Current ExhibitS
NATURE’S WRATH: The 1975 TORNADO
NOW-AUGUST 3, 2025
The Durham Museum Photo Archive, The Omaha Sun Collection, 35mm-15302-003, 1975
Fifty years ago, two days of intense storms hit the Midwest. On May 6, 1975, the air was humid and the skies continued to darken in Omaha. The first report of tornado sightings came just after 4PM. By 5PM, the twister had dispersed and significant damage had taken place within that hour.
Photographers captured moments such as the tornado’s approach, seen best through winner’s circle photos taken from the Ak-Sar-Ben racetrack, and the destruction left behind. What they also captured, however, were the citizens and first responders out on the streets assisting wherever possible. Using images from the Photo Archive, see the impact of this storm from different viewpoints and a community coming together in its aftermath.
Research assistance was provided by The Durham Museum intern, Olivia Fiore, University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduate.
OMAHA’s WORLD’S FAIR OF AVIATION, 1946
NOW-SEPTEMBER 7, 2025
The Durham Museum Photo Archive, John Savage Collection, JS16-005
Omaha’s Offutt Field hosted the World’s Fair of Aviation in July 1946. With an event anticipated to be “the biggest thing that Omaha has done since the Trans-Mississippi Exposition,” the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben stepped up as a sponsor to accomplish the task. The event included an indoor exhibit space of 120,000 square feet and also featured air shows with a wide range of military aircraft. In terms of attendance, anywhere from 80,000 to over 100,000 people experienced this incredible local spectacle.”
This nine-photo display features images ranging from a German V-2 rocket and “Flying Boxcar” aircraft to the opening ceremony’s ribbon cutting, and was curated by The Durham Museum intern, Mina Bussa, University of Nebraska at Omaha student.
REDEFINING BALANCE: THE IMPEACHMENT OF JUSTICE SAMUEL CHASE
NOW – NOVEMBER 2, 2025
As the United States approached its 30th birthday in 1804, the nation’s leaders faced various challenges of running a young country. There were two political parties, the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans, competing for influence in government positions and a notable impeachment that set a precedent for the checks and balances between government branches. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Chase was the first, and only, Supreme Court Justice impeached by Congress, though he was acquitted of all charges. To learn how it played out, visit this display and view items from the Byron Reed Collection that are connected to this decisive trial.
Research assistance was provided by The Durham Museum intern, Griffin Saunders, University of Nebraska-Omaha graduate.
ADMISSION
Adults: $15*
Seniors (62+): $12*
Military/Veteran: $12*
Children (ages 3 – 12): $8*
*PLUS TAX
Children 2 years and under FREE
Members: FREE!
BOOK YOUR TICKET »
Advance reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.
Members, your free admission discount is applied near the end of the online registration process.
