Learn About Seward, Nebraska
Seward Overview
City History
Seward is a city located in Seward County, Nebraska, United States. It was founded in 1858 by early settlers who were attracted to the area by its fertile soil and abundant water supply. The city was named after William H. Seward, who was the Secretary of State under President Abraham Lincoln.
Interesting Facts
- Seward is known as the "Fourth of July City" due to its annual Independence Day celebrations, which include a parade, fireworks, and other festivities.
- The city is home to Concordia University, a private liberal arts college founded in 1894 by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.
- Seward is located along the historic Oregon Trail, which was a major route for pioneers traveling westward in the 19th century.
Interesting People
- Dale E. Mortensen, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, was born in Seward in 1939.
- William Jennings Bryan, a prominent politician and orator, lived in Seward for a brief period in the late 19th century.
Top Attractions in Seward
- Seward County Courthouse: Built in 1891, this historic courthouse is a beautiful example of Romanesque Revival architecture.
- Seward Art Center: This community art center features rotating exhibits by local artists and offers art classes for all ages.
- Plum Creek Park: A popular spot for picnicking, fishing, and hiking, Plum Creek Park offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Top Attractions Nearby
- Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center: Located just outside of Seward, this nature reserve is home to a variety of bird species and offers hiking trails and educational programs.
- Homestead National Monument of America: This historical site in nearby Beatrice commemorates the Homestead Act of 1862 and offers exhibits, reenactments, and a prairie restoration project.
Population History
- The population of Seward was 6,964 according to the 2020 census, a slight increase from the previous decade.
Geography
- Seward is located in southeastern Nebraska, approximately 25 miles west of Lincoln, the state capital.
- The city is situated along the Big Blue River, which provides water for agriculture and recreation in the area.
Economy
- Seward's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the main products.
- The city also has a growing manufacturing sector, with companies producing machinery, food products, and other goods.
Culture
- Seward has a strong German heritage, with many residents tracing their ancestry back to German immigrants who settled in the area in the 19th century.
- The city hosts several annual events celebrating its cultural heritage, including Oktoberfest and the GermanFest.
Notable Landmarks
- Seward Opera House: Built in 1883, this historic building is a popular venue for concerts, plays, and other cultural events.
- Seward Memorial Library: Founded in 1901, this public library offers a wide range of books, periodicals, and digital resources for residents and visitors.