Cities and Towns in Ottawa County, Kansas
Founded in 1860, Ottawa County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Ottawa County was formed from unorganized area. The city of Minneapolis is the county seat. With FIPS code of 143, Ottawa County has a population of 5,838 and area of 721 square miles (1,867 km²).
List of all cities in Ottawa County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ada, KS | 67467 | 785 |
| Bennington, KS | 67422 | 785 |
| Culver, KS | 67484 | 785 |
| Delphos, KS | 67436 | 785 |
| Minneapolis, KS | 67467 | 785 |
| Tescott, KS | 67484 | 785 |
| Wells, KS | 67467 | 785 |
Major Cities and Towns in Ottawa County, Kansas
Minneapolis
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.51 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67467
- Latitude: 39.1225° N
- Longitude: 97.7050° W
Location and History
Minneapolis, the county seat of Ottawa County, is located in north-central Kansas along U.S. Highway 81, approximately 20 miles north of Salina. Founded in 1866, the town was named after Minneapolis, Minnesota, by settlers who hoped it would grow into a significant regional center. Minneapolis quickly became a hub for local agriculture, with wheat and cattle farming dominating the local economy. The Solomon River, which flows just to the north, helped support the agricultural growth of the area. Minneapolis thrived during the railroad era, serving as a key trading post for the surrounding farms. Over the years, the town has preserved its historic charm while serving as the administrative and cultural center of Ottawa County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Minneapolis is part of USD 239, which includes Minneapolis High School, Minneapolis Junior High School, and Minneapolis Grade School. The town’s key landmarks include Rock City, a natural geological formation of massive sandstone boulders located just outside the city. Rock City is a National Natural Landmark and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The Ottawa County Courthouse, built in 1905, is a historic structure that reflects the town’s long-standing civic pride. Minneapolis also hosts the annual Minneapolis Fair, featuring agricultural exhibits, entertainment, and community events that celebrate the town’s rural heritage.
Delphos
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.32 square miles
- Population: Approximately 350 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67436
- Latitude: 39.2750° N
- Longitude: 97.7636° W
Location and History
Delphos is located in the northwestern part of Ottawa County, about 10 miles northwest of Minneapolis. Established in 1871, Delphos was named after the Greek city of Delphi, reflecting the classical interests of the town’s early settlers. Like many towns in Ottawa County, Delphos grew as an agricultural community, with wheat, corn, and livestock farming forming the backbone of the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped the town thrive, connecting it to larger markets. Though the population has decreased over time, Delphos remains a vibrant rural community with a rich agricultural history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Delphos is part of USD 239, and students attend schools in nearby Minneapolis. A major landmark in Delphos is the Delphos Museum, which houses historical artifacts and exhibits detailing the town’s early days and its agricultural development. The Delphos City Park is a central spot for community gatherings, offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. The town celebrates its rural roots with annual events, such as the Delphos Fall Festival, which includes a parade, games, and local food vendors. The Solomon River nearby also provides opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation, contributing to Delphos’ peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
Bennington
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.53 square miles
- Population: Approximately 650 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67422
- Latitude: 39.0347° N
- Longitude: 97.5934° W
Location and History
Bennington is located in southern Ottawa County, about 12 miles southeast of Minneapolis. Founded in 1878, Bennington was named after Bennington, Vermont, by settlers who had migrated from New England. The town grew steadily as an agricultural community, with wheat and cattle farming being the primary industries. Bennington’s location along the railroad helped boost its economy, allowing local farmers to transport their goods to larger markets. Over time, Bennington has maintained its small-town character while supporting the surrounding agricultural region, making it a quiet and close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bennington is part of USD 240, which includes Bennington High School and Bennington Elementary School. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Bennington State Bank, which has been a central part of the community since the early 20th century. The Bennington City Park offers recreational facilities, including playgrounds and picnic areas, and serves as a venue for community events. The town’s annual Bennington Pride Day brings together residents for parades, games, and entertainment, celebrating the town’s heritage and strong sense of community. Bennington’s rural setting and proximity to the Solomon River also offer opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
Tescott
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.24 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67484
- Latitude: 39.0014° N
- Longitude: 97.8734° W
Location and History
Tescott is located in the southwestern part of Ottawa County, about 20 miles southwest of Minneapolis. The town was established in 1888 and named after the founder’s mother, Theresa Scott, combining the first two syllables of her name. Tescott developed as a small agricultural town, with wheat, corn, and sorghum farming driving the local economy. The town’s growth was supported by the nearby railroad, which facilitated the transport of agricultural products. Although Tescott has remained small in population, it continues to serve as a local hub for farming and rural living.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tescott is part of USD 240, and students attend Tescott High School and Tescott Elementary School. The town’s key landmarks include the Tescott City Park, which provides playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas for community gatherings. The Solomon River, located nearby, offers fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities, adding to the town’s rural appeal. Tescott hosts an annual community celebration, including parades and family-friendly activities that reflect the town’s strong agricultural roots and close-knit community spirit. The town’s quiet atmosphere and connection to the surrounding farmland make it a peaceful place for those seeking a rural lifestyle.
Culver
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 115 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67484
- Latitude: 38.9878° N
- Longitude: 97.7948° W
Location and History
Culver is a small town located in the southwestern part of Ottawa County, about 15 miles southwest of Minneapolis. Established in the late 19th century, Culver grew as a farming community, with wheat, corn, and cattle ranching at the heart of its economy. The town was named after a local landowner, and its early growth was tied to the expansion of the railroad, which provided an essential link for transporting agricultural products. Though Culver has remained a small town, it continues to serve as a peaceful rural community with a strong connection to its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Culver is part of USD 240, with students attending schools in Tescott and Bennington. The town’s primary landmark is the Culver Community Center, which serves as a venue for local events and social gatherings. Culver’s proximity to the Solomon River provides opportunities for fishing and hiking, adding to the town’s appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. The town participates in county-wide events and fairs that celebrate Ottawa County’s farming heritage. Culver’s rural landscape, quiet lifestyle, and strong sense of community make it an ideal location for those seeking a simple, peaceful way of life.