Cities and Towns in Fillmore County, Nebraska
Founded in 1856, Fillmore County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Fillmore County was formed from Jackson County and unorganized territory. The city of Geneva is the county seat. With FIPS code of 59, Fillmore County has a population of 5,546 and area of 576 square miles (1,492 km²).
List of all cities in Fillmore County, NE alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Belle Prairie, NE | 68444 | 402 |
Burress, NE | 68354 | 402 |
Exeter, NE | 68351 | 402 |
Fairmont, NE | 68354 | 402 |
Geneva, NE | 68361 | 402 |
Grafton, NE | 68365 | 402 |
Hamilton, NE | 68444 | 402 |
Milligan, NE | 68406 | 402 |
Ohiowa, NE | 68416 | 402 |
Shickley, NE | 68436 | 402 |
Strang, NE | 68444 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in Fillmore County, Nebraska
Geneva
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,500 (2023)
- Zip Codes: 68361
- Latitude: 40.4995° N
- Longitude: 97.5881° W
Location and History
Geneva, the county seat of Fillmore County, is located in the southeastern part of Nebraska, approximately 45 miles southwest of Lincoln. Founded in 1871, the town was named after Geneva, New York, the hometown of an early settler. It became an important center for trade and commerce, primarily due to its location on the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad. The town quickly grew as an agricultural community, with nearby farmlands producing crops such as corn, wheat, and oats, while also raising livestock. Geneva was incorporated as a city in 1871 and played a key role in the regional economy. Over the years, it has continued to be an agricultural hub, while also diversifying its economy. The town was once a bustling commercial center with a wide range of businesses, but like many small towns, its economy has gradually shifted over time, with many businesses moving to larger nearby cities. Despite this, Geneva has maintained its small-town charm and serves as the focal point of Fillmore County, offering services, retail, and cultural amenities to the surrounding rural areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Geneva is served by the Geneva Public Schools district, which includes Geneva High School and Geneva Elementary School. The schools are well-regarded for their academic achievements and extracurricular programs. Notable landmarks in Geneva include the Fillmore County Courthouse, a historic building that anchors the town’s civic life, and the Geneva City Park, which offers recreational facilities like a swimming pool and baseball fields. The town also hosts several local events, including the annual Geneva Fair, which celebrates the area’s agricultural roots. The Fillmore County Historical Society Museum provides insight into the region’s history, with exhibits on early settlement, farming, and the development of the railroad. Additionally, the nearby Pioneer Cemetery is an important historic site, showcasing the resting places of some of the area’s early settlers. Geneva’s location along U.S. Highway 6 offers convenient access to nearby attractions, and it remains a peaceful rural community with a rich history and strong ties to its agricultural past.
Fairmont
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (2023)
- Zip Codes: 68354
- Latitude: 40.5182° N
- Longitude: 97.4770° W
Location and History
Fairmont is a small town located in the northwestern part of Fillmore County, Nebraska. It was founded in 1872 and named for its scenic, “fair” views of the surrounding countryside. The town initially grew as a result of the railroad, with the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad facilitating the transport of agricultural products such as corn, wheat, and livestock to larger markets. Fairmont quickly became an agricultural center, with the surrounding area being heavily farmed. The town was incorporated in 1873, and its population began to grow as it served as a regional hub for commerce, trade, and local government. Throughout the 20th century, Fairmont’s population remained steady, and the town maintained its reputation for being a quiet, family-friendly community. Agriculture continues to be a significant part of the local economy, though like many rural towns, Fairmont has experienced some population decline over the years. Despite this, it remains an important center for the surrounding farming communities and provides essential services and amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fairmont is served by the Fairmont Public Schools district, which includes Fairmont High School, known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. The town is home to several community parks and recreational areas, such as Fairmont Community Park, which offers a playground, baseball fields, and picnic facilities. Fairmont’s downtown area has retained much of its historic charm, with many early 20th-century buildings still in use. One of the notable landmarks in Fairmont is the Fairmont Public Library, a valuable resource for the community, offering books, educational programs, and internet access. The Fairmont Historical Society also operates a small museum, preserving the town’s history and its role in the region’s agricultural development. The town hosts a variety of local events throughout the year, including the Fairmont Harvest Festival, which celebrates the town’s farming heritage with a parade, live entertainment, and food. Fairmont’s rural charm, small-town atmosphere, and agricultural focus make it a unique and welcoming community in Fillmore County.
Shickley
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (2023)
- Zip Codes: 68436
- Latitude: 40.4816° N
- Longitude: 97.3747° W
Location and History
Shickley is a small village located in the northeastern part of Fillmore County, Nebraska. It was founded in 1880 and was originally a settlement that developed around the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad. The town was named after early settler and railroad promoter, Edward Shickley, and quickly became an agricultural community. Its location near the railroad allowed for easy transport of grain, livestock, and other farm products, which helped the village thrive. Shickley has always been a farming community, with corn and wheat being some of the most important crops produced in the area. The town was incorporated in 1881, and despite its small size, it has played a significant role in the agricultural economy of Fillmore County. Over the years, Shickley has remained largely rural and has seen little population growth. However, it maintains a tight-knit community, where local businesses, schools, and organizations provide essential services to residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Shickley is served by the Shickley Public Schools district, which operates Shickley High School and Shickley Elementary School. The schools are known for providing a quality education in a small, community-oriented setting. Shickley’s most notable landmark is the Shickley Community Park, which features picnic areas, sports fields, and a playground. The town also celebrates its agricultural heritage with the annual Shickley Picnic, which includes a parade, live music, and local vendors. Although the town does not have large commercial or tourism-related landmarks, it is surrounded by beautiful farmlands, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Shickley’s small-town atmosphere, commitment to local education, and focus on community-building make it a charming place to live and visit in Fillmore County.
Milligan
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (2023)
- Zip Codes: 68406
- Latitude: 40.4292° N
- Longitude: 97.4707° W
Location and History
Milligan is a small village located in the eastern part of Fillmore County, Nebraska. Established in 1871, the town was named after early settler and mill operator, J.H. Milligan, who built a gristmill in the area, which became central to the town’s economy. The presence of the mill helped establish Milligan as an early trading post, providing essential services to the local farmers and settlers. Like many small towns in Nebraska, Milligan grew during the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to its agricultural base. The town was incorporated in 1879 and has remained small but resilient over the years, with most of its economy still tied to farming and ranching. The railroad, which passed through Milligan, also contributed to the town’s development, although as the years passed, the railroad’s influence waned. Today, Milligan remains a quiet rural community with a population that has gradually declined, but it still serves as an important agricultural hub in the county.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Milligan is served by the Exeter-Milligan School District, which operates the Exeter-Milligan High School and elementary schools, providing education for local youth. The town is home to a number of community-focused events, including the Milligan Community Picnic, which brings together residents for food, entertainment, and games. Although small, the town offers basic amenities such as a post office, local businesses, and a volunteer fire department. The Milligan Cemetery is a historic landmark in the area, reflecting the town’s long history. Additionally, the surrounding farmlands and open spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and nature walks. Milligan is a quiet, rural community with strong ties to its agricultural roots, offering residents a peaceful lifestyle and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors interested in exploring Nebraska’s rural heritage.