Brownlee is a village in Cherry County, in the U.S. state of Nebraska. It is situated in the north‑central region of the state, approximately 30 miles (48 km) southeast of the county seat, Valentine. According to the 2020 United States Census, the village had a population of 117 residents.
Geography
- Coordinates: 42°50′41″N 99°56′30″W.
- Total area: 0.12 square miles (0.31 km²), all land.
- Elevation: approximately 2,720 feet (830 m) above sea level.
History
Brownlee was platted in 1913 concurrent with the extension of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad through the area. The community was named after an individual associated with the railroad; the precise identity of the namesake is not definitively documented in readily available sources. The village developed as a service point for surrounding agricultural activities and has remained a small rural settlement.
Demographics (2020 Census)
- Population: 117
- Racial composition: Predominantly White, with small percentages of other racial groups; detailed breakdown not specified in the cited census summary.
- Household and family structures: Data on household size and family composition are consistent with typical rural Nebraskan villages, but specific figures are not provided in the primary census release.
Government
Brownlee is incorporated as a village and operates under the statutory village governance model used in Nebraska, which includes a board of trustees elected by the residents.
Education
The village is served by the Valentine Community Schools district, which provides elementary through high‑school education to students from Brownlee and surrounding areas.
Transportation
U.S. Highway 20 lies to the north of Brownlee, providing road connectivity to Valentine and other regional centers. The historic railroad line that prompted the village’s founding is no longer in active passenger service; freight operations, if any, are limited.
Economy and Community
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, ranching, and related services. Community facilities include a post office, a few small businesses, and public spaces typical of small Nebraskan villages.
References
- United States Census Bureau, 2020 Decennial Census data.
- Nebraska State Historical Society records on Cherry County settlements.
No speculative or unverified information is presented.
