Sarah Joslyn gave $3 million to build a 155,000-square-foot memorial to her late husband, George. She labeled it simply a home for Omaha’s arts community. On Nov. 29, 1931, what was then called Joslyn Memorial opened to the public.
Sheritha Jones Omaha World-Herald Chief Librarian
The memorial — now named the Joslyn Art Museum — has transcended its patron’s intent and emerged as the area’s largest and most comprehensive visual arts center.
Paintings and sculpture had a place at Joslyn, but its music-loving patron saw the 1,000-seat concert hall as the building’s crown jewel.
Over the years the Joslyn has housed the area’s largest exhibits of eclectic artwork, including pieces from most major eras and movements.
Did you know that the museum has been hosting major traveling art and history exhibits since the 1960s?
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Even though it has grown beyond Sarah Joslyn’s mission, the museum is still motivated by her vision and philanthropy, as well as the philanthropy of others over the years.
Let’s reminisce on a museum that exhibits high-end attractions that are truly for everyone.
1982: A Bagels and Bach concert takes place in Joslyn’s Fountain Court. The classical music concert series, which included a light brunch of bagels and toppings, was held on the first Sunday of the month for more than 25 years.
1930s: Joslyn Memorial Building during the 1930s.
1953: Five-year-old Joanne Lacey at the Joslyn Art Museum.
1929: This photo, dated Aug. 1, shows the girders of the concert hall going into place at the Joslyn Memorial Art Museum. Omaha Central High is in the background.
2011: From left Mike and Sandra Wiese, along with their children Jackson, 7, and Marissa, 5, admire a Dale Chihuly piece in the atrium of the Joslyn Museum.
1954: Emmy Gifford and actresses Alison Teal, Ann Kennedy and Mary Campbell in costume for the Omaha Junior League’s production of “Grandmother’s Magic Clock” at the Joslyn Concert Hall.
2002: The Walter & Suzanne Scott Pavilion at the Joslyn Art Museum.
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