Husker fans gather outside the Hotel Lincoln the night of Nov. 14, 1930 ahead of a Big Six football matchup between Nebraska U and Missouri. The game would end up being a 0-0 tie.

In the early 1900s rallies accompanying University events happened frequently and often included areas adjacent to campus. Organized or spontaneous parades saw Nebraska U teams off at the railroad depot or welcomed them home from away games. Sports, especially football, commonly prompted rallies, but supporters also gathered to celebrate and raise team spirit before events like debate competitions.

Located at 9th and P Streets, Hotel Lincoln offered lodging for six dollars a week in the early 1930s. During football season, advertisements proclaimed every room was equipped with a private radio, allowing guests to listen to broadcasts “direct from the playing field.” On May 17, 1934, the Daily Nebraskan reported on a rally for the Big Six track meet with a parade from fraternity row to Hotel Lincoln, where the conference track teams were staying.

University Archives and Special Collections

Uncropped version of the Lincoln Hotel rally photo. Click to enlarge.

“From the Archives” is a weekly feature in Nebraska Today. Images are provided by Traci Robison, outreach archivist and assistant professor of practice with Archives and Special Collections in the University Libraries. Explore the Archives and Special Collections online. For more information, contact Troy Fedderson at tfedderson2@unl.edu or 402-472-8515.