Cities and Towns in Ness County, Kansas
Founded in 1867, Ness County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Ness County was formed from unorganized area. The city of Ness City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 135, Ness County has a population of 2,672 and area of 1,075 square miles (2,784 km²).
List of all cities in Ness County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Arnold, KS | 67515 | 785 |
| 67584 | 785 | |
| Bazine, KS | 67516 | 785 |
| Beeler, KS | 67518 | 785 |
| Brownell, KS | 67521 | 785 |
| Ness City, KS | 67560 | 785 |
| Ransom, KS | 67572 | 785 |
| Utica, KS | 67584 | 785 |
Major Cities and Towns in Ness County, Kansas
Ness City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.16 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,300
- Zip Code: 67560
- Latitude: 38.4547° N
- Longitude: 99.9025° W
Location and History
Ness City, the county seat of Ness County, is located in western Kansas along Kansas Highway 96. Established in 1878, it was named after Noah V. Ness, a soldier in the Union Army during the Civil War. The town quickly grew as a regional trade center, supported by agriculture and ranching, industries that remain central to the local economy. During the late 19th century, the arrival of the Missouri Pacific Railroad spurred further development, allowing for easier transportation of goods. Ness City is also home to the renowned Ness County Bank Building, often referred to as the “Skyscraper of the Plains,” an architectural marvel constructed in 1890.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ness City is served by Ness City USD 303, which includes Ness City Junior/Senior High School and Ness City Elementary School. The town’s most iconic landmark is the Ness County Bank Building, an impressive Romanesque Revival structure that stands as a testament to the town’s early prosperity. Eisenhower Park is a central recreational spot, offering facilities for sports and outdoor activities. Ness City is also home to Western Plains Medical Complex, which serves the healthcare needs of the broader region. The annual Ness County Fair is a significant event, showcasing local agriculture, crafts, and community spirit.
Ransom
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.34 square miles
- Population: Approximately 280
- Zip Code: 67572
- Latitude: 38.6339° N
- Longitude: 99.9272° W
Location and History
Ransom is located in the southern part of Ness County, along U.S. Highway 283. Founded in 1887, the town was named after Thomas E. G. Ransom, a Union general in the Civil War. The development of Ransom was closely tied to the railroad, which brought settlers and helped establish the town as an agricultural hub. Farming and cattle ranching were the main economic drivers, and although the population has declined over the years, Ransom continues to play a vital role in the local farming community. Its history is rooted in the rugged, pioneering spirit of the Great Plains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ransom is part of the Western Plains School District (USD 106), with Western Plains North Elementary School serving the local students. Ransom City Park is a key community gathering place, offering outdoor recreation facilities. The Ransom VFW Hall is a significant landmark, honoring the town’s veterans and hosting local events. Another important structure is the Ransom United Methodist Church, which has been a central part of the town’s social and religious life for over a century. Every year, the town holds a Community Harvest Festival, celebrating its agricultural roots.
Bazine
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.20 square miles
- Population: Approximately 320
- Zip Code: 67516
- Latitude: 38.4431° N
- Longitude: 99.6928° W
Location and History
Bazine is situated in eastern Ness County, along Kansas Highway 96. The town was founded in 1886 and named after a local settler from Germany. Bazine was established as a small agricultural community, with wheat farming and cattle ranching forming the backbone of its economy. The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway allowed for easier shipment of agricultural products, helping the town to flourish in its early years. While the population has decreased over time, Bazine remains a close-knit rural community with strong ties to its agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bazine is part of the Western Plains School District (USD 106), and students attend Western Plains High School in nearby Ransom. Bazine City Park is a focal point for outdoor activities, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The Bazine United Methodist Church is a historic structure that has been central to the community’s spiritual and social life for over a century. Nearby, Cedar Bluff Reservoir offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The town also hosts an annual Bazine Days Festival, which celebrates its farming roots with parades, contests, and community events.
Brownell
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 25
- Zip Code: 67521
- Latitude: 38.6400° N
- Longitude: 99.7386° W
Location and History
Brownell is one of the smallest towns in Ness County, located in the northeastern part of the county along Kansas Highway 4. Founded in 1880, the town was named after a prominent early settler. Brownell grew modestly as an agricultural community, but like many small towns in rural Kansas, its population dwindled as farming practices modernized and people migrated to larger cities. Despite its size, Brownell has a rich history tied to the Great Plains, and the town continues to maintain its small, tight-knit community spirit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brownell is part of the Western Plains School District (USD 106), though there are no schools in the town itself; students attend schools in neighboring communities like Ransom and Bazine. The town’s landmarks include the Brownell Lutheran Church, which has served as a community hub for over a century. Brownell City Park offers a peaceful setting for outdoor gatherings and recreation. The surrounding prairie provides opportunities for hunting and wildlife viewing, particularly during the fall hunting season. Brownell’s small-town charm is evident during the annual Harvest Celebration, which brings residents together to celebrate the farming tradition.
Utica
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.31 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150
- Zip Code: 67584
- Latitude: 38.6422° N
- Longitude: 100.1578° W
Location and History
Utica is located in the western part of Ness County, along Kansas Highway 4. Founded in 1881, the town was named after Utica, New York, reflecting the origins of some of its early settlers. Utica thrived as a small agricultural community, primarily focused on wheat farming and cattle ranching. Its location along a key transportation route helped the town grow during its early years, though like many rural Kansas towns, its population has declined over time. Despite its size, Utica remains a vibrant part of Ness County, known for its community spirit and agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Utica is part of the Western Plains School District (USD 106), with students attending schools in nearby towns such as Ransom. The town’s main landmark is the Utica Community Hall, which serves as a central gathering place for local events and celebrations. Utica City Park offers a space for outdoor activities and social gatherings. The nearby Smoky Hill River provides opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. Utica hosts an annual Fall Festival, where residents come together to celebrate the harvest season and enjoy parades, contests, and local crafts.
