Joey Saves The Day!: Facts about Nebraska

Nebraska Facts

Learn facts about Nebraska for kids.

Hey everyone! Last week, we shared some interesting facts about... Montana. We’re excited to share some fun facts about Nebraska with you this week! Get ready to learn about the state flag, the state bird, and many other nifty tidbits. Join us on this journey of discovery!

Did you know Nebraska was the thirty-seventh (37th) state to join the United States? Nebraska officially became a state on March 1, 1867, after a long process of settlement and development in the region. Located in the heart of the Midwest, Nebraska is known for its diverse landscapes, including rolling plains, fertile farmland, and the scenic Sandhills.

The state is bordered by six other states: South Dakota to the north, Iowa to the east, Missouri to the southeast, Kansas to the south, Colorado to the southwest, and Wyoming to the west. This central location makes Nebraska a key part of the nation’s agricultural heartland.

Nebraska is the sixteenth (16th) largest state in the country, covering an area of approximately 77,358 square miles. It is one of the larger states by land size. The population is around 1,963,692 people, and residents enjoy a mix of urban and rural lifestyles. Major cities like Omaha and Lincoln offer vibrant culture and economic opportunities, while the vast countryside showcases the state’s rich agricultural tradition and natural beauty.

Nebraska famous person alert:

Robert Gibson was born in Omaha, Nebraska, and was a professional baseball pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, where he played for seventeen seasons.

To learn more about Robert Gibson, CLICK HERE.

Ensure your parent or caretaker gets permission before clicking on any links.

Facts about Nebraska:

1. Nebraska is recognized for various unique features and historical significance. One notable claim to fame is that it is the birthplace of Kool-Aid, which originated in Hastings, Nebraska, in the late 19th century. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, Nebraska is also a leading state in corn production, contributing significantly to the nation’s overall yield. The landscape of Nebraska showcases vast prairies, which provide a stunning backdrop and highlight the state’s natural beauty.

Additionally, Nebraska possesses several nicknames that reflect its identity and character. The Cornhusker State is the most widely recognized nickname, celebrating its agricultural prowess, particularly in corn farming. The Tree Planters State honors the numerous tree-planting initiatives undertaken throughout its history. At the same time, the Bug Eaters State pays homage to the early settlers who consumed a local insect as a source of protein during tough times.

Nebraska’s state motto is "Equality Before the Law," emphasizing justice and fairness for all citizens. This motto was officially adopted in 1867, reflecting the state’s commitment to equal rights. The standard Nebraska abbreviation is NE, which is commonly used in postal addresses and other contexts.

2. Nebraska's capital is the city of Lincoln, which was designated as the official state capital in the year 1869. It was chosen for its central location within the state, making it a convenient hub for governance. As of the latest estimates, Lincoln has a population of approximately 286,388 residents, making it one of the largest cities in Nebraska. The city is known for its vibrant culture, numerous educational institutions, including the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and its rich history, reflected in its architecture and community events.

3. The state bird of Nebraska is the Western Meadowlark, a designation made official on March 22, 1929. This charming songbird is easily recognized by its vibrant yellow coloration, which adorns the neck, underbelly, and chest, making it a striking sight in the Nebraska landscape. One of its most distinctive features is the bold black "V" shape on its chest, which adds to its unique appearance.

In terms of plumage, Western Meadowlarks have a combination of colors that effectively camouflage them in their natural habitats. Their backs, tails, and wings are adorned with a mixture of black, brown, and creamy gray shades. This coloring allows them to blend seamlessly into the tall grasses and fields where they often forage for insects and seeds.

The Western Meadowlark is also renowned for its melodious song, which can be heard echoing through Nebraska’s prairies and grasslands. This beautiful song is integral to its courtship behavior and is often used to declare territory. Overall, the Western Meadowlark symbolizes Nebraska and is an essential part of its natural heritage.

4. The official state flower of Nebraska is the Solidago, widely recognized as the goldenrod. This vibrant perennial wildflower is known for its striking clusters of small, yellow flowers that bloom abundantly from late August through September. Goldenrod typically thrives in various environments, including prairies, meadows, and along roadsides, adding a splash of color to the landscape during the late summer and early autumn months.

The Solidago was officially designated as Nebraska’s state flower on April 4, 1895, symbolizing the state's natural beauty and rich agricultural heritage. Its resilience and ability to flourish in diverse conditions reflect the pioneering spirit of Nebraska’s history. With its graceful appearance and ecological importance, goldenrod has become a beloved emblem of Nebraska’s flora.

5. Nebraska's state flag was officially adopted on March 28, 1925. The flag showcases a vibrant blue background, symbolizing the vast skies of the Great Plains. At the center, it displays the state seal of Nebraska, which features a range of symbolic elements representing the state's agricultural heritage and industrial progress. This includes images such as a blacksmith working at a forge and a steamboat on the Missouri River, highlighting Nebraska's historical significance in agriculture and transportation. The words "Great Seal of the State of Nebraska" encircled the state seal, further emphasizing its official status. Overall, the design embodies Nebraska's identity and pride.

6. Nebraska is known for its rich agricultural landscape, where various crops thrive due to its fertile soil and favorable climate. Among the prominent crops cultivated in Nebraska are corn, which is a key component of both animal feed and biofuel production; dry beans, renowned for their nutritional value and versatility in cooking; soybeans, a vital source of protein and oil; sugar beets, which are processed into sugar; and wheat, an essential grain used in a wide range of baked goods and other food products. These crops play a significant role in Nebraska's economy and contribute to the overall agricultural output of the United States.

7. When exploring Nebraska, several must-visit attractions showcase the state's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

One of the highlights is the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, renowned for its impressive collection of animals and innovative exhibits, including the immersive Desert Dome and the serene Aquarium. Visitors can experience diverse wildlife while enjoying a day of family-friendly activities.

Another notable destination is the Chimney Rock Museum, located in Morrill County. This iconic geological formation is a significant landmark of the Oregon Trail and offers a glimpse into the history of westward expansion in the United States. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of pioneers who passed through this region.

Lastly, the Indian Cave State Park in Shubert is perfect for nature lovers. This picturesque park offers stunning views of the Missouri River and a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. The park is also home to historic petroglyphs carved by Native Americans, providing a fascinating link to the area’s indigenous history.

Each attraction highlights a unique aspect of Nebraska, making them essential stops for anyone visiting the state.

8. In Nebraska, a diverse range of wildlife can be found. Among the notable animals are beavers, known for their dam-building abilities and playing a crucial role in creating wetland habitats. Though less common, black bears can occasionally be spotted wandering through the state's forests and mountains. Coyotes are highly adaptable and are frequently seen throughout Nebraska, where they thrive in various environments, from urban areas to rural landscapes. Rattlesnakes contribute to the ecosystem as important predators, primarily hunting small mammals, while their distinctive rattle warns of potential threats. Lastly, the white-tailed deer, a familiar sight in the state’s woodlands and fields, is admired for its graceful appearance and plays a significant role in Nebraska's natural ecosystem.

9. Nebraska experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with extremes in both heat and cold. The highest temperature recorded in the state was 118 degrees Fahrenheit, measured in Minden on July 24, 1936. Conversely, the lowest temperature recorded was -47 degrees Fahrenheit in Camp Clarke on February 12, 1899.