Unexpected Histories at the Durham Museum

December 16th, 2025

Standing in the Durham Museum’s Great Hall, it is easy to feel the weight of Union Station’s history. This winter, the museum brings that past to life through exhibitions that reveal unexpected chapters of Omaha’s story, all housed within its exhibition halls.

One of those stories unfolds through Omaha’s Hat Trick, Knights, Lancers, and Mavericks, an exhibition that explores the city’s surprisingly deep connection to hockey. Scott Eastman, the Durham Museum’s Director of Marketing and PR, says the exhibit challenges long held assumptions about Nebraska’s relationship with the sport.

“So Omaha has an incredible hockey history,” Eastman says. “We had a pro team starting in the 1930s. The Knights no longer survive today, but they were succeeded by the Mavericks and the Lancers. We pulled artifacts and stories from the local hockey community to tell Omaha’s own hockey history. One of the most amazing discoveries was learning that Omaha had such high attendance in the 1950s that it was considered for an NHL expansion team.”

The exhibition pairs locally curated artifacts and stories with a nationally touring interactive hockey exhibition, creating a hands on experience for visitors. The revelation surprises even lifelong Omahans, including Eastman himself.

And while hockey may not appeal to everyone at first glance, the enthusiasm surrounding the sport is hard to ignore. As one visitor notes, even without being a devoted sports fan, live hockey culture stands out for its energy, traditions, and passionate crowds.

Hockey, however, is only part of the Durham’s winter offerings. Just steps away, another exhibition tells a very different story, one rooted in pageantry, philanthropy, and fashion. Woven with History, Timeless Textiles from the Ak Sar Ben Collection showcases 130 years of elaborate coronation gowns connected to one of Omaha’s most influential civic organizations.

“This is the Ak Sar Ben Foundation, a philanthropic group that is more than 130 years old,” Eastman explains. “The pageantry was absolutely spectacular. What’s fascinating is that these events took place at the Ak Sar Ben Coliseum, the same space where hockey was played. The transformation was incredible, and the designers represented here are truly high caliber.”

Among the gowns are designs by Ann Lowe, who would later create Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress. Many of the garments are rarely displayed due to their delicate condition. The exhibition also features photographs of all 130 Ak Sar Ben queens, offering visitors a visual timeline that connects personal memories with Omaha’s broader civic history.

The Ak Sar Ben Foundation originally formed to elevate Omaha’s national profile, most notably by bringing the Trans Mississippi World Exposition to the city. Together, these two exhibitions highlight how entertainment, sports, fashion, and philanthropy helped shape Omaha’s identity.

Even for those who are not drawn to sports or fashion, these exhibitions offer a meaningful look at the city’s past and the many ways public spaces have brought people together. Both hockey exhibitions remain on view through January 11, making them a timely destination for holiday visitors and locals alike.

More information about current exhibitions and upcoming events is available at durhammuseum.org.