Celebrate The Durham Museum’s 50th Anniversary June 28

Fifty years ago, Omaha faced a dilemma: what to do with the once-grand but now-abandoned Union Station—considered by some a “white elephant.” The building sat empty and deteriorating, and demolition loomed. But a small group of passionate dreamers stepped in, saved Union Station and reopened it as a beloved community museum.

On Saturday, June 28 from 10AM-4PM, The Durham Museum will celebrate this extraordinary milestone with free admission and a full day of special activities. The community is invited for live music, throwback prices on classic Soda Fountain snacks and guided tours that highlight cornerstone pieces in the museum’s collection. A community memory wall will be available for visitors to share their favorite Durham Museum memories —from field trips to weddings and even singing by the Christmas tree. Make new memories strolling through vintage passenger trains still sitting on the original tracks and take in the museum’s fun-filled summer exhibition, Animation Academy: From Pencils to Pixels.

“I’m deeply grateful for the vision and tenacity of those who saved this incredible building and created an impactful history museum for our community,” Executive Director Christi Janssen said “It’s an honor to contribute to The Durham Museum’s legacy, becoming a Smithsonian Affiliate, gaining National Historic Landmark status for Union Station and growing a national traveling exhibition program.”

The museum’s story is one of resilience, generosity and a little bit of luck. In its first year, staff famously recruited bystanders to help carry in a Christmas tree, reviving a tradition that lives on today. In 1977, a generous donation launched the Photo Archive, which now holds over 1 million images chronicling more than 150 years of history. In 1982, dedicated volunteers restored the original 1931 Soda Fountain, bringing back a beloved centerpiece. And between 1995 and 1997, the museum completed a full restoration of the Suzanne and Walter Scott Great Hall, returning it to its original Art Deco grandeur.

Join The Durham Museum on Saturday, June 28, for a free admission day celebrating 50 years of volunteers, passionate staff and generous supporters that saved Omaha’s Union Station from the wrecking ball. For more information visit DurhamMuseum.org.