Cities and Towns in Woodson County, Kansas
Founded in 1855, Woodson County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Woodson County was one of the original 36 counties. The city of Yates Center is the county seat. With FIPS code of 207, Woodson County has a population of 3,102 and area of 501 square miles (1,298 km²).
List of all cities in Woodson County, KS alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Durand, KS | 66783 | 620 |
Piqua, KS | 66761 | 620 |
Rose, KS | 66783 | 620 |
Toronto, KS | 66777 | 620 |
Vernon, KS | 66783 | 620 |
Yates Center, KS | 66783 | 620 |
Major Cities and Towns in Woodson County, Kansas
Yates Center
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.13 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,317 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66783
- Latitude: 37.8808° N
- Longitude: 95.7333° W
City Location and History
Yates Center is located in the southern part of Woodson County, Kansas. It serves as the county seat and lies at the crossroads of U.S. Route 75 and U.S. Route 54, which makes it a central point for transportation and commerce in the region. The city was established in 1875 and named after Abner Yates, an early settler who donated land for the town’s creation. Yates Center grew rapidly in its early years due to its strategic location, fostering its role as a hub for agriculture, particularly grain production. The city’s history is deeply connected to the development of railroads, which brought economic growth to the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Yates Center preserves its historical charm with several heritage buildings still intact.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Yates Center is home to Yates Center High School, which serves students from across the county. The city’s educational system is an integral part of the community. Major landmarks include the Woodson County Courthouse, a historic building that has stood since 1899 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Yates Center Reservoir, located just outside the town, offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, camping, and boating. Another notable attraction is the Old Settlers’ Days celebration, an annual event that brings the community together to celebrate the town’s rich history.
Toronto
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 280 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66777
- Latitude: 37.7978° N
- Longitude: 95.9416° W
City Location and History
Toronto is situated in the northern part of Woodson County, Kansas, near the Verdigris River and Toronto Lake. The town was established in the late 19th century and was named after Toronto, Ontario, by Canadian settlers who were drawn to the area. Toronto was historically known for its location near the river, which provided fertile land for farming. The construction of the Toronto Lake in the 1960s brought attention to the town as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, boosting the local economy. Despite its small size, Toronto played a key role in the agricultural and timber industries of Woodson County during its peak years.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Toronto’s small population is served by schools in nearby Yates Center, as the town itself does not have a high school. Major landmarks include the Toronto State Park and Toronto Lake, which attract visitors year-round for camping, fishing, and hiking. The town is also close to the Cross Timbers State Park, which offers scenic trails and wildlife observation opportunities. Toronto hosts an annual Toronto Days celebration, a local event celebrating the town’s heritage with parades, games, and music, bringing together both residents and visitors from the surrounding areas.
Neosho Falls
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.38 square miles
- Population: Approximately 130 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66758
- Latitude: 38.0061° N
- Longitude: 95.5597° W
City Location and History
Neosho Falls is located in the northeastern part of Woodson County, Kansas, along the Neosho River. The town was founded in 1857 and is one of the oldest settlements in the county. It was named after the falls on the river, which once powered a sawmill and gristmill, making it a vital part of the local economy. In its early years, Neosho Falls was a thriving community, largely due to its river location, which facilitated the transport of goods. However, over time, flooding issues and changes in transportation routes diminished its importance. Despite this, Neosho Falls has retained a close-knit community and a rich historical legacy.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Neosho Falls does not have its own schools and relies on nearby towns such as Yates Center for educational services. One of the town’s notable landmarks is the Neosho Falls Dam, which reflects its historical significance as a mill town. The town’s annual River Fest event, held near the river, celebrates the community’s connection to the Neosho River with music, food, and games. Visitors often explore the remnants of the old mills and the scenic views along the riverbank, making it a quaint destination for those interested in Kansas history and small-town life.
Piqua
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.17 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66761
- Latitude: 37.9247° N
- Longitude: 95.5353° W
City Location and History
Piqua is located in the southeastern part of Woodson County, Kansas. This small town was founded in the late 1800s and was named after Piqua, Ohio, by settlers who migrated from the Ohio region. Piqua has historically been a small agricultural community, with its economy primarily based on farming and ranching. The town never grew to the size of some of its neighbors but has retained its rural charm and tight-knit community over the decades. Piqua’s historical relevance is tied to its location on the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, which once brought in supplies and facilitated trade.
Major Schools, Landmarks, and Attractions
Piqua is part of the Yates Center school district, as it does not have its own schools. One of the town’s most significant landmarks is the Birthplace of Buster Keaton Museum, dedicated to the famous silent film actor and comedian who was born in Piqua in 1895. The museum houses memorabilia and showcases the life of Keaton, drawing visitors interested in film history. The town also celebrates Keaton’s legacy with an annual festival. Other attractions include local farms that offer seasonal tours, giving visitors a glimpse into the agricultural life that sustains Piqua’s small but vibrant community.