Fort Redman

The mid-20th-century housing boom is known for its staggering statistics. Returning U.S. soldiers from WWII topped 16 million. About 6 million of them went off to colleges, universities, or to on-the-job training thanks to the GI bill. That left millions who were ready to buy new homes. Nearly 2.5 million veterans received government-backed home loans, and between 1945 and 1965 almost 30 million new homes were built in America. Developers were so keen to keep up with demand that they took out full-page ads in local papers on a regular basis. Homes in the Meadowbrook subdivision of Fort Redman, a north Omaha neighborhood, were advertised as “real bargains”, touting “the very best of material and construction”, “conventional construction” and “full basements” at a starting price of $8,000. Nearly 1,000 homes were built in the area immediately surrounding 42nd and Sorensen Streets. Fortunately, the surrounding neighborhood grew at a thoughtful pace. While you'll find necessities and luxuries less than a mile from home, the commercial areas are not overly developed, which preserves much of the community's original appeal.

While the residential real estate world has changed enormously in the past 75 years, one thing has come full circle – the popularity of mid-century modern homes. As Will Hagel, Realtor with BHHS Ambassador Real Estate explains, “Besides their great location close to schools, and parks in every direction, another thing that sets north Omaha neighborhoods apart is the prevalence of mid-century modern ranch-style homes and split levels. They are really becoming popular again. Homebuyers are often surprised to find many of them so well-updated or fully renovated.” In Fort Redman, four and five-bedroom ranch-style homes from the 1950s have recently sold for around $215,000. Well-updated, two-story homes from the 1950s with about 1,400 square feet sell from $120,000 to $175,000 depending on the condition and location of the house.

Nearby public schools are highly regarded and long-standing. Founded in 1888, Central Park Elementary is one of the oldest public schools in Omaha. Students who attended its four-room schoolhouse on an acre of land in its early days certainly could not have predicted its future. Today, the school welcomes 350 students into its 20,000-square-foot, two-story complex of red brick and stone. Pre-K through fifth grade is offered and Niche gives it a C-minus ranking. Nathan Hale Magnet offers sixth through eighth grade and has a highly diverse student population. To honor the school’s namesake, the chosen magnet theme is Leadership and Social Justice. Students are encouraged to take on leadership roles in school and in the larger community fulfilling the belief that young people can shape the future of our nation in positive ways. Omaha North Magnet High (also known as North High School) has a B-minus rating from Niche, and focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). It offers numerous clubs, activities, and athletics including football, volleyball, cross country, and softball. North High is one of many historic public schools in the Omaha area and still operates in its original building from 1924.

Parks welcome residents from practically every direction. Norwick Park is quietly tucked away at the southeast corner of the neighborhood and offers three acres of walking paths, open space, a playground and a picnic area. Originally nicknamed “Suburban Dreamland”, Fontenelle Park provides abundant amenities and attractions from fireworks displays and seasonal concerts, to a speaker’s series in the historic pavilion, and fishing in the recently renovated massive lagoon. Its well-appointed 107 acres feature walking trails, tennis courts and two football fields. A sprayground, which is a favorite summer spot for local children on hot days, is a popular attraction.

Urban living offers a wide variety of shopping and dining venues and some of the best are right around the corner. Humble Jumble Thrift Store is a fun vintage venue as well as a community resource of Holy Name Parish. You’ll find everything from clothing and kitchen items to toys and furniture. Urban Casual sells shirts, shoes, hats, sweatshirts and more, and is a popular destination for area students. Southern Spoon, at the corner of Ames Avenue and North 40th Street, is new to the area, but not to cooking homestyle favorites. Its southern classics include fried chicken, barbecued ribs, catfish and cornbread.

Scooter’s Coffee, known for amazingly fast drive-through brews, beans and specialty drinks, is on the corner of Ames and N 30th Street. Aldi, with its low prices on groceries, home goods and seasonal items, is nearby at 30th and Sorensen Parkway. K-N-J grocery store is where to go when you need last-minute staples and local fresh produce.

House hunters in north Omaha have plenty of communities to consider when searching for a mid-century modern home. But when they realize the endless assets of Fort Redman, from great schools and conveniences to easy accessibility to downtown, this neighborhood may start to look a lot like home.

Written By

Sarah Albiston

Photography Contributed By

Dylan Stowell

Video By

Luke Basinger