Noon Day Scandinavian Club of Omaha
The Noon Day Scandinavian Club of Omaha celebrated its 100th year in 2009. This club is the oldest continuously active civic organization in Omaha. It has attracted Swedish members from all over eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. Swedish diplomats, travelers and other noted individuals have been invited to share their insights and knowledge with the club members.
A group of business and professional men of Swedish birth or descent organized the Noon Day Club on April 14, 1909. The club was to be a patriotic and public-spirited organization dedicated to public service and to promoting acquaintances and good fellowship among its members.
Typically, four main events take place each year: Viking Fest, Christmas smörgåsbord, Pea Soup supper, and an annual banquet. Additional programs and events have filled the calendar. The club has granted scholarships to deserving students and given donations to worthy civic organizations and other meritorious causes. In 1977 the club adopted the new name, the Noon Day Scandinavian Club of Omaha to reflect the broadening of the club's horizons, allowing men of all Scandinavian countries to join the organization. And in 1985, the first woman member joined.
Historical records of the Noon Day Scandinavian Club of Omaha are held at the Douglas County Historical Society. The legacy of the organization is captured in these words: It is reassuring to know that much was accomplished over these 100 years for this ethnic group in particular and humankind in general.
Excerpted from The Noon Day Scandinavian Club of Omaha's 100 Years of Celebration by Robert A. Falk and Donald P. Skoog M.D.
December 2009
