l rubber products, motorcycles, watercraft, software, scientific instruments, wireless communication equipment, electrical products, construction materials, turf maintenance equipment, bricks, and pharmaceuticals. Of economic significance is Lincoln’s growth as an insurance centre, with dozens of firms having home offices there. Aviation services, communication technology, railroading, business services, medical research, and printing are also important. Government-operated institutions, including several correctional facilities, also contribute to the economy.
Educational institutions include the University of Nebraska (1869), Union College (1891; Seventh-day Adventist), Nebraska Wesleyan University (1887; Methodist), and a campus of Southeast Community College (1973). There are also several notable museums and art galleries on the grounds of the University of Nebraska. The Nebraska Art Association, the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra, and the Lincoln Community Playhouse provide cultural opportunities. The state capitol, completed in 1932 and Lincoln’s third, was designed by U.S. architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue; its central tower, rising 400 feet (120 metres) from a massive three-story base, is a highly visible landmark. The legislature that meets there became unicameral in 1937 (unique in the United States).
In the early 20th century the political life of the city was dominated by William Jennings Bryan, who lived there from 1887 to 1921. As a young lawyer, Bryan entered politics and went to Congress (1890) from Lincoln, where, after his defeat in the presidential election of 1900, he published his weekly journal, the Commoner. Fairview (1903), the Bryan home, which is today on the grounds of a medical centre, has been restored.
Lincoln is the site of the Nebraska State Fair (August). Museums devoted to state history and natural history are located in the city. Pioneers Park has a nature centre with trails and interpretive exhibits. Spring Creek Prairie preserves more than 500 acres (200 hectares) of unplowed tallgrass prairie southwest of the city. Several state recreation areas are located on nearby lakes. Inc. village, 1869; city, 1871. Pop. (2000) 225,581; Lincoln Metro Area, 266,787; (2010) 258,379; Lincoln Metro Area, 302,157.