Hammond is a village located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, United States. The population was 93 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Kearney, Nebraska Micropolitan Statistical Area.
Hammond was built in 1885, when the Chicago and North Western railroad laid its tracks along the edge of Buffalo County. German immigrant Jacob Grundhoffer homesteaded the western half of the village in 1881. Grundhoffer was a brick maker and supplied the red bricks used to build some of the early structures.
The town was platted in 1899 and incorporated as a village in 1901. The village was named after Hammond Buel, who owned a store there.
The village lies on the western edge of Buffalo County, on the edge of the Sandhills. It has remained largely unaltered since the turn of the century and is a historical treasure of what an early western town looked like. There are many old churches, homes, and vernacular architecture in town.
Originally, the town had a variety of occupations; such as a creamery, blacksmith, livery stable, meat market, millinery store, two hotels, a general store, and many other businesses. Today, the town’s commercial activity is only a few convenience stores and businesses, and the population has dwindled to a mere 93 people.
Nevertheless, the charm and history of Hammond has only been intensified by its seeming isolation and lack of modern development. Many of the early twentieth century buildings, such as the school, are still standing and are being used in different ways. The community continues to rally around its history and sense of identity.
Interesting Facts About Hammond City
1. Hammond is the smallest city in Nebraska with a population of only 75, according to the 2010 census.
2. It was founded in 1883 by A.E. Hammond when he built a small town along the railroad line between Cedar Rapids and Cataba, Nebraska.
3. It was named after the railroad station that was in the area.
4. The city is located in the Sandhills of Nebraska, which is a unique geographic region in the state.
5. Hammond is the home of one of the oldest roadhouses in the state, the Hammond Trading Post, which dates back to the late 1800s.
6. Hammond is also the site of one of the largest rattlesnake hunts in the U.S., which draws hunters from all over the country every year.
7. The city is home to Hammond College, which is Nebraska's only college entirely devoted to the study of rural lifestyles, agribusiness, and agricultural production.
8. Hammond has a community center and library, and is host to a number of festivals, including the Hammondsport Apple Festival, which is held every fall.
9. The city also hosts a number of musical events, including the Hammond Gospel Music Festival and the Hammond Bluegrass Festival.
10. The Nickelodeon Theatre, located in Hammond, is the oldest continually operating cinema in the state of Nebraska.
What is Hammond known & Famous for
Hammond, Nebraska is best known for the Copper Mill Balloon Festival, a hot air balloon event that occurs every summer at the Homestead National Monument of America. It is also well-known for its spectacular sunsets and the rolling hills of southeast Nebraska.
What Is It Like To Visit In Hammond City?
Hammond is located in southern Nebraska and is a great place to visit. Many people appreciate Hammond's close proximity to the East Branch of the Niobrara River, the nearby lakes, and its wide open farms and fields. There is plenty to explore in the area.
The city of Hammond offers a variety of attractions, including a historic downtown area with cozy cafes and shops, a golf course, and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, camping, hiking and bird watching in the great outdoors. The Niobrara National Scenic River is located nearby and Wilcox Lake State Recreation Area is also a great place to explore with its beautiful lake and extensive trails.
The city of Hammond also hosts various events throughout the year such as the Harlan County Fair, Christmas Market, and 4th of July Boat Races. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the city's traditional Czech food at the weekend farmer's market or attend one of the many live music and arts events.
Overall, Hammond, NE is an excellent place to visit with plenty of activities and sights to discover, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway or road trip.
