History of Seward County Nebraska
Seward County was established on March 1, 1855, making it one of the oldest counties in the state. The county was named after William Henry Seward, who was the Secretary of State under President Abraham Lincoln and played a key role in the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867.
The first settlers in Seward County were primarily German immigrants who arrived in the mid-1800s. They were drawn to the area because of its fertile land and ample opportunities for farming. As the population grew, small towns began to develop throughout the county.
One of the most significant events in the history of Seward County occurred in 1869, when the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad was built through the area. This provided a major boost to the local economy, as it allowed farmers to transport their goods to larger markets more easily. It also led to the development of additional towns and businesses along the rail line.
Over the years, Seward County has experienced its share of challenges as well. In 1913, a tornado swept through the town of Seward and destroyed much of the downtown area. However, the community rallied together to rebuild, and today the town is a thriving city with a population of over 7,000 people.
Another significant event in the history of Seward County was the construction of the Seward Army Airfield during World War II. The airfield was used for training pilots and other military personnel, and it brought a significant amount of economic activity to the area during the war years.
Today, Seward County remains an important agricultural center in Nebraska, with a thriving economy and a strong sense of community. Its rich history is preserved through a number of museums and historical sites, including the Seward County Historical Society Museum, which is housed in a building that was once a Carnegie Library.