Nebraska City is a city in Otoe County, Nebraska, United States. The population was 7,228 at the 2000 census. It is the county seat of Otoe County^GR6. Nebraska City is home of Arbor Day, the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Center (which focuses on the natural history achievements of the expedition), and the Mayhew Cabin, which is Nebraska's only site on the National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program. Official language(s) English Capital Lincoln Largest city Omaha Largest metro area Omaha Area  Ranked 16th  - Total 77,421 sq mi (200,520 km²)  - Width 210 miles (340 km)  - Length 430 miles (690 km)  - % water 0. ... A county seat is a term for an administrative center for a county, primarily used in the United States. ... Arbor Day is a holiday celebrated in the United States that encourages the planting and care of trees. ... The Missouri River is a tributary of the Mississippi River in the United States. ... The Lewis and Clark expedition (1804-1806) was the first American overland expedition to the Pacific coast and back. ... Table of natural history, 1728 Cyclopaedia Natural history is an umbrella term for what are now usually viewed as several distinct scientific disciplines. ... This does not adequately cite its references or sources. ...

Geography

Nebraska City is located at 40°40′34″N, 95°51′35″W (40.676247, -95.859659)^GR1, on the western bank of the Missouri River. Image File history File links NEMap-doton-Nebraska_City. ...

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 11.4 km² (4.4 mi²), all land. The United States Census Bureau (officially Bureau of the Census as defined in Title ) is a part of the United States Department of Commerce. ... A square metre (US spelling: square meter) is by definition the area enclosed by a square with sides each 1 metre long. ... A square mile is an English unit of area equal to that of a square with sides each 1 statute mile (≈1,609 m) in length. ...

Demographics

As of the census^GR2 of 2000, there were 7,228 people, 2,898 households, and 1,872 families residing in the city. The population density was 631.4/km² (1,633.6/mi²). There were 3,154 housing units at an average density of 275.5/km² (712.8/mi²). The racial makeup of the city was 96.00% White, 0.37% African American, 0.30% Native American, 0.37% Asian, 0.07% Pacific Islander, 2.01% from other races, and 0.87% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.40% of the population. 1870 US Census for New York City A census is the process of obtaining information about every member of a population (not necessarily a human population). ... The United States Census Bureau uses the federal governments definitions of race when performing a census. ... The United States Census Bureau uses the federal governments definitions of race when performing a census. ... The United States Census Bureau uses the federal governments definitions of race when performing a census. ... The United States Census Bureau uses the federal governments definitions of race when performing a census. ... The United States Census Bureau uses the federal governments definitions of race when performing a census. ... Race, as defined by the United States Census Bureau and the Federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB), is a self-identification data item in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify. ... The United States Census Bureau uses the federal governments definitions of race when performing a census. ... The United States Census Bureau uses the federal governments definitions of race when performing a census. ...

There were 2,898 households out of which 31.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.3% were married couples living together, 10.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.4% were non-families. 30.7% of all households were made up of individuals and 16.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40 and the average family size was 3.01. The examples and perspective in this article or section may not include all significant viewpoints. ...

In the city the population was spread out with 25.8% under the age of 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 25.4% from 25 to 44, 22.3% from 45 to 64, and 19.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females there were 89.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $34,952, and the median income for a family was $42,860. Males had a median income of $29,507 versus $19,859 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,969. About 6.3% of families and 9.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.0% of those under age 18 and 7.7% of those age 65 or over. The per capita income for a group of people may be defined as their total personal income, divided by the total population. ... Map of countries showing percentage of population who have an income below the national poverty line The poverty line is the level of income below which one cannot afford to purchase all the resources one requires to live. ...

This city is known as "The Home of Arbor Day" due to its close propinquity to Arbor Lodge, home of the first Secretary of Agriculture of the United States, J. Sterling Morton, who enthusiastically promoted the planting of trees on the prairie for shade, fruit, and windbreaks. The National Arbor Day Foundation has its headquarters near his home in Nebraska City. [1] Slaves were first bought and sold in the 1850s in Nebraska City. [2] Arbor Day is a holiday celebrated in the United States that encourages the planting and care of trees. ... Arbor Lodge State Historical Park and Arboretum (72 acres) is a mansion, state park, and arboretum located at 2300 2nd Avenue, Nebraska City, Nebraska. ... Julius Sterling Morton (NSHC statue) Julius Sterling Morton (April 22, 1832 – April 27, 1902) was born in Adams, New York. ...

