Cities and Towns in Banner County, Nebraska
Founded in 1888, Banner County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Banner County was formed from Cheyenne County. The city of Harrisburg is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Banner County has a population of 692 and area of 746 square miles (1,932 km²).
List of all cities in Banner County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Harrisburg, NE | 69345 | 308 |
Major Cities and Towns in Banner County, Nebraska
Harrisburg
Location and History
- Area: 0.61 square miles
- Population: 220 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 69345
- Latitude: 41.9631° N
- Longitude: 103.7806° W
Harrisburg is a small village located in the western part of Banner County, Nebraska. It was founded in the late 19th century, with settlers drawn to the area primarily for its agricultural potential. The town was established in the early 1880s and named after Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where some of the early settlers had originated. Harrisburg grew quickly as a rural service center, especially after the arrival of the railroad, which helped facilitate the transport of crops like wheat and corn from local farms. The town became known for its agricultural-based economy, with ranching, farming, and grain production playing a significant role in its development. Harrisburg is situated in the plains of Nebraska, and like much of Banner County, its landscape is dominated by wide open spaces and rolling hills, which still support a thriving agricultural community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Harrisburg is part of the Banner County School District, which offers education for students in elementary through high school. The district is small, and as such, students benefit from close-knit educational environments and community support. Harrisburg’s key landmarks include the Harrisburg Park, a small recreational area with a playground and open space for community gatherings and events. The Harrisburg Historical Society Museum is a local attraction that showcases the town’s rich agricultural and railroad history, with exhibits on early farming practices and the settlement of the area. Harrisburg Community Center serves as a hub for local events, including town meetings, potlucks, and other social activities. Though small, the town hosts local events such as the Harrisburg Town Picnic, bringing together residents and visitors for celebrations and outdoor activities.
van Tassell
Location and History
- Area: 0.42 square miles
- Population: 50 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 69373
- Latitude: 42.0594° N
- Longitude: 103.6653° W
Van Tassell is an even smaller village located in the southeastern part of Banner County, near the Wyoming border. The town was founded in the early 1900s, originally serving as a railroad stop for travelers and a supply center for local farmers and ranchers. It was named after the Van Tassell family, early settlers in the area, who helped establish the town as a transportation hub for the region. The town flourished for a period in the early 20th century, due in large part to the railroad, but has remained a small, rural community ever since. The area surrounding Van Tassell is primarily dedicated to ranching, with vast stretches of land for cattle grazing. Over time, the town has experienced population decline, but it remains a testament to Nebraska’s western heritage and rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Van Tassell does not have its own school, and students in the area typically attend schools in Banner County School District or nearby districts. The district provides K-12 education, with a focus on small class sizes and individualized attention. As a small village, Van Tassell has few landmarks, but one of its most notable features is the Van Tassell Cemetery, where many of the town’s early settlers are buried. The cemetery offers a glimpse into the town’s history and pioneer roots. Van Tassell Community Center is the focal point for local gatherings and social activities, hosting events such as town meetings, potluck dinners, and holiday celebrations. The surrounding area is part of the greater Nebraska Sandhills region, which attracts visitors for its rugged terrain, wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking and birdwatching.
Pine Bluffs (partly in Banner County)
Location and History
- Area: 1.25 square miles (Nebraska portion)
- Population: 1,000 (approx. in the Nebraska portion)
- Zip Codes: 69148
- Latitude: 41.1615° N
- Longitude: 103.9439° W
Pine Bluffs is a small town that straddles the Nebraska-Wyoming border, with a portion of the town lying in Banner County, Nebraska. Originally founded in the late 1800s, Pine Bluffs became a key railroad stop, established by the Union Pacific Railroad to serve the growing agricultural community of the region. The town was named after the bluffs that rise up near the Cheyenne River, covered with pine trees, which made it a picturesque spot for travelers and settlers. The town prospered in its early years thanks to its location as a railroad junction, but like many small towns in the area, it has maintained a quiet existence with steady population levels and a focus on agriculture. The community continues to support farming and ranching, as well as providing services to nearby rural areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The town of Pine Bluffs has its own school district, known as the Pine Bluffs School District, which provides K-12 education for students from both Nebraska and Wyoming portions of the town. The school is well-regarded for its commitment to academic excellence and strong extracurricular programs, including athletics and arts. Key landmarks in the Nebraska portion of Pine Bluffs include the Pine Bluffs Depot, a preserved railroad station that reflects the town’s history as a transportation hub. The Pine Bluffs City Park offers picnic areas, walking trails, and playgrounds, providing a space for recreation and community events. Additionally, the Pine Bluffs Museum is dedicated to preserving the town’s history, particularly its railroad legacy and agricultural heritage. Annual events like the Pine Bluffs Rodeo attract visitors from both Nebraska and Wyoming, showcasing the region’s ranching traditions. The town also has a local Library that serves as a hub for education and community programs.
