At the turn of the 20th century, the Omaha Club was the most historically significant social club in the
City of Omaha, having entertained many prominent guests including
Winfield Scott Schley,
Fitzhugh Lee, and
John Coalter Bates.
Architectural features The Omaha Club building was three stories in height plus a basement and constructed of St Louis cream-colored brick with
terra cotta trim. A billiard room, library, and reading room were in the basement. The upper floors featured large dining areas, private apartments, and an outdoor smoking terrace. The finishes were exquisite. Lavatories and floors were laid in
Carrara marble.
Wainscoting in the main dining room was of old cherry and sycamore wood. Three private dining rooms were finished in solid cherry, gum wood, and red birch. The third floor held ten sleeping rooms for use by members who desired to make their homes at the club. While dining at the club during his one-day visit on September 20, 1909,
William Howard Taft made a special request for a truce in a contentious strike by street railway employees. Appearing before the
American Legion convention in Omaha on October 6, 1925, President
Calvin Coolidge protested against "militarism" and urged, "tolerance in American life and regard for differences in creeds, races and religions." Nebraska's only native to become president of the United States
Gerald R. Ford personally dedicated his birth site to the people of Omaha on September 21, 1977, followed by dinner with civic leaders at the Omaha Club. ==Membership==