Early Omaha: Gateway to the West
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RIVERVIEW PARK

In keeping with H.W.S. Cleveland’s philosophy that parkland should be secured before city growth reaches the area, Park Commissioners selected a parcel of land along the Missouri River between Omaha and South Omaha. The property was so hilly that “the land could not support a table on four legs” (City of Omaha Planning Dept., p. 16). Problems arose with landowners over purchase and the city acquired 111.57 acres by condemnation proceedings between 1893 and 1899 for $90,053.50. From 1899 to 1917,the city spent $125,000 for improvements and maintenance (Wakeley, p. 161).

Present boundaries of the park are Interstate 80, Riverview Blvd, and Grover street on the north and east. Gifford Drive and railroad tracks on the south and 10th street on the west.

The spectacular vistas of the Missouri River gave the park its name. Cleveland was unsure about incorporating the terrain of the land into a workable park. H.W.S. Cleveland’s health failed before he could begin work. Park Superintendent W.R. Adams completed the plans which included a lagoon and scenic drives.

Almost from the beginning, Riverview Park has had an association with animals. In 1896, park officials added a collection of animals to the park. A moose was bought for $150, a bear for $25 and fish were moved in for $1.00 (City Planning Dept., p. 18). In 1964, the park was leased to the Omaha Zoological Society as the site for Henry Doorly Zoo.

City of Omaha Planning Dept. Omaha’s Historic Park and Boulevard System. March 1992. Pages 16-18.

Wakeley, Arthur. Omaha: the Gate City. Chicago: S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1917. Page 161.