Cities and Towns in Nuckolls County, Nebraska

Founded in 1860, Nuckolls County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Nuckolls County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Nelson is the county seat. With FIPS code of 129, Nuckolls County has a population of 4,060 and area of 575 square miles (1,489 km²).

List of all cities in Nuckolls County, NE alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Bostwick, NE	68978	402
Cadams, NE	68978	402
Hardy, NE	68943	402
Lawrence, NE	68957	402
Mount Clare, NE	68957	402
Nelson, NE	68961	402
Nora, NE	68961	402
Oak, NE	68964	402
Ruskin, NE	68974	402
Saint Stephens, NE	68957	402
Superior, NE	68978	402

Major Cities and Towns in Nuckolls County, Nebraska

Nelson

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 1.08 square miles
• Population: 1,000+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68961
• Latitude: 40.0600° N
• Longitude: 98.0717° W

Location and History:

Nelson is a small city located in the southeastern part of Nuckolls County, Nebraska, near the border with Kansas. It was founded in 1871, shortly after the arrival of the railroad, which greatly influenced its development. The city was originally named “Nelson” after a prominent local family, and it quickly became an agricultural center. In the early 20th century, the region was known for its thriving grain and livestock markets. The city saw its peak population in the 1920s, but like many rural towns, it has experienced a gradual decline in population over the years. Despite its small size, Nelson is proud of its history, especially the role it played in the development of Nuckolls County as a vital agricultural region. The city is surrounded by fertile farmland and continues to serve as a hub for local agricultural activities. Its location along U.S. Highway 136 makes it an important stop for travelers in the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Nelson is served by the Nelson Public Schools district, which includes Nelson High School. The district focuses on providing a quality education in a rural setting, with students participating in a range of activities including sports, music, and academic clubs. Key landmarks in Nelson include the Nuckolls County Fairgrounds, where the annual Nuckolls County Fair is held. The fair features rodeo events, live entertainment, and agricultural displays, making it a focal point of the community’s social life. Nelson also boasts a number of historical buildings, including its historic downtown area with early 20th-century architecture. Nearby, the Republican River offers opportunities for fishing and recreation. In the surrounding farmland, visitors can enjoy the wide-open spaces and the agricultural landscape that defines this part of Nebraska. The city is also home to several parks and community spaces, offering residents a peaceful, rural environment to enjoy family activities and local events.

Superior

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 1.21 square miles
• Population: 2,000+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68978
• Latitude: 40.1843° N
• Longitude: 98.0661° W

Location and History:

Superior is located in the southwestern part of Nuckolls County, Nebraska, near the Kansas border. The town was founded in 1871, making it one of the earliest settlements in the region. Originally a railroad town, Superior grew quickly due to its strategic location along the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad, which allowed it to become a major trade and shipping center for the surrounding area. The city was named “Superior” due to its excellent location for agriculture and trade, and it soon became known as an important hub for the grain and livestock markets. Throughout the 20th century, Superior continued to thrive with its agriculture-based economy, but like many rural towns, it saw a decline in population and business activity in recent decades. However, Superior remains an important center for local farmers and ranchers and continues to serve as a regional retail hub in southern Nebraska. The city’s rich history is reflected in its preserved buildings and local landmarks.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Superior is served by the Superior Public Schools district, which includes Superior High School. The district provides a strong academic program and extracurricular activities, including sports teams, music programs, and other student organizations. Key landmarks in Superior include the Nuckolls County Historical Museum, which showcases the region’s agricultural and railroad history. Another important landmark is the Superior City Park, which features sports fields, playgrounds, and a swimming pool for community enjoyment. The city also has several historic buildings, including the Superior Opera House, which is still used for community events and performances. The nearby Republican River provides outdoor recreational opportunities, and the area surrounding Superior is known for its wide expanses of farmland and scenic views. Superior is home to several annual events, including the Nuckolls County Fair, which celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with exhibits, contests, and live entertainment. The city’s small-town atmosphere and strong community spirit make it a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.

Hardy

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 0.34 square miles
• Population: 70+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68943
• Latitude: 40.0172° N
• Longitude: 98.0147° W

Location and History:

Hardy is a tiny village located in the southeastern part of Nuckolls County, Nebraska, near the Kansas border. The town was founded in the 1880s and named after Hardy, an early settler and local landowner. Like many rural Nebraska communities, Hardy was originally established as an agricultural hub. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century allowed the village to prosper briefly, as grain and livestock could be easily shipped to larger markets. However, due to its small size and the consolidation of nearby agricultural communities, Hardy’s population has steadily declined over the years. Today, Hardy is a quiet rural community with a small but dedicated group of residents who continue to farm and raise livestock in the surrounding countryside. Although it is not as active as it once was, Hardy is part of the larger agricultural and community network in Nuckolls County.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Students in Hardy attend school in nearby Superior, as the village no longer has its own school. Hardy is part of the larger Superior Public Schools district, with students commuting to Superior High School for their education. Although Hardy has limited landmarks due to its small size, one notable feature is the village’s historic architecture, which includes early 20th-century homes and farm buildings that reflect the town’s agricultural history. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and birdwatching, as well as a variety of farm tours and agricultural events. Hardy is home to a few local businesses and is part of the annual Nuckolls County Fair, where local residents come together to celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage. Hardy’s peaceful rural setting, along with its historical roots, makes it a unique and charming part of Nuckolls County.

Ruskin

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 0.23 square miles
• Population: 100+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68974
• Latitude: 40.0901° N
• Longitude: 98.1140° W

Location and History:

Ruskin is a very small village in the eastern part of Nuckolls County, Nebraska. It was established in 1882 and named after the British art critic and social thinker, John Ruskin. The town developed as a rural agricultural community, with local farmers producing grain and livestock, particularly as the railroad extended to the area. While it was never a large settlement, Ruskin served as a local center for surrounding rural areas, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The arrival of the railroad helped boost the local economy, and many of the town’s early businesses were tied to agriculture and transportation. Over time, the population dwindled, and today Ruskin remains a small, quiet village, known for its historical buildings and its role in the agricultural development of Nuckolls County. The surrounding rural landscape continues to be dominated by farming and ranching.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Ruskin’s small population means that its children attend school in nearby Superior, where they are part of the Superior Public Schools district. Major landmarks in Ruskin are few, but the town features several old farmhouses and early 20th-century buildings that reflect its agricultural past. The surrounding countryside offers scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities, such as fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation. Ruskin is part of the greater Nuckolls County community and participates in regional events like the Nuckolls County Fair, which showcases local agriculture and culture. Although small, Ruskin has a strong sense of community and is known for its rural charm and agricultural heritage. It remains a tranquil place for those who appreciate the beauty and history of Nebraska’s farming communities.