Neligh is a city located in Antelope County, Nebraska, United States. The population was 1,829 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Antelope County. Neligh is the second largest town in the county and one of the oldest established towns in Nebraska.
The history of Neligh dates back to the early years of American settlement in the Midwestern United States. The town was founded in 1864 by Elijah Haines. Haines and other local settlers built a post office and trading post near the junction of two prominent roads. The town quickly grew in size and was incorporated in 1866 as the town of Neligh, named after the nearby river.
Neligh quickly became a hub for local businesses, including a lumberyard, a newspaper, a bank, and a hotel. It also became a popular railroad depot for travelers. Additionally, the town continued to grow and eventually became the county seat in 1885.
Today, Neligh remains an important center for Antelope County, providing services to its citizens such as education, healthcare, shopping, and recreation. The city has recently undergone several development projects, such as the construction of a new library and city pool. Additionally, the city is currently working on developing new businesses and improving the downtown area.
Interesting Facts About Neligh City
1. Neligh was founded in 1873 and is the oldest incorporated city in Antelope County.
2. Neligh is home to a unique attraction called "The Bat Man's House". This large, hollowed-out tree stump was created by local workers in 1895 and features an interior stairwell with a balcony and windows.
3. The town Square is home to the Old Jailhouse Museum which features a variety of artifacts from life in the 1800s.
4. Neligh is home to one of the oldest surviving ranches in the state, the TaHaZouka Ranch, which is still owned by the founding family since it was established in 1883.
5. Neligh is located on the site of the Otoe Indian Agency, that was established in 1857 by the U.S. government when the Otoe tribe was relocated to Nebraska.
6. The town was originally named Neligh City, but was changed to simply Neligh in 1878.
7. Neligh is known for its Swedish heritage and is home to the Swedesburg Lutheran Church, built in 1898.
8. Neligh is home to the second oldest continuously running rodeo in the state, held on the first two days of August.
9. The community celebrates its Swedish heritage annually with its Neligh Swedish Festival in June.
10. The town was the site of the 1976 Nebraska State Fair, the first time the Fair was held outside Omaha since 1885.
What is Neligh known & Famous for
Neligh, Nebraska is best known for being the hometown of the 23rd Vice President of the United States, Charles Curtis. The small town also has a significant connection to American Indian history, specifically its designation as the “Mourning Dove Capital of the World.” The name comes from the mourning dove (Zenaidura macroura), a relatively common resident of the area. The town hosts an annual mourning dove festival and celebration in late May.
What Is It Like To Visit In Neligh City?
Visiting Neligh, NE is like taking a step back in time. This charming town is home to old-fashioned buildings and plenty of history. Downtown Neligh offers a glimpse into the past with classic brick storefronts, unique sculptures, and quaint bed-and-breakfasts. Visitors can explore the area’s parks and recreation areas, including the nearby West Omaha Wildlife Management Area. Every August, Neligh hosts the annual Neligh Farmer’s Market, giving visitors the chance to try some local produce straight from the farmer’s garden. Whether visitors are in town to explore the area’s rich cultural history or just to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, they’ll find plenty of warm hospitality in Neligh.