History

Early exploration was reported in 1804 by Lewis and Clark as they journeyed across the west discovering the beautiful Missouri River. Nebraska City was the original site of Old Fort Kearny, a military post used by the government in 1846. It was abandoned several years later and relocated to central Nebraska, now south of present day Kearney, Nebraska. 1804 was a leap year starting on Sunday (see link for calendar). ... The Lewis and Clark expedition (1804-1806) was the first American overland expedition to the Pacific coast and back. ... The Missouri River is a tributary of the Mississippi River in the United States. ... Fort Kearny was a historic outpost of the United States Army founded in 1848 in the western U.S. during the middle and late 19th century. ... 1846 was a common year starting on Thursday (see link for calendar). ... Kearney is a city in Buffalo County, Nebraska, United States. ...

Shortly after the post was vacated, John Boulware developed an important river-crossing and ferry service from Iowa across to present day Nebraska City. He and his father grew their business and built a ferry house, the first residence in Nebraska City in 1852 or 1853. This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... 1852 was a leap year starting on Thursday (see link for calendar). ... 1853 was a common year starting on Saturday (see link for calendar). ...

In 1854 the Kansas-Nebraska Act allowed legal settlement in the regional area. Three townships were incorporated by settlers: Nebraska City and Kearney City were incorporated in 1855, and South Nebraska City was incorporated in 1856. On December 31, 1857, these three town sites along with Prairie City joined, incorporating as present day Nebraska City. 1854 (MDCCCLIV) was a common year starting on Sunday (see link for calendar). ... This 1854 map shows slave states (grey), free states (red), and US territories (green) with Kansas in center (white). ... 1855 was a common year starting on Monday (see link for calendar). ... 1856 was a leap year starting on Tuesday (see link for calendar). ... December 31 is the 365th day of the year (366th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 1857 was a common year starting on Thursday (see link for calendar). ...

In the mid 1800’s, steamboats were the vitalizing force behind Nebraska City’s growth in bringing commerce, people and freight to the west. In the spring of 1858 Russell, Majors and Waddell started freighting from Nebraska City on a government contract to transport all provisions for all western forts. The supplies were brought up the Missouri River by steamboat and then taken out by wagon train. Nebraska City's favorable position and good trail made it an important link to the west. 1858 (MDCCCLVIII) is a common year starting on Friday of the Gregorian calendar (or a common year starting on Sunday of the 12-day-slower Julian calendar). ... Russell, Majors and Waddell was a partnership that operated the Pony Express and other shipping businesses. ...

Since that beginning, the city was established as a regional transportation, economic, and agriculture hub for the three state area. Additional forms of transportation were important including the steam wagon and the first locomotive engine of the Midland Pacific. Great Western Railway No. ...

J. Sterling Morton came to Nebraska City in 1855 to edit the Nebraska City News. He and his wife Caroline were originally from Michigan and they were lovers of nature. Morton served as Secretary of Agriculture under President Grover Cleveland’s administration and he was instrumental in establishing the annual tree planting day, Arbor Day in 1872. Governor Robert Furnas issued the first Arbor Day Proclamation on March 31, 1874. The holiday is celebrated around the world. Julius Sterling Morton (NSHC statue) Julius Sterling Morton (April 22, 1832 – April 27, 1902) was born in Adams, New York. ... 1855 was a common year starting on Monday (see link for calendar). ... Official language(s) None (English, de-facto) Capital Lansing Largest city Detroit Area  Ranked 11th  - Total 97,990 sq mi (253,793 km²)  - Width 239 miles (385 km)  - Length 491 miles (790 km)  - % water 41. ... The United States Secretary of Agriculture is the head of the United States Department of Agriculture concerned with land and food as well as agriculture and rural development. ... Stephen Grover Cleveland (March 18, 1837 – June 24, 1908) was the 22nd (1885–1889) and 24th (1893–1897) President of the United States, and the only President to serve two non-consecutive terms. ... Arbor Day is a holiday celebrated in the United States that encourages the planting and care of trees. ... 1872 (MDCCCLXXII) was a leap year starting on Monday (see link for calendar) of the Gregorian calendar or a leap year starting on Wednesday of the 12-day-slower Julian calendar. ... Robert Wilkinson Furnas (1824 - 1905) was the third Governor of Nebraska . ... March 31 is the 90th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (91st in leap years), with 275 days remaining. ... Year 1874 (MDCCCLXXIV) was a common year starting on Thursday (link with display the full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar (or a common year starting on Saturday of the 12-day slower Julian calendar). ...

Adopted in 1912, Nebraska City is the only city in the State operating under a Commission form of government. ^[1] 1912 (MCMXII) was a leap year starting on Monday in the Gregorian calendar (or a leap year starting on Tuesday in the 13-day-slower Julian calendar). ...

