Cities and Towns in Wilson County, Kansas
Founded in 1855, Wilson County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Wilson County was one of the original 36 counties. The city of Fredonia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 205, Wilson County has a population of 8,526 and area of 574 square miles (1,487 km²).
List of all cities in Wilson County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Altoona, KS | 66710 | 620 |
| Benedict, KS | 66714 | 620 |
| Buffalo, KS | 66717 | 620 |
| Buffville, KS | 66757 | 620 |
| Buxton, KS | 66736 | 620 |
| Coyville, KS | 66736 | 620 |
| Fredonia, KS | 66736 | 620 |
| Guilford, KS | 66710 | 620 |
| Hilford, KS | 66757 | 620 |
| Lafontaine, KS | 66736 | 620 |
| Neodesha, KS | 66757 | 620 |
| New Albany, KS | 66759 | 620 |
| Roper, KS | 66714 | 620 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wilson County, Kansas
Fredonia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.62 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66736
- Latitude: 37.5347° N
- Longitude: 95.8283° W
City Location and History
Fredonia is located in the central part of Wilson County, Kansas, and serves as the county seat. It lies near the junction of U.S. Route 400 and Kansas Highway 39, providing access to nearby regions. The town was established in 1868 and named after Fredonia, New York. Fredonia developed as a center for agriculture and trade, particularly in livestock and grain production, benefiting from its proximity to the Verdigris River. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred economic growth, bringing industries such as brick manufacturing and coal mining. The town’s rich historical roots are evident in its well-preserved architecture and cultural traditions.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Fredonia is home to Fredonia USD 484, which includes Fredonia High School and Lincoln Elementary School, providing education for students in the city and surrounding rural areas. Major landmarks include the Wilson County Courthouse, a grand example of Classical Revival architecture built in 1913, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Stone House Gallery, located in a historic home, showcases local art and history. The annual Wilson County Old Iron Days draws crowds with its antique machinery demonstrations, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage. Fredonia’s Riverside Park is another local favorite, offering recreational activities like sports, picnicking, and swimming.
Neodesha
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.92 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66757
- Latitude: 37.4172° N
- Longitude: 95.6833° W
City Location and History
Neodesha is located in the southeastern part of Wilson County, Kansas, at the confluence of the Verdigris and Fall Rivers. The town was founded in 1867 and its name is derived from the Osage word meaning “meeting of the waters.” The city’s early economy was driven by agriculture, but it experienced significant growth after the discovery of oil in the region in 1892, becoming one of the first towns in Kansas to benefit from the oil boom. Neodesha was home to the first successful commercial oil well in the state, which transformed it into a center for oil refining and manufacturing. Though the boom eventually declined, Neodesha maintains a strong connection to its industrial past.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Neodesha USD 461 operates the local schools, including Neodesha High School, which is known for its strong academic and athletic programs. Notable landmarks include the Norman No. 1 Well, the first oil well in Kansas, marked by a monument that commemorates the city’s role in the state’s oil industry. The Neodesha Museum houses artifacts related to the town’s oil history, Native American heritage, and early settlers. Visitors also enjoy the annual Independence Day celebration, which features fireworks, parades, and local festivities. The nearby Fall River State Park and Elk City State Park offer outdoor recreation such as camping, fishing, and hiking, drawing visitors from across the region.
Altoona
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.48 square miles
- Population: Approximately 350 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66710
- Latitude: 37.5278° N
- Longitude: 95.6611° W
City Location and History
Altoona is a small town located in the northeastern part of Wilson County, Kansas, along U.S. Route 75. It was founded in 1869 and named after Altoona, Pennsylvania, by settlers from the area. Initially, Altoona developed as a farming community, benefiting from the fertile soil in the Verdigris River Valley. The construction of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad in the late 19th century brought new opportunities for trade and transportation, boosting the town’s growth. However, Altoona remained a small, agriculturally focused community throughout its history. Despite its size, it has maintained a strong sense of local identity and pride.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Altoona is part of the Altoona-Midway USD 387 school district, with students attending Altoona-Midway High School and Altoona-Midway Elementary School. One of the town’s most significant landmarks is the Altoona Stone Arch Bridge, a historic structure built in the early 20th century that spans Turkey Creek. The town hosts several community events throughout the year, including an annual Fall Festival that celebrates local culture with parades, food vendors, and entertainment. Altoona is also close to several state parks, including Toronto Lake and Fall River State Park, offering outdoor recreational activities like boating, camping, and wildlife observation.
Benedict
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 70 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66714
- Latitude: 37.6258° N
- Longitude: 95.7403° W
City Location and History
Benedict is a small rural town located in the northwestern part of Wilson County, Kansas. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after A.S. Benedict, a prominent figure in the community. Benedict grew around the agricultural industry, with nearby farms producing wheat, corn, and cattle. The town saw modest growth during the early 20th century but never developed beyond a small farming village. Its remote location and reliance on agriculture have defined its history, making it a close-knit community where farming traditions continue to thrive.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Benedict is served by schools in nearby Altoona and Fredonia due to its small size. Though the town lacks major schools and amenities, it boasts a charming rural atmosphere that reflects the agricultural lifestyle of Kansas. A key local landmark is the Benedict Community Church, which has been a gathering place for residents for over a century. The town is also close to several natural attractions, including the Verdigris River, which offers opportunities for fishing and outdoor exploration. Benedict holds an annual community picnic, a tradition that brings together residents for food, games, and celebrations, highlighting the town’s strong community spirit.
Buffalo
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.23 square miles
- Population: Approximately 230 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66717
- Latitude: 37.7042° N
- Longitude: 95.6961° W
City Location and History
Buffalo is located in the northern part of Wilson County, Kansas, along U.S. Route 75. The town was established in 1867, named after the large herds of buffalo that once roamed the area. Buffalo developed as a small agricultural community, with its early economy based on farming and cattle ranching. The construction of the railroad brought brief economic growth to the area, but the town has remained small throughout its history. Despite its size, Buffalo has retained a strong connection to its agricultural roots and continues to serve as a service center for local farmers and ranchers.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Buffalo is part of the Altoona-Midway USD 387 school district, with students attending Altoona-Midway High School. One of Buffalo’s notable landmarks is the Buffalo City Hall, which houses local government offices and serves as a community hub for town meetings and events. The town is also close to the Cross Timbers State Park, where residents and visitors can enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, and birdwatching. Buffalo hosts an annual town fair that features livestock shows, parades, and local vendors, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage and bringing together the small community.
