Cities and Towns in Merrick County, Nebraska

Founded in 1858, Merrick County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Merrick County was formed from Polk County and unorganized territory. The city of Central City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 121, Merrick County has a population of 7,665 and area of 485 square miles (1,256 km²).

List of all cities in Merrick County, NE alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Archer, NE 68816 308
Central City, NE 68826 308
Chapman, NE 68827 308
Clarks, NE 68628 308
Midland, NE 68816 308
Palmer, NE 68864 308
Riverside Park, NE 68826 308
Silver Creek, NE 68663 308
Vieregg, NE 68827 308

Major Cities and Towns in Merrick County, Nebraska

Central City, Nebraska

Location and History

Central City is the county seat of Merrick County and is located in the central part of Nebraska, approximately 20 miles northwest of Grand Island. The city was established in 1871 and quickly grew as a key hub for agriculture and transportation in the region. Its name reflects its strategic position, as Central City is near the center of the county and served as a natural gathering place for early settlers. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s helped to spur further growth, as it enabled easier transport of agricultural products like wheat and livestock. Central City became a thriving commercial center, and over the years, its economy diversified into other sectors, including manufacturing and retail. The city is known for its historic downtown area, where many buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries still stand. Today, Central City is a small, rural community that maintains its agricultural roots while also attracting new businesses and industries.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Central City is served by the Central City Public Schools district, which includes Central City High School, known for its strong academic performance and extracurricular activities. The city is also home to several private schools and a public library. Among Central City’s notable landmarks is the Merrick County Courthouse, a historic building that anchors the downtown area. The Central City Public Library is another key location, offering resources for the community and hosting various events. The city’s downtown area, with its brick storefronts and early 20th-century architecture, is also a popular area for residents and visitors. For outdoor recreation, Central City has several parks, including the Central City Community Park, which provides facilities for picnics, sports, and family gatherings. The Loup River runs near the city and offers additional opportunities for fishing and boating. Central City hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Central City Harvest Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural history and brings together local artisans, food vendors, and musicians.

  • Area: 1.43 sq mi
  • Population: 2,948 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 68826
  • Latitude: 41.1015° N
  • Longitude: 98.0232° W

Clarks, Nebraska

Location and History

Clarks is a small village located in the eastern part of Merrick County, about 12 miles southeast of Central City. It was founded in 1872, during the westward expansion, and named after local landowner William Clark. Early settlers were primarily farmers, attracted to the fertile soil and availability of water from the Loup River. The village grew steadily in the late 19th century, particularly after the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s. Clarks quickly became an important center for the surrounding agricultural community, with farmers bringing their crops and livestock to the village for processing and trade. However, as agricultural practices became more mechanized in the 20th century, the population of Clarks stabilized, and the village became a quiet, rural community. Today, Clarks maintains its small-town atmosphere and continues to serve as a hub for local farming families and businesses.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Clarks is served by the Clarks Public School district, which includes Clarks High School. The school is known for its academic excellence and extracurricular activities, particularly in athletics. The village does not have many notable landmarks, but it is home to several public parks and green spaces. The Loup River, which runs near Clarks, is an important natural feature, offering opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation. The village also celebrates its agricultural heritage through annual events, such as the Clarks Harvest Festival, which features local produce, live music, and food vendors. The Clarks Public Library provides educational resources for residents, and the Clarks Community Center hosts local meetings and events. While Clarks is small, it is a close-knit community that celebrates its rural character and agricultural roots.

  • Area: 0.44 sq mi
  • Population: 323 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 68628
  • Latitude: 41.1429° N
  • Longitude: 98.0589° W

Palmer, Nebraska

Location and History

Palmer is a small village located in the southeastern part of Merrick County, about 15 miles northeast of Grand Island. Palmer was established in 1870, and like many small Nebraska communities, it grew as a result of the railroad expansion and its position in an agriculturally rich region. The town was named after local landowner and businessman, Palmer E. Smith, who played a pivotal role in its early development. Palmer’s early economy centered on agriculture, with crops such as wheat, corn, and alfalfa being cultivated in the surrounding area. The railroad provided an important transportation route for shipping agricultural products, and the town’s economy flourished as a result. However, like many rural towns, Palmer experienced population decline in the later half of the 20th century as mechanized farming reduced the need for local centers of trade. Today, Palmer remains a small, rural community that serves as a hub for nearby farmers.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Palmer is served by the Palmer Public Schools district, which includes Palmer High School. The school district provides a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including athletics, music, and clubs. Palmer’s most significant landmarks include the Palmer Community Center, which serves as the site for local events and activities, and the village’s parks, which provide recreational opportunities for residents. Palmer also features a well-maintained cemetery, which is the final resting place for many of the town’s early settlers. The Loup River, which runs near the village, is a natural attraction for those interested in fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The town hosts several local events throughout the year, such as the Palmer Corn Festival, which celebrates the community’s agricultural heritage and includes parades, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.

  • Area: 0.46 sq mi
  • Population: 417 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 68864
  • Latitude: 41.2311° N
  • Longitude: 98.0335° W

Osceola, Nebraska

Location and History

Osceola is a small village located in the southwestern part of Merrick County, Nebraska. It was founded in 1870 and was originally named “Osceola” after the famous Seminole leader, Osceola, who fought against the United States in the Second Seminole War. Osceola was a prominent stop on the railroad line that passed through the region, which facilitated its growth as a trade and transportation center in the late 19th century. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly wheat and livestock farming. Over the years, Osceola has remained a small rural community with a stable population. While it is no longer a major trade hub, the village continues to serve as a local center for commerce, with small businesses and agricultural services still being important to the local economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Osceola is served by the Osceola Public Schools district, which includes Osceola High School. The schools offer a variety of academic and extracurricular programs, including sports, arts, and community service opportunities. The village’s most notable landmarks include the Osceola Community Center, which is used for public meetings, events, and celebrations. The Loup River, located near Osceola, provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, kayaking, and nature walks. The Osceola Cemetery is another significant landmark in the village, as it is the resting place of many of the early settlers. Osceola hosts several local events each year, including the Osceola Fall Festival, which features local food, music, and entertainment. The small-town atmosphere, combined with its historic charm and natural beauty, makes Osceola a pleasant place to live and visit.

  • Area: 0.25 sq mi
  • Population: 167 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 68655
  • Latitude: 41.2634° N
  • Longitude: 98.1374° W