Annual Festivals

Arbor Day

Nebraska City is home of the national tree-planting holiday, Arbor Day. This three day event is celebrated throughout the community. On Friday, a program to entertain and educate school-aged children is hosted at Arbor Lodge; Saturday includes a 5K run/walk in the morning and a main street parade in the afternoon. Other weekend activities include an outdoor Southeast Nebraska Community Band concert, environmental games, and a variety of festival foods. Demonstrations, education and sales are all part of the weekend celebration. Held last weekend in April. Arbor Day is a holiday celebrated in the United States that encourages the planting and care of trees. ...

AppleJack

Nebraska City - well-known for its apple orchards - has an annual celebration of the apple harvest. Festivities all weekend long, including a craft shows, a parade, various kids activities and entertainment, a 5K run/walk, and a strongman contest. Held in mid-September.

Museums and Attractions

Arbor Lodge State Historical Park and Arboretum - This 52-room neocolonial mansion belonged to J. Sterling Morton, Founder of Arbor Day and former Secretary of Agriculture. Many of the family's original pieces fill the home. The carriage house displays carriages used by the family. Walking trails through the grounds. A Nebraska State Park Permit is required to enter the park. In 1923, the mansion and a portion of the estate were given to the State of Nebraska by son, Joy Morton. Today, the mansion and arboretum park encompass 72-acres and are enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year. Arbor Lodge State Historical Park and Arboretum (72 acres) is a mansion, state park, and arboretum located at 2300 2nd Avenue, Nebraska City, Nebraska. ... The United States Secretary of Agriculture is the head of the United States Department of Agriculture concerned with land and food as well as agriculture and rural development. ...

Arbor Trails Winery - Nebraska's first cooperative winery in a newly renovated, 1939 one-room Maple Grove Country School serving local-made wines.

Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure - A family experience bringing visitors closer to trees and the natural world. The Tree House Trail contains the Canopy Tree House providing a 50-foot high, birds-eye view of life in the forest. The Exploratory Trail ventures over the Sandbar and Rocky Ford bridges to the Exploratory Tree House. The Woodland Pavilion provides interactive learning with technology-enhanced games. "Trees in the Movies" shows ghostly image of J. Sterling Morton, father of Arbor Day. Arbor Day Farm sets on 260-acres, formerly part of J. Sterling Morton's agricultural estate. The trail continues on to the Lied Lodge & Conference Center.

Lied Lodge & Conference Center - Owned and operated by the National Arbor Day Foundation, Lied Lodge & Conference Center provides a natural setting and working example of how the Foundation's mission can impact lives in a significant way. Offers 144 guest rooms and an IACC certified conference facility. Amenities include indoor pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, fitness center, gift shops, the Timber Dining Room, Library Lounge & Sunset Terrace.

Arbor Links Golf Club - An Arnold Palmer signature golf course opened in 2002 and became a limited-access private club with resort component in 2007. Patrons of the Lied Lodge and Conference Center may play the course on a fee basis. Nationality  United States Birth September 10, 1929 (age 77) Latrobe, Pennsylvania Height 5 ft 10 in (1. ...

Nebraska City Museum of Firefighting Coming Spring 2007 - This new museum will feature history of the Nebraska City Volunteer Fire Department, evolution of firefighting and fire safety education. The 150-year old department boasts one of the oldest and largest collection of publicly owned fire equipment in the state. The museum will showcase these items along with traveling exhibits from around the four-state region. The museum will be located at 1320 Central Avenue.

Cider House Theater - 50-seat community theatre, established in 2003, focuses on family entertainment. Productions change every two months.

Civil War Veterans Museum at G.A.R. Hall - This museum is housed in the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) post built in 1894 and was used as a social gathering place for Union Civil War Veterans. The mission of the museum is to preserve its extensive collection of Civil War and G.A.R. artifacts and to educate the public of the Civil War and the G.A.R. in Nebraska. The Nebraska City building is one of the few remaining in Nebraska.

Farmers Bank & Trust Company - Formerly the Nebraska City Post Office and winner of the President's National Preservation Award, this Victorian-style structure was built in 1886 and completely renovated in the late 1980's.

Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for the Arts - Residential program for emerging writers, visual artists, and music composers. Hosts outreach performances, presentations, classes and exhibitions.

Morton-James Public Library - Built in 1896 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Joy Morton, Vantine James, and area residents were instrumental in raising funds for the public library. The library has a large archive of historical and genealogy resources and in 1975 the Strawberry Patch Children’s library was built. Monthly art exhibits are featured in the Kimmel Gallery in the lower level of the building.

Old Freighters Museum - This museum showcases the history and importance of transportation to the development of the community dating back to 1858 when Russell, Majors and Waddell Freighting Company owned the property. Russell, Majors and Waddell was a partnership that operated the Pony Express and other shipping businesses. ...

Otoe County Courthouse - This two-story Georgian brick structure is the oldest public building still in use in Nebraska. The building was built and Nebraska City was named county seat. During veteran-related holidays, local veterans surround the courthouse with American flags in honor of the many local veterans who are now deceased.

