By John Schleicher
As students and faculty return to the campus for the start of the new academic year, parking can sometimes become an issue. As with most academic institutions, getting that ideal parking spot just does not happen every time.
Among the many historical images of the UNMC campus is this view from 1927, showing Unit I and Unit II of University Hospital, looking to the south/southwest. If you were standing in this spot today, Wittson Hall would be to the left (east) side, with Eppley Science Hall to the north, behind the photographer.
The Dean’s office for the College of Medicine was then located on the second floor in the front wing of the hospital (to the far left in this photo). At the time, the Dean also served as the Superintendent of the hospital. Among the various vintage automobiles in this scene would be the cars of faculty and administrative staff. Of course, not as many students had cars at that time, relying on Omaha’s street car system to get around, or living close enough to campus to walk.
So, as you search for that ideal parking spot today, remember that parking has been an issue for nearly the entire history of our campus!