Cities and Towns in Norton County, Kansas
Founded in 1867, Norton County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Norton County was formed from unorganized area (Formerly Billings (1873–79). The city of Norton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 137, Norton County has a population of 5,342 and area of 878 square miles (2,274 km²).
List of all cities in Norton County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Almena, KS | 67622 | 785 |
| Clayton, KS | 67629 | 785 |
| Densmore, KS | 67645 | 785 |
| Edmond, KS | 67645 | 785 |
| Lenora, KS | 67645 | 785 |
| New Almelo, KS | 67645 | 785 |
| Norton, KS | 67654 | 785 |
Major Cities and Towns in Norton County, Kansas
Norton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.97 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,800
- Zip Code: 67654
- Latitude: 39.8333° N
- Longitude: 99.8917° W
Location and History
Norton, the county seat of Norton County, is located in the northwestern part of Kansas, near the Nebraska border. Founded in 1872 and named after Capt. Orloff Norton, a Civil War officer, the city developed quickly due to its position along the railroads and its thriving agricultural economy. Norton played a key role in regional commerce, attracting settlers who established farms and businesses. With the arrival of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad, Norton became a transportation and agricultural hub. Today, it maintains its small-town charm while offering modern services and infrastructure, reflective of its strong historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Norton is part of the Norton Community School District (USD 211), which includes Norton High School, known for its academic and athletic programs, Norton Junior High, and Eisenhower Elementary School. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Norton County Historical Society Museum, which provides insight into the area’s past, and Prairie Dog State Park, a popular destination for outdoor activities like camping and hiking. Keith Sebelius Lake is another key feature, offering recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating. The historic Norton Theatre in downtown also serves as a cultural focal point for the community.
Almena
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.29 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400
- Zip Code: 67622
- Latitude: 39.8900° N
- Longitude: 99.7078° W
Location and History
Almena is located in the northern part of Norton County, close to the Nebraska border. The town was established in 1879 and grew primarily as a result of the railroad. Named after the town of Almena, Wisconsin, it attracted settlers with the promise of fertile land and transportation links. Almena flourished as an agricultural trading post, with its grain elevators and stockyards serving local farmers and ranchers. Although the town’s growth has slowed over the years, Almena continues to maintain its agricultural focus and small-town atmosphere, providing a peaceful environment for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Almena is part of the Norton Community School District (USD 211). While there are no schools in Almena, students attend schools in nearby Norton. The town’s key landmarks include the Almena State Bank, one of the oldest continuously operating banks in Kansas, and Almena City Park, which offers recreational facilities for residents. Agra Lake, located just outside of town, is a popular destination for fishing and camping. The Almena Depot, now a historical site, recalls the town’s origins as a railroad hub. Each year, the community comes together for events like the Almena Old Settlers’ Day, celebrating the town’s heritage.
Lenora
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.33 square miles
- Population: Approximately 250
- Zip Code: 67645
- Latitude: 39.6172° N
- Longitude: 100.0008° W
Location and History
Lenora is located in the southern part of Norton County, along U.S. Route 283. Founded in 1873 and named after Lenora Hauser, the first postmaster’s wife, the town grew as a center for local trade and agriculture. Lenora was once a stop on the Union Pacific Railroad, which contributed to its early development. The town was built with wide streets and a vibrant commercial district, though its population has declined over the years due to shifts in transportation and industry. Despite this, Lenora retains a rich history and strong sense of community, with many of its historical buildings still standing.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lenora is part of the Norton Community School District (USD 211), with students attending schools in Norton. One of the town’s main landmarks is the Lenora Opera House, a historic building that once hosted plays, concerts, and community events. Today, it serves as a cultural and historical museum. Lenora City Park is another key location, providing a venue for outdoor recreation and community gatherings. The town also features the Lenora Depot, a reminder of its railway heritage. The surrounding plains offer scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting and hiking.
Clayton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.24 square miles
- Population: Approximately 55
- Zip Code: 67629
- Latitude: 39.7417° N
- Longitude: 100.1719° W
Location and History
Clayton is located in the southwestern part of Norton County, along U.S. Highway 36. The town was founded in 1879 and named after John M. Clayton, a prominent politician from Arkansas. Like many small towns in Kansas, Clayton’s early growth was fueled by agriculture, particularly wheat farming and cattle ranching, as well as the railroad. The town once had a thriving business district and a significant population, but as transportation patterns shifted and the economy changed, Clayton’s population dwindled. Today, it remains a quiet rural community, reflective of the challenges and resilience of small-town life in Kansas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clayton is part of the Norton Community School District (USD 211), with students traveling to nearby Norton for schooling. The town’s landmarks include the Clayton Cemetery, where many of the town’s founders and early residents are buried. The Clayton Community Building serves as a venue for local events and gatherings, preserving the town’s close-knit community spirit. Nearby, the Solomon River offers opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation. The remnants of Clayton’s historic grain elevators and railway infrastructure provide a glimpse into its agricultural past, while the wide-open prairie landscape offers scenic views and quiet solitude.
Edmond
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.23 square miles
- Population: Approximately 50
- Zip Code: 67645
- Latitude: 39.8317° N
- Longitude: 99.7567° W
Location and History
Edmond is located in the northwestern part of Norton County, near the Nebraska border. Founded in 1877, the town was named after Edmond, Oklahoma, as part of a trend in the late 19th century of settlers naming Kansas towns after other places. Edmond was a bustling community during its early years, largely due to its location on the railroad and its role in supporting the surrounding agricultural region. However, like many small towns in rural Kansas, its population has dwindled over the decades as transportation and economic conditions shifted. Today, Edmond is a quiet, close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Edmond is part of the Norton Community School District (USD 211), with students attending schools in Norton. Though small, Edmond has a few notable landmarks, including the Edmond Christian Church, which serves as a focal point for the community’s social and religious life. Edmond City Park offers a place for residents to gather and enjoy the outdoors, and the Edmond Historical Society works to preserve the town’s heritage. Wildlife areas near Edmond provide excellent opportunities for hunting and birdwatching, drawing visitors from across the region. The surrounding prairie offers serene landscapes, emblematic of the Great Plains.
