Saline County Courthouse
a.k.a. SA09-016
215 S. Court, Wilber, NE Local significance of the district: Politics/government; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
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The Pony Express, a mail delivery service that operated from 1860 to 1861, passed through Nebraska, carrying mail from Missouri to California.
About Saline County
Saline County Timeline
Saline County, Nebraska has a rich and intriguing history that stretches back to the early 1800s. The land that is now Saline County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Pawnee, who were the primary residents until European settlement. In 1804, the Lewis and Clark expedition traveled through the area, documenting their encounters with the Pawnee and other tribes.
The first European settlers arrived in Saline County in the mid-1800s, attracted by the fertile soil and agricultural potential of the region. The town of Dorchester was established in 1860, becoming the first settlement in the county. As more settlers arrived, additional communities such as Wilber, Crete, and Plymouth were established.
The construction of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad in the late 1800s brought further growth and development to Saline County. The railroad provided a crucial transportation link, allowing farmers to easily transport their crops and goods to market. This led to a boom in agriculture and the establishment of numerous grain elevators and processing facilities throughout the county.
Saline County has also experienced its share of challenges and hardships throughout its history. The devastating floods of 1935 and 1952 caused significant damage to the area, requiring extensive rebuilding efforts. However, the resilient residents of Saline County persevered, rebuilding their communities and continuing to nurture the thriving agricultural industry that still defines the county today.
Overall, Saline County, Nebraska has a diverse and fascinating history that includes Native American tribes, European settlement, railroad development, and agricultural growth. Its story is one of adaptation, resilience, and progress, showcasing the strength and determination of its residents throughout the years.
The first European settlers arrived in Saline County in the mid-1800s, attracted by the fertile soil and agricultural potential of the region. The town of Dorchester was established in 1860, becoming the first settlement in the county. As more settlers arrived, additional communities such as Wilber, Crete, and Plymouth were established.
The construction of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad in the late 1800s brought further growth and development to Saline County. The railroad provided a crucial transportation link, allowing farmers to easily transport their crops and goods to market. This led to a boom in agriculture and the establishment of numerous grain elevators and processing facilities throughout the county.
Saline County has also experienced its share of challenges and hardships throughout its history. The devastating floods of 1935 and 1952 caused significant damage to the area, requiring extensive rebuilding efforts. However, the resilient residents of Saline County persevered, rebuilding their communities and continuing to nurture the thriving agricultural industry that still defines the county today.
Overall, Saline County, Nebraska has a diverse and fascinating history that includes Native American tribes, European settlement, railroad development, and agricultural growth. Its story is one of adaptation, resilience, and progress, showcasing the strength and determination of its residents throughout the years.
Saline County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Saline County, Nebraska.
- 1804 - The Lewis and Clark Expedition passes through the area that would later become Saline County.
- 1857 - Saline County is established by the Nebraska Territorial Legislature.
- 1864 - The first permanent settlement, called Swan City, is established in Saline County.
- 1866 - The county seat is established in the town of Saline Center.
- 1869 - The Burlington and Missouri River Railroad reaches Saline County, leading to increased settlement and economic development.
- 1872 - The town of Crete is founded and quickly becomes the largest community in the county.
- 1888 - The Nebraska State Asylum for the Insane is opened in Saline County, bringing new jobs and economic growth.
- 1913 - The Lincoln Highway, the first transcontinental highway in the United States, is completed and passes through Saline County.
- 1930s - The Great Depression causes economic hardship for many residents of Saline County.
- 1942 - The U.S. government establishes a prisoner-of-war camp in Saline County to house German prisoners during World War II.
- 1950s-1960s - The construction of Interstate 80 and other highways improves transportation and stimulates economic development in the county.
- 1990 - The population of Saline County reaches its peak at over 14,000 residents.
- Present - Saline County continues to be a primarily rural and agricultural area, with a strong sense of community and a growing focus on sustainable farming practices.