Cities and Towns in Doniphan County, Kansas
Founded in 1855, Doniphan County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Doniphan County was one of the original 36 counties. The city of Troy is the county seat. With FIPS code of 43, Doniphan County has a population of 7,471 and area of 392 square miles (1,015 km²).
List of all cities in Doniphan County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bendena, KS | 66008 | 785 |
| Denton, KS | 66017 | 785 |
| Elwood, KS | 66024 | 785 |
| Highland, KS | 66035 | 785 |
| Severance, KS | 66087 | 785 |
| Troy, KS | 66087 | 785 |
| Wathena, KS | 66090 | 785 |
| White Cloud, KS | 66094 | 785 |
Major Cities and Towns in Doniphan County, Kansas
Troy
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.70 square miles
- Population: 996 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66087
- Latitude: 39.7867° N
- Longitude: 95.0917° W
Location and History
Troy, the county seat of Doniphan County, is located in the northeastern corner of Kansas, near the Missouri River and just west of St. Joseph, Missouri. Established in 1855, the town was named after the ancient city of Troy, reflecting the settlers’ hopes for a prosperous future. As one of the first settlements in the county, Troy quickly developed into a key agricultural hub, serving the needs of local farmers and ranchers. The town grew steadily, thanks to its role as a trading post and the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, which further enhanced its economic development. Today, Troy remains a quiet rural community with a rich historical heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Troy is served by USD 429, which includes Troy High School and Troy Elementary School. One of the town’s most notable landmarks is the Doniphan County Courthouse, a grand Romanesque-style building that has been in continuous use since 1906 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Troy’s downtown district reflects the town’s historical significance, with several well-preserved buildings from the late 19th century. The nearby Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge offers residents and visitors opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and enjoying the scenic landscapes of northeastern Kansas. Troy also hosts an annual Fall Festival, which celebrates the town’s history and agricultural roots.
Elwood
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.35 square miles
- Population: 1,224 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66024
- Latitude: 39.7589° N
- Longitude: 94.8814° W
Location and History
Elwood is situated in the northeastern corner of Doniphan County, directly across the Missouri River from St. Joseph, Missouri. The town was established in 1856 and named after Col. Elwood, a prominent figure who helped develop the area. Elwood’s location on the river made it an important transportation and trading hub during the steamboat era. The construction of the Pony Express and telegraph lines through the town further boosted its significance in the mid-19th century. Elwood has a rich history tied to the Missouri River and was once home to a bustling port. Although flooding has been a challenge for the community, Elwood has continued to thrive as a residential town with strong ties to neighboring St. Joseph.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elwood is part of USD 114, with students attending Wathena High School and Elwood Elementary School. Key landmarks include the historic Lewis and Clark Trail, which passes through the town, offering a connection to the explorers’ journey across the United States. The Elwood Wildlife Refuge, located along the Missouri River, provides a scenic area for birdwatching, fishing, and outdoor activities. Elwood’s proximity to St. Joseph offers residents easy access to urban amenities while maintaining the town’s small-town atmosphere. The annual Riverfest celebrates the community’s history with music, food, and family-friendly activities along the riverbank.
Wathena
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.41 square miles
- Population: 1,264 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66090
- Latitude: 39.7575° N
- Longitude: 94.9489° W
Location and History
Wathena is located in north-central Doniphan County, just a few miles west of Elwood and St. Joseph, Missouri. The town was founded in 1854 and named after a Native American chief of the Kickapoo tribe, Chief Wathena. The town’s early growth was fueled by agriculture, particularly grain and livestock farming, as well as its proximity to the Missouri River, which made it an important trading point. The arrival of the railroad further boosted Wathena’s development, turning it into a regional agricultural center. Over the years, Wathena has maintained its agricultural roots while evolving into a peaceful, residential community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wathena is part of USD 114, which includes Wathena High School and Wathena Elementary School. The town’s most notable landmark is the Chief Wathena Memorial, which pays tribute to the town’s namesake and its Native American heritage. The historic downtown area features several preserved buildings that reflect Wathena’s 19th-century roots. Additionally, the Wathena City Park provides recreational facilities and hosts community events throughout the year, including the annual Wathena Fall Festival, a celebration of the town’s agricultural history and community spirit. Wathena’s proximity to St. Joseph offers residents a balance between rural charm and access to urban amenities.
