Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Kansas
Founded in 1855, Jefferson County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Jefferson County was one of the original 36 counties. The city of Oskaloosa is the county seat. With FIPS code of 87, Jefferson County has a population of 18,411 and area of 536 square miles (1,388 km²).
List of all cities in Jefferson County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Grantville, KS | 66429 | 785 |
| Mc Louth, KS | 66054 | 913 |
| Meriden, KS | 66512 | 785 |
| Nortonville, KS | 66060 | 785 |
| Oskaloosa, KS | 66066 | 785 |
| Ozawkie, KS | 66070 | 785 |
| Perry, KS | 66073 | 785 |
| Valley Falls, KS | 66088 | 785 |
| Winchester, KS | 66097 | 913 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Kansas
Oskaloosa
Overview
Oskaloosa is the county seat of Jefferson County, located in northeastern Kansas, about 30 miles north of Lawrence. Founded in 1856 and named after Oskaloosa, Iowa, the town developed as a central trading post and agricultural hub. Early settlers were drawn to the region for its fertile soil, and Oskaloosa grew quickly, thanks to its strategic location along early transportation routes. The town has maintained its small-town charm while serving as the administrative and commercial heart of the county. Agriculture, particularly wheat and corn farming, continues to play a central role in Oskaloosa’s economy.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66066
- Latitude: 39.2154° N
- Longitude: 95.3116° W
Schools and Landmarks
Oskaloosa is served by Oskaloosa USD 341, with Oskaloosa High School known for its strong academic programs and athletic achievements. Key landmarks in Oskaloosa include the Jefferson County Courthouse, a historic building constructed in 1868, and the Oskaloosa City Park, which hosts community events and offers recreational facilities. The nearby Perry Lake offers fishing, boating, and camping opportunities, attracting both residents and visitors. Oskaloosa’s historical significance as a pioneer town is reflected in its preserved downtown area, which features several 19th-century buildings that serve as a reminder of the town’s rich past.
Valley Falls
Overview
Valley Falls, located in northeastern Jefferson County, was founded in 1854 and originally named Grasshopper Falls due to the nearby Grasshopper River. It was renamed Valley Falls in 1875, reflecting the town’s location within the river valley. The town grew as an agricultural center and benefited from the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. Valley Falls was a key stop along the rail line, which allowed local farmers to transport their goods to larger markets. Today, Valley Falls remains a small, rural community that thrives on its agricultural heritage.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.01 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66088
- Latitude: 39.3420° N
- Longitude: 95.4539° W
Schools and Landmarks
Valley Falls is served by Valley Falls USD 338, with Valley Falls High School known for its focus on academics and extracurricular activities, particularly in sports like basketball and track. The town’s notable landmarks include the historic Delaware River Bridge and the Grasshopper Falls, which still runs near the town and provides scenic views. The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum offers exhibits on the town’s early history and its role in Kansas’s agricultural development. The town also hosts an annual Grasshopper Festival, celebrating its history and bringing the community together with food, music, and games.
Nortonville
Overview
Nortonville is a small town located in the northern part of Jefferson County. Established in 1873, the town was named after L.C. Norton, a railroad official. The construction of the railroad brought growth to the area, with Nortonville becoming a key shipping point for local farmers. The town’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with wheat and livestock production being the primary industries. Although the town has remained small in population, it has retained its close-knit community spirit and rural charm, providing a peaceful lifestyle for its residents.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.32 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66060
- Latitude: 39.4183° N
- Longitude: 95.3389° W
Schools and Landmarks
Nortonville is part of the Jefferson County North USD 339 school district, with Jefferson County North High School serving the town and surrounding areas. The school is known for its strong academic programs and involvement in agricultural education. Key landmarks in Nortonville include the Nortonville City Park, a popular location for community events, and the historic St. Joseph’s Church, which has been a fixture of the town since the late 19th century. The town also has several historic homes that reflect its 19th-century origins, adding to its small-town charm.
Meriden
Overview
Meriden, located in the southern part of Jefferson County, was founded in the 1870s and grew as a farming community. Its proximity to both Topeka and Lawrence allowed Meriden to benefit from trade and access to larger markets. The town has a rich history rooted in agriculture, with wheat, corn, and cattle ranching forming the backbone of its economy. Meriden is also known for its involvement in the railroad industry, which contributed to its early growth. Today, the town continues to serve as a rural community, with a focus on farming and local businesses.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.67 square miles
- Population: Approximately 800 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66512
- Latitude: 39.1884° N
- Longitude: 95.5735° W
Schools and Landmarks
Meriden is served by Jefferson West USD 340, with Jefferson West High School being the main educational institution. The school is known for its strong academics and sports programs, particularly in football and basketball. Key landmarks in Meriden include the Meriden Antique Engine and Threshers Association grounds, where an annual event showcases antique farm equipment and traditional farming techniques. The town is also near Perry Lake, which offers recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The surrounding farmland and rolling hills add to Meriden’s picturesque rural landscape.
McLouth
Overview
McLouth is a small city located in the southeastern part of Jefferson County. It was established in the 1880s and named after the McLouth family, early settlers in the area. McLouth developed as an agricultural town, with wheat, corn, and cattle farming forming the basis of its economy. The town’s location along the railroad allowed for easy transportation of goods to larger cities, fostering growth in its early years. Today, McLouth remains a small, rural community with a focus on farming and local businesses, while also serving as a bedroom community for nearby Lawrence and Topeka.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.62 square miles
- Population: Approximately 900 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66054
- Latitude: 39.1950° N
- Longitude: 95.2114° W
Schools and Landmarks
McLouth is served by McLouth USD 342, with McLouth High School known for its strong academic programs and athletic teams. Key landmarks in McLouth include the historic McLouth City Hall, which has been a central part of the community since the town’s early days. The McLouth Threshing Bee, an annual event, celebrates the town’s agricultural history with demonstrations of antique farming equipment, horse shows, and tractor pulls. The town is also near Lake Perry, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. McLouth’s small-town atmosphere and proximity to larger cities make it an attractive place for those seeking rural life with urban conveniences nearby.
Winchester
Overview
Winchester is a small town located in north-central Jefferson County, founded in the late 19th century. It developed as an agricultural community, with the railroad playing a crucial role in its growth. Named after Winchester, Virginia, the town’s economy has historically revolved around farming, particularly wheat and cattle production. Despite its small size, Winchester has a rich history and remains a close-knit, rural community. The town offers a peaceful lifestyle with a focus on agriculture, while also benefiting from its proximity to larger cities like Lawrence and Topeka.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.34 square miles
- Population: Approximately 550 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66097
- Latitude: 39.3258° N
- Longitude: 95.2675° W
Schools and Landmarks
Winchester is part of Jefferson County North USD 339, with Jefferson County North High School serving students from the town and surrounding areas. The school is known for its community involvement and agricultural education programs. Key landmarks in Winchester include the Winchester City Park, which provides a space for outdoor activities and community events. The town is also home to several historic buildings, including old churches and homes that reflect its 19th-century origins. Winchester’s agricultural roots are evident in the surrounding farmland, which continues to support the local economy today.
