Bellevue, Nebraska

Bellevue Bridge, Bellevue, Nebraska
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bellevue-bridge.jpg
Author: Jay8g


Bellevue is a city in Sarpu County in eastern Nebraska, at the border with Iowa. It covers 13.4 sq mi (34.7 sq km) and has a population of 50,200 people (2011 estimate). Incorporated in 1855, it is the oldest continuous town and the second oldest settlement in Nebraska.

Offutt Parade Field, Bellevue
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Flag_over_Offutt_parade_field.jpg
Author: US Air Force


The history of Bellevue goes back to the fur trading days of the 19th century. It was first established by the Missouri Fur Company under the leadership of Joshua Pilcher in 1822. In the early days it changed hands among fur trading companies. Under Lucien Fontenelle of the American Fur Company, it was known as Fortenelle's Post. However French Canadian trappers called the site Belle Vue, meaning "beautiful view", in reference to the picturesque bluffs of the Missouri River.

By the mid 19th century the fur trade was in decline. However Bellevue received a shortlived boost when territorial governor Francis Burt decided to set up residence in the city. Its position as territorial capital was shortlived, as the next governor, T.B. Ciming, decided to establish Omaha as the capital of Nebraska.

While Omaha grew in size, Bellevue began to slip into obscurity. Between 1880 and 1940, its population only grew from 500 to 1,200 people. However when the town was chosen to be the site of the Offutt Air Force Base, its population finally got a boost. By the mid-20th century, Bellevue had some 9,000 inhabitants and by the 1960s, it grew to 20,000.

Visiting Bellevue

Today Bellevue is within the Omaha metropolitan area. You can reach it by taking Interstate 480 (US Highway 75) heading south from Omaha.

Places of Interest in Bellevue

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