Sidney is a city in Cheyenne County, Nebraska, United States. The population was 6,757 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Cheyenne County, in an agricultural and ranching area. Sidney is located on the western edge of the Nebraska panhandle encompassing 7.42 square miles (19.2 km2) of land and 0.02 square miles (0.05 km2) of water.
The city embraced solar energy in 2011 when it opened the city's first 10-acre (4 ha) solar farm. According to the United States Census Bureau, Sidney has an estimated population of 6,757 people as of 2015. It is the largest city in the panhandle area.
The first settlement of Sidney began in 1867 on the future site of the city. The town was named for Sidney Damson, a soldier in the Union Army during the Civil War. The Union Pacific Railroad arrived in 1867 and a post office was established in Sidney that same year.
By 1879, Sidney had grown to 200 residents, two churches, two hotels, and several business establishments. The railroad was integral in the growth of Sidney, contributing to the town's economic development and aiding in its becoming a major cattle shipping area in Nebraska.
In 1893, Sidney became the county seat of Cheyenne County, and growth began to expand rapidly. With the arrival of the Sidney Telephone Company in 1899, Sidney's growth began to move eastward. In 1901, electricity was provided in the city. Further advances in communications came with the arrival of the new federal telegraph system.
The early decades of the 20th century saw Sidney's population double, reaching close to 4,000 by the 1920s. The 1960s saw Sidney expand further, with the opening a new high school and a new hospital. In the years since then, Sidney continues to remain the largest city in Cheyenne County.
Interesting Facts About Sidney City
1. Sidney is located in the Nebraska panhandle, and is the county seat of Cheyenne County. It is the 11th-largest city in Nebraska.
2. Sidney is a key stopping point for travelers on Interstate 80, located at the junction of U.S. Highways 30 and 385.
3. The city of Sidney was founded in 1867, and was named after the hometown of one its founders.
4. Sidney’s High Plains Regional Climate Center is the only National Weather Service center in the Upper Mid-West region of the U.S. to monitor atmospheric conditions.
5. Sidney is home to a number of industrial businesses, including Cabela’s, Kabela’s, Packerland Packing and Land O’Lakes.
6. A diverse group of Native American tribes are found in the area surrounding Sidney, including Cheyenne, Sioux, Arapaho and Pawnee.
7. Sidney’s recreation amenities include a public pool, two public golf courses, and a tennis center.
8. The city’s Lake Sidney Lanier is an artificial lake which provides abundant fishing and provides drinking water for the city.
9. The city has a hospital, Memorial Health, as well as continued housing and economic development projects that are underway.
10. Sidney hosts an annual “Multicultural Festival” every August to celebrate the diverse culture in the town, including parades, performances, displays of art, and traditional foods.
What Is It Like To Visit In Sidney City?
Sidney, Nebraska is a small city located in the heart of the state. While some may view Sidney as a small city, it is a great destination for visitors and locals alike, thanks to its close proximity to other larger cities. Sidney offers an outdoor atmosphere with plenty of space for camping, hiking, fishing, and bird watching. Those looking to explore the city can take a stroll through Sidney’s Fagan Park, Dunbar Lake, and Reservoir. If you’re looking for a great shopping experience, the Sidney Alternative Mall is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs. Sidney also offers a variety of restaurants, ranging from classic American fare to Mexican and Italian cuisines. Visitors can also enjoy visiting the Sidney Public Library, Sidney-Scotts Bluff County Museum, and the Sidney Farmers Market. For those looking to have a bit more fun, there’s the Miracle Mile Movie Theater or visit the Lariat Bowl for a game of bowling or a round of miniature golf. No matter what your plans are for visiting Sidney, Nebraska, you can be sure to find plenty of things to keep you entertained.
