Events

Joslyn Castle & Gardens presents Architecture on Tap, a celebration of the historic communities and people that make Omaha unique.

Architecture on Tap is a happy hour history hang-out happening Thursdays in July! Grab a beer from Infusion Brewing Company in the historic Joslyn Castle Carriage House and then settle in for a low-key lecture presented by a local expert.

The story of Benson starts way back in 1887 with Erastus Benson, a land speculator, investor, and philanthropist. He purchased 900 or so acres of land from Edward Creighton, an Omaha businessman. On March 4, 1887, Erastus platted the land and called it Benson Place, later changing it to Benson.

Today, Benson is a creative hub, that comes alive as a night-life destination due to its concentration of restaurants, bars, a theatre, galleries, and music venues. In addition to these creative happenings,the local schools, churches, library, community center, and local residents that keep the neighborhood welcoming and alive.

Our presenters are:

Ryan Reed, Heritage Consulting Group - Ryan is a Project Manager with Heritage Consulting Group specializing in writing National Register nominations and securing historic tax credits for projects big and small across the country. In his spare time Ryan likes making friends with stray cats and roaming graveyards.

Annie Butler, Benson Creative District Director - Annie has served on the board for BFF Omaha (formerly Benson First Friday) since it’s inception in 2012, she has strong ties to both the arts and the Benson community at large.

In her previous role as BFF’s Advocacy chair, she utilized the arts and BFF’s platform to advocate for various social causes. Some of her curated projects include the “Call to Action Phone-Booth,” a temporary public art piece designed to encourage advocacy and communication between citizens and government, and “Voices of Choice”, a project in collaboration with Nebraskans for Abortion Access where artworks by 10 local artists were displayed on billboards across the state. With a background in Sociology, she brings a unique perspective and human approach to place-based economic development.

Architecture on Tap is presented in partnership with Humanities Nebraska and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation, Hanscom Park Studio, and Infusion Brewing Company.

Doors open to the public at 5:30pm, and presentations start at 6pm.

Space is limited! Registration is $10 and this is a 21+ event!