Cities and Towns in Burt County, Nebraska
Founded in 1854, Burt County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Burt County was one of nine original counties. The city of Tekamah is the county seat. With FIPS code of 21, Burt County has a population of 6,709 and area of 493 square miles (1,277 km²).
List of all cities in Burt County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Craig, NE | 68019 | 402 |
| Decatur, NE | 68020 | 402 |
| Lyons, NE | 68038 | 402 |
| Oakland, NE | 68045 | 402 |
| Tekamah, NE | 68061 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in Burt County, Nebraska
Tekamah
Location and History
- Area: 1.21 square miles
- Population: 1,600 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 68061
- Latitude: 41.7651° N
- Longitude: 96.1646° W
Tekamah is the county seat of Burt County and is located in the northeastern part of Nebraska, near the Missouri River. The town was founded in 1854 and named after the local Tekamah Creek, which was named by Native Americans and means “a place of many rocks.” Originally, the town served as a trading post and point of settlement for emigrants traveling westward during the mid-1800s. Tekamah grew rapidly following its establishment, bolstered by the construction of the railroad in the late 1800s. The town’s agricultural economy thrived, particularly in farming, cattle ranching, and the production of corn and wheat. Over time, Tekamah became an important commercial and government hub in the region, with a vibrant downtown district, schools, and churches. Today, Tekamah retains much of its small-town charm, serving as an agricultural center for the surrounding farming community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tekamah is served by the Tekamah-Herman Community School District, which includes Tekamah-Herman High School and Tekamah-Herman Middle School. The district offers a variety of educational programs, including athletics, arts, and academic clubs. Notable landmarks in Tekamah include the Burt County Museum, which showcases artifacts from the area’s history, including Native American culture and the early settler period. The Tekamah City Park offers outdoor recreational opportunities such as picnicking, sports, and a playground. The Missouri River provides scenic views and opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. The Tekamah Historical District contains several well-preserved buildings that reflect the town’s early 20th-century architectural style. The Burt County Fairgrounds hosts the annual county fair, which is a major event for locals and visitors alike. Additionally, Fort Atkinson State Historical Park, located just to the west of Tekamah, preserves a historic military fort that played a role in the westward expansion of the United States.
Lyons
Location and History
- Area: 0.49 square miles
- Population: 800 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 68038
- Latitude: 41.6824° N
- Longitude: 96.0846° W
Lyons is a small town located in the southeastern part of Burt County, Nebraska. It was founded in the 1870s, and like many Nebraska towns, its growth was spurred by the arrival of the railroad. The town was named after a local creek, Lyons Creek, and developed as an agricultural hub for the surrounding farming community. Lyons has always had a strong focus on agriculture, with grain farming and livestock production forming the backbone of its economy. Over the years, the town has seen its population stabilize, but it has managed to maintain a strong sense of community and a laid-back lifestyle. While small in size, Lyons remains an important service center for local farmers and continues to support local businesses and agriculture-related industries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lyons is served by the Lyons-Decatur Northeast School District, which includes Lyons-Decatur Northeast High School and Lyons-Decatur Northeast Middle School. The school district offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, arts programs, and academic clubs. Major landmarks in Lyons include Lyons City Park, which provides residents with outdoor recreation opportunities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and a walking trail. The Burt County Fairgrounds hosts the annual county fair, a major local event that features rides, contests, and entertainment. The town is also home to several historical buildings, such as the Lyons Train Depot, which is a reminder of the town’s early days as a railroad town. The Lyons Cemetery is another historic site, offering a glimpse into the town’s past and honoring the early settlers of the area. The town’s location near the Missouri River also offers scenic views and opportunities for fishing and boating.
Oakland
Location and History
- Area: 0.77 square miles
- Population: 1,100 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 68045
- Latitude: 41.7775° N
- Longitude: 96.1374° W
Oakland is located in the central part of Burt County, Nebraska, and was founded in the late 1800s. The town is named after the abundance of oak trees that once lined the area. Like many other towns in the region, Oakland grew rapidly after the arrival of the railroad and became a vital agricultural center. During its early years, the town thrived as a shipping point for grain, livestock, and other agricultural products. Oakland also had a vibrant downtown district, with local businesses providing goods and services to the community. Over time, the town saw a decline in population, but it remains an important part of the county’s rural identity. Today, Oakland serves as a small but active community that prides itself on its agricultural heritage and close-knit feel.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oakland is served by the Oakland-Craig Public Schools district, which includes Oakland-Craig High School and Oakland-Craig Middle School. The school district is known for its strong athletic programs and academic offerings. Key landmarks in Oakland include Oakland City Park, a central gathering place for local residents with playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The Oakland Public Library serves as an important resource for education and community events. The Oakland Historical Society Museum offers a look into the town’s past, showcasing exhibits on the agricultural history and early settlers. The Oakland Country Club provides a nine-hole golf course and other recreational opportunities, making it a popular spot for socializing and outdoor activities. Additionally, The Oakland Cemetery holds the graves of many of the town’s early founders and is a historical site that links modern-day Oakland with its pioneer past.
Craig
Location and History
- Area: 0.35 square miles
- Population: 250 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68019
- Latitude: 41.8831° N
- Longitude: 96.0695° W
Craig is a small village located in the southern part of Burt County, Nebraska. It was established in the late 1800s as a railway town and was named after the Craig family, early settlers in the area. The village grew up around the railroad, which connected it to larger markets and facilitated trade. In the early 20th century, Craig became a center for agriculture, particularly corn and wheat farming. Over the years, Craig’s population has remained small, but the village continues to serve as a quiet rural community for its residents. The village’s rural charm, combined with its location near the Missouri River and access to nearby larger towns, makes it a peaceful and convenient place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Craig is part of the Oakland-Craig Public Schools district, and local children attend Oakland-Craig High School and Oakland-Craig Middle School. Despite its small size, Craig maintains its rural identity with several historical landmarks and places of interest. The Craig Town Park provides space for outdoor recreation, including a playground and sports facilities. The Craig Cemetery, established in the early 1900s, holds the graves of some of the town’s original settlers and serves as a quiet historical site. The Missouri River is nearby, offering access to fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The town is also located near the Burt County Historical Museum in Tekamah, where residents and visitors can explore the broader history of the county.
