Cities and Towns in Thayer County, Nebraska

Founded in 1871, Thayer County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Thayer County was formed from Jefferson County. The city of Hebron is the county seat. With FIPS code of 169, Thayer County has a population of 4,913 and area of 575 square miles (1,489 km²).

List of all cities in Thayer County, NE alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alexandria, NE	68303	402
Belvidere, NE	68315	402
Bruning, NE	68322	402
Byron, NE	68325	402
Carleton, NE	68326	402
Chester, NE	68327	402
	68429	402
Davenport, NE	68335	402
Deshler, NE	68340	402
Gilead, NE	68362	402
Hebron, NE	68315	402
	68370	402
Hubbell, NE	68375	402
Reynolds, NE	68429	402

Major Cities and Towns in Thayer County, Nebraska

Hebron

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

• Area: 0.81 square miles
• Population: 1,500+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68370
• Latitude: 40.1750° N
• Longitude: 98.0320° W

Location and History:

Hebron, the county seat of Thayer County, is located in southeastern Nebraska, approximately 20 miles from the Kansas border. Founded in 1871, the city was named after Hebron, a town in Israel, symbolizing a place of peace and shelter. Hebron’s location along the Burlington Northern Railroad helped it grow into a bustling trade hub in the late 19th century. Early settlers in Hebron were primarily farmers, taking advantage of the fertile land in the Big Blue River Valley, which was ideal for growing crops such as corn and wheat. The town grew steadily through the 20th century, and agriculture continued to play a major role in its economy, although the community diversified with local businesses and services. The city saw a brief boom during the railroad era but has remained a small, rural community. Hebron’s charm lies in its combination of small-town atmosphere, agricultural heritage, and community spirit, with a focus on maintaining its history while providing modern amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Hebron is served by the Hebron Public Schools district, which includes Hebron High School, a middle school, and an elementary school. The school district is well-regarded for its academic performance and strong extracurricular programs, including sports and the arts. Notable landmarks in Hebron include the Thayer County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the heart of the county government. The city also features a public library, the Hebron Public Library, which offers educational programs and community events. In addition, the Hebron City Park provides recreational opportunities, such as picnic areas, sports fields, and a walking trail. The Big Blue River, which runs through the area, offers scenic views and outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking. Hebron’s annual Thayer County Fair is a highlight of the summer, showcasing local agriculture and attracting visitors from the region.

Bruning

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

• Area: 0.43 square miles
• Population: 500+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68322
• Latitude: 40.3590° N
• Longitude: 98.0152° W

Location and History:

Bruning is a small village located in the southwestern part of Thayer County, Nebraska, approximately 20 miles from the Kansas border. The town was founded in 1880 and named after Charles Bruning, a railroad executive who helped establish the town’s early infrastructure. Bruning grew rapidly during the late 19th century thanks to the arrival of the railroad, which connected the community to larger markets for its agricultural products. The primary industries in Bruning have always been farming and ranching, with crops such as wheat, corn, and oats, as well as livestock, being vital to the local economy. The village maintains its rural charm and has a close-knit community that continues to support its agricultural roots. Bruning has faced population declines, like many small rural towns in the Midwest, but continues to hold an important place in the heart of Thayer County. Bruning’s peaceful setting and strong community ties make it a great place for those seeking a slower-paced, small-town lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Bruning is served by the Bruning-Davenport Public Schools district, which provides a K-12 education for students in the area. The school district is known for its strong academic programs and community involvement. One of the town’s landmarks is the Bruning Community Center, which hosts various local events, meetings, and celebrations. The town also features a local park with picnic areas and playgrounds, providing a place for residents to gather and enjoy outdoor activities. In the surrounding area, Bruning is known for its historical buildings, including the town’s original depot and old farmhouses that reflect its agricultural heritage. The nearby countryside offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, with hunting, hiking, and fishing available in the surrounding rural areas. Bruning’s annual events, such as the Harvest Festival, celebrate local traditions, including the area’s agricultural roots and community spirit.

Deshler

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

• Area: 0.60 square miles
• Population: 1,000+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68340
• Latitude: 40.2002° N
• Longitude: 97.7983° W

Location and History:

Deshler is located in the central part of Thayer County, Nebraska, around 40 miles north of the Kansas border. The town was founded in 1881 and named after the Deshler family, early settlers who contributed to the town’s development. Like many towns in the Great Plains, Deshler’s early economy was based on agriculture, with the surrounding fertile soil ideal for growing corn, wheat, and other crops. The railroad was instrumental in the development of Deshler, providing access to larger markets for the region’s agricultural products. Over the years, the town grew steadily, and today it is a small but thriving rural community. Agriculture remains central to Deshler’s economy, but it has also diversified with small businesses and services that cater to the local population. Despite its size, Deshler has maintained a strong sense of community and is known for its friendly residents and commitment to preserving its heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Deshler is served by the Deshler Public Schools district, which includes Deshler High School, a middle school, and an elementary school. The district is well-regarded for its academic offerings, and the school facilities include a gymnasium, sports fields, and a music program. Key landmarks in Deshler include the Thayer County Museum, which showcases the history of the region, including exhibits on local agriculture, pioneer life, and historical figures from the area. The town also features several parks, including a community park with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Big Blue River, which runs near the town, offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and wildlife observation. Deshler is also known for its annual events, including the Deshler Rodeo and the Thayer County Fair, which celebrate the area’s agricultural heritage and bring the community together.

Alexandria

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

• Area: 0.36 square miles
• Population: 200+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68303
• Latitude: 40.3432° N
• Longitude: 97.6751° W

Location and History:

Alexandria is a small village located in the northeastern part of Thayer County, Nebraska. Established in the late 19th century, the village grew quickly after the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s. Alexandria was named after Alexandria, Virginia, reflecting the hopes of its founders that the town would grow into an important trade and transportation hub. Like many small towns in Nebraska, Alexandria was built around agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops like corn and wheat, as well as livestock. Over time, the town’s population dwindled as the economy shifted away from railroad-dependent trade and into more modern forms of transportation. However, Alexandria retains its small-town charm and remains an agricultural center for the surrounding area. Today, the village is primarily residential, with a strong sense of community and a focus on preserving the town’s history.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Alexandria is served by the Alexandria Public Schools district, which provides educational opportunities for students in the area, although many students attend schools in nearby towns for additional options. Key landmarks in Alexandria include the Alexandria Community Center, which serves as a gathering space for local events, such as holiday celebrations and town meetings. The town also has a local park with a baseball diamond, playground equipment, and picnic areas, offering a space for outdoor activities. The surrounding rural area offers numerous opportunities for hunting, fishing, and hiking, as the community is located near several small rivers and streams. Alexandria is also known for its historical buildings, many of which date back to the late 19th century, and for its quiet, scenic location in the Nebraska countryside.