Downtown Lincoln’s Music District, stretching along 14th Street between “O” and “P” streets, now has a new honorary name.
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird was joined by community members Thursday to recognize this block as “Boehmer Street,” honor the longtime owner of the city’s legendary Zoo Bar, Larry Boehmer.
Boehmer bartended, managed and owned the Zoo Bar (136 N. 14th St.) from 1977 until his retirement in 2000. The blues venue on 14th Street hosted thousands of bands during those years, including legends like Magic Slim, Charlie Musselwhite, Robert Cray, KoKo Taylor and Matt Guitar Murphy.
In addition to running the club, Boehmer played bass for The Heartmurmurs, The Tablerockers and Not All There. Boehmer died September 4, 2012.
City officials also announced the installation of commemorative signs in tribute to Boehmer to be permanently displayed in the district. The announcement coincides with ZooFest music festival, July 11 through 12, and is part of the City’s strategy to elevate Lincoln’s cultural and economic vitality through the cultivation of a music district.
“Boehmer Street reflects the lively music scene that has long shaped Lincoln’s unique sound and spirit. As we build on that legacy, Boehmer Street will amplify our cultural assets, drive economic growth, and boost tourism – all while staying true to the unique spirit of its namesake,” Mayor Gaylor Baird said.
Stefanie Ortiz-Cidlik, Boehmer’s daughter, recalled her father loving all kinds of music, as well as the blues, which fueled his efforts as a business owner and community member.
“What a gift it has been to have a role model who took his passion for music and created what is now a staple in Lincoln, and something that is known worldwide,” Ortiz-Cidlik said. “He understood and recognized the value that a thriving music industry can have on a community.”
Todd Ogden, President of the Downtown Lincoln Association, thanked area business owners and music fans for their decades of work and support to establish and keep the Lincoln music scene alive. A special place deserves a distinct name, Ogden said, and simply calling 14th Street the “Music District” would be unfitting because “that could be anywhere.”
“Boehmer Street can only be here,” Ogden said.
Courtesy: The City of Lincoln