Memorial Park

Memorial Park. . Omaha's Memorial Park honors men and women who served in the US military. The 65-acre park was constructed to symbolize the community's gratitude to Douglas County veterans and those killed while fighting for freedom in World War II. The purpose of Memorial Park has broadened to also recognize the service and sacrifice of veterans in more recent conflicts., Preparations for a memorial park began in 1944 while World War II was ongoing, and its outcome unknown. The World War II Memorial Association was formed, and it acquired the old Dundee Golf Course property for the park and commissioned architectural plans for the shrine and park., Some features in the original plan were not constructed, including the bandshell and many of the display plantings. In 1959, the Omaha Rose Society planted a formal rose garden, where a peony garden was originally planned. Additional monuments and sculptures honoring men and women of the armed forces have been added. A pedestrian bridge over Dodge Street, providing a safe connection with Elmwood Park, was completed in 1968., Memorial Park is a popular spot for kite-flying, picnicking, sledding, dog-walking, and people-watching. Public events include military ceremonies and celebrations like the City of Omaha Celebrates America Concert and Fireworks show., Portion of the 1946 concept plan. Omaha Parks and Recreation , The 1946 Memorial Park plan designed by Leo A Daly Company of Omaha included a memorial shrine framed by towering pines, reflecting pool, formal gardens, and turf lawn. It also proposed a theater garden with stage and bandshell, flowering trees and shrubs throughout the park, and paved paths. , On a summer evening in Memorial Park, thousands of people gather to experience the annual City of Omaha Celebrates America Concert and Fireworks program. The show is free and open to the public., Advanced Aerial Solutions, Photo by Dennis E. Bryers, FASLA, PLA , The Memorial Park Rose Garden was planted by Omaha Rose Society volunteers, and its members assist with planting, pruning and winter care in the garden. In the center of the garden is ASCENSION, a sculpture by Jake Balcom., Omaha World Herald Digital Archive , A memorial honoring World War II service men and women was suggested by Mrs. J.W. (Lulu) Broad, owner of the Gypsy Tea Shop. The World War II Memorial Committee raised over $250,000 from small and large donations to implement the idea.