Valentine is a small city incorporated in 1885 in Cherry County, Nebraska, United States. It is the county seat of Cherry County, which consists of 1010 square miles or 653,360 acres and is the largest County in the state. The city has a population of 2,737 according to the 2010 census.
Valentine was founded in 1884 when the Ainsworth and Black Hills Stage Company opened a station there and named it "Valentine Station" in honor of Valentine McGillycuddy, an army physician and Indian agent. The station was moved one mile west to serve as a stop on the Fremont Elkhorn and Missouri Valley Railroad and the city of Valentine was officially founded in 1885. As more settlers came to the area, businesses, churches, schools and cultural organizations flourished.
Valentine is a hub for a wide variety of activities including ranching, hunting, fishing, whitewater rafting, camping, hiking, and skiing. The city is home to the Smith Falls State Park, established in 1927, which offers spectacular views of Cherry County. The nearby Niobrara National Scenic River is renowned for its scenic beauty and recreational activities. Visitors can tour the area by boat, kayak, and canoe.
Valentine is also known for its annual "Valentine Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo", celebrated each June since 1900. The festival includes a variety of family-oriented activities, including parades, chuck wagon cook-offs, live music, and rodeo events. The annual "Heart of the Midwest" festival is hosted each June and includes live music by local bands, competitions, and food vendors.
Valentine is also close to the Texas Trail, which is part of the historic Oregon Trail. In the early 1880s, much of the Oregon Trail passed through this area, and it wasn’t until later that the nearby Niobrara River was taken over as the main passage to the West. The old Texas Trail is still visible today; it is marked with signs, including lane state flags, and is maintained by the Valentine Chamber of Commerce.
Interesting Facts About Valentine City
1. Valentine, Nebraska was founded in 1883.
2. It was originally named "Queen City" after Valentine M. Queen who was the first settler to the area.
3. It’s called Valentine because the US Postal Service requested a one-word name for the town. Valentine was chosen because it was the shortest.
4. Valentine is known as the "City of Love," as it's home to the world's largest postcard mosaic which covers all four sides of the post office.
5. Valentine is also home to the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame.
6. Valentine is the principal city of the northern Sandhills, a large region of sand dunes in the Great Plains.
7. It is National Geographic's "Best Small Town in the Great Plains."
8. The town is located on the Niobrara River, an important tributary of the Missouri River.
9. It is the self-proclaimed destination romantic city of the ‘heart’ of the United States.
10. The Smith Falls State Park is located near Valentine and offers pristine outdoor activities.
What is Valentine known & Famous for
?
Valentine, NE is known for its "Heart City" designation. The city is home to May Museum and Resort, as well as the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge. It is a popular tourist destination for its nearby state parks, such as the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge and Smith Falls State Park.
What Is It Like To Visit In Valentine City?
Visiting Valentine, NE is a unique experience. The city has a rustic, western feel with a small-town atmosphere. With a population of just under 3,000, the city has a cozy feel with plenty of friendly people and places to explore. From its historic downtown area to nearby attractions like the Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge and the Fort Niobrara National Monument, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Plus, its beautiful countryside provides plenty of opportunities for making outdoor memories. During your visit, be sure to purchase your valentine candy from the unique candy store in town, make a stop at the Wild West Spirit Gallery, and visit the local museum. Sitting at the heart of this small town, the Valentine City Park is the ideal place to spend the day with friends and family. With a playground, picnic area, swimming pool, sporting fields, and more, the park is always an exciting place to explore.
