Cities and Towns in Ellsworth County, Kansas
Founded in 1867, Ellsworth County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Ellsworth County was formed from unorganized area. The city of Ellsworth is the county seat. With FIPS code of 53, Ellsworth County has a population of 6,336 and area of 716 square miles (1,854 km²).
List of all cities in Ellsworth County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ellsworth, KS | 67439 | 785 |
| Holyrood, KS | 67450 | 785 |
| Kanopolis, KS | 67454 | 785 |
| Lorraine, KS | 67459 | 785 |
| Wilson, KS | 67490 | 785 |
Major Cities and Towns in Ellsworth County, Kansas
Ellsworth
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.01 square miles
- Population: 3,120 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67439
- Latitude: 38.7311° N
- Longitude: 98.2283° W
Location and History
Ellsworth, the county seat of Ellsworth County, is located in central Kansas along the Smoky Hill River and U.S. Route 156. Founded in 1867, Ellsworth quickly earned a reputation as a wild and lawless cattle town during the late 19th century, known for its bustling saloons and shootouts. The arrival of the Kansas Pacific Railroad made Ellsworth an important cattle-shipping center during the height of the cattle drives. Famous figures such as Wild Bill Hickok and Wyatt Earp were known to have passed through Ellsworth. Over time, the town shifted from its rough-and-tumble beginnings to become a peaceful agricultural and residential community. Agriculture, particularly wheat farming, has long been a key part of the local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ellsworth is part of USD 327, which includes Ellsworth High School, Ellsworth Middle School, and Ellsworth Elementary School. One of the town’s major landmarks is the Ellsworth County Historical Society and Museum, which offers exhibits on the town’s Wild West past and its role in the cattle trade. Another key site is the historic Hodgden House Museum Complex, which features preserved 19th-century buildings. The Ellsworth Opera House, built in 1880, is a testament to the town’s cultural history. The Smoky Hill River and nearby Kanopolis Lake provide recreational opportunities, making Ellsworth a popular spot for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Kanopolis
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.63 square miles
- Population: 419 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67454
- Latitude: 38.7083° N
- Longitude: 98.1614° W
Location and History
Kanopolis, located just south of the Smoky Hill River and near Kanopolis Lake, was originally built on the site of Fort Harker, a military outpost established in 1866 to protect settlers and travelers during westward expansion. After the fort was decommissioned in 1872, the town of Kanopolis was founded with hopes of becoming a major manufacturing and commercial center. Although it never grew to the extent that its founders envisioned, Kanopolis became a modest agricultural town. The development of the Kanopolis Dam and Reservoir in the 1940s transformed the area into a recreational destination, attracting visitors for its outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kanopolis is part of USD 327, with students attending schools in nearby Ellsworth. The town’s major landmarks include Fort Harker Museum, which preserves the history of the military post and its role in Kansas’s frontier history. Kanopolis Lake and Kanopolis State Park are the area’s most popular attractions, offering hiking, fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. The annual Kanopolis Day celebration brings the community together for parades, games, and other festivities, celebrating the town’s history and small-town charm. The surrounding scenic landscapes make Kanopolis a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Holyrood
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.37 square miles
- Population: 416 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67450
- Latitude: 38.5861° N
- Longitude: 98.4122° W
Location and History
Holyrood is located in the southwestern part of Ellsworth County, along Kansas Highway 156. Founded in the late 1800s, Holyrood was established as an agricultural town, with its name reflecting the Scottish heritage of some of its early settlers (“Holyrood” refers to the Holyrood Abbey in Edinburgh). The town grew steadily, supported by the surrounding wheat farms and cattle ranches. Over the years, Holyrood has remained a small but vibrant farming community, with agriculture continuing to be the backbone of its local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Holyrood is part of USD 112, which includes Central Plains High School and Central Plains Elementary School. The town’s key landmarks include the Holyrood Depot, which has been preserved as a reminder of the town’s railroad history. Holyrood City Park offers playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it a central gathering place for residents. The nearby Smoky Hills region provides scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Each summer, the Holyrood Fun Day brings the community together for a day of festivities, including parades, games, and local food, highlighting the town’s strong sense of community and rural charm.
Wilson
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.75 square miles
- Population: 714 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67490
- Latitude: 38.8258° N
- Longitude: 98.4742° W
Location and History
Wilson is located in the northwestern part of Ellsworth County, along Interstate 70, approximately 20 miles west of Ellsworth. Founded in 1871 by Czech immigrants, Wilson is known as the “Czech Capital of Kansas” due to its strong Czech heritage. The town’s founders established Wilson as a farming community, with wheat farming and livestock ranching forming the core of the local economy. Over the years, Wilson has embraced its Czech roots, with many local events and traditions reflecting its cultural heritage. The town is also notable for its proximity to Wilson Lake, a popular recreation area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wilson is part of USD 112, with Wilson Junior/Senior High School and Wilson Elementary School serving local students. The town’s most prominent landmark is the Wilson Czech Opera House, built in 1901, which hosts cultural events and community gatherings. The Czech Festival, held annually in July, celebrates Wilson’s heritage with traditional Czech food, music, and dances. The nearby Wilson State Park and Wilson Lake offer outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping, attracting visitors from across the region. The town’s Czech-inspired architecture and local businesses reflect its commitment to preserving its cultural history.
Lorraine
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.25 square miles
- Population: 138 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67459
- Latitude: 38.5675° N
- Longitude: 98.3183° W
Location and History
Lorraine is located in the southwestern part of Ellsworth County, along Kansas Highway 156, and was founded in the late 19th century as an agricultural town. Like many small towns in the region, Lorraine developed around the railroad and the farming economy, with wheat and livestock farming being the dominant industries. The town was named after the Lorraine region of France, reflecting the European heritage of some of its early settlers. Although its population has remained small, Lorraine has retained its rural character and agricultural focus.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lorraine is part of USD 112, with students attending schools in nearby Holyrood and Wilson. The town’s main landmark is Lorraine City Park, which provides recreational facilities such as playgrounds and picnic areas for residents. Surrounding the town are vast wheat fields, reflecting Lorraine’s agricultural heritage. Lorraine hosts local community events throughout the year, bringing residents together to celebrate their shared history and rural lifestyle. The peaceful surroundings and small-town atmosphere make Lorraine a close-knit community where agriculture continues to play a central role in daily life.
