The Library/Archives holds a small collection of papers and publications relating to the Advertising-Selling League of Omaha. Included in the collection are pamphlets, newsletters, correspondence, event programs, etc. The organization was established in 1920 as a means for businessmen who bought or sold advertising to gather, make connections and discuss various business opportunities.
Advertising-Selling League of Omaha brochure (RG3578)
Advertising-Selling League of Omaha brochure interior (RG3578)
As membership grew, the League started to bring in new speakers each week. At first, the speakers were mainly leaders in business and industry. The popularity of the League increased, and the speakers series expanded to include authors, artists, politicians, and professional athletes. Here is an article from the League’s newsletter regarding a talk by William Jennings Bryan.
Article about William Jennings Bryan (RG3578)
The collection includes several letters from William Jennings Bryan to the League.
Letter from William Jennings Bryan to the League (RG3578)
By 1927, with a membership of over 1,400, the Advertising-Selling League of Omaha was the largest business club in the United States. Speakers Series programs in the collection show that some of the other noted speakers that came to Omaha included coaching legend Knute Rockne, Prince William of Sweden, and noted adventurer Richard Halliburton.
For more information about the collection, contact the Library/Archives Division.
-Tom Mooney, Curator of Manuscripts
Can you provide information on the appearance by Knute Rockne? Im trying to track down information about his visit to Omaha in 1930, including a possible stop at the University of Omaha.
Anthony,
Knute Rockne is listed in the 1930 season program of the Advertising-Selling League, but it doesn’t give an actual date of his appearance. The meetings were held on Mondays from Sept. 12-May 14. You might be able to find an article about it in the Omaha newspaper, but you would have to search through several months of newspapers on microfilm. I’m sorry I couldn’t be of more help.
Sincerely,
Tom Mooney