Phelps County

Phelps County is an administrative division in south-central Nebraska characterized by rolling hills and farms spread across several hundred square miles. Holdrege serves as the county seat, housing the courthouse and main administrative services for the region.

The county was established in 1873 and Holdrege was chosen as its administrative center, shaping the region's development ever since. This founding was part of the broader settlement and development of the central United States during the late 1800s.

The Field of Blue bronze sculpture on the courthouse grounds reflects how deeply the local identity is connected to farming and rural life in the region. Visitors can see this heritage expressed through public art that stands in the center of community life.

The courthouse in Holdrege is open on weekdays and provides the main administrative services from a central location. Visitors should plan ahead as this is a rural county with considerable distances between towns and services.

The Atlanta Marsh National Wildlife Management Area within the county protects natural habitats for birds and other wildlife in a preserved environment. This area offers a quiet spot for nature watching away from the farming lands that dominate the region.

Location: Nebraska

Inception: 1873

Capital city: Holdrege

Shares border with: Buffalo County, Harlan County, Furnas County, Gosper County, Dawson County, Kearney County, Franklin County

Website: http://phelpsgov.org

GPS coordinates: 40.51000,-99.41000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:47