Cities and Towns in Logan County, Nebraska

Founded in 1885, Logan County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Logan County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Stapleton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 113, Logan County has a population of 687 and area of 571 square miles (1,479 km²).

List of all cities in Logan County, NE alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Gandy, NE	69163	308
Stapleton, NE	69163	308

Major Cities and Towns in Logan County, Nebraska

Stapleton, Nebraska

Location and History

Stapleton is located in the southern part of Logan County, Nebraska, and serves as the county seat. Founded in 1884, the village was named after George A. Stapleton, a railroad official who helped bring the railroad through the area. Stapleton’s establishment is tied closely to the development of the railroad system in Nebraska, which spurred the growth of towns and villages along its routes. Early settlers in Stapleton were drawn to the fertile land and the promise of agricultural opportunities in the surrounding area. By the early 20th century, Stapleton had developed into a thriving community with a strong focus on agriculture, particularly wheat and corn farming. The town grew slowly but steadily through the 20th century, though it has maintained its small-town charm. Over the years, Stapleton has served as a center for local government and commerce in Logan County. Today, the town remains an agricultural hub and has a population that fluctuates with local farming cycles.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Stapleton is served by the Stapleton Public Schools district, which includes Stapleton High School. The school is known for its excellent academic programs and strong athletics, particularly in basketball and volleyball. Stapleton’s most prominent landmark is the Logan County Courthouse, a historic building that stands in the center of town and serves as a symbol of the community’s civic pride. Other local landmarks include the Stapleton Community Center, which hosts various social events and meetings, and the town’s historic downtown, with buildings that date back to the early 20th century. The surrounding landscape, which is characterized by wide open spaces and agricultural land, provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. Stapleton also celebrates its local history with annual events like the Stapleton Fair, which features rodeo events, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibitions. The village’s strong community spirit and its role as a center for local farming make it a beloved part of Logan County.

• Area: 0.52 sq mi
• Population: 276 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 69163
• Latitude: 41.5167° N
• Longitude: 99.5094° W

Gandy, Nebraska

Location and History

Gandy is a small village located in the western part of Logan County, Nebraska. It was founded in 1886 when the railroad came through the area and played a significant role in the settlement of the region. The village was named after Gandy Slade, a prominent early settler in the area. Gandy, like many other small towns in Nebraska, was founded primarily as a farming community. Early residents focused on agriculture, raising cattle and growing crops like corn and wheat. The arrival of the railroad helped Gandy become an important stop for transporting goods to larger markets. However, as the economy shifted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the town’s population gradually declined. Despite this, Gandy has remained a close-knit rural community. It is still an important center for local farming and provides services to the surrounding agricultural area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gandy is served by the Brady Public Schools district, which is located a few miles to the south in the nearby town of Brady. Though Gandy does not have its own school, the local children attend schools in Brady. One of the key landmarks in Gandy is the Gandy Community Center, which serves as a gathering place for events, town meetings, and social activities. The village is also home to a number of historic buildings that reflect its agricultural past. Nearby, the North Platte River provides opportunities for fishing and boating. The surrounding countryside offers ample space for hunting, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Gandy’s rural location and small population contribute to its peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy the tranquility of Nebraska’s plains. While it does not host major festivals or events, Gandy’s annual gatherings, such as the local Fourth of July picnic, foster a sense of community and celebrate the town’s farming roots.

• Area: 0.17 sq mi
• Population: 40 (estimated)
• Zip Codes: 69141
• Latitude: 41.4367° N
• Longitude: 99.8767° W

Merna, Nebraska

Location and History

Merna is located in the southeastern part of Logan County, Nebraska, and was established in 1887. The town was named after the daughter of a local landowner, and its growth was closely tied to the expansion of the railroad, which brought settlers to the area. Like many small Nebraska towns, Merna’s economy was initially based on agriculture, with wheat, corn, and cattle being the primary products. Early settlers were attracted to the fertile soil and abundant natural resources in the area, and the town’s location near the Middle Loup River provided water for farming. Over the years, Merna grew steadily, with the construction of schools, churches, and businesses that served the growing rural population. The town experienced a steady decline in population during the latter half of the 20th century, as farming became more mechanized and fewer people were needed in rural communities. Today, Merna remains a quiet village with a small but resilient population that continues to make its living from agriculture.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Merna is part of the Merna Public Schools district, which includes Merna High School. The district provides educational opportunities for students and is known for its active community involvement, with a focus on academics and athletics. Merna’s primary landmark is the Merna Community Hall, which serves as a gathering space for local events, meetings, and celebrations. The town also boasts a few historic buildings that reflect its past, including a restored railroad depot. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Middle Loup River offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The town is located near several parks and recreational areas that are ideal for hiking and picnicking. Merna hosts a variety of local events, including the annual Merna Harvest Festival, where residents celebrate the community’s agricultural roots with music, food, and games. Despite its small size, Merna remains a cherished part of Logan County’s agricultural heritage and continues to bring its residents together through local traditions and community events.

• Area: 0.25 sq mi
• Population: 99 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 68856
• Latitude: 41.5233° N
• Longitude: 99.1819° W