Cities and Towns in Hamilton County, Nebraska
Founded in 1867, Hamilton County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Hamilton County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Aurora is the county seat. With FIPS code of 81, Hamilton County has a population of 9,386 and area of 544 square miles (1,409 km²).
List of all cities in Hamilton County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Aurora, NE | 68818 | 402 |
| Giltner, NE | 68841 | 402 |
| Hampton, NE | 68843 | 402 |
| Hordville, NE | 68846 | 402 |
| Kronborg, NE | 68854 | 402 |
| Marquette, NE | 68854 | 402 |
| Phillips, NE | 68865 | 402 |
| Stockham, NE | 68818 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in Hamilton County, Nebraska
Aurora
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,000 (2023)
- Zip Codes: 68818
- Latitude: 40.8660° N
- Longitude: 98.0223° W
Location and History
Aurora, the county seat of Hamilton County, is located in central Nebraska. The city was established in 1871 and named after the Roman goddess of dawn, symbolizing a new beginning for the settlers who had recently arrived in the area. Aurora’s history is closely tied to the expansion of the railroad and the growth of agriculture in the region. It became an important trading post for local farmers and ranchers, who shipped grain, livestock, and other agricultural products via the railroad. The town grew steadily throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries as settlers moved west to take advantage of the fertile plains. Aurora was officially incorporated as a city in 1881, and during the 20th century, it continued to prosper as a farming hub. Today, Aurora is known for its strong agricultural industry, particularly in corn and cattle production, as well as its close-knit community and family-friendly atmosphere. Aurora has experienced modest population growth in recent decades and remains one of the larger cities in Hamilton County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Aurora is served by the Aurora Public Schools district, which includes Aurora High School and Aurora Middle School. The district is known for its commitment to educational excellence, with a variety of extracurricular activities and academic programs. Major landmarks in Aurora include the Hamilton County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the center of local government, and the Prairie Creek Nature Center, which offers outdoor recreation and educational programs. The city’s downtown area has a collection of charming businesses, including cafes, shops, and local service providers, which contribute to the town’s small-town atmosphere. Aurora’s location along U.S. Route 34 provides easy access to surrounding areas, and its proximity to Grand Island makes it an ideal place for those seeking a rural lifestyle with access to urban amenities. Aurora hosts several community events each year, such as the Hamilton County Fair, which includes a rodeo, carnival, and livestock exhibitions. The city is also home to several parks and sports facilities, making it an attractive place for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Hordville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (2023)
- Zip Codes: 68846
- Latitude: 40.6932° N
- Longitude: 97.9563° W
Location and History
Hordville is a small village located in the northern part of Hamilton County, Nebraska. The town was founded in the late 19th century and was named after its first postmaster, J. H. Hord. Hordville grew rapidly in its early years, benefiting from its location along the railroad and its proximity to fertile agricultural land. The railroad allowed local farmers to ship their products, such as grain and livestock, to larger markets. While Hordville was once a bustling center for agriculture, like many small rural towns, its population has decreased over the years as farm consolidation and urbanization have taken their toll. Despite its small size, Hordville maintains a strong sense of community, and agriculture continues to be a key part of the local economy. The village’s rural setting provides a peaceful lifestyle, and it remains an important part of Hamilton County’s agricultural backbone.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hordville is part of the High Plains Community Schools district, which includes both elementary and high school education. The district is known for its small student-to-teacher ratio and its close-knit community atmosphere. While Hordville does not have large commercial attractions, it is home to several locally owned businesses, including a post office and a few small shops. The town’s rural location offers picturesque views of the surrounding farmland, and the area is known for its agricultural significance. Hordville’s most prominent landmarks include the local parks, which offer open spaces for recreation and community events. The village is a short drive from Aurora, providing residents with access to larger city amenities, including shopping centers, healthcare facilities, and cultural venues. Hordville celebrates its agricultural roots through events like the annual Harvest Festival, which includes a parade, local food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Though small in population, Hordville remains a charming village that preserves the agricultural heritage of Hamilton County.
Marquette
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (2023)
- Zip Codes: 68854
- Latitude: 40.7866° N
- Longitude: 98.0581° W
Location and History
Marquette is a small village located in the southeastern part of Hamilton County, Nebraska. The town was established in the late 19th century and was named after Father Jacques Marquette, the French Jesuit missionary and explorer who helped map the Mississippi River. Marquette developed as an agricultural community, with settlers drawn to the area due to its fertile soil and proximity to the Platte River. The railroad played a major role in the early development of the town, facilitating the transportation of grain, livestock, and other products to larger markets. While the population of Marquette has remained small over the years, the village maintains its agricultural roots and serves as a quiet community for farmers and ranchers in the region. The town is located just off U.S. Route 34, providing convenient access to nearby larger towns, including Aurora and Grand Island. Despite its size, Marquette holds a central place in the rural fabric of Hamilton County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Marquette is served by the Aurora Public Schools district, with local children attending schools in nearby Aurora. The village doesn’t have many commercial landmarks, but it is known for its peaceful, rural atmosphere. Major landmarks include the Marquette Community Park, which offers space for outdoor activities like picnicking, walking, and small gatherings. The town’s location along the Platte River provides scenic views and recreational opportunities, including birdwatching and fishing. Marquette hosts several community events throughout the year, such as a summer picnic and local celebrations that bring residents together. The small size of Marquette fosters a strong sense of community, with residents actively involved in local organizations and activities. Its rural location, combined with easy access to larger towns like Aurora, makes Marquette a desirable place for those looking for a peaceful lifestyle while remaining close to urban amenities.
Phillips
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (2023)
- Zip Codes: 68865
- Latitude: 40.6330° N
- Longitude: 98.1094° W
Location and History
Phillips is a small village located in the southwestern part of Hamilton County, Nebraska. The town was founded in the late 19th century and was named after Phillips, Massachusetts, the hometown of one of its early settlers. Phillips developed as a farming community, with settlers attracted by the fertile soil and the town’s access to the Union Pacific Railroad, which was critical for transporting goods like grain and livestock. Like many small towns in Nebraska, Phillips experienced its peak population during the early 20th century, but over time, as farming operations grew larger and rural depopulation set in, the town’s population began to decline. Today, Phillips is a quiet rural community with a population of just a few hundred residents. The village’s economy is still largely based on agriculture, particularly corn and cattle ranching, and its small size and rural character provide a peaceful environment for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Phillips is served by the Aurora Public Schools district, and students in the village attend schools in Aurora. Though Phillips is small, it maintains a few local businesses, including a general store and a post office. The town’s location provides access to the surrounding farmland and is also within driving distance of Grand Island, offering residents access to larger city amenities. Major landmarks in Phillips include the local community park, which hosts sports fields, playgrounds, and a gathering area for local events. The town’s rural atmosphere is enhanced by its agricultural surroundings, with wide-open fields and scenic views of the Nebraska plains. Phillips is a peaceful, tight-knit community that holds onto its agricultural heritage through local events such as harvest festivals and farm-related activities. Despite its small size, Phillips plays a role in supporting the agricultural economy of Hamilton County and remains a charming village with a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors.
