text:
Frontenac, Kansas

Frontenac is the second largest city in Crawford County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 3,382.

History
Frontenac was established as a coal mining town in 1886 in the Cherokee-Crawford Coal Fields in the western Ozark Plateau.

A post office was opened in Frontenac in 1887.

On the night of November 9, 1888, Frontenac suffered the worst mining disaster in Kansas history, when a coal dust explosion killed 44 miners.

During the last decade of the nineteenth century and in the early twentieth century the town was populated primarily by immigrant families from eastern and southeastern Europe, predominantly Sicilian, Italian, and Slavic people from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Its maximum population neared 4,000. It housed various ethnic lodges and drinking parlors despite the state's increasingly severe ban on the distribution, sale, and manufacture of alcoholic beverages.

Coal mining remained the town's occupational base until World War II, when its economy began to change, as did the entire region's.

Geography
Frontenac is located in the Cherokee Lowlands, at the western edge of the Ozarks. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.06 sqmi, of which, 4.97 sqmi is land and 0.09 sqmi is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Frontenac has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 3,382 people, 1,344 households, and 872 families in Frontenac. The population density was 647.3 per square mile (249.9/km$2$). There were 1,475 housing units at an average density of 282.3 per square mile (109.0/km$2$). The racial makeup was 89.47% (3,026) white or European American (88.14% non-Hispanic white), 0.74% (25) black or African-American, 0.95% (32) Native American or Alaska Native, 1.3% (44) Asian, 0.92% (31) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 1.27% (43) from other races, and 5.35% (181) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 3.9% (132) of the population.

Of the 1,344 households, 30.6% had children under the age of 18; 47.2% were married couples living together; 28.3% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 29.6% of households consisted of individuals and 16.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.4 and the average family size was 2.7. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 23.5% of the population.

23.9% of the population was under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 22.6% from 45 to 64, and 20.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39.8 years. For every 100 females, there were 108.1 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 111.6 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $51,563 (with a margin of error of +/- $7,113) and the median family income was $64,330 (+/- $7,897). Males had a median income of $34,672 (+/- $4,525) versus $36,141 (+/- $3,975) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $35,406 (+/- $3,171). Approximately, 3.9% of families and 7.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.0% of those under the age of 18 and 10.5% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 3,437 people, 1,391 households, and 893 families residing in the city. The population density was 691.5 PD/sqmi. There were 1,519 housing units at an average density of 305.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.5% White, 0.5% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 0.6% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.1% of the population.

There were 1,391 households, of which 32.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.0% were married couples living together, 11.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.8% were non-families. 30.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40 and the average family size was 3.00.

The median age in the city was 40.1 years. 24.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.4% were from 25 to 44; 24.2% were from 45 to 64; and 19.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.3% male and 53.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,996 people, 1,230 households, and 783 families residing in the city.currently as of 2004 the population is 3,079. The population density was 755.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,329 housing units at an average density of 335.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.70% White, 0.20% African American, 0.70% Native American, 0.07% Asian, 0.43% from other races, and 0.90% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.73% of the population.

There were 1,230 households, out of which 29.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.5% were married couples living together, 8.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.3% were non-families. 32.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.5% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 24.9% from 25 to 44, 21.3% from 45 to 64, and 21.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 81.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 76.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,558, and the median income for a family was $42,214. Males had a median income of $30,474 versus $21,163 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,349. About 4.4% of families and 7.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.6% of those under age 18 and 9.6% of those age 65 or over.

Area events
Festa Italiana, A Taste of Nations is an annual festival held to celebrate the city's heritage. It hosts many different cooks, and patrons can sample foods from family recipes ranging from many different European heritages. Festa Italiana is held near the Frontenac Sports Complex each fall. Nearly 3,000 people attend Festa yearly.

Frontenac Town Homecoming is an event in which the Frontenac area celebrates the town's establishment. It is complete with a large parade, food vendors, beer & wine tents, children's games, contests & tournaments, fishing derby, pool games, and a Street Dance in the evening. In 2016, community leaders created the Frontenac Heritage Hall, a museum of photo collections and memorabilia from Frontenac's foundation in 1886 to present. It is located in downtown Frontenac, at the corner of McKay and Crawford Streets. Most events are held in downtown Frontenac (with fishing derby held at Frontenac City Park, pool games held at Frontenac City Pool), and celebrated in late May or early June.

Parks and recreation
Frontenac Rotary Park is located east of downtown Frontenac, and is filled with state-of-the-art playground equipment, a skate park, and shelter houses for gatherings.

Frontenac City Park is located on the north edge of town, home to several deep fishing pits.

Frontenac Sports Complex, located on the east end of town, is home to a brand new football stadium & track, several baseball & softball diamonds, and a cross-country path.The sports complex is home to the Raiders & Lady Raiders for football, baseball, softball, cross-country, and track & field.

Frontenac Municipal Swimming Pool is located east of Rotary Park.

Frontenac Recreation Center is located in downtown Frontenac, and has state-of-the-art lifting & running machines, in addition to free-weights and biking machines.

Senior Citizens Center, located north of downtown Frontenac.

A brand new hitting facility for baseball and softball players opened up in the parking lot of the football stadium.

Government
Frontenac is governed by a City Council and Mayor. Each is elected every two years. James Kennedy served as Mayor from 1997 to 2018, when the town elected Linda Grilz, its first ever female Mayor.

Primary and secondary education
The community is served by Frontenac USD 249 public school district. The district serves primarily in east-central Crawford County, and parts of west-central Barton County, Missouri. It consists of three schools in the city of Frontenac:
 * Frontenac High School (Grades 9-12), located at 201 S. Crawford St.
 * Frontenac Middle School (Grades 6–8), located at 201 S. Cayuga St.
 * Frank Layden Elementary School (Grades Pre-K-5), located at 200 E. Lanyon St.

Frontenac High School competes as Class 3A. The mascot is the Raider & Lady Raider, and the colors are black & white. It is the second largest school system in Crawford County, Kansas, with an average district enrollment of about 1,000 students.

