Imperial is a city located in Chase County, Nebraska, United States. It is part of the North Platte, Nebraska Micropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 1,564. It is the county seat of Chase County.
Imperial was the end of the eastern spur of the Nebraska and Wyoming Railway, a line connecting railroads in Grand Island, Nebraska with the Colorado lines in Eads, Kansas. The first train, carrying county dignitaries and area farmers, arrived in Imperial on September 15, 1911.
The first settler in imperial was Robert F. Robinson, who opened the town's first business, a general store. Other businesses followed, including a blacksmith shop and saloon. The city was incorporated in 1913 and its economy is based on agriculture and livestock.
The Imperial Public Library was founded in 1915. In 2008, construction began on a $2.2 million addition to more than double the library's size, build-out larger space for children’s programming, and expand technology services. The addition was completed in the summer of 2009.
Imperial is also home to Chase County High School, which serves the entire Chase County school district. The school's mascot is the Knight, and the school colors are blue and white. It is known for its state champion golf program, and many trophies and awards have been won by the school.
In 2020, Imperial's Main Street was renovated and restored, preserving the city's historical charm and unique story. This restoration is part of a larger initiative to restore and celebrate the beauty of small towns and communities in Nebraska.
Interesting Facts About Imperial City
1. It is one of the busiest Union Pacific railway towns in Nebraska.
2. Imperial was founded in 1891 by Captain William Irons.
3. The city was named after the Imperial Hotel, founded by George D. Cory Sr.
4. Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District was formed in Imperial in 1917.
5. Imperial celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2016.
6. Imperial's Big Bridge, built in 1925, was once the longest bridge west of the Mississippi at 2192 feet long.
7. Imperial has a 28-acre park equipped with grandstands, multi-purpose fields, a playground, walking paths, bathrooms, and a concession stand.
8. Imperial is home to the Imperial Sandhills, a 600-square-mile stretch of grassland.
9. Imperial is the county seat for Chase County.
10. Imperial is the self-proclaimed “Irrigation Capital of the Nation”.
What is Imperial known & Famous for
?
Imperial, Nebraska is known for its annual celebration of its rural farming heritage known as Harvest Days. This event takes place in September and celebrates the corn, wheat, sorghum, alfalfa, and soybean harvested in the area. Other attractions include a parade, horseshoes, and a rodeo.
What Is It Like To Visit In Imperial City?
Imperial is a small town in rural Nebraska. It is a friendly and laid back place to visit, and it offers a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy. The town has a few parks that offer stunning views of the surrounding prairies, and it also has a historic downtown district with plenty of family-owned businesses and restaurants to explore. Imperial is also home to a few attractions, like the Imperial Palace Museum and the Chappell House. The Imperial Public Library also offers a great selection of books and activities for visitors. Whether you’re just visiting for the day or spending an extended vacation in Imperial, you’re sure to find a truly unique experience in this picturesque Nebraskan town.
