Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Kansas
Founded in 1855, Franklin County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Franklin County was one of the original 36 counties. The city of Ottawa is the county seat. With FIPS code of 59, Franklin County has a population of 25,986 and area of 574 square miles (1,487 km²).
List of all cities in Franklin County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Centropolis, KS | 66067 | 785 |
| Lane, KS | 66042 | 785 |
| Ottawa, KS | 66067 | 785 |
| Pomona, KS | 66076 | 785 |
| Princeton, KS | 66078 | 785 |
| Rantoul, KS | 66079 | 785 |
| Richmond, KS | 66080 | 785 |
| Wellsville, KS | 66092 | 785 |
| Williamsburg, KS | 66095 | 785 |
Major Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Kansas
Ottawa
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 9.42 square miles
- Population: 12,625 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66067
- Latitude: 38.6156° N
- Longitude: 95.2670° W
Location and History
Ottawa, the county seat and largest city of Franklin County, is located in northeastern Kansas, along the Marais des Cygnes River, approximately 50 miles southwest of Kansas City. Founded in 1864, Ottawa was named after the Ottawa Native American tribe, which had been relocated to the area. The city grew rapidly due to its strategic location along the river and its access to major railroads, making it a vital agricultural and trade hub in the region. Ottawa’s economy has long been based on agriculture, particularly wheat and livestock farming, although it has diversified over time. Ottawa University, founded in 1865, also plays a central role in the city’s history and continues to attract students from across the country.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ottawa is served by USD 290, which includes Ottawa High School, Ottawa Middle School, and several elementary schools. Ottawa University, a private Christian liberal arts university, is a key educational institution in the city. The downtown district features a number of historic buildings, including the Franklin County Courthouse, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Another notable landmark is Forest Park, a large recreational area that hosts the annual Ol’ Marais River Run Car Show, one of the largest classic car shows in the region. The Old Depot Museum provides insight into the city’s railroad history, while the Prairie Spirit Rail Trail offers outdoor recreation opportunities for hiking and biking.
Wellsville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.21 square miles
- Population: 1,857 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66092
- Latitude: 38.7178° N
- Longitude: 95.0811° W
Location and History
Wellsville is located in northeastern Franklin County, about 30 miles southwest of Kansas City and just off Interstate 35. Established in 1870, Wellsville was named after D.L. Wells, an early settler who helped develop the area. The town’s growth was fueled by the arrival of the railroad, which made it a key shipping point for agricultural products, particularly wheat, corn, and cattle. Although small, Wellsville has maintained its agricultural roots while benefiting from its proximity to larger urban centers like Kansas City. The town’s quiet, rural atmosphere has attracted families seeking a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wellsville is part of USD 289, with Wellsville High School, Wellsville Middle School, and Wellsville Elementary School providing education to local students. The town’s key landmarks include Wellsville City Park, which features sports facilities, playgrounds, and a community center. Another notable site is the historic Wellsville Depot, which reflects the town’s connection to the railroad. The town hosts an annual Wellsville Days festival, a community celebration with parades, live music, and family-friendly activities. Wellsville’s location near the Marais des Cygnes River also offers outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and hiking in the surrounding countryside.
Pomona
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.42 square miles
- Population: 834 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66076
- Latitude: 38.6097° N
- Longitude: 95.4578° W
Location and History
Pomona is a small town located in western Franklin County, about 12 miles west of Ottawa and along U.S. Route 68. Founded in 1869, Pomona was named after the Roman goddess of fruit trees, reflecting the area’s agricultural heritage. The town developed as a farming community, with its economy centered around wheat, corn, and livestock production. The nearby Pomona Lake, built in the 1960s, provided the town with both recreational opportunities and improved flood control for the region. Today, Pomona retains its rural charm and continues to be an important part of the county’s agricultural landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pomona is part of USD 287, with West Franklin High School and West Franklin Middle School serving local students. Notable landmarks include Pomona Lake, a large reservoir that offers fishing, boating, camping, and hiking opportunities. Pomona City Park is a central gathering place for residents, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The town celebrates its agricultural roots with the annual Pomona Days, a community festival that includes parades, games, and local food vendors. The surrounding farmland and proximity to Pomona Lake make Pomona a peaceful and scenic location for residents and visitors alike.
Williamsburg
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.28 square miles
- Population: 366 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66095
- Latitude: 38.4814° N
- Longitude: 95.4556° W
Location and History
Williamsburg is located in southern Franklin County, along U.S. Route 50, about 14 miles south of Ottawa. Founded in 1869, Williamsburg was named after its founder, William Schofield, an early settler in the area. The town developed as an agricultural community, with wheat, corn, and cattle farming forming the backbone of its economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped the town grow, although it has remained small in size. Today, Williamsburg maintains its rural character, with agriculture continuing to play a central role in the town’s economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Williamsburg is part of USD 287, with Williamsburg Elementary School providing education for younger students and older students attending West Franklin High School in nearby Pomona. Key landmarks in Williamsburg include the Williamsburg Community Center, which serves as a venue for local events and gatherings. The town’s park offers a playground and picnic facilities, providing a space for outdoor activities. Each year, Williamsburg hosts a community festival that celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage, with parades, food, and entertainment for residents and visitors. The surrounding countryside, characterized by rolling farmland, provides a peaceful backdrop to this quiet rural town.
Lane
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.15 square miles
- Population: 203 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66042
- Latitude: 38.4328° N
- Longitude: 95.0792° W
Location and History
Lane is a small rural town located in eastern Franklin County, about 15 miles southeast of Ottawa. Founded in the 1860s, Lane was named after James H. Lane, a prominent Kansas politician and leader during the Bleeding Kansas conflict. The town developed as a farming community, with its economy centered on wheat, corn, and livestock production. Although Lane has remained small in population, it has a rich history connected to the struggles for Kansas statehood and the abolitionist movement.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lane is part of USD 365, with students attending schools in nearby cities like Garnett. The town’s main landmarks include Lane Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields for local residents. The historic Lane United Methodist Church, built in the early 20th century, reflects the town’s long-standing religious and community traditions. Each year, Lane hosts a local harvest festival that celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage and close-knit community. Surrounded by farmland and scenic rural landscapes, Lane is a peaceful retreat that offers a glimpse into small-town life in eastern Kansas.
Rantoul
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.23 square miles
- Population: 184 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 66079
- Latitude: 38.5422° N
- Longitude: 95.1014° W
Location and History
Rantoul is located in eastern Franklin County, about 12 miles east of Ottawa and just off Kansas Highway 68. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after Robert Rantoul, a U.S. congressman. Like many small towns in the region, Rantoul developed as an agricultural settlement, with its economy based on farming and livestock. Although it has remained a small, rural community, Rantoul has retained its agricultural roots and close-knit community spirit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rantoul is part of USD 287, with students attending schools in nearby Pomona and Ottawa. The town’s central landmarks include the Rantoul Community Building, which serves as a hub for local events and gatherings. Rantoul Park offers recreational space with playgrounds and picnic facilities, making it a popular spot for community activities. Each year, Rantoul hosts small local events that celebrate the town’s agricultural history, bringing residents together to enjoy food, games, and entertainment. The town’s rural setting, surrounded by farmland, provides a peaceful and picturesque backdrop for residents and visitors alike.
