Greensburg is a city in east-central Nebraska in the United States. It is the county seat of Nuckolls County, Nebraska. The population was 265 at the 2010 census. The city was originally named "La Grange" when it was founded in 1871, but within two weeks the name was changed to Greensburg in honor of Nebraska Governor Robert W. Furnas' father, Robert Greenwood Furnas, who was born in Greensburg, Pennsylvania.
Greensburg is located 46 miles (74 km) southeast of Hastings and 85 miles (137 km) northwest of Lincoln. It lies at the intersection of U.S. Route 6 and U.S. Route 34. The original intersection of the highways was at the south edge of town, but it was moved a mile (1.6 km) north of its original location in the 1950s.
The economy of Greensburg is based on family-owned businesses and small industries. It is supported by nearby agricultural production, including fruits and vegetable farming, and dry-land wheat farming. The nearest major employer is the Norfolk Regional Hospital, located just south of town.
Greensburg is part of the Superior Public School District, which also serves Superior, Nebraska and its surrounding area. The towns public park, 'Furnas Park' is a large park with a playground, swimming pool, basketball & tennis courts, picnic tables and a large grassy area.
Greensburg celebrates its German Settlement Days every summer– a celebration of the German immigrants who settled in the area over a century ago. German cuisine, authentic German music, and a variety of family-friendly activities are some of the highlights of this fun annual event.
Interesting Facts About Greensburg City
1. The city of Greensburg was founded by Peter Green who was the first settler of the area in 1872.
2. Located in Kiowa County, Greensburg is the smallest incorporated city in the State of Nebraska with a population of just 170 people.
3. The city is located just two miles from the iconic Oregon Trail.
4. In 2011, Greensburg became a ghost town after a tornado ripped through the area, killing 10 people and destroying 95 percent of the city.
5. In an incredible act of community resilience, the citizens of Greensburg voted in a referendum to rebuild their town as a green community, becoming the first city of its size to be awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum status.
6. Today, Greensburg remains a leader in sustainability, with the entire town run from 100% renewable energy, encouraged green building and landscaping initiatives, along with other eco-friendly initiatives involving sustainable energy sources such as wind energy, solar energy, and geothermal energy.
7. In April of 2021, the town held its 10th-anniversary celebration to commemorate the rebuilding of Greensburg folowing the 2011 tornado.
What is Greensburg known & Famous for
Greensburg is a small town in northeast Nebraska that is best known for being the site of a devastating EF5 tornado in 2007. This powerful tornado destroyed 95% of the town in a matter of minutes, killing 11 people and injuring dozens more. After the town was rebuilt, it was declared the world's first "Green City" for its use of environmentally friendly and sustainable practices. Greensburg has since served as an example for other communities and has been featured in television shows, books, and documentaries.
What Is It Like To Visit In Greensburg City?
Greensburg is a quiet rural community in south-western Nebraska, and is a great destination for a relaxing getaway. It is a small town with a population of about 750 residents, and a great selection of shops, dining options, and recreational activities. Visitors to Greensburg enjoy exploring the town’s unique architecture and strolling through its historical downtown district. The town’s historic courthouse building is an iconic landmark that can be seen from much of the town. Greensburg is also the home of the Buffalo Commons Recreation Area, offering a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, swimming, boating, and fishing. Additionally, a number of wineries offer tours and tastings of their locally produced wines. Visitors will feel welcomed in Greensburg and experience a true taste of life in small-town Nebraska.