Higher education

 * Fort Scott Community College - Frontenac Campus.
 * Harley Davidson Technician Training Center.
 * John Deere Technology Center.

In popular culture
Children's author Clare Vanderpool's book Moon Over Manifest is based on Frontenac. The 2010 book takes place in fictional Manifest, Kansas in 1936. The author was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas, but Frontenac is home to her grandparents. The book was awarded the Newbery Medal in 2011, the Spur Award, and was named a Kansas Notable Book.

Notable people

 * Andy Pilney, college football player and coach
 * Archie San Romani, world-class distance runner & 1936 U.S. Olympian
 * Joe Skubitz, United States congressman
 * Douglas Youvan, biophysicist and inventor

title: Frontenac, Kansas


text:
Girard, Kansas

Girard is a city in and the county seat of Crawford County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 2,496.

History
Girard was founded in the spring of 1868, in opposition to Crawfordsville, and named after the town of Girard, Pennsylvania, the former home of trustee Charles Strong. It was based around the surveyed line of the Kansas City, Fort Scott and Gulf Railroad, in an attempt to gain an advantage over its rival.

The first post office in Girard was established in September 1868.

The first celebration in Girard occurred on July 4, 1868, marking Sunday school and Independence Day. Under a law passed in March 1871, Girard became a city of the third class. In early April the first city officers were elected. The last meeting of the trustees was held April 5, and the first meeting of the new Council was held on April 7.

Banks
Franklin Playter started the first bank in Girard in June, 1871. In 1872, he erected for the accommodation of his business a two-story brick building, the first brick building in the city. In June, 1879, this bank was succeeded by the Bank of Girard, established by E. R. Moffit. The Bank of Girard was succeeded in 1882 by the Girard Bank.

Mills
The Girard Mills were built in 1870, and began operations in the spring of 1871. The first building was a $2 1/2$-story frame, costing, with the machinery and power, $10,000. The property was owned by Tontz & Hitz. In 1879, Tontz retired from active participation in the management of the business, In 1882 he sold his interest to Hitz, who erected a $3 1/2$-story brick mill, put in five run of buhrs, and two sets of Gray's patent rollers, making it a combined mill. The Crawford County Mills were built in 1870 by a stock company. These mills are two and a half stories high, contain three run of buhrs and one set of rollers, thus being also a combined mill, and the machinery is propelled by a twenty-five horse-power engine.

Mining
Carbon Creek was the location of the first mining camp of the county. No shafts were sunk at first, but several strip pits were opened. From the strip pits, slopes were run along the veins, and coal operations opened on a small scale. By 1877 perhaps one hundred miners were working along Carbon Creek, getting out coal.

In the 1960s many of the mines closed. Today the landscape of southeastern Crawford County is covered with long strip mines now full of water and serving as fishing lakes & unfarmed wildlife habitat. The ruins of abandoned zinc and lead smelters can also be seen; many are Superfund sites polluted with the toxic remains of smelter operations. The economy that was driven by industrialized mining and smelting during the first half of the 20th century in the early 21st century is dominated by agriculture.

Immigration
With the growth of the mining industry in Crawford County, large numbers of immigrants from Southern Europe and the Balkans were brought in to work in the mines. These immigrants were more often adherents of Catholicism in contrast to the generally Protestant population previously in the county. At the time this created social tension but today Crawford county celebrates its South European heritage with the annual "Little Balkan Days" event.

To dig the coal, the city began a concentrated effort to attract coal miners from other areas of the United States and from the coal-producing nations of Europe. Overseas, broadsides were distributed along the Mediterranean, promising prosperity in the coal fields of southeast Kansas. Steamship companies sent agents throughout Europe to recruit workers, underwriting one-way passage. From 1880 through 1915, huge waves of immigrants came to southeast Kansas. In all, over fifty nationalities came to mine coal and work in the area's smelters and other industries.

Socialism in Girard
In the first decades of the 20th century, Girard became a hub of socialist politics. Populist Percy Daniels, whose farm was nearby in Crawford Township, briefly owned the Girard Herald and used it to promote his views; he was elected lieutenant governor in 1892. In 1896, Julius Wayland moved to Girard from Kansas City, Missouri and brought with him his socialist periodical Appeal to Reason. In 1900 he employed Fred Warren as his co-editor. Warren was a well-known figure on the left and managed to persuade some of America's leading progressives to contribute to the Appeal to Reason.

In 1904, Warren commissioned Upton Sinclair to write a novel about immigrant workers in the Chicago meat-packing houses. Wayland provided Sinclair with a $500 advance and after seven weeks' research, he wrote the novel, The Jungle. Serialized in 1905, the book helped to increase circulation of the newspaper to 175,000. After the book was published by Doubleday in 1906, the popularity of the Appeal to Reason increased, as did the attacks on Wayland and Warren. The phenomenal success of Wayland's newspaper meant that he developed a printing plant capable of handling a weekly newspaper of huge circulation; on occasion more than 400,000 copies per week were printed. The Appeal to Reason Company issued hundreds of other socialist publications in addition to the Appeal, making the Girard, Kansas name known.

During the decade of the 1900s, Eugene V. Debs lived in Girard and worked on the Appeal. He was the Social Democratic Party candidate for President of the United States in the election of 1900. He ran for President again on the Socialist Party of America ticket in 1904, 1908, and 1912. Debs received 901,000 votes in the election of 1912 (6% of the vote). In 1908, he kicked off his campaign for president from the steps of the Crawford County courthouse in Girard. In 1912 he carried Crawford County (one of four counties he carried nationwide).

During World War I, Debs was a subject of efforts by President Wilson to suppress dissent against the war. He was convicted of violating the Smith Espionage Act and, in September 1918, was sentenced to 10 years in prison. In 1920 he ran for President while still incarcerated in the Atlanta Penitentiary. He received 919,799 votes (3.4% of the vote) despite being imprisoned. President Warren G. Harding pardoned Debs in December 1921.

