Madison is a city in, and the county seat of, Madison County, Nebraska, United States. It is located on the South Loup River. The population was 2,221 at the 2010 census.
Madison was founded in 1871 as an embargo on the South Loup River and was named after a prominent early settler named John Madison. The city has been known for its tobacco industry since the early 1900s and continues to be home to numerous tobacco farms and related businesses. Madison also serves as an agricultural center, with several major grain elevators located in the downtown area.
Madison is home to several notable institutions, such as the Madison Free Public Library, which opened in 1900, and the Madison County Historical Society Museum, which opened in 1958. It is also home to Madison Country Club, a nine-hole, semi-private course founded in 1921.
In addition to the usual amenities associated with small cities, Madison has a 5,500-square-foot aquatic center with two slides, a whirlpool, lazy river, and other water features. Visitors and residents also enjoy access to nearby lakes and parks. Madison's downtown business district, known as Market Street, is a center of activity for the surrounding area, with many boutiques, restaurants, and a movie theater.
The many historic buildings in Madison give the city a unique character, with buildings from the 1800s still standing in the downtown area. Madison is also home to one of the oldest continuously operated post offices in the United States, located in the Market Street Historic District.
Interesting Facts About Madison City
1. Madison, Nebraska was founded in the late 1860s when pioneers from Ohio and Pennsylvania began to settle in the area.
2. Madison is the county seat of Madison County and is home to the Madison County Court House, which is an architectural wonder first constructed in 1877.
3. The city has a colorful history and has a number of Victorian brick buildings that make up the historic downtown area.
4. The town is home to several annual festivals including Madison Summer Days and the Madison Rodeo.
5. The town is also located along the banks of the Big Blue River, which is a popular kayaking spot and often hosts pontoon rides for visitors.
6. Madison is an agricultural community located in the Platte River Valley, which is known to be one of the best producers of dry-land corn crops in the nation.
7. Madison is also home to the Nebraska Railroad Museum, which is a collection of restored antique trains.
8. Madison High School is also home of the famous "Bulldog Marching Band," the four-time Nebraska state champions.
What is Madison known & Famous for
Madison, Nebraska is known for its historic downtown district with its numerous antique stores, as well as its thriving arts community. The city is also famous for its beautiful golf course—the Shadow Hills Country Club—which offers a top-notch golf experience to players of every skill level. Additionally, the city is home to several museums, including the Madison County Historical Museum and the Platte River State Park featuring various Native American artifacts. Madison is also the hometown of two-time Grammy Award Winner singer-songwriter, Sarah Buxton, which adds to its fame.
What Is It Like To Visit In Madison City?
Visiting Madison, NE offers a whole range of activities from the great outdoors to shopping and entertainment. Enjoy picturesque outdoor activities at the City of Madison Park, hike the scenic trails surrounding the city, or explore the Olson Fossil Quarry State Recreation Area, which is home to 300 million year old fossilized sea life. Shop, dine, and explore the unique finds downtown, and check out the art galleries, local museums, and historical sites. Other must-see attractions include Sal’s Bar & Grill, home to the renowned Pasta Palace dinners and the High Time Casino. Enjoy a family fun night at Wolf Creek Family Fun Center or the Madison Dairy Freeze. If you are looking for something more educational, the Swedish Heritage Museum is a great option for learning about the city’s rich history. Adventure seekers can venture out to Deadwood for a wild ride. Whether you are looking to relax in a small town atmosphere or explore the historical landmarks and attractions, Madison is a one of a kind destination.
