Raven Oaks

When developers leave no clues explaining the naming of modern neighborhoods, history-lovers go where fools fear to tread. At least that’s what one will find while searching for the meaning behind the naming of Raven Oaks, a neighborhood located less than a mile from historic Winter Quarters. Many have sought a connection between the tragedy of Winter Quarters and the small north Omaha community. Winter Quarters was a hastily built encampment along the Missouri River for about 2,500 members of the Mormon Church who decided to wait through the winter of 1846 there, instead of proceeding toward the Utah Territory. Unexpected harsh weather met them anyway in Nebraska and over 600 Mormon pioneers died due to cold, starvation and disease.

While there are endless interpretations for the presence of ravens in a particular area, the most common ones include adaptability, guidance and transformation. And, while the presence of ravens is not reported in this tragic tale, historians and history buffs continue to ponder whether or not North Omaha ravens embody the spirit of the pioneers of 1846. Or perhaps they just favor the somewhat heavily wooded area, as many homeseekers do, too. Today, you can find expansive brick one-story executive villas on more than an acre for around $400,000. Five-bedroom ranch-style homes with more than 3,000 square feet sell for around $500,000. Warren Wood, Realtor with The Rensch Group/NP Dodge Real Estate, summarizes Raven Oaks’ assets, “As homes here were built in the 1950s and’60s, there are large lots, lots of trees and a lot more privacy than in other west Omaha neighborhoods. Price points vary, which gives buyers who love the location, more choices.” Homes in Raven Oaks will range from $400,000 to well over $1 million.

Nearby schools are well-regarded. Springville Elementary offers pre-k through fifth grade and has a C-plus rating from Niche. 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. Niche gives Omaha Northwest Magnet High an overall C grade. Its popular Freshman Academy helps students plan for success throughout high school. It also offers more than 40 honors programs.

Less than a mile west is Omaha Country Club, an enduring fixture in the west Omaha community since 1899. As a well-known and well-respected golf club, it has twice hosted the U.S. Senior Open over the past 10 years. About two miles northeast is popular N.P. Dodge Park, located along the shores of the Missouri River. It offers 445 acres of fishing, water skiing, boating and hiking throughout its riparian forests.

The Cabin Bar & Grill offers certified Angus Beef burgers and is a popular place in north Omaha for events and parties. Finicky Franks’ tagline tells it like it is “Fresh. Flavorful. Finicky.” Since 2007 they’ve dedicated their restaurant to offering innovative, fresh and creative dishes. Perhaps echoing the spirit of westward traveling pioneers, The Big Garden offers warm-weather farm stands while helping food-insecure areas in Omaha build community gardens. Baker’s has fresh produce, meats, seafood and a notable bakery.

Sorensen Park Plaza offers more than 20 stores and restaurants from Target and PetSmart to Vaiv Apparel and Ross Dress for Less. Several grocery stores are nearby as well. New Lifestyle Asian Market offers fresh foods and hard-to-find staples, sauces and spices. Baker’s supermarket has everything your new kitchen will need, plus a pharmacy and a garden center.

With abundant home choices and nearby schools, shopping, parks and dining, your dreams may come to roost, happily, in Raven Oaks.

Written By

Sarah Albiston

Photography Contributed By

Dylan Stowell

Video By

Zack Kojoyian