In 1915 Emanuel Julius was invited to move to Girard and write for Appeal to Reason, then the largest socialist periodical in the country. Julius married Marcet Haldeman in 1916. At the suggestion of Marcet's aunt, Jane Addams of Hull House, both assumed the surname Haldeman-Julius. In 1919, Emanuel became co-owner and editor of Appeal to Reason and began printing the first of the small paperback books in Girard which soon became the foundation for his Little Blue Books series. His vision was to make good literature available to the masses at a cheap price. At the end of nine years, the small project had become a gigantic publishing venture; Emanuel Haldeman-Julius became known as "the Henry Ford of literature". Following World War II, the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover viewed the Little Blue Books' inclusion of such subjects as socialism, atheism, and frank treatment of sexuality as a threat; Haldeman-Julius was added to the enemies list. This caused a rapid decline in the number of bookstores carrying the Little Blue Books.

Emanuel Haldeman-Julius died July 31, 1951, at his home in Girard. He was found drowned in his own swimming pool by his second wife of nine years, Sue Haldeman-Julius. The Little Blue Books continued to be reprinted after Haldeman-Julius' death. They were sold by mail order by his son until 1978, when the Girard printing plant and warehouse were destroyed by fire.

Tornadoes
In May 2003, four people were killed and over a dozen injured by the biggest tornado in Crawford County in recent memory. At least ten people died in southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri. The Girard tornado was first rated as an F4, but is a strong candidate for an upgrade to F5 status. The tornado touched down at 4:40 p.m. near McCune in western Crawford County, cutting a path almost half a mile wide. It traveled by the outskirts of Girard into the small community of Ringo, into Franklin, and then by the outer reaches of Mulberry.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.44 sqmi, of which, 2.40 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi is water.

This city is located on a gently undulating prairie at the center of the county. It is regularly laid out, has a public square in the center.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Girard has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 2,496 people, 1,008 households, and 661 families in Girard. The population density was 1,069.0 per square mile (412.7/km$2$). There were 1,142 housing units at an average density of 489.1 per square mile (188.8/km$2$). The racial makeup was 88.94% (2,220) white or European American (88.02% non-Hispanic white), 1.92% (48) black or African-American, 0.96% (24) Native American or Alaska Native, 0.44% (11) Asian, 0.0% (0) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 0.52% (13) from other races, and 7.21% (180) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 2.64% (66) of the population.

Of the 1,008 households, 31.4% had children under the age of 18; 45.1% were married couples living together; 29.7% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 29.9% of households consisted of individuals and 18.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.3 and the average family size was 2.8. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 16.5% of the population.

26.6% of the population was under the age of 18, 6.1% from 18 to 24, 22.5% from 25 to 44, 23.9% from 45 to 64, and 21.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40.4 years. For every 100 females, there were 107.0 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 111.7 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $37,143 (with a margin of error of +/- $6,281) and the median family income was $43,611 (+/- $12,187). Males had a median income of $26,813 (+/- $5,417) versus $22,266 (+/- $3,671) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $25,070 (+/- $4,501). Approximately, 10.1% of families and 14.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 27.6% of those under the age of 18 and 14.1% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,789 people, 1,080 households, and 710 families residing in the city. The population density was 1162.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,228 housing units at an average density of 511.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.4% White, 1.8% African American, 0.8% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.9% from other races, and 2.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.7% of the population.

There were 1,080 households, of which 31.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.4% were married couples living together, 13.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.3% were non-families. 29.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.43 and the average family size was 2.97.

The median age in the city was 39 years. 24.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.8% were from 25 to 44; 24.6% were from 45 to 64; and 18.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.2% male and 51.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,773 people, 1,063 households, and 723 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,461.4 PD/sqmi. There were 1,219 housing units at an average density of 642.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.93% White, 1.05% African American, 0.54% Native American, 0.11% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.22% from other races, and 1.12% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.69% of the population.

There were 1,063 households, out of which 32.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.2% were married couples living together, 11.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.9% were non-families. 28.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.42 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.8% under the age of 18, 9.4% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 19.8% from 45 to 64, and 20.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,847, and the median income for a family was $37,014. Males had a median income of $26,431 versus $20,682 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,668. About 8.1% of families and 13.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 20.4% of those under age 18 and 5.5% of those age 65 or over.

Public schools
The community is served by Girard USD 248 public school district.
 * Girard High School
 * Girard Middle School
 * R.V. Haderlein Elementary School

Public library

 * Girard Public Library

Media
The Girard Press was moved by Warner and Wasser from Fort Scott to Girard in November, 1869, the first issue appearing at the latter place on the 11th of the month. The paper took strong ground in favor of the validity of Mr. Joy's title to the neutral lands, and on this account its office and material were set fire to on July 14, 1871, and destroyed. The loss was $4,000. New material was obtained, and the paper, enlarged and improved, re-appeared August 13, and was later published as a nine-column folio weekly.
 * Newspapers

Girard Press ceased publication in September 2008.

Hometown Girard launched on February 15, 2013 and is published bi-weekly (every two weeks).

Notable people

 * Edythe Baker, jazz pianist
 * Percy Daniels, Populist lieutenant governor of Kansas 1892-94
 * Dennis Franchione, college football coach
 * Thomas Everhart, president, California Institute of Technology and chancellor, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
 * Jane Grant, journalist who co-founded The New Yorker
 * Dennis Hayden, actor, producer
 * Charles Holland, Los Angeles, California, City Council member, 1929–31
 * Eugenio Kincaid, Baptist missionary in Burma
 * Ron Kramer, football player
 * Ruth Stout, author
 * Julius Wayland, Socialist propagandist

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Girard, Kansas


text:
Hepler, Kansas

Hepler is a city in Crawford County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 90.

History
Hepler was founded in 1871. It was named for B.F. Hepler, president of the company that laid out the town.

The first post office in Hepler was established in June, 1871.

