About Our County
- Location: Logan County is located in the U.S. state of Nebraska.
- County Seat: The county seat is Stapleton
- Area: The county covers a total area of approximately 571 square miles, with 570.5 square miles of land and 0.5 square miles of water
- Population: As of the 2020 Census, the population was 716
- History: Logan County was established in 1885 and named after Civil War General John A. Logan
- Geography: The terrain consists of low corrugated flatland, with the ground sloping to the east-northeast. The Dismal River runs north of the county
- Economy: The economy is primarily agricultural, with significant contributions from livestock and crops like corn and soybeans
History
Logan County, Nebraska, was established in 1885 and named after Civil War General John A. Logan. The county’s formation was driven by a group of Civil War veterans who sought to settle on government lands under the Homestead and Timber Culture Acts. These veterans, organized by J.S. Hoagland, a lawyer from Lincoln, Nebraska, formed a soldier’s colony and selected the area that would become Logan County for its fertile land and the presence of the South Loup River.
In the early years, the county’s economy was primarily agricultural, with settlers focusing on farming and raising livestock. The first railroad reached Logan County in 1911, which significantly boosted the local economy by providing better access to markets and resources. Despite the challenges of remote living and the lack of immediate railroad access in its early days, the community thrived, building schools, churches, and other essential infrastructure.
Today, Logan County remains a predominantly rural area with a strong agricultural presence. The county’s history is reflected in its small towns and the enduring legacy of its early settlers. The community continues to value its historical roots while adapting to modern advancements, maintaining a balance between preserving its heritage and embracing the future.