Cities and Towns in Wabaunsee County, Kansas
Founded in 1855, Wabaunsee County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Wabaunsee County was one of the original 36 counties (Formerly Richardson County). The city of Alma is the county seat. With FIPS code of 197, Wabaunsee County has a population of 6,966 and area of 798 square miles (2,067 km²).
List of all cities in Wabaunsee County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alma, KS | 66401 | 785 |
| 66501 | 785 | |
| Alta Vista, KS | 66834 | 785 |
| Eskridge, KS | 66423 | 785 |
| Harveyville, KS | 66431 | 785 |
| Maple Hill, KS | 66507 | 785 |
| McFarland, KS | 66501 | 785 |
| Paxico, KS | 66526 | 785 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wabaunsee County, Kansas
Alma
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.93 square miles
- Population: Approximately 780 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66401
- Latitude: 39.0156° N
- Longitude: 96.2914° W
City Location and History
Alma is the county seat of Wabaunsee County, located in the northeastern part of Kansas, approximately 30 miles west of Topeka along Kansas Highway 99. Founded in 1867, Alma was settled predominantly by German immigrants, which is reflected in its architecture and local culture. The town was named after Alma, Germany, and its early economy was built around agriculture, particularly the limestone quarries and the production of local dairy products. Alma is often referred to as the “City of Native Stone” because of its abundance of limestone structures. Many of the buildings, including the courthouse and local homes, were built with native stone, giving the town a unique and historic aesthetic.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Alma is part of the Wabaunsee USD 329 school district, which includes Alma Elementary School and Wabaunsee High School. The schools are integral to the community, supporting local youth through strong academic and extracurricular programs. Major landmarks include the Wabaunsee County Courthouse, a striking limestone building completed in 1931, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Alma also boasts the Alma Creamery, renowned for producing high-quality cheese that draws visitors from across the state. The town hosts the annual Wabaunsee County Fair, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage with livestock shows, rodeos, and exhibits, making it a central event for the community.
Eskridge
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.63 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66423
- Latitude: 38.8619° N
- Longitude: 96.1072° W
City Location and History
Eskridge is located in the southeastern part of Wabaunsee County, Kansas, nestled in the scenic Flint Hills region. Established in the 1860s, the town was named after C.V. Eskridge, a local politician. Eskridge initially thrived as a stop on the stagecoach route and later benefited from the extension of the railroad in the late 19th century. The surrounding rolling hills and fertile land made the town an ideal place for farming and ranching, and those industries have remained the backbone of Eskridge’s economy throughout its history. The town’s natural beauty and rural charm continue to attract residents and visitors alike.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Eskridge is served by the Mission Valley USD 330 school district, which includes Mission Valley High School, located just outside of town. The town’s historic landmarks include the Eskridge City Hall and the Eskridge Opera House, both of which are remnants of the town’s more bustling past. The nearby Lake Wabaunsee is one of the area’s top attractions, offering fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. Each year, the town holds the Eskridge Fall Festival, featuring a parade, local crafts, and family activities, drawing both locals and visitors to celebrate the town’s community spirit and rural heritage.
Maple Hill
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.30 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66507
- Latitude: 39.0722° N
- Longitude: 96.0275° W
City Location and History
Maple Hill is located in the eastern part of Wabaunsee County, Kansas, along U.S. Highway 24, just 20 miles west of Topeka. The town was founded in the 1880s by settlers who were attracted to the area’s fertile farmland and its proximity to the Kansas River. Maple Hill’s name is believed to come from the abundance of maple trees that once covered the hills surrounding the town. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and wheat farming, has been the foundation of the town’s economy for over a century. The scenic landscape of the Flint Hills adds to the town’s rustic charm and continues to attract those looking for a peaceful rural lifestyle.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Maple Hill is part of the Wabaunsee USD 329 school district, with students attending nearby schools in Alma. Notable landmarks include the Maple Hill Cemetery, which dates back to the town’s founding and offers a historical record of early settlers. The town is also known for its proximity to the historic Strowig Homestead, a well-preserved example of early pioneer life in Kansas. The nearby Flint Hills offer numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. Maple Hill celebrates its agricultural roots with an annual Harvest Festival, featuring local crafts, produce, and activities for the whole family.
Harveyville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.20 square miles
- Population: Approximately 230 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66431
- Latitude: 38.7933° N
- Longitude: 95.9600° W
City Location and History
Harveyville is a small town in southern Wabaunsee County, Kansas, located along Kansas Highway 31. The town was founded in the 1880s and was named after Henry Harvey, a Quaker missionary who was instrumental in establishing the community. Harveyville was originally a farming settlement, with early settlers attracted by the rich soil and the opportunity to grow crops such as wheat and corn. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped the town grow, though it has remained a small, tight-knit community. Harveyville has a quiet, rural atmosphere, offering a glimpse into traditional Kansas farm life.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Harveyville is part of the Mission Valley USD 330 school district, with students attending schools in nearby Eskridge. One of the town’s notable landmarks is the Harveyville United Methodist Church, a historic structure that has been a community gathering place for over a century. The town is also known for its role in the arts, particularly through the Harveyville Project, an artist residency program housed in a former school building. The program brings artists from around the country to live and work in the rural setting, contributing to the town’s unique cultural identity. Harveyville hosts an annual picnic and community fair, which is a highlight for locals and celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage.
Paxico
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.17 square miles
- Population: Approximately 220 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66526
- Latitude: 39.0633° N
- Longitude: 96.1650° W
City Location and History
Paxico is located in the eastern part of Wabaunsee County, Kansas, near Interstate 70, making it easily accessible from both Topeka and Manhattan. The town was established in the late 1800s and named after the Paxa family, early settlers of the area. Paxico originally developed as a railroad town, serving as a shipping point for the local agricultural industry. In its early days, the town had a bustling downtown area with several businesses catering to the local farming community. Although Paxico remains a small town, its historical downtown, lined with antique shops, has become a popular destination for visitors seeking a taste of small-town Kansas charm.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Paxico is part of the Mill Creek Valley USD 329 school district, and students attend schools in nearby Alma. The town is known for its historic Paxico Meat Market, which has been serving the community since the early 20th century. One of the town’s major attractions is its antique district, where several shops offer a variety of vintage goods and collectibles. Each year, Paxico hosts the Paxico Blues Festival, a well-attended event that brings together musicians, food vendors, and visitors from across the region. The town’s location near the Kansas River also makes it a great spot for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking, contributing to its appeal as a rural retreat.