Hepler became a significant shipping point of cattle and grain on the Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.77 sqmi, of which, 0.76 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water. The carboniferous fossil formation Hepler Unit is in the vicinity.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 90 people, 41 households, and 31 families in Hepler. The population density was 90.1 per square mile (34.8/km$2$). There were 56 housing units at an average density of 56.1 per square mile (21.6/km$2$). The racial makeup was 84.44% (76) white or European American (84.44% non-Hispanic white), 0.0% (0) black or African-American, 1.11% (1) Native American or Alaska Native, 0.0% (0) Asian, 0.0% (0) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 0.0% (0) from other races, and 14.44% (13) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 12.22% (11) of the population.

Of the 41 households, 29.3% had children under the age of 18; 51.2% were married couples living together; 26.8% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 17.1% of households consisted of individuals and 12.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.2 and the average family size was 3.6. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 11.1% of the population.

13.3% of the population was under the age of 18, 13.3% from 18 to 24, 22.2% from 25 to 44, 35.6% from 45 to 64, and 15.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46.5 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.0 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 100.0 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $37,188 (with a margin of error of +/- $12,799) and the median family income was $29,432 (+/- $23,690). Males had a median income of $32,500 (+/- $23,312) versus $14,813 (+/- $11,996) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $23,125 (+/- $18,497). Approximately, 27.0% of families and 39.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 50.0% of those under the age of 18 and 40.0% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 132 people, 54 households, and 37 families living in the city. The population density was 173.7 PD/sqmi. There were 68 housing units at an average density of 89.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.2% White and 0.8% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.8% of the population.

There were 54 households, of which 25.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.3% were married couples living together, 1.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.5% were non-families. 25.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 2.97.

The median age in the city was 44.2 years. 22% of residents were under the age of 18; 6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25% were from 25 to 44; 31.8% were from 45 to 64; and 15.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 52.3% male and 47.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 154 people, 59 households, and 36 families living in the city. The population density was 201.3 PD/sqmi. There were 69 housing units at an average density of 90.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.81% White, 0.65% African American, 3.90% Native American, and 0.65% from two or more races.

There were 59 households, out of which 37.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.6% were married couples living together, and 37.3% were non-families. 35.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.38.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 34.4% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 22.1% from 25 to 44, 16.9% from 45 to 64, and 19.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 110.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $26,500, and the median income for a family was $36,500. Males had a median income of $21,250 versus $22,500 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,475. About 10.9% of families and 17.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.4% of those under the age of eighteen and none of those 65 or over.

title: Hepler, Kansas


text:
McCune, Kansas

McCune is a city in Crawford County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 370.

History
The first post office in McCune was established in August, 1878.

McCune was laid out in 1879. It was named for its founder, Isaac McCune. McCune was incorporated as a city in 1881.

McCune was located on the St. Louis–San Francisco Railway's Parsons subdivision. The grain elevator in McCune still stands, and was the largest on this rail line.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.31 sqmi, all of it land.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, McCune has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 370 people, 155 households, and 104 families in McCune. The population density was 1,163.5 per square mile (449.2/km$2$). There were 187 housing units at an average density of 588.1 per square mile (227.0/km$2$). The racial makeup was 88.11% (326) white or European American (87.84% non-Hispanic white), 0.81% (3) black or African-American, 2.43% (9) Native American or Alaska Native, 0.0% (0) Asian, 0.0% (0) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 0.0% (0) from other races, and 8.65% (32) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 1.62% (6) of the population.

Of the 155 households, 34.2% had children under the age of 18; 47.7% were married couples living together; 18.7% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 29.0% of households consisted of individuals and 14.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.2 and the average family size was 3.0. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 15.9% of the population.

23.8% of the population was under the age of 18, 10.0% from 18 to 24, 23.0% from 25 to 44, 26.8% from 45 to 64, and 16.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39.6 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.8 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 88.0 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $33,750 (with a margin of error of +/- $12,611) and the median family income was $65,357 (+/- $17,326). Males had a median income of $33,036 (+/- $12,826) versus $30,357 (+/- $8,642) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $31,094 (+/- $6,310). Approximately, 23.5% of families and 22.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 27.5% of those under the age of 18 and 22.9% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 405 people, 169 households, and 110 families living in the city. The population density was 1306.5 PD/sqmi. There were 207 housing units at an average density of 667.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.6% White, 2.5% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.7% from other races, and 2.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.2% of the population.

There were 169 households, of which 35.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.9% were married couples living together, 8.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.9% were non-families. 28.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40 and the average family size was 2.92.

The median age in the city was 39.4 years. 24.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.7% were from 25 to 44; 29.4% were from 45 to 64; and 13.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.1% male and 48.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 426 people, 173 households, and 115 families living in the city. The population density was 1,384.6 PD/sqmi. There were 203 housing units at an average density of 659.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.65% White, 0.94% Native American, 0.23% Asian, 0.23% from other races, and 0.94% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.41% of the population.

There were 173 households, out of which 40.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.3% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.5% were non-families. 30.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 3.10.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 29.1% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 12.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,347, and the median income for a family was $34,375. Males had a median income of $29,375 versus $20,625 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,563. About 12.9% of families and 16.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.0% of those under age 18 and 6.9% of those age 65 or over.

Education
McCune is a part of USD 247. The Southeast High School mascot is Lancers.

McCune High School was closed through school unification. The McCune High School mascot was McCune Eagles.

title: McCune, Kansas


text:
Mulberry, Kansas

Mulberry is a city in Crawford County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 409.

History
Mulberry was founded about 1875 as a mining town. Mulberry was named from a grove of wild mulberry trees that stood on a former Indian camping and hunting site, where the town was laid out.

The first post office at Mulberry (called Mulberry Grove until 1892) was established in 1869.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.50 sqmi, all of it land.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 409 people, 175 households, and 115 families in Mulberry. The population density was 868.4 per square mile (335.3/km$2$). There were 227 housing units at an average density of 482.0 per square mile (186.1/km$2$). The racial makeup was 88.51% (362) white or European American (87.29% non-Hispanic white), 0.49% (2) black or African-American, 1.47% (6) Native American or Alaska Native, 0.0% (0) Asian, 0.0% (0) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 1.47% (6) from other races, and 8.07% (33) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 3.67% (15) of the population.

