Cities and Towns in Kay County, Oklahoma
Founded in 1895, Kay County is one of 77 counties in the state of Oklahoma. Historically, Kay County was formed from County K, Cherokee Strip. The city of Newkirk is the county seat. With FIPS code of 71, Kay County has a population of 43,732 and area of 919 square miles (2,380 km²).
List of all cities in Kay County, OK alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Blackwell, OK | 74631 | 580 |
| Braman, OK | 74632 | 580 |
| Kaw, OK | 74641 | 580 |
| Kaw City, OK | 74641 | 580 |
| Kildare, OK | 74601 | 580 |
| 74602 | 580 | |
| 74604 | 580 | |
| Nardin, OK | 74646 | 580 |
| Newkirk, OK | 74647 | 580 |
| Peckham, OK | 74647 | 580 |
| Ponca City, OK | 74601 | 580 |
| 74602 | 580 | |
| 74604 | 580 | |
| Tonkawa, OK | 74653 | 580 |
Major Cities and Towns in Kay County, Oklahoma
Ponca City
Overview
- Area: Approximately 19.61 square miles
- Population: 24,424 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Codes: 74601, 74602, 74604
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.7110° N, 97.0820° W
Location and History
Ponca City, the largest city and county seat of Kay County, is situated in north-central Oklahoma along the Arkansas River. Established in 1893 during the Cherokee Outlet land run, the city was named after the Ponca tribe, reflecting the area’s Native American heritage. Ponca City developed rapidly due to its strategic location along the Santa Fe Railway, becoming a regional trade center. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century further spurred economic growth, attracting industries and workers to the area. The city’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved downtown area, showcasing early 20th-century architecture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ponca City Public Schools provide comprehensive K-12 education, emphasizing academic excellence and extracurricular activities. A notable landmark is the Marland Mansion, built in the 1920s by oil magnate E.W. Marland, which now serves as a museum showcasing the city’s history and heritage. The Pioneer Woman Statue and Museum honors the contributions of women in the American West, serving as a testament to the area’s cultural heritage. Additionally, the Poncan Theatre, constructed in 1927, is a historic venue offering a variety of performances and events, contributing to the city’s vibrant arts scene.
Blackwell
Overview
- Area: Approximately 5.58 square miles
- Population: 6,085 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 74631
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.8040° N, 97.2900° W
Location and History
Blackwell is located in the southeastern part of Kay County, approximately 15 miles south of Ponca City. Established in 1893 during the Cherokee Outlet land run, the city was named after A.J. Blackwell, a local landowner. Blackwell developed as an agricultural center, with wheat and rye being the primary crops. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century further spurred economic growth, establishing Blackwell as a regional trade center. The city’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved historic district, showcasing early 20th-century architecture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Blackwell Public Schools serve the educational needs of the community, offering comprehensive K-12 education with a focus on academic excellence and extracurricular activities. A notable landmark is the Kansas Oklahoma Railroad Museum, which preserves artifacts and exhibits related to the region’s railroad history. The Blackwell Historical Society Museum offers insights into the city’s past, featuring exhibits on local history and culture. Additionally, the annual Blackwell Free Fair is a highlight, featuring agricultural exhibits, competitions, and entertainment, celebrating the town’s farming traditions.
Newkirk
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.5 square miles
- Population: 2,162 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 74647
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.9370° N, 97.3000° W
Location and History
Newkirk is situated in the northeastern part of Kay County, approximately 10 miles north of Ponca City. Established in 1893 during the Cherokee Outlet land run, the city was named after William Newkirk, a local landowner. Newkirk developed as a trade center, benefiting from its location along the Arkansas River. The city’s economy has historically been based on agriculture, with wheat and cotton being the primary crops. Newkirk’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved historic district, showcasing early 20th-century architecture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Newkirk Public Schools provide education from elementary through high school, emphasizing academic achievement and extracurricular involvement. A notable landmark is the Newkirk City Park, which offers recreational facilities and serves as a gathering place for community events. The annual Newkirk Rodeo is a significant event, featuring rodeo competitions, parades, and festivities, celebrating the town’s western heritage. Additionally, the nearby Arkansas River provides opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation, contributing to the town’s appeal for nature enthusiasts.
Kaw City
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.5 square miles
- Population: 367 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 74641
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.7550° N, 97.2830° W
Location and History
Kaw City is located in the northwestern part of Kay County, approximately 20 miles northwest of Ponca City. Established in the early 20th century, the city was named after the Kaw Nation, a Native American tribe that once inhabited the area. Kaw City developed as a resort community, benefiting from its location along the Arkansas River and the construction of the Kaw Dam in the 1950s. The city’s economy has historically been based on tourism and recreation, with fishing and boating being popular activities. Kaw City’s rich history is reflected in its small-town charm and close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kaw City Public Schools serve the educational needs of the community, offering programs from elementary through high school. A notable landmark is the Kaw Lake, which offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping, contributing to the town’s appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. The annual Kaw City Fishing Tournament is a highlight, attracting anglers from across the region to compete and celebrate the town’s fishing heritage. Additionally, the nearby Osage Hills State Park provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
