Knox is a city located in Holt County, Nebraska, United States. It is the county seat of Holt County and the site of a former U.S. Air Force base. As of the 2010 census, the city had a population of 1,844.
Originally known as the village of Holt, it was founded in 1871 after the railroad extended into the area. In 1880, it was renamed Knox in honor of Major General Henry Knox, the first U.S. Secretary of War. There are two theories about why the town received the name: either after he sent supplies to the garrison at Fort Atkinson in 1819 or after he visited the area in 1820.
The nearby U.S. Army Air Forces Training Field was active from 1942-1948. It was a World War II pilot training base and included the Holt County Airport and an associated technical school. The base closed in 1948 and was later sold to the city of Knox and its citizens. The Holt County Fair has been held annually in Knox since 1903.
In 2018, Knox began a tourism campaign to attract more visitors to the city. A new slogan was adopted: "Knox - Nebraska's Best Kept Secret". An increase in the number of local attractions, such as a community swimming pool, golf course, and Kiwanis Nature Park, has contributed to the campaign's success.
Interesting Facts About Knox City
1. The first settlers in Knox, NE were the original members of the Oglala Sioux Tribe who lived in the area in the early 1800s.
2. The city was established in 1879 by Edward Knox, a former Nebraska state auditor and rancher.
3. In 1900, the Chicago St. Paul & Omaha Railroad built a station in Knox, making it a boomtown.
4. The 1968 “100-Year Flood” caused significant damage to many of the businesses and buildings in the town.
5. Knox is the seat of Knox County and is home to a memorial for World War II soldiers.
6. The city is also known for its sizeable population of birds and has been designated a “Bird City” by the National Audubon Society.
7. The city hosts a number of events throughout the year, including a 4th of July parade.
8. The Knox Oil Company was founded by William C. Knox in 1904 and is now the oldest operating business in the city.
What is Knox known & Famous for
?
Knox, Nebraska is known for being the home of the famous Keystone Trail, a 48-mile recreational trail and nature preserve that extends along the Missouri River from Ponca State Park to Ponca, Nebraska. The prestigious trail includes hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as spectacular views of the rolling hills and riparian wildlife. Additionally, Knox is home to several people and businesses that have made a lasting impact on the state and local area, including notable newspaper editor and publisher, E.W. Clark, the late Senator Edward Zorinsky, and Lowell Kalmes, who owns and operates the popular Circle K Ranch, a working cattle and horse ranch located just east of town.
What Is It Like To Visit In Knox City?
Visiting Knox, Nebraska is a relaxing and enjoyable experience. The city of Knox has a population of just over 2,000 people and is located in the northeastern corner of the state. While the city is fairly small in size, it has plenty of attractions and activities to keep you busy.
The city is home to a wide variety of parks and outdoor recreation options. From swimming in the local lake to hiking, running, and biking, there is plenty to do. Birders will also appreciate the plethora of species found in the area.
Other attractions include visiting historic locations such as the historic Knox County Courthouse and the Knox County Museum. There are also a few restaurants and shops to explore. If you're looking for a fun weekend getaway, Knox is definitely worth a visit.
