Ashland, NE

Ashland, Nebraska is a small city located in Saunders County. The history of Ashland dates back to the mid-19th century when it was first settled by European settlers.

In 1856, Ashland was founded by George F. Turner, a lawyer and politician from Council Bluffs, Iowa. Turner, along with his brother-in-law, Finley A. Yocum, established a trading post on the banks of Salt Creek, which acted as a stopping point for westward travelers on the Mormon Pioneer Trail and the Oregon Trail.

The town originally had two names, one called Lancaster and another called Ashland. However, due to disputes over the name, it was officially incorporated as Ashland in 1870. The name Ashland was chosen to honor the estate of Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman from Kentucky.

During the late 19th century, Ashland experienced significant growth as a result of the railroad expansion. The arrival of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad in 1870 increased the town's economic opportunities and led to the development of various businesses and industries. The agricultural sector also thrived in Ashland due to the rich fertile soil of the surrounding farmland.

Ashland's growth continued into the 20th century, and it became a hub for trade and commerce in the region. Several notable structures were built during this time, including the Saunders County Courthouse in 1905 and the Ashland Masonic Temple in 1927.

One significant event in Ashland's history was the construction of the Ashland Naval Ammunition Depot, now known as the Nebraska National Guard Training Site, during World War II. The depot served as a storage location for munitions and played a crucial role in supporting the war effort.

In recent years, Ashland has focused on preserving its historical aspects while also embracing modern development. The city has established the Ashland Historic Preservation Commission to maintain and restore the historic buildings within the community.

Today, Ashland retains its small-town charm while offering various recreational opportunities, such as the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum, Mahoney State Park, and numerous outdoor activities along the nearby Platte River. The city continues to evolve and grow while honoring its rich history.

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

This museum features a vast collection of aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits related to the history of aviation and the Strategic Air Command.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

Located just outside Ashland, this state park offers various outdoor activities such as hiking trails, fishing, camping, and cabins. It also has a water park called "The Fun-Plex" with slides, pools, and water games.

Iron Horse Golf Course

A well-maintained golf course with challenging holes and beautiful scenery.

Platte River State Park

Another nearby state park with numerous recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and camping. The park also has cabins and a swimming pool.

Brick Street Gallery

A local art gallery showcasing the work of local artists in various mediums.

Ashland Historical Society Museum

This small museum exhibits local artifacts, photographs, and documents that depict the history of Ashland and the surrounding area.

Wildlife Safari Park

Situated on 176 acres of land, this park offers visitors the opportunity to observe and learn about various North American wildlife species such as bison, elk, wolves, and bears.

SAC Aerospace Museum's Planetarium

The museum's planetarium offers educational shows and presentations about space and astronomy.

Quarry Oaks Golf Club

This golf club features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones II.

Louis Vieux Memorial

Located near Ashland, this memorial honors Louis Vieux, a Native American leader of the Delawares, and serves as a reminder of the region's Native American heritage.

Ashland, Nebraska is characterized by a humid continental climate. The town experiences four distinct seasons, with significant temperature variations throughout the year.

Summers in Ashland tend to be warm and humid. The average high temperature in July, the hottest month, is around 87°F (30.6°C), while the average low temperature is approximately 65°F (18.3°C). Occasionally, temperatures can climb into the 90s°F (32-37°C), with high humidity levels. Thunderstorms are common during summer months, providing relief from the heat.

Autumn in Ashland brings cooler temperatures, with September and October being transitional months. The temperatures gradually decrease, with average highs in the upper 70s°F (around 25°C) in September, and the upper 60s°F (around 20°C) in October. Cool nights are accompanied by beautiful fall foliage as the leaves change colors.

Winter in Ashland is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. December and January are the coldest months, with average highs in the mid to upper 30s°F (around 2°C) and lows in the low 20s°F (-5°C). Snowfall is relatively common, with an average of around 30 inches (76 cm) per year, providing opportunities for winter activities.

Spring in Ashland is a transitional season marked by increasing temperatures and longer daylight hours. March and April can still be chilly with average highs in the 50s°F (around 10-15°C), but May sees temperatures rising into the 70s°F (around 20-25°C).

Overall, Ashland, Nebraska experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the distinct beauty and activities associated with each season.

Ashland is a small town located in Saunders County, Nebraska. Despite its small size, there are several distinct neighborhoods within the town. Here are some of the major neighborhoods in Ashland:

Downtown

The heart of Ashland is its historic downtown area. It features a charming main street lined with various shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Downtown Ashland exudes a small-town vibe and is a popular gathering place for both residents and visitors.

Railroad Town

Ashland got its start as a railroad town, and this neighborhood pays homage to its history. The area is characterized by its proximity to the tracks and features a mix of historic homes, some of which were originally built for railroad workers. You'll also find a few small businesses and services scattered around this neighborhood.

Lakeview

Situated on the eastern side of Ashland, Lakeview is a neighborhood known for its beautiful views of Lake Ashland. Many homes in this area offer panoramic vistas of the water and surrounding scenery. It's a peaceful and serene neighborhood, perfect for those looking to enjoy the tranquility of the lake.

Pine Valley

Located on the western edge of Ashland, Pine Valley is a residential neighborhood surrounded by rolling green hills and lush forests. It is a newer development that offers spacious homes on larger lots. Pine Valley offers a more secluded living experience away from the town center.

Midtown

Midtown Ashland is the area situated between downtown and Pine Valley. It consists of a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. This neighborhood offers proximity to both downtown amenities and the natural beauty of Pine Valley.

Country Club Estates

As the name suggests, Country Club Estates is a neighborhood built around the Ashland Golf Club. With a combination of larger, upscale homes and townhouses, this neighborhood attracts residents who appreciate golf and a country club lifestyle.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Ashland, each with its own unique characteristics and atmosphere. Whether you're looking for historic charm, lake views, or a more rural setting, Ashland offers a variety of options to suit different preferences.