Saline County Nebraska 22

Map_of_Nebraska_highlighting_Saline_County

Saline County, Nebraska

A corridor of Czech heritage, prairie towns, and civic pride.

Saline County anchors southeast Nebraska with historic communities, fertile farmland, and a legacy of cultural resilience. From Wilber’s courthouse square to the quiet charm of Friend and Western, every town and trail reflects the state’s immigrant spirit and rural strength.

County Seat: Wilber
Founded: 1855
Named For: Saline (salt) springs in the area
License Plate Prefix: 22
Population: 9,042 (2020 census)
Area: 576 sq mi

History

Saline County was established in 1855 and named for the salt springs found in the region. The county became a center of Czech immigration, with Wilber eventually declared the “Czech Capital of the USA.” The region’s history includes pioneer settlement, cultural preservation, and agricultural innovation.

Geography

Location: Southeast Nebraska
Landscape: Rolling prairie, farmland, and river valleys
Major Highways: U.S. 6, Nebraska Highways 15, 103
Adjacent Counties:
Seward (N),
Lancaster (NE),
Gage (E),
Jefferson (S),
Fillmore (W)

Culture & Landmarks

Saline County Courthouse (Wilber) – Historic courthouse built in 1927.
Czech Museum – Preserves Czech-American heritage in Wilber.
Friend Historical Society Museum – Local history and pioneer exhibits.

Notable Communities

Wilber – County seat and cultural center, known for its Czech heritage.
Friend, Western, Tobias, DeWitt, Swan – Small towns with deep agricultural roots and community pride.

Events & Festivals

Wilber Czech Days – Parade, kolaches, music, and cultural celebration.
Saline County Fair – Livestock shows, exhibits, and entertainment.
Friend July 4th Celebration – Fireworks, games, and family fun.

Natural Attractions & Recreation

Prairie Trails – Walking, birdwatching, and scenic drives.
Community Parks – Playgrounds and picnic areas in Friend, Wilber, and surrounding towns.
Wildlife Viewing – Deer, pheasants, and prairie species across the county.

Living in Saline County

Saline County offers a peaceful rural lifestyle with strong community ties and a proud cultural legacy. Wilber anchors the county with services and events, while towns like Friend and Western preserve the region’s Czech and agricultural traditions. With its festivals, trails, and welcoming spirit, Saline County is a proud part of Nebraska’s southeastern corridor.