History

The AK-SAR-BEN Story by Arvid E. Nelson, Jr.

Late Twenties - Omaha was proud of the fact that it rated second in the world as a meat-packing center. The Livestock and Horse Show had been a dream of the Ak-Sar-Ben Governors for many years.

1927 - The financial success of the June race meet, the decision to hold a National Livestock Show and immediate construction of a new Coliseum signified continued progress of the AK-SAR-BEN Exposition Company, a non-profit organization.

1928 - Outstanding recognition was given the Ak-Sar-Ben Exposition Company when the federal government classified it as an educational institution because of its livestock and agricultural activities enabling it to become exempt from federal income tax.

1928 - October 12th the Ak-Sar-Ben Coliseum was opened to the public at the Ak-Sar-Bent Exposition Grounds.

1928 - November 3rd - 9th - first annual Ak-Sar-Ben Horse and Livestock Show. In place of the annual street parades and carnivals which entertained Ak-Sar-Ben visitors for more than 30 years, the Livestock Show was an innovation introduced with much pomp and ceremony.

1930s - Omaha World Herald article with photographs

1951 - 4-Hers parade their entries in the livestock show, which saw nearly 900 beef cattle on display. Photo from OWH archives