Cities and Towns in Dawson County, Nebraska
Founded in 1860, Dawson County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Dawson County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Lexington is the county seat. With FIPS code of 47, Dawson County has a population of 23,898 and area of 1,013 square miles (2,624 km²).
List of all cities in Dawson County, NE alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Cozad, NE | 69130 | 308 |
Darr, NE | 69130 | 308 |
Eddyville, NE | 68834 | 308 |
Farnam, NE | 69029 | 308 |
Gothenburg, NE | 69138 | 308 |
Lexington, NE | 68850 | 308 |
Overton, NE | 68834 | 308 |
68863 | 308 | |
Sumner, NE | 68878 | 308 |
Willow Island, NE | 69171 | 308 |
Major Cities and Towns in Dawson County, Nebraska
Lexington
Location and History
- Area: 3.65 square miles
- Population: 10,500 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68850
- Latitude: 40.7666° N
- Longitude: 99.4119° W
Lexington, the county seat of Dawson County, is located in south-central Nebraska, approximately halfway between Grand Island and North Platte. The city was founded in the 1860s, following the establishment of the Union Pacific Railroad in the region. Lexington’s location along the Platte River made it an ideal transportation and trade hub in the early years of settlement. Its growth was propelled by its strategic position along the railroad, and the city quickly became a key point for cattle drives and agricultural trade. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lexington flourished as a vital center for farming and ranching, with an economy built around livestock and crop production. Today, Lexington is a thriving community that blends its agricultural roots with modern industry and commerce, offering a diverse economy and quality of life for residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lexington is served by the Lexington Public Schools district, which includes Lexington High School, Lexington Middle School, and Lexington Elementary School. The district is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities in sports and the arts. Key landmarks in Lexington include the Dawson County Historical Museum, which showcases the area’s history from pioneer days to modern times, and the Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles, a popular spot for history buffs. The Platte River is a major natural feature, offering recreational activities like fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The Lexington City Park is a central gathering place for residents, featuring sports fields, playgrounds, and a walking trail. The Nebraska State Fairgrounds in nearby Grand Island draws visitors from Lexington and surrounding areas for regional events. Lexington is also home to the Tri-City Storm hockey team, providing entertainment to residents and visitors alike. The town hosts the Lexington BBQ Festival annually, a local celebration of food, music, and culture, drawing crowds from across the region.
Cozad
Location and History
- Area: 1.42 square miles
- Population: 4,000 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 69130
- Latitude: 40.8785° N
- Longitude: 99.9797° W
Cozad is a city located in the heart of Dawson County, Nebraska, along the Platte River. The city was founded in 1873 by John J. Cozad, a prominent railroad developer who helped establish the Union Pacific Railroad route through the area. Cozad’s location along the river made it a strategic point for transportation and trade, and the town quickly grew as a key stop along the railroad. The town was initially a farming community, but over time, it became known for its livestock industry, with cattle ranching being a major economic driver. Cozad has always maintained its small-town charm and is known for its strong ties to agriculture, especially in grain and livestock production. It has a deep-rooted history of pioneer settlement, and its role as a transportation hub helped shape its development into the community it is today. Today, Cozad remains a rural community with a mix of agriculture, industry, and commerce, offering a peaceful setting with easy access to larger Nebraska cities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cozad is served by the Cozad Community Schools district, which includes Cozad High School, Cozad Middle School, and Cozad Elementary School. The district offers a variety of academic and extracurricular opportunities, with strong sports teams and arts programs. Notable landmarks in Cozad include the Cozad Historical Museum, which showcases local history and the role of the railroad in the town’s development, and the Cozad City Park, a popular spot for outdoor activities. The Cozad Canal is a historical feature that was originally constructed for irrigation, and it remains a testament to the region’s early agricultural development. The Cozad Country Club is another notable location, offering a scenic golf course and hosting community events. Sculpture Park in Cozad features a series of large outdoor art installations and is a unique landmark in the community. The Pioneer Days festival, which celebrates the area’s heritage with parades, games, and entertainment, is an annual event that brings together locals and visitors alike. Additionally, the Platte River offers outdoor recreation such as fishing, hiking, and camping.
Overton
Location and History
- Area: 0.73 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68863
- Latitude: 40.7104° N
- Longitude: 99.3436° W
Overton is a small village located in the southwestern part of Dawson County, Nebraska, along the Platte River. The town was originally founded in the early 1870s as a railroad stop along the Union Pacific Railroad. Overton quickly grew into a key agricultural center, supported by the fertile lands along the Platte River and the surrounding area. The town’s economy has long been driven by agriculture, particularly wheat and corn production, along with cattle ranching. Overton is also known for its historic significance, with the Overton Hotel (built in 1880) being one of the town’s early landmarks. The town has always maintained its rural charm and is primarily residential, with a focus on supporting the agricultural economy. Though its population has remained modest, Overton’s location on the Platte River and its proximity to larger cities like Lexington and Kearney have contributed to its steady growth.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Overton is served by the Overton Public Schools district, which includes Overton High School and Overton Elementary School. The district offers a well-rounded education program with opportunities for students in sports, music, and other extracurricular activities. Key landmarks in Overton include the Platte River, which is a significant natural feature offering recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. The Overton Park provides outdoor space for sports, picnics, and family events. The Overton Museum preserves the town’s history, with exhibits that highlight the early settlers and the role of the railroad in the town’s development. Overton Days, an annual celebration of the town’s history and community spirit, is another notable event that includes a parade, games, and family-friendly activities. Overton also hosts the Overton Community Center, which is a hub for local social gatherings, events, and meetings. The Pioneer Trail runs through the area, offering hiking and historical exploration for those interested in the region’s early settler history.
Elm Creek
Location and History
- Area: 0.57 square miles
- Population: 700 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 68836
- Latitude: 40.8743° N
- Longitude: 99.3580° W
Elm Creek is a small village located in the northeastern part of Dawson County, Nebraska, along the banks of Elm Creek, a tributary of the Platte River. The town was founded in the mid-1800s as a trading post and agricultural center, and it quickly grew after the establishment of the Union Pacific Railroad. The town’s early economy was based on farming, livestock, and transportation, with local crops including corn, wheat, and hay. As the town developed, Elm Creek became known for its agricultural heritage, and it continues to maintain a small, rural character. The town was officially incorporated in 1876, and it has long been home to a tight-knit community. Over the years, Elm Creek has remained a quiet and peaceful town, with a focus on agriculture and family life. Its location near Lexington and other larger towns in Dawson County has helped sustain its economy and community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elm Creek is served by the Elm Creek Public Schools district, which includes Elm Creek High School and Elm Creek Elementary School. The district is known for its strong academic program, as well as its extracurricular offerings in athletics, music, and the arts. Major landmarks in Elm Creek include the Elm Creek City Park, which offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including sports fields, picnic areas, and walking trails. The Elm Creek Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s agricultural past, with exhibits on the early settlers and the development of the area. The Platte River is also nearby, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking along its banks. The annual Elm Creek Days celebration brings the community together for a parade, carnival rides, and family-friendly entertainment, celebrating the town’s history and local culture. Elm Creek is a quiet, rural village with a focus on community and tradition, making it an appealing destination for those looking for a slower pace of life.