David City is a city in Butler County, Nebraska. It is located approximately 8 miles east of the Platte River and 35 miles northeast of Lincoln. The city was named in honor of the biblical King David.
The town's first settlers, Cyrus and Leda Homer, came west in a covered wagon in 1866. The community initially became known as Homer's Station, but was later renamed David City. The town was formally established in 1873 when it was incorporated as a third-class city and was listed in the U.S. Census records for 1880 with a population of 205.
The town began to grow rapidly between 1880 and 1890 with the arrival of the September Brothers, a family from Bohemia that settled in the area. The September Brothers opened a hardware store in 1884, and many of the remaining Bohemian settlers opened businesses in the downtown area. During this time, the economy centered around the railroad, and many other business operations soon opened in the area.
By 1910, the population had grown to 1,713 and the town was linked by rail to several major cities across the Midwest. This increased accessibility made David City a viable shipping and commerce center. The two-story David City Bank building was erected in 1914 and served as a symbol of the town’s economic success.
In the decades since, the town’s economy has shifted to being more agriculture-based, as well as being home to a number of light manufacturing operations. In recent years, the city has maintained its small town charm and appeal, while also taking advantage of its modern infrastructure to attract new businesses and residents.
Interesting Facts About David City City
1. David City is the county seat of Butler County, Nebraska.
2. It was founded in 1875 and was named after David Butler, an early settler and businessman in the area.
3. The city is home to a National Historic Landmark, the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
4. A unique custom at the church is the annual celebration of the Feast of the Three Kings.
5. The city is home to Park Theater, taken over by a small group of actors and patrons looking to bring theater back to the town in 2006.
6. Bader Memorial Park is the largest public park in Butler County and is a popular place for baseball games, tennis, picnics and playground activities.
7. The David City Partners for Progress is an organization working to promote economic growth and improvement in the city.
8. St. Joseph’s Abbey is located near the city and is a popular destination for church retreats.
9. The Rose Garden at St. Joseph's Abbey is known for its breathtaking flowers and sculptures.
10. David City High School is the only high school in the district. It has an enrollment of just over 340 students.
What is David City known & Famous for
David City, Nebraska is known for being a small farming community located in the heart of Butler County. The city has a strong agricultural and rural heritage and is home to a number of family-run farms. One of the major attractions in the area is the David City Brickyard, a historical landmark and manufacturing site operated by the local brick and tile company, Nebraska Clay Products. The company has been in operation since the late 1800s and produces dozens of different varieties of bricks for buildings, sidewalks, fireplaces and more. The local Chamber of Commerce also sponsors a number of community activities and festivals throughout the year, including the annual David City Summer Fest.
What Is It Like To Visit In David City City?
David City is located in southeastern Nebraska and is a small, rural community with a quaint atmosphere. Visitors can take in the natural beauty of Nebraska's rolling prairies or explore the city's cultural attractions. Activities like golf, canoeing, fishing, and swimming can be enjoyed at nearby lakes or at David City's Centennial Pool. The city also hosts several annual events that offer fun for the whole family, like Harvestfest and Back to School Carnival. There is shopping available in the downtown area, as well as a variety of restaurants to choose from. With its quaint atmosphere and rural charm, David City makes for a great destination for visitors who want to explore the natural beauty of Nebraska and experience small-town hospitality.
