A community was already growing along the North Loup River in what is now Valley County when Gen. Edward O. C. Ord led a survey crew here in 1874. Biting flies and stinging insects plagued the crew. When residents wanted to name their town for the general, he replied “Name it Scratchtown.”

Ord scratches the itch for a high quality of life for its 2,200 residents. The general’s cherished quote graces one wall of Scratchtown Brewing Co. on Ord’s town square. Ord’s proximity to the Nebraska Sandhills, North Loup River, Lake Ericson, Calamus Reservoir, Davis Creek Reservoir and Sherman Reservoir make it an outdoor adventure hub. Ord is home to Fort Hartsuff State Historical Park.

For more information, contact Valley County Tourism at visitvalleycounty.com or (308) 728-7875.

Discover Activities in Ord

  • Scratchtown Brewing Co.

    An entrepreneurial trio and their passionate families and crew brew history-making beers at Scratchtown Brewing Co. The name comes from a quote by the town’s namesake, Gen. E. ...

  • Valley County Museum

    The Valley County Museum at 117 S. 16th St. keeps area pioneer, military and agricultural history alive with exhibits and events. The museum is on the northwest corner of Ord's ...

  • Valley Fire Espresso

    Valley Fire Espresso pours lattes, shakes and other drinks by the cupful in this small corner shop complete with a drive-thru. Locally made pottery is for sale inside. Seating ...

  • Auble’s Pond

    One of Nebraska’s largest flags flies over Bussell Park at Auble’s Pond. There is a campground west of the fountain, and a swimming pool to the southwest. ...

  • Nebraska’s Junk Jaunt

    Nebraska’s Junk Jaunt is a 300-mile garage sale linking 500 vendors with shoppers from 35 states. Nearly 50 communities participate in the central Nebraska event. Ord is Junk Jaunt central. Driveways, ...

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