Portland is a village in Deuel County, Nebraska, United States. It is the county seat of Deuel County. The population was 303 at the 2010 census. The village was named after Portland, Maine by a settler who wished to pay homage to the harbor city. Portland began as a trading facility and later became a supply source for the area's growing cattle industry.
In 1858, John B. Walker built the first drugstore in the village. He also sold books, periodicals, stationary, paints, oils, and turpentine goods. In 1870, a post office was established in the village and in 1887, the first telephone service was initiated. With the increased availability of resources and technology, Portland grew from a small trading village to an agricultural center by the turn of the 19th century.
Today, Portland is a quaint village in rural Nebraska. A number of century-old buildings, including the old jail, remain in the area. The downtown area offers several shops and restaurants, and nearby attractions include hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The village also boasts modern amenities, including a public library, a fire hall, a golf course, and several parks.
Interesting Facts About Portland City
1. Portland was founded in 1870, making it one of the oldest settlements in Oregon.
2. The city received its name from the Portland Landing Wharf, which was named for the city of Portland in Maine.
3. Portland is known as the “City of Roses” for its long-term affiliation with the rose-growing industry.
4. In 1912, the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition was hosted in Portland and became the first world's fair on the West Coast.
5. The Oregon Zoo in Washington Park is the oldest in the West and was opened in 1888.
6. Portland was one of the first cities to install a traffic signal system at the intersection of SW Broadway and Stark Street in 1920.
7. The US Senate Office Building located in Portland is the oldest federal building in the West.
8. Portland is home to the oldest Asian grocery store in the United States, Fubonn Shopping Center.
9. The iconic Portlandia statue located in Downtown Portland is the largest hammered copper statue in the United States.
10. The city's motto is “The City That Works.”
What is Portland known & Famous for
Portland, Nebraska is known for its annual July Fourth festivities and its historic sites such as the old J.D. Williams Hotel and the Millard County Jailhouse. It is also famous for the "Spitwater Islands" where the Missouri River meets the Platte River.
What Is It Like To Visit In Portland City?
Portland, NE is a small city in northeast Nebraska, located outside of Norfolk and close to the Missouri River. Visitors can enjoy a small-town feel with plenty of locally-owned restaurants, shops, and attractions. There are several parks in and around town with trails for hiking, biking, and walking as well as a public pool for swimming. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can explore the local wildlife refuges and enjoy wildlife viewing in the area. There are plenty of activities to enjoy such as golfing, horseback riding, tubing down the river, and boating. Local attractions include an historic movie theater, museum, and the nearest casino is only a short drive away. With friendly locals, a pleasant atmosphere, and plenty to do and see, Portland is definitely worth a visit.
