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AK-SAR-BEN BALL ROOM

From 1895 to 1927 the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben had as their headquarters the Ak-Sar-Ben Den at 20th and Burdette. This picture, taken in 1910, shows that building's Ball Room. Until the Den burned down in 1927 it was in this room that the Knights held their annual Coronation Ball, wherein a new King and Queen Ak-Sar-Ben - monarchs for one year of the mythical "Kingdom of Quivira" - were crowned amidst much mock-medieval pageantry.

In Born Rich: A Historical Book of Omaha Margaret Patricia Killian briefly describes the relatively small-scale Coronation Balls held at the Den:

"The Ak-Sar-Ben Ball, which only slightly resembles the elaborate spectacle of today, was a more intimate social event. The old Ak-Sar-Ben Den located on 20th and Lake Streets was, of course, much smaller than Ak-Sar-Ben's present home. Consequently, membership was limited; so members and their families were well-acquainted. The procession and crowning was watched by the members, who stood on either side of the aisle leading to the thrones. Afterwards, a line formed to congratulate the newly crowned heads. The dancing followed. In the early morning hours an elaborate buffet was served; then groups of friends moved on to private mansions or hotels where they could continue the merriment. They consumed breakfasts served until dawn."