Of the 175 households, 24.0% had children under the age of 18; 42.9% were married couples living together; 28.0% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 31.4% of households consisted of individuals and 13.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.1 and the average family size was 2.3. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 9.0% of the population.

23.5% of the population was under the age of 18, 6.6% from 18 to 24, 24.2% from 25 to 44, 28.1% from 45 to 64, and 17.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41.9 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.5 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 100.6 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $42,793 (with a margin of error of +/- $11,571) and the median family income was $44,176 (+/- $13,154). Males had a median income of $27,143 (+/- $10,413) versus $12,500 (+/- $8,598) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $20,000 (+/- $15,795). Approximately, 16.3% of families and 24.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 52.8% of those under the age of 18 and 13.2% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 520 people, 220 households, and 140 families living in the city. The population density was 1040.0 PD/sqmi. There were 271 housing units at an average density of 542.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 89.8% White, 0.6% African American, 3.7% Native American, 2.5% from other races, and 3.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.5% of the population.

There were 220 households, of which 28.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.8% were married couples living together, 10.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.4% were non-families. 31.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.36 and the average family size was 2.90.

The median age in the city was 41.8 years. 22.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.2% were from 25 to 44; 30.3% were from 45 to 64; and 15.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.6% male and 50.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 577 people, 249 households, and 164 families living in the city. The population density was 1,137.8 PD/sqmi. There were 287 housing units at an average density of 565.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.67% White, 3.29% Native American, 0.17% from other races, and 0.87% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.39% of the population.

There were 249 households, out of which 27.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.4% were married couples living together, 8.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.1% were non-families. 30.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.83.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.9% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 25.5% from 25 to 44, 25.3% from 45 to 64, and 17.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $26,771, and the median income for a family was $32,153. Males had a median income of $21,650 versus $18,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,621. About 9.8% of families and 13.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.0% of those under age 18 and 9.2% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Mulberry is served by Northeast USD 246 public school district.

Mulberry High School was closed through school unification. The Mulberry High School mascot was Tigers.

Media
The Mulberry Advance, a weekly newspaper, once gained national attention for having the smallest circulation of any newspaper in Kansas. , it had 56 subscribers.

title: Mulberry, Kansas


text:
Pittsburg, Kansas

Pittsburg is a city in Crawford County, Kansas, United States, located in southeast Kansas near the Missouri state border. It is the most populous city in Crawford County and southeast Kansas. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 20,646. It is the home of Pittsburg State University.

History
On October 23, 1864, a wagon train of refugees had come from Fort Smith, Arkansas, and was escorted by troops from the 6th Kansas Cavalry under the command of Col. William Campbell. These were local men from Cherokee, Crawford, and Bourbon counties. Their enlistment was over, and they were on their way to Fort Leavenworth to be dismissed from service. They ran into the 1st Indian Brigade led by Maj. Andrew Jackson Piercy near the current Pittsburg Waste Water Treatment Plant. They continued to the north when a small group of wagons broke away in an unsuccessful rush to safety. The Confederate troops caught up with them and burned the wagons. The death toll was three Union soldiers and 13 civilian men who had been with the wagon train. It was likely that one of the Confederates had also been killed. A granite marker memorial for the "Cow Creek Skirmish" was placed near the Crawford County Historical Museum on October 30, 2011.

Pittsburg sprang up in the fall of 1876 on a railroad line being built through the neighborhood. It was named after Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and maps of the time give the town's name as "New Pittsburgh". George Hobson and Franklin Playter are credited with being the city's founders, establishing a government after its beginnings as a coal mining camp in the 1870s. The city was incorporated in 1879. The “New” was dropped upon incorporation of the city as a third class city on June 21, 1880, with M. M. Snow as its first Mayor. In 1892 it was advanced to a city of the second class, in 1905 Pittsburg attained the rank of first class.

The first dwelling was built by J. T. Roach in July 1876. The first post office in Pittsburg was established in August, 1876. The post office's name was shortened from "New Pittsburgh" to "Pittsburgh" in 1881 and to "Pittsburg" in 1894. The latter renaming came after the United States Board on Geographic Names, in the interest of standardization, recommended that the 'h' be dropped from place names ending in "burgh".

Pittsburg is the home to Pittsburg State University, founded in 1903 as a normal training institution. Through the years the college became more diversified in its aims and goals, so that it became a multi-purpose institution. It has always had a strong manual and industrial arts program and has trained many of the area's public and private school teachers.

In 1879, two miners from Joplin began the first commercial attempts at mining in close proximity of Broadway Street. A relic of the city's coal mining days was the Pittsburg & Midway Coal Company, founded in 1885, and one of the oldest continuously running coal companies in the United States (even though its headquarters moved several years ago to Denver, Colorado after the Kansas mines closed). In September 2007, Chevron which owned the company, merged it with its Molycorp Inc. coal mining division to form Chevron Mining, thus ending the Pittsburg corporate name. Midway referred to a coal camp in eastern Crawford County, Kansas that was "midway" between Baxter Springs, Kansas and Fort Scott, Kansas. Kenneth A. Spencer, whose father was among the founders of the company was to play an important role in Kansas and Missouri philanthropy.

Pittsburg was also the most heavily unionized city in Kansas at the beginning of the 20th century. In addition to some coal mining, the economic base of the city now rests on industry.

The city has a rich cultural heritage from many Southern and Eastern European mine workers who settled in and around Pittsburg and Southeastern Kansas. It is situated in a once productive coal field. It now relies heavily on education and government-related employment.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 12.90 sqmi, of which, 12.80 sqmi is land and 0.10 sqmi is water. Pittsburg sits in the Ozark Highlands region, a mix of prairie and forests.

