[2] The county was formed in 1885; it was named for James W. Dawes, the Nebraska Governor at the time.

Dawes County was a part of the unorganized area of northwestern Nebraska until February 19, 1877, when it became a part of Sioux County from which it was separated February 19, 1885, and was given its present name.

[5] Since it lies in the western part of Nebraska, Dawes County residents observe Mountain Time.

As of the 2000 United States Census,[12] there were 9,060 people, 3,512 households, and 2,086 families in the county.

31.00% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.90% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.