Portage is a city in Platte County, Nebraska. It was established in 1871 and was named after the local portage around the Platte River. Portage has been a thriving agricultural community since its inception. The city was incorporated in 1891.
For many years, Portage was the largest city in Platte County. It had a population of 2,519 in 1920, growing to a peak of 3,345 in 1970. Today, the population is roughly 2,400.
The town has a small downtown area with several locally-owned businesses. The main employer in the city is the Portage Area School District, which employs a large portion of the adult population. The city also has an active amateur sports program, with dozens of teams in baseball, softball, football, and basketball. The town is also home to the Portage Lake Museum, which offers displays about the city’s history, as well as an extensive collection of artifacts.
Portage is located in the center of the state, and it is accessible via U.S. Route 81. The city is situated near several larger cities, such as Grand Island, which is only a short drive away.
Interesting Facts About Portage City
1. Portage was established in 1876 by a group of early settlers from Norway, Sweden, and Germany.
2. In the late 1800's, Portage was a trade and commerce center for the surrounding area.
3. Portage is home to the oldest operating drive-in theater in the state, dating back to 1949.
4. In the mid-1900's, Portage had a reputation for being a rough and rowdy cowtown.
5. Portage is known for being the center of the Cuming County Potato Bowl, an annual festival that celebrates this regional crop.
6. Portage is home to a unique collection of historic train engines, some dating back to the 19th century.
7. Portage is home to the unique Yellow Bank River, a winding creek that runs through the center of town.
8. Every years it hosts the Portage Summer Festival, which features a car show, carnival games, fireworks, and more.
9. Portage is located in the Sandhills region of Nebraska, and its terrain includes rolling hills, marshes, and sandhills.
10.In the early 1900s, Portage was a major stop on the old Lincoln Highway, the first roadway originally connecting the east and west coast of the United States.
What is Portage known & Famous for
Portage, Nebraska is known for its rich history and its rural charm. The tiny town of nearly 900 residents is home to many historic buildings, including the old Portage Hotel and the Union Pacific Railroad Depot. It is also known for a few local attractions, such as the historic Portage Cemetery and the Portage Creek. The town is also very close to the Lewis and Clark Trail, and is a popular destination for recreational opportunities such as hunting and fishing.
What Is It Like To Visit In Portage City?
Portage, Nebraska is a small town of about 812 people in the county seat of Platte County. The town is located in an area of quiet farmland and rolling hills that provide beautiful scenic views. Portage's downtown area is a thriving main street with quaint shops and eateries, offering a charming atmosphere within the heart of the town. Visitors can do outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, birding, and cycling. There is also a local museum with exhibits on the history and culture of the area. There are also a number of smaller communities in the vicinity of Portage, where visitors can explore and enjoy the rural atmosphere. All in all, Portage offers a peaceful, picturesque atmosphere for those looking for a relaxing getaway.
