Dodge County Nebraska 5

Dodge County, Nebraska

County Seat: Fremont
Founded: 1855
Named For: Augustus C. Dodge, U.S. Senator from Iowa
License Plate Prefix: 5
Population: 37,167 (2020 census)
Area: 543 sq mi

History

Dodge County was created in 1855 and named after Iowa Senator Augustus C. Dodge. Early settlement was tied to the Platte and Elkhorn Rivers, which provided fertile farmland and transportation routes. Fremont, founded in 1856, became the county seat and grew rapidly with the arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad. The county’s history includes Native American heritage, pioneer settlements, and the growth of Fremont as a regional hub for trade, education, and industry.

Geography

• Location: Eastern Nebraska, along the Platte and Elkhorn Rivers
• Landscape: River valleys, fertile farmland, and rolling prairie
• Major Highways: U.S. 30, U.S. 77, U.S. 275, Nebraska Highways 79, 91
• Adjacent Counties: Burt (NE), Washington (E), Douglas (SE), Saunders (S), Colfax (W), Cuming (N)

Culture & Landmarks

• Dodge County Courthouse (Fremont) – Historic courthouse built in 1917.
• Midland University (Fremont) – Private liberal arts college with cultural and athletic programs.
• Louis E. May Museum (Fremont) – Preserves local history in a Victorian mansion.
• Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area – Popular for camping, fishing, and boating.

Notable Communities

• Fremont – County seat, largest city, and regional hub.
• North Bend – Historic town along the Platte River.
• Scribner – Known for its historic downtown and community events.
• Dodge, Hooper, Uehling, Inglewood, Ames, Nickerson – Small towns with strong agricultural traditions.

Events & Festivals

• Dodge County Fair (Scribner) – Livestock shows, rodeo, and community celebrations.
• John C. Fremont Days (Fremont) – Parade, reenactments, and cultural events honoring the city’s namesake.
• North Bend Old Settlers’ Picnic – One of Nebraska’s oldest community festivals.

Natural Attractions & Recreation

• Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area – 20 sandpit lakes for fishing, boating, and camping.
• Elkhorn & Platte Rivers – Canoeing, kayaking, and birdwatching.
• Local Parks & Trails – Community parks in Fremont, North Bend, and Scribner.

Living in Dodge County

Dodge County blends small‑town charm with the amenities of a regional center. Fremont provides schools, healthcare, and cultural opportunities, while surrounding towns preserve rural traditions. With its rivers, recreation areas, and festivals, Dodge County is both a welcoming home and a rewarding stop along Nebraska’s Highway 20 corridor.