It lies 90 mi west of Springfield, Missouri, 124 mi south of Kansas City, Missouri, and 137 mi northeast of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Climate
Pittsburg has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) bordering on a hot-summer humid continental climate (Dfa). Summers are hot and humid, with as many as 73 mornings per year staying above 68 F and eight mornings remaining above 77 F – indeed in July 2012 the temperature did not fall below 69 F. The hottest morning, however, was on August 10, 2006 when the temperature did not fall below 83 F, and the hottest temperature has been 115 F on July 13 and 14, 1954. Heavy thunderstorm rains often punctuate the heat with heavy rainfall: 7.93 in fell on July 30, 2013. Periods of hot weather without much rain are not uncommon: only trace precipitation fell between July 28 and September 10, 2000, and only 0.22 in between July 7 and August 20, 1984.

During the fall season, temperatures cool off fairly rapidly: the last 90 F temperature can be expected on September 22, and by the end of October temperatures have usually fallen to a comfortable level. Heavy rainfall from frontal systems or remnant tropical storms are common during this period: the wettest day with 8.77 in was on September 25, 1993, a year which saw 47.85 in between April and September as against only 10.54 in during the same period in 1980. September 1993 was also the wettest month on record with 19.37 in, while the wettest calendar year overall has been 1985 with 66.52 in and the driest 1963 with only 21.50 in.

As with all of Kansas, winter weather is extremely variable, although extreme maxima are not as hot as in the southwest of the state as Pittsburg is far from the influence of hot chinook winds. Arctic outbreaks bring temperatures to or below 0 F on average once per winter, while maxima over 70 F can be expected four times between December and February. Winter weather is less dry than in most of Kansas since moist Gulf air often penetrates without reaching most of the state: December 2015 saw 7.91 in of rain, and the very cold January 1979 saw sixteen days with at least 0.01 in of measurable precipitation. Because the moister air masses are warm, heavy snowfall is uncommon in Pittsburg: the mean is 11.9 in and only twelve months have seen more than 10 in, with the most in a month being 24.5 in in January 1979. The most snow in a day has been 13 in on December 13, 2000, and the most snow on the ground 14 in on February 4 and 5, 2011 and March 17, 1970.

Spring weather is changeable and often suspect to severe storms: Pittsburg lies in the heart of “Tornado Alley”. The changeable weather from hot to cold can be accompanied by frequent heavy precipitation: Pittsburg can expect 20.24 in of precipitation between March and June, approximately what Dodge City or Liberal further west receive in a whole year. Temperatures warm up during the spring: the first temperature of 80 F can be expected on March 27, but the first of 90 F does not normally occur until May 28.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 20,646 people, 8,268 households, and 4,123 families in Pittsburg. The population density was 1,578.9 per square mile (609.6/km$2$). There were 9,650 housing units at an average density of 738.0 per square mile (284.9/km$2$). The racial makeup was 77.27% (15,954) white or European American (74.95% non-Hispanic white), 3.74% (773) black or African-American, 1.07% (221) Native American or Alaska Native, 1.78% (367) Asian, 0.76% (156) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 5.38% (1,110) from other races, and 10.0% (2,065) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 10.53% (2,174) of the population.

Of the 8,268 households, 27.1% had children under the age of 18; 31.1% were married couples living together; 32.9% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 36.4% of households consisted of individuals and 10.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.3 and the average family size was 3.0. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 17.3% of the population.

21.9% of the population was under the age of 18, 23.9% from 18 to 24, 23.7% from 25 to 44, 17.8% from 45 to 64, and 12.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 27.7 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.3 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 103.3 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $34,353 (with a margin of error of +/- $3,233) and the median family income was $45,946 (+/- $5,025). Males had a median income of $20,107 (+/- $2,989) versus $17,708 (+/- $3,426) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $19,176 (+/- $2,042). Approximately, 18.6% of families and 27.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 30.9% of those under the age of 18 and 8.8% of those ages 65 or over.

The median value of owner-occupied housing units was $86,800. The percent of persons age 25 years or older with a high school diploma was 90.8%.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 20,233 people, 8,142 households, and 4,087 families residing in the city. The population density was 1580.7 PD/sqmi. There were 9,210 housing units at an average density of 719.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 87.1% White, 3.3% African American, 0.9% Native American, 2.0% Asian, 0.3% Pacific Islander, 3.0% from other races, and 3.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.7% of the population.

There were 8,142 households out of which 24.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 33.3% were married couples living together, 12.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 49.8% were non-families. 32.8% of all households were made up of individuals and 10.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 2.97.

The median age in the city was 26.2 years. 20.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 27% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.3% were from 25 to 44; 17.3% were from 45 to 64; and 11.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.9% male and 50.1% female.

Events
Little Balkans Days is a three-day festival celebrating the community's European ethnic heritage, held on the Labor Day weekend. It features games, entertainment, competitions, and arts and crafts. The Pittsburg Art Walk takes features vendors, artists, and musicians; it occurs multiple times per year on Broadway Street in Pittsburg's downtown district.

Points of interest

 * The Bicknell Family Center for the Arts houses multiple performance halls.
 * Memorial Auditorium opened in 1925, and features Egyptian Revival Style architecture. It hosts concerts and performances.
 * Pittsburg Aquatic Center is a community swimming pool.
 * Carnie Smith Stadium is a Classical Revival style stadium opened in 1924, and is Pittsburg State University’s home football field and outdoor track facility.
 * Jaycee Ballpark.
 * Veteran's Memorial features a 250-seat amphitheater, a Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Wall replica, a reflecting pool, and plaza with over 2,000 engraved paving stones.
 * Robert W. Plaster Center is a track-and-field facility.
 * Block 22 is a commercial district.
 * Crawford County Historical Museum and Green Elm School.
 * Miners' Memorial and Immigrant Park.
 * Kansas Crossing Casino

Library

 * Pittsburg Public Library
 * Leonard H. Axe Library at Pittsburg State University