Highland
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.41 square miles
- Population: 931 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66035
- Latitude: 39.8608° N
- Longitude: 95.2683° W
Location and History
Highland is located in northern Doniphan County, near U.S. Route 36 and just a few miles from the Nebraska border. Founded in 1857 by Presbyterian missionaries, Highland is home to Highland Community College, the oldest college in Kansas, established in 1858. The town’s early development was closely tied to education and religion, as the college served as a center for learning in the region. Highland grew as an agricultural community, with farming and ranching playing central roles in its economy. Today, Highland retains its educational legacy, with the college continuing to attract students from across the state.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Highland Community College is the town’s most prominent institution, offering a variety of academic and vocational programs. The town is part of USD 111, with Highland Elementary School and students attending nearby Troy High School. Highland’s key landmarks include the historic Highland Presbyterian Church and the Highland Historical Museum, which showcases the town’s missionary roots and pioneer history. The annual Highland Arts and Crafts Festival brings together residents and visitors for a celebration of local artisans, music, and food. Highland is also known for its scenic countryside, with rolling hills and picturesque farmland that provide a peaceful backdrop to the town’s quiet charm.
White Cloud
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.32 square miles
- Population: 115 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66094
- Latitude: 39.9792° N
- Longitude: 95.3000° W
Location and History
White Cloud is a small town located in the northeastern corner of Doniphan County, along the Missouri River, near the Nebraska border. Founded in 1855, White Cloud was named after the famous Iowa Native American chief, Chief White Cloud, who played a role in the area’s early history. The town quickly grew into a bustling river port and trading post during the 19th century, thanks to its location on the Missouri River. At its peak, White Cloud was one of the most important river towns in Kansas, with steamboats regularly docking to transport goods and passengers. However, as the importance of river transport declined, White Cloud’s population dwindled, though its historical significance remains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
White Cloud is part of USD 111, with students attending schools in nearby Highland and Troy. The town is best known for its panoramic view of the Four-State Lookout, where visitors can see into Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Iowa from a single vantage point. White Cloud also boasts a rich history, with the downtown area listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The White Cloud Flea Market, held annually, is one of the largest flea markets in the region, drawing visitors from multiple states. The nearby Iowa, Sac and Fox Mission State Historic Site offers insight into the area’s Native American heritage and early missionary efforts.
Bendena
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: Unincorporated
- Population: Approx. 117
- Zip Codes: 66008
- Latitude: 39.7133° N
- Longitude: 95.1586° W
Location and History
Bendena is a small unincorporated community located in central Doniphan County, just a few miles south of Troy. Established in the late 19th century, Bendena grew as a result of its location along the Missouri Pacific Railroad. The town was named after the daughter of a railroad official, reflecting its close ties to the rail industry. Though Bendena never developed into a large town, it became a key stop for local farmers shipping their crops and livestock to larger markets. Today, Bendena remains a small, rural community, known for its agricultural roots and peaceful way of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bendena is part of USD 429, with students attending schools in Troy. The town’s main landmark is the historic Bendena Depot, a reminder of the town’s railroad past. The depot has been preserved and serves as a symbol of Bendena’s role in the development of Doniphan County. Surrounding the town are expansive farmlands that offer scenic views typical of rural Kansas. Bendena’s quiet atmosphere and close-knit community are its defining features, with local events bringing residents together for socializing and celebrating their agricultural heritage. The nearby Doniphan Lake provides opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation, contributing to the town’s rural charm.
