Hayes County Nebraska

Map_of_Nebraska_highlighting_Hayes_County

Hayes County, Nebraska

County Seat: Hayes Center
Founded: 1877
Named For: Rutherford B. Hayes, 19th President of the United States
License Plate Prefix: 78
Population: 856 (2020 census)
Area: 713 sq mi

History

Hayes County was established in 1877 and named after President Rutherford B. Hayes. The region was settled by homesteaders and ranchers drawn to the rolling plains and open range. Hayes Center, the county seat, developed as a civic and agricultural hub. The county’s history includes dryland farming, cattle ranching, and a strong tradition of community resilience.

Geography

Location: Southwestern Nebraska
Landscape: Rolling plains, farmland, and prairie grasslands
Major Highways: U.S. 6, Nebraska Highways 25, 3
Adjacent Counties:
Frontier (N),
Red Willow (E),
Hitchcock (S),
Chase (SW),
Perkins (W)

Culture & Landmarks

Hayes County Courthouse (Hayes Center) – Historic courthouse built in 1911.
Veterans Memorial – Honoring local service members in Hayes Center.
Hayes County Historical Museum – Preserves pioneer and ranching history.

Notable Communities

Hayes Center – County seat and largest town, known for its civic pride and rural charm.
Westerville – Small unincorporated community with deep agricultural roots.

Events & Festivals

Hayes County Fair – Livestock shows, exhibits, and community celebrations.
Independence Day Parade – Patriotic event in Hayes Center.

Natural Attractions & Recreation

Prairie Trails – Hiking and horseback riding through native grasslands.
Wildlife Viewing – Deer, antelope, and migratory birds across the open range.
Community Parks – Picnic areas and playgrounds in Hayes Center.

Living in Hayes County

Hayes County offers a quiet rural lifestyle shaped by agriculture, community pride, and the beauty of Nebraska’s southwestern plains. Hayes Center provides essential services and hosts local events, while the surrounding landscape supports ranching and recreation. With its open skies and strong traditions, Hayes County is a resilient and welcoming part of the Nebraska corridor.