Cities and Towns in Neosho County, Kansas
Founded in 1855, Neosho County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Neosho County was one of the original 36 counties (Formerly Dorn County). The city of Erie is the county seat. With FIPS code of 133, Neosho County has a population of 15,784 and area of 572 square miles (1,481 km²).
List of all cities in Neosho County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Austin, KS | 66720 | 620 |
| Chanute, KS | 66720 | 620 |
| Earlton, KS | 66720 | 620 |
| Erie, KS | 66733 | 620 |
| Galesburg, KS | 66740 | 620 |
| Morehead, KS | 66776 | 620 |
| Petrolia, KS | 66720 | 620 |
| Saint Paul, KS | 66771 | 620 |
| Stark, KS | 66775 | 620 |
| Thayer, KS | 66776 | 620 |
Major Cities and Towns in Neosho County, Kansas
Chanute
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 7.15 square miles
- Population: Approximately 9,000
- Zip Code: 66720
- Latitude: 37.6794° N
- Longitude: 95.4572° W
Location and History
Chanute, the largest city in Neosho County, is located in the southeastern part of Kansas, along U.S. Highway 169. The city was founded in 1873, named after railroad engineer Octave Chanute, who played a key role in the construction of the railroad through the region. Chanute developed rapidly due to its strategic location as a railroad hub, becoming an important center for commerce and industry. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the city thrived as a manufacturing and agricultural center. Today, Chanute continues to play a vital role in the regional economy, with a mix of industrial, agricultural, and educational institutions contributing to its growth.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chanute is part of the Chanute School District (USD 413), which includes Chanute High School, Royster Middle School, and Lincoln Elementary School. The city is also home to Neosho County Community College, an important educational institution for the region. Notable landmarks include the Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum, which showcases the lives and work of the famous explorers and filmmakers, and Santa Fe Park, a large recreational area with walking trails, sports facilities, and picnic areas. The Tioga Hotel, built in 1929, is a historical landmark reflecting Chanute’s rich architectural heritage.
Erie
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.29 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100
- Zip Code: 66733
- Latitude: 37.5725° N
- Longitude: 95.2431° W
Location and History
Erie, the county seat of Neosho County, is located near the center of the county along U.S. Highway 59. Founded in 1866, Erie was named after Erie, Pennsylvania, reflecting the origins of some of its early settlers. Erie developed as a small agricultural town, and its growth was further bolstered when it was selected as the county seat in 1872. The town’s courthouse became a central part of the community, and the surrounding area remained focused on farming and small-scale industry. Erie has retained its rural charm, serving as a quiet, close-knit community with a deep sense of history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Erie is served by the Erie-Galesburg School District (USD 101), which includes Erie High School, Erie Middle School, and Erie Elementary School. The Neosho County Courthouse, built in 1903, is a prominent landmark that stands at the heart of the town, symbolizing Erie’s role as the county’s administrative center. Lake Erie offers outdoor recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping, making it a popular spot for residents and visitors alike. The town also hosts the annual Neosho County Fair, which highlights local agriculture and crafts, bringing the community together in celebration of its rural heritage.
St. Paul
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.53 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600
- Zip Code: 66771
- Latitude: 37.5161° N
- Longitude: 95.1789° W
Location and History
St. Paul is located in the southeastern part of Neosho County, along U.S. Highway 59. The town was originally established as Osage Mission in 1847, serving as a Catholic mission for the Osage Nation. It was later renamed St. Paul in honor of the apostle. The town grew around the mission, with a strong Catholic presence shaping its early history and development. Agriculture played a major role in the local economy, with farming families settling in the area. Today, St. Paul retains its religious heritage, and the community remains closely tied to its historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
St. Paul is part of the St. Paul School District (USD 505), which includes St. Paul High School and St. Paul Elementary School. The town’s major landmark is the St. Francis de Hieronymo Catholic Church, which dates back to the 19th century and continues to be a focal point for religious and community activities. The Osage Mission-Neosho County Museum provides insight into the town’s rich history, including its missionary origins and role in local Native American history. The town also hosts an annual St. Paul Mission Days festival, which celebrates the community’s cultural and historical legacy.
Thayer
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.36 square miles
- Population: Approximately 450
- Zip Code: 66776
- Latitude: 37.4917° N
- Longitude: 95.4714° W
Location and History
Thayer is a small town located in the southwestern part of Neosho County, along U.S. Highway 169. Founded in 1870, the town was named after Nathaniel Thayer, a railroad financier who was instrumental in developing the railroads in Kansas. Thayer quickly became a railroad town, serving as a transportation hub for agricultural products from the surrounding farms. The town’s early growth was closely tied to the railroad industry, though agriculture has remained a constant economic foundation for the community. Thayer has retained its small-town atmosphere and continues to be a tight-knit rural community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thayer is part of the Erie-Galesburg School District (USD 101), and students typically attend schools in nearby Erie. Thayer City Park is a central community gathering spot, providing outdoor recreational opportunities and hosting events throughout the year. The town’s main historical landmark is the Thayer Depot, which served as a key railroad stop in its early years. The Thayer Veterans Memorial honors local veterans and stands as a symbol of the town’s pride in its history. Each summer, the town holds a Thayer Old Settlers’ Day, a festival celebrating the town’s heritage and bringing residents together for parades, games, and local food.
Galesburg
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 120
- Zip Code: 66740
- Latitude: 37.4744° N
- Longitude: 95.3544° W
Location and History
Galesburg is located in the central part of Neosho County, just off U.S. Highway 169. The town was founded in 1871 and named after Galesburg, Illinois, reflecting the origins of some of its settlers. Galesburg grew as an agricultural town, with the railroad playing a crucial role in its early development. Like many small Kansas towns, Galesburg’s population has declined over the years, but it remains a close-knit community with a deep connection to its rural heritage. Farming continues to be the primary economic activity in the area, with many of its residents involved in agriculture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Galesburg is part of the Erie-Galesburg School District (USD 101), with local students attending schools in Erie. Galesburg City Park is a small but important gathering spot for local residents, offering space for outdoor activities and social events. The Galesburg Community Building serves as a venue for town meetings, celebrations, and other community functions. The Galesburg United Methodist Church, established in the late 19th century, is one of the town’s historic landmarks. The annual Galesburg Fall Festival is a highlight of the community calendar, bringing residents together to celebrate the town’s agricultural roots with food, crafts, and entertainment.
Stark
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.20 square miles
- Population: Approximately 70
- Zip Code: 66775
- Latitude: 37.6839° N
- Longitude: 95.1439° W
Location and History
Stark is a tiny town located in the eastern part of Neosho County, near the Bourbon County line. Established in 1887, Stark was named after its founder, Henry Stark, who envisioned the town as a center for agriculture and trade. The town grew modestly throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, serving the surrounding farming community. Although its population has dwindled significantly, Stark remains a peaceful rural village, with much of its original layout and charm intact. The town’s economy is still based on agriculture, with farming and ranching being the primary activities in the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stark is part of the St. Paul School District (USD 505), and local students attend schools in nearby St. Paul. Stark City Park provides a small, serene area for residents to enjoy outdoor activities and community events. One of the key landmarks in the town is the Stark Friends Church, which has been a spiritual and social hub for the community for over a century. Each year, Stark hosts a Harvest Festival, a celebration that brings together residents for food, games, and music, showcasing the town’s strong agricultural traditions and fostering community spirit.