Seward, 4th of July City
Posted by: 
NevaP
N 40° 54.449 W 097° 05.935
14T E 660111 N 4530226
This marker, located on the courthouse square in downtown Seward, summarizes the history of Seward, famous for its 4th of July celebration.
Waymark Code: WM1QDP
Location: Nebraska, United States
Date Posted: 06/23/2007
Views: 79
The text of the marker reads:
Since 1868, Seward has, with but few interruptions, sponsored a yearly 4th of July celebration which has gained national attention. This square, the original site of the festival, is today its focal point. Special trains once brought revelers here on the Fourth; today tens of thousands arrive by auto. With community young people having provided impetus for the celebration, Governor Exon in 173 designated Seward "Nebraska's Official 4th of July City." In 1976 American Revolution Bicentennial officials cited Seward for its patriotic observances.
Named Greene in 1858, this county was re-christened in 1862 for Civil War Secretary of State William H. Seward. Platted in 1868, the city of Seward became the county seat in 1871. It is located at the confluence of the Big Blue River, Plum Creek, and Lincoln Creek. The Neo-classical Revival Courthouse was built in 1905 under supervision of architect George Berlinghof. Eastern farmers first settled the area, but beginning in the 1870's the population became infused with German and Czech elements. the fertile countryside is a diversified farming and livestock feeding area. Concordia Teachers College was established in Seward in 1894.
The marker, #221 was placed by the City of Seward, the Seward 4th of July Committee and the Nebraska State Historical Society
Southwest corner of Courthouse Square
Marker Name: Seward, 4th of July City
City: yes
Roadside: yes
Web Address if available:: [Web Link]
Other: Not Listed
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Visit Instructions:
Post Pictures:
1. Close up of historical marker
2. Picture of surrounding area (would prefer to have the marker in the picture also). Thanks!