Nebraska City

Nebraska City sits along the western bank of the Missouri River and spreads across land with fertile soil used for farming. The river and agricultural terrain define the character of the area.

The Nebraska Territorial Legislature established it in 1855 as the state's first incorporated city through a special act. This gave the city an important administrative role in Nebraska's early development.

The city is home to the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Center, where visitors can see exhibitions about the 1804 expedition into the American Northwest. The center shows how this historic journey shaped the region's development.

The county administration center is located in the Otoe County Courthouse on Central Avenue, where services are available during weekdays. Plan visits to the courthouse during regular business hours from Monday through Friday.

J. Sterling Morton started Arbor Day in 1872 from this city to encourage tree planting across the prairie. This movement began as a local initiative and spread throughout the state and beyond.

Location: Otoe County

Inception: 1855

Elevation above the sea: 322 m

Website: http://nebraskacity.com

GPS coordinates: 40.67611,-95.85972

Latest update: December 18, 2025 20:09