Parks and recreation
Pittsburg hosts a multitude of parks inside its city limits
 * 23rd Street Bike Park - single track mountain biking park, a skills area, pump track, and dirt jump area
 * Countryside Park - playground and pavilion
 * Deramus Park - basketball court, playground, small sports field
 * Europe Park - unique water features and a seating area
 * Kiwanis Park - playground and pavilion
 * Lakeside Park - lake, accessible fishing dock and parking area, playground, two pavilions, tennis courts
 * Lincoln Park - J.J. Richards Band Dome, Kiddieland Amusement Park, Pittsburg Aquatic Center, Don Gutteridge Sports Complex, two bocce courts, nine-hole disc, golf course, fishing, playground, restrooms, and three pavilions
 * Paul B. Leffler Rotary Park - basketball court, grill, playground, and a small sports fields
 * Schlanger Park - Katherine's playground (ADA accessible), Ronald O. Thomas Dog Park, basketball court, pickleball court, sensory garden, two pavilions, skate park, sand volleyball, 18-hole disc golf course, and a splashpad
 * Sunflower Kiwanis Park - playground and pavilion
 * Trail Head Park/Watco Trail - pergola, benches, 1.5-mile paved walking and biking trail
 * Wilderness Park - four miles of trail and four pits for fishing. (Most of the trail is ADA accessible)

Government
Pittsburg is a charter city of the first class with a commission/manager form of government. The City Manager oversees all City operations and is responsible for all City departments and employees.

City Hall is located at 201 West 4th Street. Offices are open from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, but are closed on most holidays.

The responsibilities of the City Commission are to pass ordinances and resolutions, establish policies for the city, approve the annual budget, appoint members of citizen advisory boards and committees, and appoint the City Manager.

Elections for the City Commission are held every other year. In each election, three seats are vacant on the City Commission. The two candidates acquiring the most votes receive four-year terms, while the candidate obtaining the third most votes secures a two-year term. The City Commission annually elects the Mayor and President of the Board. The Mayor, who has the same authority as the other commissioners, presides over the commission meetings, provides the official signature on documents, represents the City at official and ceremonial functions and presents the annual State of the City address. In the absence of the Mayor, the President of the Board fulfills the duties of the Mayor.

Public schools
The city is served by Pittsburg USD 250 public school district, which operates the following schools:
 * Pittsburg High School
 * Pittsburg Community Middle School
 * George Nettels Elementary School
 * Lakeside Elementary School
 * Meadowlark Elementary School
 * Westside Elementary School

Private schools

 * St. Mary's-Colgan High School, Parochial Catholic School
 * Countryside Christian School, Private Christian School (K-8)
 * Covenant Harvest, Christian School

College

 * Pittsburg State University
 * Fort Scott Community College, School of cosmetology
 * Labette Community College, Cherokee Center

Media
The Pittsburg Morning Sun is the main newspaper in the city, published five days a week. In addition, Pittsburg State University publishes a weekly student newspaper, the Collegio.

Pittsburg is a center of broadcast media for southeastern Kansas. Two AM and five FM radio stations are licensed to and/or broadcast from the city, and it is the second principal city of the Joplin-Pittsburg television market. The market's CBS and Fox network affiliates both broadcast from the city along with an independent station.

Public transportation

 * Bus System, Pittsburg Area Community Transit (P.A.C.T) and Gus Bus
 * Taxi services

Airport

 * Atkinson Municipal Airport, Aircraft based on the field 41

Medical

 * Via Christi Hospital (formerly Mt. Carmel Regional Medical Center) serves the area with services such as Regional Cancer and Heart Centers.

Notable people
Notable individuals who were born in and/or have lived in Pittsburg include actor Roy Glenn, chemical entrepreneur Kenneth A. Spencer, and broadcast journalism pioneer Paul White.

In popular culture
In late 2012, NBC news anchor Brian Williams, who started his career in Pittsburg as a journalist at KOAM-TV, covered the local story of a fried chicken war between Chicken Annie's and Chicken Mary's on the Travel Channel. The competition began in 1941 when Chicken Mary's opened across the street from Chicken Annie's (founded 1934). The friendly rivalry continues, with members of each restaurant's founding family, who married, running a third restaurant.

title: Pittsburg, Kansas


text:
Walnut, Kansas

Walnut is a city in Crawford County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 187.

History
Walnut was originally called Glenwood, and under the latter name laid out in 1871. In 1874, it was renamed Walnut after the Little Walnut Creek, on which it is located.

The first post office at Walnut was established in April, 1873. Prior to April, 1877, the post office's name was officially called Walnut Station. Walnut was served by both the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, and the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.00 sqmi, of which, 0.99 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Walnut has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 220 people, 84 households, and 57 families living in the city. The population density was 222.2 PD/sqmi. There were 108 housing units at an average density of 109.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.8% White, 1.8% Native American, 0.5% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.6% of the population.

There were 84 households, of which 40.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.6% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 32.1% were non-families. 29.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.62 and the average family size was 3.26.

The median age in the city was 30.8 years. 34.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 30% were from 25 to 44; 21.4% were from 45 to 64; and 9.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.1% male and 50.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 221 people, 91 households, and 55 families living in the city. The population density was 223.1 PD/sqmi. There were 116 housing units at an average density of 117.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.19% White, 0.90% Asian, and 0.90% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.45% of the population.

There were 91 households, out of which 31.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.8% were married couples living together, 3.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.5% were non-families. 36.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.43 and the average family size was 3.21.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 29.4% under the age of 18, 9.0% from 18 to 24, 24.9% from 25 to 44, 23.5% from 45 to 64, and 13.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 106.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $24,000, and the median income for a family was $37,083. Males had a median income of $21,250 versus $23,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,920. About 3.3% of families and 10.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under the age of eighteen and 25.0% of those 65 or over.

Economy
The economy of Walnut is mostly agricultural based.

title: Walnut, Kansas


text:
Dresden, Kansas

Dresden is a city in Decatur County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 43.

