Brownville Bridge
a.k.a. NEHBS #NH00-85
US 136 over the Missouri R., Brownville, NE Local significance of the structure:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1993.
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.
In 1888, Nebraska became the first state to hold a statewide referendum, in which citizens could vote directly on proposed laws.
The first permanent settlement in Nemaha County was established in 1854 by European-American settlers. The town of Brownville, located along the river, quickly became an important trading center and served as the county seat. Brownville played a significant role in the early development of the region, attracting settlers, traders, and entrepreneurs.
In the late 1850s, Nemaha County experienced a period of rapid growth as more settlers arrived in the area. Towns like Peru and Auburn were established, and agriculture flourished as farmers took advantage of the fertile soil. Schools, churches, and businesses were established, further solidifying the county's development.
Nemaha County was formally organized in 1855, and it has since seen numerous milestones and changes. Over the years, the county has remained an agricultural area, focusing on grain production, livestock, and dairy farming. Today, Nemaha County continues to thrive, blending its rich history with a commitment to progress and prosperity.
Nemaha County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Nemaha County, Nebraska.
- 1854 - Nemaha County is established by the Nebraska Territorial Legislature.
- 1855 - The first log cabin is built in the county.
- 1856 - The county's first school, Nemaha City School, is established.
- 1857 - Nemaha City becomes the county seat.
- 1858 - The first newspaper, "The Nemaha Pioneer," is published in Brownville.
- 1862 - The county's first courthouse is built in Nemaha City.
- 1865 - Brownville becomes the new county seat.
- 1868 - The first railroad is completed in the county, connecting Brownville to Nebraska City.
- 1871 - The county's second courthouse is built in Auburn.
- 1873 - The town of Peru is founded.
- 1886 - Construction of a new courthouse in Auburn is completed.
- 1912 - The village of Johnson is incorporated.
- 1925 - The town of Brock is incorporated.
- 1955 - The Missouri River Flood damages several communities in the county.
- 1987 - The Peru State College campus is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- 1997 - The Nemaha County Historical Society is established in Auburn.