About Our County

Knox County Courthouse Information

Courthouse Square
Center, NE 68724

The Knox County Courthouse is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Courthouse is not closed during the noon hour. 

The present brick Courthouse was built and dedicated in 1934 and is located at 206 Main Street, Center, NE  68724.

The Courthouse Annex #1, 310 Bridge Street, is located to the northwest of the Courthouse and was built in 1989.  The Knox County Extension Office and the Highway Superintendent’s Office are located in Annex #1. 

The Courthouse Annex #2, 309 Bazile Street, is located to the southwest of the Courthouse and was built in 2006.  The Health and Human Services offices are located on the south side of the building and the Veterans Service Officer, Economic Development Director and Emergency Manager are located on the north side of the building.

A Rich and Storied Past

Knox County, originally named L’Eau Qui Court (French for “Running Water”), was renamed in 1873 to honor Revolutionary War hero Major General Henry Knox. The first settlement was established in 1856, and the county seat moved from Niobrara to Center in 1902.

Knox County is proudly represented by the license plate prefix 12, reflecting its early prominence in Nebraska’s vehicle registration system.

Natural Beauty & Outdoor Adventure

Nestled along Nebraska’s northern border with South Dakota, Knox County is home to rolling hills, fertile plains, and scenic waterways. The Missouri and Niobrara Rivers define its landscape, offering countless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Key Attractions:

  • Niobrara State Park
  • Lewis & Clark State Recreation Area
  • Gavins Point Dam
  • Wildlife Management Areas

Enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and some of Nebraska’s best hunting grounds.

Culture, Heritage & Community

Knox County celebrates a rich cultural heritage and strong community spirit. From Native American history to pioneer settlements, the area is filled with stories worth exploring.

Points of Interest:

  • Ponca Tribal Museum & Chief Standing Bear statue
  • Niobrara Museum
  • Private George Shannon Trail (Lewis & Clark Expedition)

Recreation Highlight:
The award-winning Tatanka Golf Club, named “Best New U.S. Resort Course” by Golf Magazine in 2015.

Annual Events & Celebrations

Knox County hosts a variety of beloved events that bring our communities together:

  • Kolach Days – Verdigre
  • Berry Pepper Days – Creighton
  • Knox County Fair – Bloomfield
  • Ponca Tribe PowWow – Niobrara
  • Lighted Boat Parade – Lewis & Clark Lake
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