Little Bohemia is one of our favorite Omaha neighborhoods, offering a storied history, a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, and a rich artistic footprint defined by the murals and architectural quirks lining 13th Street. For this month’s Morgan Memo, we’re sharing a deep-dive into some of the lesser-known neighborhood history that helps shape its unique personality to this day.
Czechoslovakian Immigration
Many Czechoslovakian immigrants coming to America landed on 13th Street, infusing their cultural roots into the area and bringing about the nickname “Little Bohemia.” Families would build their businesses and, often times, multiple houses on one lot, forming the unique lot lines, architectural style, and density that remain a defining feature of the neighborhood.
Raising 13th Street
Between the 1880s and 1920s, much of Omaha’s downtown was subject to transformational re-grading in hopes of easing some of the burden that the steep bluffs and hills placed on transportation. 13th Street was raised by one level as a part of this effort, as its role connecting South and Downtown Omaha earned its place on the 1888 electric streetcar route.
Murals
In 2017, PJ Morgan Real Estate partnered with Amplify Arts to commission two murals and a sculptural installation in an effort to invite increased foot traffic to the area. The call for artists was met with over 40 submissions, proving the bubbling interest in a new artistic haven in Omaha.
Over the past ten years, the revitalization of Little Bohemia has helped to preserve and highlight much of this history, along with bringing new life to the neighborhood. Little Bo holds a special place in our heart at PJ Morgan Real Estate, as we’ve been involved in the development of the area for over ten years. From the beginning, we knew this stretch of 13th Street was special. One of our favorite parts about watching its growth is seeing Omahans discover Little Bohemia as their new favorite neighborhood.
Spring is the perfect time to stroll down 13th Street. While you’re there, check out some of our favorites!
- Fizzy’s Fountain and Liquors
- Platypus
- Tiny House
- Masa Luna
- Dusk Goods & Gift
- Pop Fiction Bookstore
- The Green House
- Archetype Coffee
- Fontenelle Supply Co.
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