Cities and Towns in Colfax County, Nebraska
Founded in 1869, Colfax County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Colfax County was formed from Platte County. The city of Schuyler is the county seat. With FIPS code of 37, Colfax County has a population of 10,498 and area of 413 square miles (1,070 km²).
List of all cities in Colfax County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Clarkson, NE | 68629 | 402 |
| Howells, NE | 68641 | 402 |
| Leigh, NE | 68643 | 402 |
| Rogers, NE | 68659 | 402 |
| Schuyler, NE | 68661 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in Colfax County, Nebraska
Schuyler
Location and History
- Area: 2.34 square miles
- Population: 6,300 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68661
- Latitude: 41.4410° N
- Longitude: 97.1656° W
Schuyler is the county seat of Colfax County, Nebraska, located in the eastern part of the state, approximately 30 miles west of Fremont. The town was established in 1857 and named after Peter Schuyler, a prominent New York businessman. Schuyler’s location along the Missouri Pacific Railroad contributed to its early growth and prominence. The town’s economy has long been tied to agriculture, particularly corn and livestock, thanks to its fertile soil and central location within the region’s farming belt. Schuyler became the county seat in 1871, further enhancing its role as a commercial and administrative hub for the surrounding area. Over the years, the town has experienced steady population growth and has transformed into a regional service center. Schuyler has embraced its rich agricultural heritage while also expanding into industries such as manufacturing and retail, making it one of the more developed communities in Colfax County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Schuyler is served by the Schuyler Community Schools district, which includes Schuyler Central High School, Schuyler Middle School, and Schuyler Elementary School. The district is recognized for its strong academic programs, along with extracurricular activities like athletics and the arts. Major landmarks in Schuyler include the Colfax County Courthouse, which stands as a testament to the town’s civic role in the region, and the Schuyler Historic District, which features several 19th-century buildings. Schuyler also boasts the Schuyler City Park, providing green space for picnics, walking, and sports. The Schuyler Public Library serves as a cultural hub for the community. The nearby Schuyler Canal offers additional outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking. Schuyler is home to the Platte Valley Industrial Park, which supports the town’s economy through manufacturing and business development. The Nebraska Prairie Museum, located just outside of Schuyler, showcases exhibits related to the area’s agricultural history and the development of the local community.
Clarkson
Location and History
- Area: 0.71 square miles
- Population: 800 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68629
- Latitude: 41.5125° N
- Longitude: 97.1036° W
Clarkson is a small town located in the northern part of Colfax County, Nebraska, about 25 miles northwest of Schuyler. The town was founded in 1870 and was named after Clarkson Young, an early settler. Clarkson grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a center for agricultural trade. The town was historically known for its wheat and corn production, as well as for cattle ranching. Clarkson’s economy was further bolstered by the development of the Union Pacific Railroad, which brought goods to and from the town. Over the years, Clarkson maintained its rural character while expanding its services for the farming community. Today, Clarkson remains a close-knit community with a strong agricultural base. The town’s strategic location between Schuyler and the towns of Fremont and Columbus has allowed it to remain an important stop for regional trade.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clarkson is served by the Clarkson Public Schools district, which includes Clarkson High School, Clarkson Middle School, and Clarkson Elementary School. The district offers a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, with a focus on small class sizes and individualized attention. Major landmarks in Clarkson include the Clarkson Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s history, particularly its agricultural roots. The Clarkson Community Center hosts events for residents and visitors alike. The Clarkson City Park provides green space for picnics, family gatherings, and recreational activities. Clarkson also boasts a few historic buildings dating back to the late 1800s, contributing to the town’s quaint charm. The nearby Cedar Creek offers outdoor opportunities, including fishing and hiking, and adds to the town’s scenic beauty. Clarkson is also within driving distance of larger cities, including Fremont and Columbus, making it an ideal location for both rural living and access to city amenities.
Dodge
Location and History
- Area: 0.32 square miles
- Population: 700 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68633
- Latitude: 41.3954° N
- Longitude: 97.1815° W
Dodge is a small town located in the western part of Colfax County, Nebraska, approximately 15 miles southeast of Schuyler. Founded in the late 1800s, Dodge was named after Gerald Dodge, an early settler in the area. Dodge grew as a service center for the local farming community, and the development of the Missouri Pacific Railroad further contributed to the town’s early prosperity. The railroad facilitated the transportation of agricultural products, such as grain and livestock, to larger markets, making Dodge a key hub in the region. Despite being a small community, Dodge played an important role in the development of Colfax County’s agricultural industry. Today, Dodge remains a quiet town, with agriculture continuing to be the mainstay of its economy. The town has seen some population decline over the years, but it still holds onto its rural charm and serves as a gateway to the surrounding farmsteads.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dodge is served by the Dodge Public Schools district, which includes Dodge High School, Dodge Middle School, and Dodge Elementary School. The district offers a variety of educational programs and extracurricular activities. Major landmarks in Dodge include the Dodge Community Center, a popular gathering place for events and local activities. The Dodge City Park provides ample green space for picnicking, sports, and outdoor recreation. Dodge is also home to the Dodge Historical Society Museum, which showcases artifacts from the town’s founding and its agricultural past. The Elkhorn River, which flows nearby, provides opportunities for fishing and boating. Dodge’s location offers easy access to larger cities like Schuyler, Fremont, and Columbus, which provide additional cultural and recreational activities for residents.
Howells
Location and History
- Area: 0.52 square miles
- Population: 900 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68641
- Latitude: 41.5278° N
- Longitude: 97.2556° W
Howells is a village located in the southeastern part of Colfax County, Nebraska, near the intersection of U.S. Highway 77 and Nebraska Highway 91. The town was established in 1886 and named after John Howells, an early settler and businessman. Howells was founded as a railroad town, and its early growth was spurred by its location on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad. The town’s economy, like many in Nebraska, was built around agriculture, particularly livestock and grain production. The town’s rural charm and its proximity to larger communities like Fremont and Columbus have helped Howells maintain a small but steady population. Today, Howells continues to be a vibrant small town, with a strong agricultural presence and a focus on serving the surrounding farming communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Howells is served by the Howells-Dodge Consolidated Schools district, which includes Howells-Dodge High School, Howells-Dodge Middle School, and Howells-Dodge Elementary School. The district offers a variety of academic and athletic programs, emphasizing both education and community involvement. Major landmarks in Howells include the Howells Community Center, which hosts events and provides space for social gatherings. The Howells City Park offers green space, a playground, and sports facilities for residents. The Howells Museum offers exhibits on local history, including the founding of the town and its development through the railroad and agriculture. The Elkhorn River is located nearby, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, hiking, and boating. Howells is also known for its annual events, including Howells Harvest Days, which brings the community together to celebrate local culture and traditions.
