecting Lincoln with Omaha.

1965 — The Lincoln Children's Zoo opens, becoming a popular destination for family leisure.

1975 — Helen Boosalis is elected mayor, becoming the first woman to lead the city.

1982 — The historic Haymarket District receives protected status, marking the beginning of its successful revival.

Key Stages of Lincoln's Development

Acquiring Capital Status (1867). This decision became the main catalyst for the city's growth. Moving the capital from Omaha to Lincoln attracted government institutions, officials, and investment, laying the foundation for future economic and social development.

Transport and Educational Hub (1869–1870s). Two key events occurred in the city almost simultaneously: the railway was laid, and the University of Nebraska was founded. The railway integrated Lincoln into the national economy, whilst the university quickly turned it into a significant educational and cultural centre for the state.

Construction of the Skyscraper Capitol (1922–1932). The erection of the current Capitol building became a landmark urban planning and architectural project. Its unique tower design, nicknamed the "Tower of the Plains", not only created a recognisable city skyline but also symbolised the ambitions and progress of Nebraska.

Development of the Modern Transport Network (1960s). The construction of the Interstate 80 (I-80) motorway, connecting Lincoln with Omaha and integrating the city into the national system of express highways, gave new impetus to the development of logistics, trade, and industry.

Revival of the Haymarket District (1980s). The successful transformation of old industrial warehouses in the historic Haymarket District into a lively cultural and commercial quarter is a prime example of astute urban planning. This allowed for the preservation of historical heritage while creating a popular place for leisure and business.

Growth of the Technology Sector and Services (Late 20th – Early 21st Century). The city's economy diversified thanks to the active growth of IT companies, making Lincoln part of the so-called "Silicon Prairie". Alongside technology, the healthcare, insurance, and financial services sectors became powerful economic drivers.

The architectural appearance of Lincoln reflects its history as a state capital that has developed since the late 19th century. The city lacks a single dominant style; instead, one can identify several key stages that formed its modern look — from Victorian structures to modern complexes.

Late 19th Century: Victorian Era and Renaissance

Lincoln's early urban development is linked to its founding and rapid growth after receiving capital status. During this period, styles characteristic of American cities of that time prevailed. In historic residential neighbourhoods, such as Near South, examples of Victorian architecture and the Queen Anne style are still preserved today. At the same time, the Renaissance Revival style was often chosen for public buildings, an example of which was the second State Capitol, built in the 1880s. Distinct elements of this era can be seen in the historic Haymarket District, where industrial brick warehouses from the late 19th century have been carefully restored and turned into a vibrant commercial and cultural quarter.

Early 20th Century: The Era of Art Deco and Neoclassicism

The most iconic architectural symbol of Lincoln and the entire state is the Nebraska State Capitol, built between 1922 and 1932. Designed by architect Bertram Goodhue, it represents a unique combination of Art Deco, Neo-Gothic, and Neo-Byzantine motifs. Its 121-metre tower, crowned by "The Sower" statue, became the first example of a skyscraper capitol in the USA and defined the vertical dominance of the urban landscape. This building is a National Historic Landmark and one of the most outstanding architectural structures in the country.

Mid-20th Century: The Triumph of Modernism

In the post-war period, modernism spread in Lincoln, as it did in many American cities. The brightest example of this style is the Sheldon Museum of Art on the University of Nebraska campus. Designed by the famous architect Philip Johnson and opened in 1963, the Italian travertine building is a model of the International Style. Its strict geometry, minimalist façade, and thoughtful use of light make it an architectural gem.

Modern Stage: Postmodernism and New Forms

Since the end of the 20th century, urban development has focused on renewing central districts and constructing large public facilities. Elements of Postmodernism and High-tech architecture began to appear. An example of contemporary architecture is the multi-functional Pinnacle Bank Arena, opened in 2013. This complex, which has become a new hub for the city's sports and cultural life, demonstrates modern approaches to designing large public spaces, combining functionality with an expressive futuristic design.

Distinguished Figures in Lincoln's History

Lincoln, the capital of Nebraska, has been the birthplace or a significant stage in life for many famous figures across various fields — from politics and military affairs to literature and art. These individuals have left a notable mark not only on the city's history but also on the national and global stage.

William Jennings Bryan (1860–1925)

Role: Politician, orator, US Secretary of State.

One of the most influential politicians of his time, Bryan was a three-time presidential nominee for the Democratic Party. Although he never held the highest office, his ideas and fiery speeches had a tremendous influence on American politics. He moved to Lincoln in 1887, and it was from here that his brilliant political career began. His former home in Lincoln, "Fairview", is a historic landmark.

John Pershing (1860–1948)

Role: General of the Armies of the United States.

An outstanding military commander who led the American Expeditionary Forces during the First World War. Before his high-profile military career, in the 1890s, Pershing served as a Professor of Military Science and Tactics at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. Here, he also earned a law degree and laid the foundations for his future fame by organising an elite drill unit known as the "Pershing Rifles".

Charles Gates Dawes (1865–1951)

Role: 30th Vice President of the USA, Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

Before reaching heights in national politics, Dawes began his career as a lawyer right here in Lincoln, where he practised from 1887 to 1894. His work on the reparation plan for Germany after World War I (the Dawes Plan) earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1925, the same year he became Vice President under Calvin Coolidge.

Ted Sorensen (1928–2010)

Role: Advisor and speechwriter to President John F. Kennedy.

A native of Lincoln, Sorensen was one of the key figures in the Kennedy administration. He is often called the President's "intellectual alter ego", as he penned many of Kennedy's famous speeches, including the Inaugural Address. Sorensen graduated from Lincoln High School and the University of Nebraska, and his connection to the city remained an important part of his identity.

Dick Cheney (born 1941)

Role: 46th Vice President of the USA.

Richard "Dick" Cheney, one of the most influential figures in modern American politics, was born in Lincoln. Although his family later moved to Wyoming, where his political career began, his life's journey started in the Nebraska capital. He served as Vice President in the administration of George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009.

Hilary Swank (born 1974)

Role: Actress, two-time Academy Award winner.

One of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation, Hilary Swank was born in Lincoln. She received widespread recognition and two Oscars for Best Actress in the films "Boys Don't Cry" (1999) and "Million Dollar Baby" (2004). Her career is a shining example of talent originating from the heart of America.

Ashley Graham (born 1987)

Role: Supermodel, body positivity activist.

A native of Lincoln, Ashley Graham has become one of the most famous and influential models in the world, changing fashion industry standards. She was the first plus-size model to appear on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and actively advocates for body acceptance and diversity in media.