Cities and Towns in Jewell County, Kansas

Founded in 1867, Jewell County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Jewell County was formed from unorganized area. The city of Mankato is the county seat. With FIPS code of 89, Jewell County has a population of 2,937 and area of 909 square miles (2,354 km²).

List of all cities in Jewell County, KS alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Burr Oak, KS	66936	785
Esbon, KS	66941	785
Formoso, KS	66942	785
Ionia, KS	66949	785
Jewell, KS	66949	785
Mankato, KS	66956	785
Randall, KS	66963	785
Webber, KS	66970	785

Major Cities and Towns in Jewell County, Kansas

Mankato

Overview

Mankato is the county seat and largest city in Jewell County, located in north-central Kansas. Established in 1872, the town was originally called Jewell Center but was renamed Mankato after Mankato, Minnesota, by early settlers who migrated from the northern state. Mankato developed as a central hub for trade and agriculture in the region, benefiting from its location near the Solomon River, which provided fertile soil for farming. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century boosted Mankato’s growth, making it a key point for the shipment of agricultural products like wheat and livestock. Today, Mankato continues to serve as the economic and administrative heart of Jewell County, retaining its rural charm and agricultural focus.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 1.01 square miles
• Population: Approximately 850 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 66956
• Latitude: 39.7864° N
• Longitude: 98.2103° W

Schools and Landmarks

Mankato is served by USD 107, with Rock Hills High School being the main educational institution for the city and surrounding communities. Rock Hills High is known for its emphasis on academic excellence and extracurricular activities, particularly in athletics. Notable landmarks in Mankato include the Jewell County Courthouse, a striking historical structure that has been in use since the early 1900s. The town is also home to the Jewell County Historical Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the early pioneer days and agricultural development of the region. Additionally, Lovewell State Park, located nearby, offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping.

Jewell

Overview

Jewell is a small town located in the eastern part of Jewell County, founded in 1870 and named after Judge R.S. Jewell, a prominent early settler in the region. The town developed as an agricultural community, with wheat and cattle farming being the backbone of its economy. Jewell grew steadily during the late 19th century as settlers were drawn to the fertile land and the opportunities it provided. Although the population has declined over the years, Jewell remains a close-knit community with strong ties to its agricultural roots, offering a peaceful rural lifestyle to its residents.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 0.33 square miles
• Population: Approximately 400 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 66949
• Latitude: 39.6742° N
• Longitude: 98.1625° W

Schools and Landmarks

Jewell is also part of USD 107, with students attending schools in nearby Mankato. The town’s major landmarks include the historic Jewell Public Library, which has served the community since the late 19th century, and the Jewell City Park, a central gathering spot for residents. The park hosts various community events, including local festivals and sports activities. Jewell’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved downtown area, which features several buildings from the town’s early days. The nearby Buffalo Roam Ranch provides visitors with a glimpse into the town’s agricultural past, offering tours and educational exhibits.

Burr Oak

Overview

Burr Oak, located in northern Jewell County, was founded in 1871 and named after a grove of burr oak trees that grew near the original townsite. The town flourished in the late 19th century as a farming community, with wheat and corn being the primary crops. Burr Oak also benefited from the railroad, which facilitated the transport of agricultural products to larger markets. Over time, the population of Burr Oak has declined, but it remains an active farming community, with residents continuing to work in agriculture and support local businesses.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 0.27 square miles
• Population: Approximately 150 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 66936
• Latitude: 39.8742° N
• Longitude: 98.3025° W

Schools and Landmarks

Burr Oak is part of the USD 107 school district, and students typically attend schools in nearby Mankato. The town’s landmarks include the historic Burr Oak Depot, a reminder of the town’s railroad past, and Burr Oak Park, which offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and community events. The town is also known for its well-preserved downtown area, where several buildings from the early 20th century still stand. Burr Oak’s proximity to Lovewell State Park makes it a convenient location for those who enjoy outdoor recreation, including fishing, hiking, and camping.

Esbon

Overview

Esbon is a small town in western Jewell County, founded in 1873. The town was named after Esbon Blackmar, one of the early settlers in the area. Esbon developed as a farming community, with wheat and cattle ranching being the dominant industries. The town grew during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks to the arrival of the railroad, which helped transport agricultural products to markets. Today, Esbon remains a quiet, rural town that continues to be centered around farming, with many of its residents working in agriculture.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 0.26 square miles
• Population: Approximately 100 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 66941
• Latitude: 39.8225° N
• Longitude: 98.4347° W

Schools and Landmarks

Esbon is part of USD 107, with students attending schools in nearby towns such as Mankato. Esbon features several notable landmarks, including the Esbon City Park, which provides a space for outdoor activities and community gatherings. The town also has a rich agricultural history, with several farms and ranches operating in the area for generations. Esbon’s peaceful rural atmosphere and wide-open spaces make it an ideal location for those seeking a slower pace of life. Its proximity to the Solomon River also offers residents opportunities for fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Formoso

Overview

Formoso is a small town located in southwestern Jewell County, founded in 1887. The name Formoso comes from the Spanish word for “beautiful,” reflecting the early settlers’ appreciation for the surrounding landscape. Formoso developed primarily as an agricultural community, with wheat, corn, and livestock farming being the dominant industries. The town grew modestly throughout the early 20th century, benefiting from the rich farmland that surrounds it. Though the population has decreased over the years, Formoso remains a tight-knit community with a strong focus on farming.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 0.22 square miles
• Population: Approximately 80 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 66942
• Latitude: 39.7603° N
• Longitude: 98.1622° W

Schools and Landmarks

Formoso is part of the USD 107 district, and students attend schools in nearby Mankato. The town’s notable landmarks include the Formoso Community Center, which serves as a venue for local events and gatherings. The town also features several historic buildings that date back to its founding, reflecting its agricultural roots. Formoso’s location near the Solomon River provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking. Despite its small size, Formoso’s scenic surroundings and rural charm make it a unique and peaceful place to live in Jewell County.

Randall

Overview

Randall is a small town located in southeastern Jewell County, established in 1887. The town was named after its founder, W.H. Randall, who played a significant role in the development of the area. Like many towns in Jewell County, Randall’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with wheat, corn, and livestock farming forming the backbone of the local economy. The town saw moderate growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, supported by the railroad and the fertile farmland in the region.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 0.24 square miles
• Population: Approximately 60 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 66963
• Latitude: 39.6261° N
• Longitude: 98.0319° W

Schools and Landmarks

Randall is part of USD 107, with students attending schools in nearby Mankato. The town’s notable landmarks include the Randall Community Building, which hosts various local events, and Randall Park, a small but well-maintained area for outdoor recreation. The town’s agricultural history is reflected in its grain elevators and the surrounding farmlands. Randall’s quiet streets and rural setting make it an ideal location for those who appreciate the peace and simplicity of small-town life. Its proximity to Lovewell State Park provides additional opportunities for outdoor activities like boating and camping.