Story #4: The Clubhouse at 56th & Military - A Social Destination
When the Omaha Country Club (OCC) first opened, its clubhouse was more than a golf facility — it was a retreat “in the country” where members gathered to relax, socialize and escape the city.
Designed by architect Thomas Kimball, who was also a charter member of OCC, the clubhouse was described by The Illustrated Bee as medieval in style, reminiscent of the lodges of old Scottish barons. Inside, the grand social room featured a “broad-mouthed fireplace forming an inglenook,” with mounted hunting trophies — deer, moose and coyotes — displayed above the doors and along the walls.
The clubhouse sat at a slight angle near 56th Street and Military Avenue. To the north, a row of support buildings — including the stable, equipment shed and caddie shack — helped shield the clubhouse from the rumble of passing streetcars. The stable housed both the club’s draft horses and the carriages and riding horses of its members.
The Omaha Country Club quickly became one of the city’s favorite social destinations. Members dined, danced, hosted events and enjoyed summer evenings on the porch overlooking the golf course. For more than two decades, “going to the country” meant gathering here — a place where recreation, leisure and community life came together.
Some members even stayed overnight in guest rooms or in nearby summer cottages, further strengthening the bond between the clubhouse, its members and the landscape around it.
Tell us, do you know anyone who was an early member at the Omaha Country Club?
Photo Captions:
A Feb. 24, 1900, article in the Omaha-World Herald announcing the public display of architect Thomas Kimball's sketch of the proposed clubhouse.
Thomas Kimball’s sketch of the proposed clubhouse was published in the Omaha World-Herald's March 4, 1900, edition.
A 1920 photo of the Omaha Country Club clubhouse from the Nebraska State Historical Society - Nathaniel Dewell Collection #83896. The chairs on the porch provided perfect southern views of the scenic golf course.
A June 1920 photo of the Omaha Country Club clubhouse. Notice the cars on the right. From the Durham Museum archives - BF51-005
A July 13,1917 photo of delegates in front of the clubhouse. Photo from the Durham Museum Archives - BF25-326.
Members of the Junior League of Omaha outside the clubhouse on Sept. 1, 1920. Photo courtesy The Durham Museum Archives - BF51-011.
