Paoli is a village in Lancaster County, Nebraska, United States. The population was 77 as of the 2010 census.
The village was established in 1879 by settlers from the Old Order Amish Church. It was named after Thomas Paoli, a 15th century Italian physician, philosopher, and poet who wrote about eastward migration.
Most of the villagers are members of the Old Order Amish Church and farm the surrounding area. Others are small business owners such as craftsmen, sewing specialists, and cabinet makers.
The village is self-governing, with a mayor and council persons elected from its own population.
The community hosts the annual Lancaster County Amish Auction at the Paoli Auction Barn, where residents can purchase traditional Amish furniture, tools, and other items.
The village is served by the Paoli Public Library, which is housed in a former one-room schoolhouse that served the community until 1962. The library serves as a contrast to the majority of the plain buildings and homes in the village.
Paoli is the home of Paoli Equestrian Park, which hosts a variety of horse shows throughout the year, including the national and state 4-H Horse Shows.
Interesting Facts About Paoli City
1. Paoli was originally founded in 1890 when the Paoli Land & Improvement Company bought property in the area.
2. The community was named for Paoli, Pennsylvania, which in turn was named for the patriot of the American Revolution, General Pasquale Paoli.
3. The area was used by the historic Pony Express and the trip across Nebraska took four days.
4. The local elementary school is named after Colonel George Miller, an early settler.
5. The small town is also known for its large and successful rodeo – the Paoli Rodeo.
6. Paoli is home to the Paoli Rodeo Days, which lasts two days of festivities, including a parade, five different rodeo events, and a silent auction.
7. A site along the Indiana National Road, modern day US 40, is located in Paoli.
8. The Paoli Settlement School was founded in 1849 by a group of settlers who planned to provide a safe and welcoming educational environment for the local children.
9. There are several historical buildings in the area such as the DeLong House (1890s), Gholson Barn (1900s), and the St. Clair Semi-Compact Burial Mound (dating back to the Hopewell culture).
10. The town currently serves as a stop on the Whitewater Valley Scenic Railway, which is a tourist attraction operated by the Rail Road Historical Society of Indiana.
What is Paoli known & Famous for
Paoli, Nebraska is a small unincorporated community known for its low population and rural lifestyle. The area is largely agricultural with corn and soybean farming being the most common. Paoli is also noted for its historic sites, including the Paoli Presbyterian Church, a one-room school house, and a few old abandoned buildings.
What Is It Like To Visit In Paoli City?
Paoli is located in eastern Nebraska and is a small rural town. There is plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities and the town itself is quiet and peaceful. The main attraction in Paoli is the nearby city of Fremont, which is the nearby urban hub. Paoli is close to several lakes and streams that offer excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. There are several local attractions in the area, including museums, galleries, and historic sites. Paoli also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great place to spend a few days.