Cities and Towns in Morrill County, Nebraska

Founded in 1908, Morrill County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Morrill County was formed from Cheyenne County. The city of Bridgeport is the county seat. With FIPS code of 123, Morrill County has a population of 4,574 and area of 1,424 square miles (3,688 km²).

List of all cities in Morrill County, NE alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Angora, NE 69331 308
Bayard, NE 69334 308
Bridgeport, NE 69336 308
Broadwater, NE 69125 308
Northport, NE 69336 308
Redington, NE 69336 308

Major Cities and Towns in Morrill County, Nebraska

Bridgeport, Nebraska

Location and History

Bridgeport is the county seat of Morrill County and is located in the western part of Nebraska, approximately 30 miles southeast of the Wyoming border. Founded in 1868, Bridgeport grew as a strategic stop on the railroad line that connected major cities across the Great Plains. The city was named for its position near the “bridge” crossing of the North Platte River. Early settlers in the area were primarily involved in agriculture, with wheat, corn, and cattle becoming important staples of the local economy. As the region expanded, the railroad played a pivotal role in its development, providing a transportation route for goods and people. Over time, Bridgeport’s population grew as it became the economic and administrative center of Morrill County. Today, Bridgeport is a rural community with a focus on agriculture and ranching, although its history as a railroad town is still evident in many of the city’s buildings and structures.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bridgeport is served by the Bridgeport Public Schools district, which includes Bridgeport High School. The local schools are known for their strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, particularly in sports. The city also has a public library and a community center that hosts various local events. Major landmarks in Bridgeport include the Morrill County Courthouse, a historic building located in the city center, and the Bridgeport City Park, which offers recreational facilities including a baseball field, tennis courts, and picnic areas. The North Platte River, which runs nearby, is a natural landmark that offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Bridgeport also has several historic buildings, some of which date back to the early 20th century and reflect the city’s historical connection to the railroad. The city is home to a number of annual events, including a county fair, which celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage.

  • Area: 1.01 sq mi
  • Population: 1,609 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 69336
  • Latitude: 41.6549° N
  • Longitude: 102.4591° W

Bayard, Nebraska

Location and History

Bayard is a small city located in the northeastern part of Morrill County, approximately 25 miles east of Bridgeport. The town was founded in 1887 when the railroad expanded into the region, and it was named after a local landowner, Bayard Cutler. The town quickly became a key center for agriculture, particularly for wheat and cattle farming. Bayard’s economy has remained largely agricultural over the years, though the town also had an early focus on timber production due to its proximity to the North Platte River. By the early 20th century, Bayard had established itself as a thriving rural community with a population that fluctuated between 500 and 1,000 throughout the years. The town is known for its quiet, small-town atmosphere, which is typical of many rural Nebraskan communities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bayard is served by the Bayard Public Schools district, which includes Bayard High School. The local schools are well-regarded for their educational standards and extracurricular opportunities, including a strong athletic program. Bayard’s landmarks include the Bayard City Park, which provides residents and visitors with recreational facilities like a swimming pool, sports fields, and a walking path. Another important landmark is the Bayard Cemetery, where many of the town’s early pioneers are buried. The Bayard Volunteer Fire Department is also an essential part of the community and regularly participates in local events. The nearby North Platte River and the surrounding farmland offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The town celebrates its agricultural roots with a number of local festivals and fairs, such as the annual Bayard Harvest Festival, which showcases local produce, crafts, and live entertainment.

  • Area: 0.74 sq mi
  • Population: 1,158 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 69334
  • Latitude: 41.6874° N
  • Longitude: 103.4792° W

Lyman, Nebraska

Location and History

Lyman is located in the southwestern corner of Morrill County, Nebraska, just north of the Colorado state line. The village was established in the early 1900s as a small agricultural community. Its location along U.S. Highway 26 made it an attractive stop for travelers and settlers. Lyman’s history is tied closely to the development of the surrounding agricultural industry, with local farms growing crops such as wheat, corn, and alfalfa. Though it remains small, Lyman’s strategic position on the plains near major highways has kept it connected to larger cities in the region. Over time, the community’s population has remained stable, with its economy still based primarily on agriculture. The town’s quiet, rural character and close-knit community make it a distinctive part of Morrill County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lyman is part of the Lyman Public Schools district, which serves the village and surrounding rural areas. The district includes Lyman High School, which offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs. A major landmark in Lyman is the Lyman Community Center, which serves as the hub for local activities and events. The community center is often used for family gatherings, local festivals, and public meetings. Lyman is also home to several local parks, including a small recreational area that offers playgrounds and picnic spots. The town’s proximity to the North Platte River provides additional recreational opportunities, such as fishing and birdwatching. Lyman also celebrates its agricultural heritage with annual events like the Lyman Harvest Festival, where local farmers showcase their produce and crafts. The small town’s natural beauty and rural charm make it a peaceful retreat in the heart of western Nebraska.

  • Area: 0.31 sq mi
  • Population: 369 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 69352
  • Latitude: 41.6584° N
  • Longitude: 103.7377° W

Redington, Nebraska

Location and History

Redington is an unincorporated village located in the southern part of Morrill County, Nebraska, near the intersection of U.S. Highway 385 and State Route 92. The village was founded in the early 1900s and was named after Redington, Maine. Redington developed as a small, agricultural community with its economy focused primarily on farming and ranching. While it never grew large, it remained a vital stop for travelers and locals, offering goods and services for the surrounding farming population. The railroad played an important role in its development, and like many small rural communities, it grew during times of prosperity but saw a decline as farming operations became more mechanized and less reliant on local centers. Despite its small size, Redington remains an important part of Morrill County’s rural landscape.

Major Schools and Landmarks

As an unincorporated community, Redington is not served by a local school district but falls under the jurisdiction of nearby school districts, including those serving the larger towns of Bridgeport and Bayard. The village does not have many formal landmarks, but its proximity to agricultural land and the nearby river provides it with natural beauty and outdoor opportunities. Redington is located near several rural parks, including those associated with nearby river systems, which are popular for fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. The village is also within driving distance of major landmarks in Morrill County, such as the Scotts Bluff National Monument, making it a good spot for visitors interested in exploring the history of the area. Redington’s main feature is its small-town atmosphere and agricultural surroundings, providing a peaceful, rural escape.

  • Area: N/A
  • Population: 25 (estimated, unincorporated)
  • Zip Codes: 69352
  • Latitude: 41.6914° N
  • Longitude: 103.8253° W