Furnas County Nebraska 38

Furnas County, Nebraska

County Seat: Beaver City
Founded: 1873
Named For: Robert W. Furnas, 2nd Governor of Nebraska
License Plate Prefix: 43
Population: 4,636 (2020 census)
Area: 721 sq mi

History

Furnas County was established in 1873 and named after Governor Robert W. Furnas, a pioneer leader and agricultural advocate. Early settlers were drawn to the Republican River Valley and its fertile land. Beaver City, the county seat, developed as a center of trade and civic life. The county’s history includes homesteading, railroad expansion, and a strong tradition of farming and ranching.

Geography

Location: South-central Nebraska, along the Kansas border
Landscape: River valleys, rolling plains, and farmland
Major Highways: U.S. 6, U.S. 34, Nebraska Highways 46, 89
Adjacent Counties: Harlan (E), Franklin (NE), Red Willow (W), Frontier (NW), Norton, KS (S), Decatur, KS (SE)

Culture & Landmarks

• Furnas County Courthouse (Beaver City) – Historic courthouse built in 1905.
• Beaver City Museum – Preserves pioneer and agricultural history.
• Republican River Valley – Scenic area with historical significance.
• Oxford Carnegie Library – Historic library serving the community.

Notable Communities

• Beaver City – County seat with civic pride and historic charm.
• Oxford – Town with schools, businesses, and community events.
• Cambridge – Regional hub with medical services and recreation.
• Arapahoe – Active town with schools and local heritage.
• Holbrook, Hendley, Wilsonville – Small towns with deep agricultural roots.

Events & Festivals

• Furnas County Fair – Livestock shows, exhibits, and entertainment.
• Cambridge Old-Fashioned Christmas – Holiday celebration with lights and music.
• Oxford Days – Parade, games, and community gatherings.

Natural Attractions & Recreation

• Medicine Creek Reservoir – Fishing, boating, and camping near Cambridge.
• Republican River – Wildlife viewing and scenic drives.
• Community Parks – Playgrounds and picnic areas in Beaver City and Oxford.

Living in Furnas County

Furnas County offers a peaceful rural lifestyle with strong community ties and access to essential services. Its towns provide education, healthcare, and local pride, while the surrounding landscape supports agriculture and outdoor recreation. With its historic landmarks and welcoming spirit, Furnas County is a quiet and resilient part of Nebraska’s heartland.