NORFOLK, Neb. -- On Monday Norfolk celebrated their 157th birthday.

Norfolk sits in the heart of the Elkhorn Valley, with the Sand Hills lying to the west and farmland to the east.

The 18 square mile section of Nebraska land was originally established in 1866. 

“I like going shopping and I love Starbucks’ vanilla bean coffee,” said resident Savannah Aldrich. “I like all the shops, and the stores, and all of the restaurants,” resident Chloe Aldrich said. 

The original name of the colony was a variant of "North Fork", but accounts differ on the exact name: "Northfork", "Nor'fork", and "Nordfork" are all suggested. The name was submitted to federal postal authorities, and at some point was transmuted to "Norfolk." Nebraska natives typically pronounce it as "Norfork."

“My favorite part is the downtown,” said resident Rebecca Aldrich. “It’s really neat and I like how they kept it going. I know a lot of places around Nebraska where they’re not as kept up but I really like Norfolk. It’s really nice.” 

Ever since, Norfolk has become home to over 24,000 people. In recent years, some natives talked about the turnaround that the town has recently made. 

“I feel like it was rundown,” said resident Misti Aldrich. “There were not as many options for shopping or eating. I love the landscaping; that’s all new. It feels cleaner.” 

The town offers many things to do for friends and family, and has a vibrant social life stemming from the downtown area. It has been quite the attraction for many people. 

Happy 157th Birthday, Norfolk!