Plattsmouth is a city located in Cass County, Nebraska. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, the population of the city was 6,502. Located just across the Missouri River from Omaha, Nebraska, Plattsmouth is one of the oldest towns in the state.
The first settlers of the area were Nathan and Lucinda Wheeler, who came to the area in the late 1860s. They built a log cabin on the Missouri River in 1869 and the first recorded claim was made in 1871. The city was incorporated on October 15, 1871 with just over 100 people living in the area.
Plattsmouth soon prospered as a riverport for the steamboats that plied the waters of the Missouri River. It was a lively hub of commerce, linking the westwards-expanding prairie farmers to Omaha and eventually beyond. Other industries followed such as the Interurban, which began running streetcars from Plattsmouth to Omaha in 1909.
The town served as the county seat until 1976, when it was moved to neighboring Cass County. The city began to decline with the passing of the Interurban line, but has since made a resurgence based on its proximity to the ever-expanding metropolis of Omaha. Today, Plattsmouth is home to a diverse population and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts interested in its many nearby parks and natural attractions.
Interesting Facts About Plattsmouth City
1. Plattsmouth is the oldest incorporated city in Nebraska, having officially incorporated in 1855.
2. Plattsmouth is home to the 129 year old Plattsmouth Water Tower, the oldest water tower in the state still in use.
3. Plattsmouth is the birthplace of Adolph Kiefer, an Olympic gold-medalist swimmer who set several world-records in his lifetime.
4. Plattsmouth is located over an underground aquifer that provides the city with a reliable source of clean drinking water.
5. Plattsmouth is located near several lakes, including the Lake Cunningham, Lewis and Clark Lake, and the Platte River.
6. Plattsmouth is home to one of the largest outdoor prairie art collections in the Midwest, located at the Great Nebraska Art County museum.
7. Plattsmouth has its own professional hockey team, the Plattsmouth Rush, which plays in the Nebraska Midwest Hockey League.
8. Plattsmouth is a popular destination for hot air ballooning, as the city hosts several hot air balloon festivals throughout the year.
9. Plattsmouth is home to the Offutt Air Force Base, the second largest employer in Cass County.
10. Plattsmouth contains an old-fashion ice cream parlor, the Plattsmouth Cream and Candy Co., which has served as a meeting place and gathering spot since 1901.
What is Plattsmouth known & Famous for
Plattsmouth, Nebraska is known for its scenic riverside locations and its historic downtown area. It is also famous for having the oldest standing bridge in Nebraska, the Plattsmouth Railroad Bridge. The bridge is a three-span, steel, truss bridge that was built in 1888.
What Is It Like To Visit In Plattsmouth City?
Visiting Plattsmouth, Nebraska is a fun and relaxing experience. Plattsmouth is a small town located just 30 miles south of Omaha and attracts visitors from all over the region. Plattsmouth offers a variety of activities and things to do such as exploring historical sites, visiting local wineries, shopping at boutique stores, dining at delicious local restaurants, and visiting the Plattsmouth State Recreation Area. Plattsmouth is also home to a growing arts and entertainment scene. There are various galleries, live music venues, and special events throughout the year. The town offers something for everyone to enjoy!
