Cities and Towns in Dawes County, Nebraska

Founded in 1885, Dawes County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Dawes County was formed from Sioux County. The city of Chadron is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Dawes County has a population of 8,148 and area of 1,396 square miles (3,616 km²).

List of all cities in Dawes County, NE alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Chadron, NE	69337	308
Crawford, NE	69339	308
Fort Robinson, NE	69339	308
Glen, NE	69339	308
Hay Springs, NE	69367	308
Marsland, NE	69354	308
Whitney, NE	69367	308

Major Cities and Towns in Dawes County, Nebraska

Chadron

Location and History

• Area: 2.73 square miles
• Population: 5,800 (approx.)
• Zip Code: 69337
• Latitude: 42.8340° N
• Longitude: 103.0025° W

Chadron is the county seat of Dawes County and is located in the far western part of Nebraska, near the Wyoming border. The city is situated in the Panhandle region of Nebraska, surrounded by the scenic Pine Ridge hills. Chadron was founded in the mid-19th century and became a major stop on the Overland Trail, which was used by pioneers traveling west. The city was officially established in 1885 when the Chicago and North Western Railway extended its line to the area, contributing to the development of the town as a transportation and commercial center. The arrival of the railroad spurred Chadron’s growth as a regional hub for agriculture, trade, and ranching. In the 20th century, Chadron continued to prosper as a center for commerce and a gateway to the surrounding natural beauty, especially the Nebraska National Forest. Today, Chadron is a small but vibrant community with a rich history and a focus on tourism, agriculture, and education.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Chadron is home to Chadron State College, a public liberal arts college founded in 1911, which is a major educational institution in the region. The Chadron Public Schools district provides education from elementary through high school, with Chadron High School offering strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. Notable landmarks in Chadron include the Dawes County Courthouse, a historic building in the heart of downtown, and the Chadron State Park, which offers hiking, camping, and picnic areas. The Museum of the Fur Trade, located near Chadron, preserves the history of the fur trade era and offers exhibits on the Native American, settler, and fur trader interactions. Chadron is also close to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, where visitors can learn about the Native American history of the region. The Chadron City Park is a favorite spot for locals, featuring sports fields, walking trails, and the annual Chadron Labor Day Rodeo, one of the biggest events in the area. The Chadron Public Library is another important community resource, offering a wide variety of educational programs and events for residents.

Crawford

Location and History

• Area: 0.85 square miles
• Population: 1,100 (approx.)
• Zip Code: 69339
• Latitude: 42.7270° N
• Longitude: 103.0299° W

Crawford is a small town located in the northwestern part of Dawes County, Nebraska, nestled in the scenic White River Valley. Founded in 1886, Crawford served as an agricultural and railroad center during the late 19th century. The town was originally established as a stop for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, which opened the area to settlers and facilitated trade. Crawford was named after William H. Crawford, a railroad executive. Its location at the junction of the White River and several major transportation routes made it an important trade point in the early days of settlement. The surrounding area is known for its ranching and farming heritage, with cattle ranching being a dominant industry for much of its history. The town has always maintained a rural, tight-knit community atmosphere, and today it thrives on agriculture, local businesses, and tourism due to its proximity to several natural landmarks.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Crawford is served by the Crawford Public Schools district, which includes Crawford High School and Crawford Elementary School, providing a solid academic foundation for its students. Crawford also boasts several important landmarks, including the Crawford City Park, which features a swimming pool, sports fields, and a popular walking trail. The Crawford Historical Museum showcases artifacts from the area’s pioneer and Native American history, including exhibits on the town’s railroad and agricultural roots. The Chadron State Park, located nearby, offers camping, hiking, and historical sites related to the area’s natural and cultural history. The Pine Ridge National Recreation Area is also within reach of Crawford, offering opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Crawford hosts an annual Rodeo and Fair, a lively community event that brings together residents and visitors for parades, rodeo events, and entertainment. The town’s close-knit community is known for its hospitality, with the Crawford Library offering local resources and programs for residents of all ages.

Hemingford

Location and History

• Area: 1.04 square miles
• Population: 800 (approx.)
• Zip Code: 69348
• Latitude: 42.1669° N
• Longitude: 103.2790° W

Hemingford is a small town located in the eastern part of Dawes County, Nebraska, about 20 miles east of Chadron. Founded in the late 19th century, the town’s original settlers were primarily agriculturalists and ranchers who recognized the fertile soil and ideal climate for farming. It was established as a railroad town in 1886 when the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad extended its tracks to the area. The railroad helped Hemingford grow, bringing in settlers and contributing to the town’s early prosperity. Over time, Hemingford became a center for agricultural trade, particularly in corn, wheat, and cattle. The town is located on the edge of the Nebraska Sandhills, a unique and ecologically significant region that has shaped the local economy and lifestyle. Today, Hemingford is a peaceful rural community with a focus on agriculture, local businesses, and outdoor recreation.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hemingford is served by the Hemingford Public Schools district, which includes Hemingford High School and Hemingford Elementary School. The district is known for its strong academics, athletics, and arts programs. Major landmarks in Hemingford include the Hemingford Community Park, which features a playground, sports facilities, and picnic areas. The Hemingford Community Center is a hub for local gatherings and events, including holiday celebrations and fundraisers. The Hemingford Library provides educational programs for residents and visitors. The nearby Panther Canyon is a scenic spot for hiking and exploring the local flora and fauna. Hemingford is also home to the Hemingford Rodeo Grounds, where the annual Hemingford Rodeo takes place, attracting spectators from the surrounding areas for exciting rodeo events, parades, and entertainment. The town hosts the Hemingford Harvest Festival, a popular annual event that celebrates local culture and agriculture with food, games, and entertainment. The surrounding Sandhills region offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, and nature walks.