River Country Nature Museum - This unique collection of wildlife represents the lifelong work of Joe Voges and his Naturecraft Taxidermy Studio, which began in the early 1930's. Displays include birds and animals that inhabit this area.

Taylor-Wessel-Bickel (Nelson) House - This historic house is regarded as the finest example of Greek Revival style in the state and is considered the oldest standing single-family dwelling still located on its original site. Built in 1857 and authentically restored in 1978, the interior includes three fireplaces, antique furniture, draperies and floor coverings.

Wildwood Historic Home, Art Gallery, & Gift Barn - This ten-room Victorian period home built in 1869 by Jasper Ware, an early Nebraska City banker, contains many interesting pieces. The historic barn serves as an art gallery and gift shop showcasing regional artists. Explore the Victorian Gardens next to the art barn.

Kimmel Orchard - A working orchard owned by the Kimmel Foundation and operated by the National Arbor Day Foundation with wine tasting, a gift shop featuring Nebraska-made products, and seasonal produce. A 2.5 mile educational wood chip trail system runs through the scenic orchards and vineyards. The Kimmel Kitchen prepares BBQ, homemade apple pie, cider slush, and famous apple cider donuts. The UNL/Kimmel Education and Research Center hosts two laboratories, class rooms and meeting space for educational seminars and workshops and is used for research, development, education and promotion of value-added agricultural products.

Mayhew Cabin & Historic Village - The 1855 Mayhew Cabin, formerly “John Brown’s Cave”, is an official National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom site.

Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trail and Visitor Center - The center contains a unique perspective of the Lewis and Clark journey. The center showcases over 300 scientific discoveries recorded by Lewis & Clark on their journey including flora (plants) and fauna (animal) specimens they sent to President Thomas Jefferson. The exhibit contains an authentic replica keelboat, hands-on exhibits, and Pee Dee, the live Prairie Dog. The nearby DeBruce Missouri River Overlook Trail provides and unobstructed view of the great Missouri River. Recent editions include: Plains Indian Earth Lodge and the Birding exhibit. The Lewis and Clark expedition (1804-1806) was the first American overland expedition to the Pacific coast and back. ... This article is becoming very long. ...

Steamboat Trace Trail - Hiking/Biking trail comprised of 21 miles of abandoned railroad corridor paralleling the Missouri River from approximately 6 miles south of Nebraska City to just south of Brownville, Nebraska. Brownville is a village located in Nemaha County, Nebraska. ...

Other Points of Interest

• In addition to Arbor Links, Nebraska City has two other courses: Wildwood Golf Course (9-hole) and Table Creek Golf Course (18-hole)
• Nebraska City has over 300 acres of parks: Arbor Lodge, Greggsport, Kearney Hill, Nuckolls Square, Steinhart Park & Pool, and Wildwood.
• The town offers historic trolley tours on the Lewis and Clark Express.

Area Schools

• Nebraska City Public Schools - Home of the Pioneers; an NSAA Class B school in the Eastern Midlands Conference.
• Lourdes Central Catholic Schools - Home of the Knights.

The Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) is the organization which oversees interscholastic competition in the state of Nebraska at the high school level. ...

Noted natives

• Leland Hayward-Hollywood and Broadway agent.
• Pete Ricketts- Former Chief Operating Officer of Ameritrade. He was the Republican nominee for the 2006 U.S. Senate race in Nebraska which he lost to incumbent Ben Nelson.

Leland Hayward (September 13, 1902 - March 18, 1971) was a popular, powerful and wealthy Hollywood and Broadway agent and theatrical producer. ... Pete Ricketts John Peter Pete Ricketts is the former Chief Operating Officer of Ameritrade [1]. He is currently the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in Nebraska [2]. Ricketts was born in Nebraska City, Nebraska, and now lives in Omaha . ...

Noted Residents

• John Henri Kagi-Second in Command in John Brown's 1859 raid on the US Arsenal at Harper's Ferry, VA.
• J. Sterling Morton-Founder of Arbor Day and former US Secretary of Agriculture under President Cleveland.
• George H. Heinke-Lawyer and US Congressman 1939-1940.
• J. Joseph Ricketts-Founder of Ameritrade.

Julius Sterling Morton (NSHC statue) Julius Sterling Morton (April 22, 1832 – April 27, 1902) was born in Adams, New York. ... George Henry Heinke (b. ... J. Joseph Ricketts is the founder and chairman of Ameritrade, a large online discount brokerage based in Omaha, Nebraska. ...

References

External links

City of Nebraska City

Nebraska City Community Foundation

River Country Economic Development Corp.

• Maps and aerial photos Coordinates: 40.676247° -95.859659°
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