Lafayette is a village in Saunders County, Nebraska, United States. It lies along U.S. Highway 6, near the Elkhorn River, east of Omaha. As of the 2010 census, the village had a population of 176 people. Lafayette was platted in 1884 and was named after Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, who served in the American Revolutionary War.
The first post office in Lafayette was established in 1867. During the early days of settlement, the economy was supported by local farmers, who grew corn, wheat, hay, oats, and beans. Later in the 19th century, a general store and several blacksmiths opened in town. Over the years, the village has been home to several businesses, such as a grain elevator, a lumber yard, a cafe, and a garage.
In the late 20th century, the village saw renewed growth after it was designated as a "sports destination" by the state of Nebraska. The village has a municipal golf course and is home to the Lafayette Community Center, which offers a variety of recreational activities for both adults and children.
The village is served by the Hastings Public School District and is home to several churches representing various denominations. Lafayette is also known for its annual June "Lafayette Days" celebration, which includes community elections, a parade, and other activities.
Interesting Facts About Lafayette City
1. The city of Lafayette was founded in 1870, making it one of the oldest in Nebraska.
2. The site of Lafayette was chosen when two of its original settlers, John Hunt and Thomas Pearson, purchased a tract of land from the Omaha Indian tribe for $200.
3. The small community was originally known as Lafiaulette, named after an early homesteader, John Lafiaulette.
4. The first school in Lafayette was established in 1878 and was called the Auger School.
5. Lafayette is home to the oldest Masonic Temple in the state, built in 1886.
6. The City of Lafayette opened its own electric generating plant in 1902 and became the first town in the state to provide its residents with electricity.
7. In 1959, two 4.5 million-dollar water towers were built in Lafayette.
8. Lafayette is home to the oldest continuously operating soda fountain in the state. It opened in 1930 and is still operational today.
9. The historic downtown area of Lafayette was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, making it one of the earliest cities in Nebraska to receive this distinction.
10. The annual Lafayette Frontier Days takes place in the city every summer and is one of the longest running and most popular festivals in the state.
What is Lafayette known & Famous for
Located in eastern Nebraska, Lafayette is known for its rolling hills and open farmland. It's also famous for its famous Lafayette Festival, held each year in June, as well as its extensive wildlife sanctuary.
What Is It Like To Visit In Lafayette City?
Lafayette, Nebraska is an attractive city located in the south-central portion of the state just outside of Omaha. This charming Midwest city is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of activities to explore.
The city is known for its lovely parks that offer walking trails, with many of them located right in the city's historic downtown district. Visitors can relax in the shade of the trees and enjoy the sound of the babbling creek as it meanders through the buildings. The vibrant downtown district is also home to plenty of quaint shops and restaurants.
For families looking for some activity, there are plenty of activities in the area to keep everyone entertained. Lafayette's vintage carousel, located in Thompson Park, is a favorite among visitors. The Hefty Brothers historic village is a great way to learn the past of the area while exploring a replica town with buildings, shops, and a working gristmill. The nearby William Allington Nature Preserve and Niobrara National Scenic River are also popular destinations for outdoor activities such as fishing, boat tours, kayaking, and bird watching.
Overall, Lafayette is a great destination for anyone looking to visit and explore the Midwest in a gentle and peaceful setting. The city offers a charming and laid-back atmosphere with plenty of sites to visit and experiences to be had.
