Cities and Towns in Barton County, Kansas
Founded in 1867, Barton County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Barton County was formed from unorganized area. The city of Great Bend is the county seat. With FIPS code of 9, Barton County has a population of 25,216 and area of 894 square miles (2,315 km²).
List of all cities in Barton County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Albert, KS | 67511 | 620 |
| Beaver, KS | 67525 | 620 |
| Claflin, KS | 67525 | 620 |
| Dundee, KS | 67530 | 620 |
| Ellinwood, KS | 67526 | 620 |
| Great Bend, KS | 67530 | 620 |
| Heizer, KS | 67530 | 620 |
| Hoisington, KS | 67544 | 620 |
| Odin, KS | 67525 | 620 |
| Olmitz, KS | 67564 | 620 |
| Pawnee Rock, KS | 67567 | 620 |
| Susank, KS | 67544 | 620 |
Major Cities and Towns in Barton County, Kansas
Great Bend
Overview and History
Great Bend is the county seat and largest city in Barton County, Kansas, located in the central part of the state along the Arkansas River. Established in 1872, the city was named for its location near a large bend in the river. Great Bend developed rapidly due to the arrival of the railroad, which helped it become a vital transportation and trade hub. Historically, Great Bend was a stop for settlers heading west, and its economy was built on agriculture and the oil industry, which boomed in the early 20th century. Today, it continues to serve as a regional center for business, healthcare, and education.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 10.81 square miles
- Population: 14,733 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67530
- Latitude: 38.3647° N
- Longitude: 98.7648° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Great Bend is served by USD 428, with Great Bend High School being the main educational institution. Barton Community College is another important educational hub in the region. Notable landmarks include the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo, which attracts families and visitors to its wildlife exhibits, and the Wetlands Waterpark, a popular summer attraction. The nearby Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area is a critical stopover for migratory birds and a haven for birdwatchers. Great Bend’s historic downtown area is home to the Barton County Courthouse and various shops and restaurants that reflect the city’s rich heritage.
Hoisington
Overview and History
Hoisington is a small city located in the northern part of Barton County, Kansas. Founded in 1886 along the Missouri Pacific Railroad, Hoisington quickly became an important agricultural community, with wheat and cattle farming forming the backbone of its economy. The city was named after Andrew J. Hoisington, a prominent railroad official. Over the years, Hoisington has maintained its agricultural roots while adapting to modern industries, including wind energy. The community is known for its strong work ethic, resilience, and close-knit nature, especially in the aftermath of a devastating tornado that struck the town in 2001.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.56 square miles
- Population: 2,522 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67544
- Latitude: 38.5181° N
- Longitude: 98.7784° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hoisington is part of the USD 431 school district, with Hoisington High School and Lincoln Elementary School serving the local students. The city is known for its annual Labor Day celebration, which includes parades, fairs, and a variety of community activities. Landmarks in Hoisington include the Hoisington Historical Museum, which showcases the town’s history, and the nearby Claflin Wind Farm, a significant source of renewable energy in the region. The Hoisington Main Street Historic District offers a glimpse into the city’s early 20th-century architecture and community development.
Ellinwood
Overview and History
Ellinwood is located in the eastern part of Barton County, Kansas, and was founded in 1872 along the Santa Fe Railroad. The city is named after Colonel John Ellinwood, a railroad construction engineer. Ellinwood grew as a farming community, and its strategic location made it a key stop for travelers and traders. The town’s unique underground tunnels, originally built for businesses and storage, add an intriguing layer to its history. Although Ellinwood remains a small agricultural town, it has preserved its historical character and continues to be a tight-knit, family-friendly community.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.16 square miles
- Population: 2,011 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67526
- Latitude: 38.3561° N
- Longitude: 98.5801° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ellinwood is part of USD 355, with Ellinwood High School and Ellinwood Grade School serving local students. A major landmark in Ellinwood is the Ellinwood Underground Tunnels, which are a tourist attraction that allows visitors to explore the historic subterranean passageways used by businesses in the late 19th century. The Wolf Pond Park is a recreational spot for families and residents, offering picnic areas and playgrounds. Ellinwood also hosts an annual After Harvest Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with parades, live music, and a carnival.
Claflin
Overview and History
Claflin is a small town located in the northern part of Barton County, Kansas. Founded in 1887, the town was named after Lee Claflin, a philanthropist and father of Boston University founder William Claflin. Claflin grew as a rural community focused on farming, particularly wheat and cattle. Over the years, Claflin has retained its agricultural roots and has developed a reputation as a quiet, family-oriented town. Despite its small size, Claflin is known for its community spirit and the friendly nature of its residents.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.41 square miles
- Population: 542 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67525
- Latitude: 38.5253° N
- Longitude: 98.5369° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Claflin is part of the Central Plains USD 112 school district, with Central Plains High School serving students from Claflin and surrounding communities. The town’s landmarks include the Claflin Community Park, a popular spot for local events and recreational activities. Nearby, the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures. Claflin is also home to a historic grain elevator, a symbol of its long-standing connection to agriculture. The community comes together for various events throughout the year, including the annual Claflin Alumni Reunion, which draws former residents back to town.
Albert
Overview and History
Albert is a tiny rural town located in the western part of Barton County, Kansas. It was founded in 1886 as a stop along the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad. Named after Albert Kriesinger, an early settler, the town developed as a small agricultural community. Like many towns in Barton County, Albert’s economy has historically revolved around farming, with wheat, corn, and livestock being the primary products. Although the town’s population has decreased over the years, Albert continues to preserve its rural character and serves as a quiet, peaceful place to live.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.15 square miles
- Population: 129 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67511
- Latitude: 38.4570° N
- Longitude: 99.0176° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Albert is part of the Otis-Bison USD 403 school district, with students attending schools in nearby Otis and Bison. A key landmark in Albert is the Albert City Park, which provides residents with a place to gather for picnics and outdoor activities. Although small, Albert’s sense of community is strong, with local residents often participating in regional events and fairs. The town’s close proximity to Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge allows easy access to nature and outdoor recreation, making it an attractive spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Pawnee Rock
Overview and History
Pawnee Rock is a historic town located in the southwestern part of Barton County, Kansas. Founded in 1874, the town was named after the nearby Pawnee Rock, a significant natural landmark along the Santa Fe Trail. The rock served as a lookout point for Native Americans and settlers traveling the trail. Although much of the rock has been quarried away, it remains a symbol of the town’s heritage. Pawnee Rock grew as a small farming community and retains its rural, agricultural character today. The town’s historical significance makes it a point of interest for history enthusiasts.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.28 square miles
- Population: 223 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67567
- Latitude: 38.2661° N
- Longitude: 98.9781° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pawnee Rock is part of the USD 495 school district, with students attending schools in nearby Larned. The town’s most notable landmark is Pawnee Rock State Historic Site, where visitors can explore the remaining portion of the famous rock and learn about its role in westward expansion. The town also features a small community center and park, providing a gathering space for residents. Pawnee Rock celebrates its history with local events and activities, often centered around the legacy of the Santa Fe Trail and its importance in the development of the American West.
