About Our County

Facts and History

McPherson County, Nebraska, has a rich history and some interesting facts:

  1. Formation and Naming: McPherson County was formed in 1890 from Logan County and named after Civil War General James B. McPherson.
  2. Geography: The county covers an area of 860 square miles, with 859 square miles of land and 1 square mile of water. It is part of the North Platte, NE Micropolitan Statistical Area.
  3. Population: As of the 2020 Census, McPherson County had a population of 399, making it the least populous county in Nebraska and the fifth-least populous in the United States.
  4. County Seat: The county seat is Tryon, which is one of only two unincorporated villages in Nebraska to serve as a county seat.
  5. Historical Events: The county experienced significant growth after the passage of the Kinkaid Act in 1904, which encouraged settlement. However, the lack of resources and a railroad led to a decline in population after reaching its peak in 1910.
  6. Unique Features: McPherson County is known for its low rolling hills and sparse population density. It also has historical significance with its courthouse, which was originally a sod building used until 1926.
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