Albany is a city in Gage County, Nebraska, United States. The population was 569 at the 2010 census.
The first settlers in what is now Gage County were two brothers, Philip and William Hedges, who took up a claim northeast of Wymore in 1854. William named the acreage Albany, and that name was adopted for the community which developed as a result. The village of Albany was platted in September 1877.
In the late 19th century, churches, stores, hotels and a post office were established in Albany. A brick schoolhouse was built in 1875 and expanded in the early 1900s. By the 1890s, the town had three business districts, multiple churches, a high school, a lumber yard, a newspaper, a public library, two hotels, an opera house, and a two-story courthouse.
In the early 20th century, a new courthouse was built, and several additional community organizations, including schools and churches, developed. A new school building was built in 1912.
In the late 20th century, Albany saw a considerable dip in population. The current population is 533. Today, Albany is home to a variety of small businesses, churches, and its own school district. There are also a few shops, restaurants, and other places of interest in town. The city has a strong sense of pride and is home to many community festivals and events throughout the year. The annual Potato Festival is especially popular, and attracts visitors from all over the region.
Interesting Facts About Albany City
1. Albany is the oldest continuously-settled city in Nebraska, and was founded in 1866.
2. Albany, NE is home to the world’s largest cattle feeding facility, supplying over 1 million head of cattle a year.
3. Albany is also home to the largest non-Indian powwow in the United States. The powwow is held each summer and has been in operation for over 50 years.
4. Albany is located in Lancaster County, one of two counties that make up the Nebraska Rainforest Alliance, a project dedicated to protecting the environment and protecting wildlife through various conservation practices.
5. The city of Albany is home to the only known meteorite impact crater in the world, called the Hemingford Crater, a 700,000-year-old crater formed after a meteorite made impact with the Earth.
6. The nearest town to Albany is the town of Beemer, home to the oldest operating bar in the state of Nebraska. This bar, called the Old Mill, has been in operation since 1885.
What is Albany known & Famous for
Albany, Nebraska is a small farming community known and famous for its rural atmosphere & lifestyle. The town holds several festivals throughout the year, including Summer In the Park and the Fall Festival, which showcases the area's small-town charm. In addition, Albany is home to an annual rodeo each July. The town is also home to the famous "Bluebird Cafe", which is known for its fresh homemade food, excellent service, and great atmosphere.
What Is It Like To Visit In Albany City?
Albany, Nebraska is a small city located near Lincoln and Omaha. With a population of less than 1,000 people, Albany has a unique small-town charm. Located on the banks of the Platte River, visitors can take advantage of the city's outdoor recreation opportunities like fishing and hiking. There are plenty of outdoor attractions in and around Albany including Lake McConaughy State Park, the Platte River, and Crane Coop Wildlife Management Area. Visitors also will find plenty to do in Albany, such as the weekly farmers market, the local ice cream parlor, and the annual Albany Fest. In addition, visitors will find several restaurants, cafes, and pubs in downtown Albany.
