Who remembers the slogan, “Just north of the awful tunnel?” In the late 1970’s, Mangelsen’s coined an advertisement phrase that’s stuck around, especially with longtime Omaha residents. In the heart of Omaha, on 84th and I-80, was the awful tunnel most people dreaded, but when you popped through to the other side – an exciting, fun and unique store: Mangelsen’s!
The history that comes with the location and structure of Mangelsen’s in Westgate Plaza in Omaha, NE is impressive. Dating back to 1961, the store first opened as a Ben Franklin, owned by Harold and Berenice Mangelsen along with their four sons Bill, Thomas, David and Hal. The name then changed to HW Mangelsen & Sons in 1971. The unique store has always provided the Omaha community with fun and unusual items you can’t find elsewhere.
In 1993, David Mangelsen took exclusive ownership and the name changed to David M. Mangelsen’s. Shortly after, in 1995 Mangelsen’s Fun Club program initiated the first rewards programs in the Omaha area. Being a part of The Fun Club means for every dollar you spend, Mangelsen’s will give you one ‘fun point’. Points add up, and you can purchase anything within the store with your ‘Fun Money’. As a card carrying member, I’ve used my points toward tons of great gifts and home décor – it’s awesome.
Mangelsen’s has expanded a lot since opening. Currently, their departments range from art supplies to giftware, to year round Christmas and Halloween items to wedding essentials. Also, Custom framing for personal or commercial use is one of their largest departments! Recently, Mangelsen’s opened a new Caspari room, which houses the largest selection of Caspari items. Having grown up with Mangelsen’s down the street, I can personally attest: they have it all.
Mangelsen’s has been a pillar of the Omaha area for many years. One of the aspects the company takes major pride in is giving back to its community. Mangelsen’s has been a sponsor of the decorating and lighting of the Christmas Tree at the Durham, as well as, decorating the Orpheum.
The longevity and flexibility of the business has turned it into an enterprise of fun and excitement for everyone who walks through the door. Being family owned and operated for now 55 years gives the store a one-of-a-kind connection to our city. Need help with putting together a new project or what to get your creative juices flowing? You definitely can’t go wrong at Mangelsen’s!
