Cities and Towns in Wheeler County, Nebraska

Founded in 1877, Wheeler County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Wheeler County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Bartlett is the county seat. With FIPS code of 183, Wheeler County has a population of 795 and area of 575 square miles (1,489 km²).

List of all cities in Wheeler County, NE alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Bartlett, NE 68622 308
Ericson, NE 68637 308

Major Cities and Towns in Wheeler County, Nebraska

Bartlett

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

  • Area: 0.35 square miles
  • Population: 400+ (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 68622
  • Latitude: 41.8300° N
  • Longitude: 98.0333° W

Location and History:

Bartlett is located in the north-central part of Wheeler County, Nebraska, about 10 miles west of the county seat, Ord. The town was founded in 1887 and named after the Bartlett family, who were early settlers in the area. The establishment of the railroad played a crucial role in the town’s development, as it became a transportation hub for the surrounding agricultural community. For many years, Bartlett has been a small rural community, with farming and ranching being the primary economic drivers. As with many towns in the Great Plains, Bartlett grew during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since remained a quiet agricultural town. Its location in the heart of Nebraska’s farmland has kept it connected to the agricultural history and traditions of the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Bartlett is served by the Bartlett Public Schools, which provides education for elementary and middle school students. The town’s schools are a key community gathering point, hosting sporting events and extracurricular activities. Major landmarks in Bartlett include the historic Bartlett Methodist Church, which has been an important fixture in the town since the early 20th century. The Bartlett City Park offers a space for local recreation, including sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Bartlett’s rural atmosphere is further enhanced by its scenic views of the surrounding farmland and nearby natural areas, making it a peaceful spot for visitors seeking the tranquility of Nebraska’s countryside.

Ericson

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

  • Area: 0.21 square miles
  • Population: 200+ (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 68637
  • Latitude: 41.8447° N
  • Longitude: 98.1240° W

Location and History:

Ericson is a small village located in the western part of Wheeler County, Nebraska, about 12 miles northwest of Ord. Founded in the late 19th century, the town’s history is tied to the expansion of the railroad system that linked the area to other parts of Nebraska. Originally settled as a trade center for the surrounding agricultural community, Ericson grew rapidly during the railroad era. The town was named after an early settler, and like many small Nebraska towns, it has kept a strong connection to its rural and agricultural roots. Despite its small population, Ericson maintains a sense of community with a history shaped by the farmers, ranchers, and railroad workers who settled the area. Today, it remains an example of small-town Nebraska life, preserving its agricultural history while adapting to modern changes.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Ericson is part of the Riverside Public School District, which serves the community with elementary and high school education. The district is committed to providing a strong academic foundation in a rural setting, with local sports teams and events bringing the town together. The main landmarks in Ericson include the old depot, which is a reminder of the town’s railroad past, and the Ericson Community Hall, which hosts local events such as social gatherings and meetings. The Ericson City Park provides a venue for picnics, sports, and family activities, offering a small-town respite for visitors. While the town is small, it maintains a deep sense of history and pride in its agricultural roots, contributing to a close-knit community atmosphere.

Sargent

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

  • Area: 0.57 square miles
  • Population: 300+ (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 68874
  • Latitude: 41.8033° N
  • Longitude: 98.3067° W

Location and History:

Sargent is located in the southeastern corner of Wheeler County, about 18 miles south of Ord. It was established in the early 1880s and was originally a stop along the railroad that facilitated trade and transportation for local farmers and ranchers. Sargent was incorporated in 1887, and like many small towns in Nebraska, it flourished during the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to its proximity to agricultural lands and the development of the railroad. Over time, Sargent became known as a key service hub for the surrounding rural areas, providing supplies, services, and opportunities for local employment. Today, Sargent is a quiet, rural community that retains a strong connection to the agricultural traditions that shaped its history.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Sargent is served by the Sargent Public Schools district, which offers education for students from kindergarten through high school. The district is integral to the town, with sports and other school events bringing residents together. Among the town’s landmarks is the Sargent Memorial Park, which features a swimming pool, playgrounds, and sports fields, providing recreation for families and visitors. The town also has the Sargent Library, a local hub for educational and cultural events, as well as the Sargent Methodist Church, an important historical and community gathering place. The local history is celebrated through the Sargent Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s past, including its founding and growth during the railroad era.

Wolbach

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

  • Area: 0.34 square miles
  • Population: 500+ (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 68882
  • Latitude: 41.4544° N
  • Longitude: 98.0389° W

Location and History:

Wolbach is located in the northern part of Wheeler County, Nebraska, approximately 14 miles northeast of the county seat, Ord. The town was founded in the 1880s, and like many rural towns in the area, its growth was largely spurred by the development of the railroad. Wolbach was incorporated in 1887, and during its early years, it became a key trade and shipping point for local farmers and ranchers. While the railroad is no longer the main driver of the town’s economy, Wolbach continues to maintain a strong agricultural presence, and its rural charm has made it a desirable place to live for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Its location on the prairie offers picturesque views of the Nebraska landscape, with vast fields and rolling hills surrounding the town.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Wolbach is served by the Wolbach Public Schools system, which offers both elementary and secondary education. The schools are central to community life, with local sporting events and activities providing important social outlets for residents. The Wolbach Community Park is a key recreational space, featuring a playground, sports courts, and picnic areas for families. Additionally, the Wolbach Historical Society plays an important role in preserving and sharing the history of the town, with a local museum that highlights Wolbach’s development during the railroad era. The Wolbach Church, an architectural landmark, also serves as a community hub for worship and social gatherings. The town’s sense of pride in its history and community spirit remains strong, making it an integral part of the region’s rural character.