In 1898, citizens of thirty-five Native American nations arrived in present-day North Omaha to attend the Indian Congress, a convening that coincided with the Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition. During this historic gathering, photographer Frank Rinehart (1861–1928) created portraits of Indian Congress members, now part of Omaha Public Library’s archive (accessible online). These photographs, complete with individuals’ names and tribal affiliations, are an invaluable record of delegation members and their families.

Please join us on September 21 for an engaging public program recognizing the 125th anniversary of the Indian Congress with selected images by Rinehart on view at the event. Panelists will discuss the importance of documenting family history and cultural traditions.

Documenting Family History Now coincides with the 32nd Annual Fort Omaha Intertribal Powwow on Saturday, September 23 (Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha Campus, 5300 N. 30th Street).