Portrait of a City: Lincoln, Nebraska, at the Turn of the Twentieth Century

Lincoln, Nebraska, transformed from a small prairie town to a modern metropolis by the late 19th century due to the Industrial Revolution and increased machine labor. It became a political, educational, and cultural center with three denominational colleges and a state university. Bruce F. Pauley's book "Portrait of a City" explores the changes and challenges of daily life in Lincoln during this period.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 334 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2023
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

The city of Lincoln, Nebraska, experienced a remarkable transformation from a scattered settlement on the open prairie to a bustling modern metropolis by the late nineteenth century. This remarkable shift was driven by the transformative forces of the Industrial Revolution and the increased reliance on machine labor, which had a profound impact on every aspect of daily life. The changes that occurred in a relatively short period of time revolutionized the lives of individuals and communities, altering the way people worked, traveled, educated themselves, enjoyed entertainment, dressed, and sought medical care.

The Lincolnites, driven by a desire to create a more enlightened society, embarked on a remarkable journey beyond the mere expansion of their city. They sought to shape a better future for themselves and their descendants by actively participating in political, educational, and cultural endeavors. By 1910, Lincoln had emerged as a thriving political, educational, and cultural center on the Great Plains. The city boasted three denominational colleges and a state university that had established a national reputation for academic excellence.

The impact of these changes was far-reaching and profound. Homes in Lincoln underwent a remarkable transformation, with modern conveniences such as electricity, running water, and indoor plumbing becoming commonplace. Public transportation systems, including electric streetcars and trolleys, were introduced, making it easier for people to travel across the city and beyond. Education underwent a significant upgrade, with the establishment of new schools, colleges, and universities providing opportunities for a wider range of individuals to pursue knowledge and skills.

The status of women in Lincoln also experienced significant changes. Women gained greater access to education and employment opportunities, challenging traditional gender roles and breaking down barriers to social advancement. Entertainment options in the city expanded, with theaters, music halls, and dance halls hosting a variety of performances and events that catered to different interests and tastes. Fashion trends also changed, with new styles and designs emerging that reflected the changing attitudes and values of the time.

However, the rapid transformation of Lincoln was not without its challenges. The onset of World War I brought about a loss of civil liberties and a sense of uncertainty and fear among the population. The war also had a significant impact on the city's economy, with many businesses and industries shutting down or relocating to other parts of the country. Despite these challenges, Lincolnites remained resilient and determined to overcome adversity.

In conclusion, the transformation of Lincoln, Nebraska, from a scattered settlement to a modern metropolis by the late nineteenth century was a remarkable testament to the power of social and technological change. The changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution and the increased reliance on machine labor had a profound impact on every aspect of daily life, altering the lives of individuals and communities in ways that were previously unimaginable. The Lincolnites, driven by a desire to create a more enlightened society, played a crucial role in shaping the future of their city and beyond. By 1910, Lincoln had emerged as a thriving political, educational, and cultural center on the Great Plains, with a reputation for academic excellence and a commitment to social progress.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496234124