Cities and Towns in Butler County, Nebraska
Founded in 1856, Butler County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Butler County was formed from Greene County. The city of David City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 23, Butler County has a population of 8,444 and area of 584 square miles (1,513 km²).
List of all cities in Butler County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Abie, NE | 68001 | 402 |
| Bellwood, NE | 68624 | 402 |
| Brainard, NE | 68626 | 402 |
| Bruno, NE | 68014 | 402 |
| David City, NE | 68632 | 402 |
| Dwight, NE | 68635 | 402 |
| Garrison, NE | 68632 | 402 |
| Linwood, NE | 68036 | 402 |
| Octavia, NE | 68632 | 402 |
| Rising City, NE | 68658 | 402 |
| Surprise, NE | 68667 | 402 |
| Ulysses, NE | 68667 | 402 |
| 68669 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in Butler County, Nebraska
David City
Location and History
- Area: 1.16 square miles
- Population: 2,800 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68632
- Latitude: 41.1322° N
- Longitude: 97.1579° W
David City is the county seat of Butler County and is located in the eastern part of Nebraska, along the banks of the Platte River. The town was founded in 1870 and was named after David H. Butler, a prominent early settler and Nebraska politician. Initially, David City grew as a center for agriculture, particularly with crops like corn and wheat, and livestock production. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s contributed to the town’s economic development by improving access to markets for local farmers. David City’s downtown area developed with a mix of retail shops, government buildings, and churches. Over time, David City became known as the “Gateway to the Sandhills,” serving as a hub for transportation, agriculture, and regional trade. The town also has a strong German Catholic heritage, evident in its historic churches and community celebrations. Today, David City continues to be an important agricultural center while embracing growth in education and business.
Major Schools and Landmarks
David City is served by the David City Public Schools district, which includes David City High School and David City Middle School. The district offers a wide range of academic programs, sports, and extracurricular activities. Notable landmarks in David City include the Butler County Courthouse, a historical building in the heart of downtown. The David City Park features outdoor recreation spaces such as baseball fields, walking trails, and picnic areas. St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a historic church built in 1909, is a key architectural feature of the town, reflecting its deep German Catholic roots. The Columbus Rail Road Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s past as a railroad hub, and nearby The Platte River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and nature walks. The Butler County Historical Society Museum is another point of interest, housing exhibits on the area’s pioneer history, agriculture, and local culture.
Rising City
Location and History
- Area: 0.31 square miles
- Population: 300 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68658
- Latitude: 41.1908° N
- Longitude: 97.5504° W
Rising City is a small town located in the southwestern part of Butler County, Nebraska. Founded in the late 19th century, the town’s name is derived from the idea that it was a “rising” community with potential for growth. Rising City grew quickly after its establishment due to its location along the railroad, which connected it to larger cities in the region. The town has long been known for its agricultural community, particularly for its production of corn, soybeans, and livestock. Rising City also served as a small service center for nearby farmers, offering goods, services, and agricultural equipment. Today, the town remains a quiet, rural community with a focus on local agriculture and a commitment to maintaining a peaceful, close-knit lifestyle. Although small, Rising City offers a variety of amenities for residents and is located in proximity to larger cities like David City and Columbus.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rising City is served by the Rising City Public Schools district, which includes the Rising City School offering education from kindergarten through high school. The district is known for its focus on personalized education and a strong sense of community. Notable landmarks in Rising City include the Rising City Community Park, which features a playground, baseball diamond, and picnic areas. The Rising City Water Tower, which stands tall over the town, is an iconic feature visible from many areas within the community. The Rising City Cemetery contains graves of many of the town’s early settlers, offering a historical perspective on the town’s founding and growth. Nearby, the Platte River provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and nature walks. The Butler County Historical Museum in David City is also easily accessible for those interested in exploring more of the region’s history.
Ulysses
Location and History
- Area: 0.35 square miles
- Population: 400 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68669
- Latitude: 41.2119° N
- Longitude: 97.4757° W
Ulysses is a small village located in the central part of Butler County, Nebraska. The village was founded in the early 1880s and was named after the famous American general and president, Ulysses S. Grant. Like many towns in Nebraska, Ulysses grew around the agricultural industry, particularly in farming and livestock. The village was initially part of a thriving trade route for farmers who brought their goods to market in nearby towns. Though Ulysses’ population has remained small, the town has maintained its agricultural roots and continues to serve as a peaceful rural community. Ulysses is known for its quiet, rural charm and friendly residents who take pride in maintaining their town’s history while embracing the future.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ulysses is served by the Ulysses Public Schools district, which includes Ulysses High School and Ulysses Elementary School. The district offers various extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and academic clubs. Key landmarks in Ulysses include the Ulysses Community Park, which offers outdoor recreation opportunities such as walking trails, a sports field, and picnic tables. The Ulysses Cemetery provides a glimpse into the village’s past, with gravestones dating back to the town’s early years. The Platte River is located just a few miles east of Ulysses, offering recreational activities like fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. For those interested in learning about the region’s history, the Butler County Historical Society Museum in nearby David City offers exhibits on early settlement, farming, and the area’s agricultural development.
Bellwood
Location and History
- Area: 0.62 square miles
- Population: 500 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68624
- Latitude: 41.3044° N
- Longitude: 97.3197° W
Bellwood is a small town in the southeastern part of Butler County, Nebraska. The town was originally settled in the late 19th century and was named for its location near a prominent grove of trees, or “bell” trees, that grew in the area. Bellwood’s economy has long been rooted in agriculture, especially in the farming and livestock industries. Over the years, the town developed as a service center for the surrounding farming community, offering grain elevators, retail shops, and agricultural services. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s helped to solidify Bellwood’s status as a regional trade and commerce center. Today, Bellwood remains a small, agricultural town, with a focus on community and rural life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bellwood is served by the Bellwood Public Schools district, which includes Bellwood-Merrick High School and Bellwood Elementary School. The school district offers a wide range of programs, including sports, arts, and community-based projects. Bellwood’s City Park features a playground, walking paths, and sports fields for local recreation. The Bellwood Community Building serves as a venue for local events, including festivals and community gatherings. The Bellwood Cemetery offers a historical perspective on the early settlers of the area. The Platte River, located nearby, provides scenic views and outdoor opportunities, such as fishing and wildlife watching. Additionally, residents and visitors can explore The Butler County Historical Museum in David City to learn more about the region’s history and heritage.
