However, a popular folk etymology exists which ties it to the Slavic nebo, meaning heaven or sky.

Its location between the two creeks' respective gorges, and resulting limited connection with the rest of the city, has been suggested as a reason for its relatively strong self-identity.

[3] A sign at the intersection of Clingan and Struthers Road and Center Street indicating the southern limit of the district corroborates the local sentiment that Struthers plats off of the more recently-developed Clingan Road are not included in the bounds of the neighborhood, notwithstanding their placement between Yellow Creek and Hines Run.

[5] European activity in the area began with the establishment of the Mount Nebo coal mine circa 1828 by Elijah Stevenson.

[6] Permanent residential settlement dates back to at least 1874, where the presence of a "Neba Station" was recorded along the rail line, near the mouth of Panther Creek.