History
Dresden was founded in 1888. It was named by German settlers after the city of Dresden, Germany.

The first post office in Dresden was established in October 1888.

Dresden was a station on the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad.

Geography
Dresden is located at 39.62222°N, -100.42139°W (39.622221, -100.421403). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.94 sqmi, all of it land.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 43 people, 20 households, and 7 families in Dresden. The population density was 47.7 per square mile (18.4/km$2$). There were 27 housing units at an average density of 29.9 per square mile (11.6/km$2$). The racial makeup was 93.02% (40) white or European American (93.02% non-Hispanic white), 0.0% (0) black or African-American, 0.0% (0) Native American or Alaska Native, 0.0% (0) Asian, 0.0% (0) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 0.0% (0) from other races, and 6.98% (3) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 0.0% (0) of the population.

Of the 20 households, 5.0% had children under the age of 18; 25.0% were married couples living together; 45.0% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 55.0% of households consisted of individuals and 20.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.1 and the average family size was 3.2.

27.9% of the population was under the age of 18, 2.3% from 18 to 24, 11.6% from 25 to 44, 30.2% from 45 to 64, and 27.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 53.5 years. For every 100 females, there were 115.0 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 93.8 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median family income was $52,083 (+/- $16,997). The median income for those above 16 years old was $31,250 (+/- $27,820).

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 41 people, 19 households, and 12 families living in the city. The population density was 43.6 PD/sqmi. There were 29 housing units at an average density of 30.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White.

There were 19 households, of which 21.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.9% were married couples living together, 5.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.8% were non-families. 31.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.16 and the average family size was 2.75.

The median age in the city was 49.8 years. 22% of residents were under the age of 18; 0.0% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.5% were from 25 to 44; 24.4% were from 45 to 64; and 34.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.2% male and 48.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 51 people, 23 households, and 16 families living in the city. The population density was 54.1 PD/sqmi. There were 28 housing units at an average density of 29.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 23 households, out of which 17.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 73.9% were married couples living together, and 26.1% were non-families. 26.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.22 and the average family size was 2.65.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 19.6% under the age of 18, 2.0% from 18 to 24, 25.5% from 25 to 44, 23.5% from 45 to 64, and 29.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 50 years. For every 100 females, there were 121.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 115.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $24,375, and the median income for a family was $31,500. Males had a median income of $12,500 versus $11,250 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,236. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line.

Education
North of highway 383 is served by Oberlin USD 294 public school district, South of the highway is served by Hoxie USD 412.

title: Dresden, Kansas


text:
Jennings, Kansas

Jennings is a city in Decatur County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 81.

History
The first post office at Jennings was established in 1874, but the post office there was called Slab City until 1879.

Jennings was laid out in 1888. It was named for Warren Jennings, a landowner.

Jennings was located on the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad.

Jennings was a popular area for Czech immigrants to settle and start their farms.

Geography
Jennings is located at 39.68028°N, -100.29389°W (39.680197, -100.293918). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.27 sqmi, all of it land.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 81 people, 52 households, and 20 families in Jennings. The population density was 302.2 per square mile (116.7/km$2$). There were 76 housing units at an average density of 283.6 per square mile (109.5/km$2$). The racial makeup was 91.36% (74) white or European American (91.36% non-Hispanic white), 2.47% (2) black or African-American, 3.7% (3) Native American or Alaska Native, 0.0% (0) Asian, 0.0% (0) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 0.0% (0) from other races, and 2.47% (2) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 0.0% (0) of the population.

Of the 52 households, 17.3% had children under the age of 18; 26.9% were married couples living together; 23.1% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 55.8% of households consisted of individuals and 26.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.8 and the average family size was 2.3. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 9.9% of the population.

18.5% of the population was under the age of 18, 2.5% from 18 to 24, 11.1% from 25 to 44, 33.3% from 45 to 64, and 34.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 53.5 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.1 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 100.0 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $42,917 (with a margin of error of +/- $11,262) and the median family income was $41,250 (+/- $9,857). Males had a median income of $46,750 (+/- $9,918). The median income for those above 16 years old was $40,000 (+/- $29,952). Approximately, 20.0% of families and 24.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.0% of those under the age of 18 and 23.8% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 96 people, 50 households, and 30 families living in the city. The population density was 355.6 PD/sqmi. There were 89 housing units at an average density of 329.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.0% White and 1.0% from two or more races.

There were 50 households, of which 10.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.0% were married couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.0% were non-families. 34.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.92 and the average family size was 2.37.

The median age in the city was 61.7 years. 8.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 14.6% were from 25 to 44; 26.1% were from 45 to 64; and 45.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.0% male and 50.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 146 people, 73 households, and 41 families living in the city. The population density was 537.9 PD/sqmi. There were 99 housing units at an average density of 364.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.68% of the population.

There were 73 households, out of which 13.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.7% were married couples living together, and 43.8% were non-families. 37.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.00 and the average family size was 2.54.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 15.1% under the age of 18, 8.2% from 18 to 24, 25.3% from 25 to 44, 19.9% from 45 to 64, and 31.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 117.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 106.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $21,146, and the median income for a family was $42,917. Males had a median income of $29,107 versus $21,667 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,294. There were none of the families and 12.0% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 9.5% of those over 64.

Education
South of Highway 383 is served by Hoxie USD 412 public school district, north of the highway is served by Oberlin USD 294.

Jennings schools were closed in school unification. The Jennings High School mascot was the Coyotes.

title: Jennings, Kansas


text:
Norcatur, Kansas

Norcatur is a city in Decatur County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 159.

History
Norcatur was founded in 1885 near the Nebraska border. Norcatur was named from its location near the border between Norton and Decatur counties. The first post office in Norcatur was established in October, 1885.

Geography
Norcatur is located at 39.83639°N, -100.18833°W (39.836514, -100.188402). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.99 sqmi, all land.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 159 people, 65 households, and 33 families in Norcatur. The population density was 159.6 per square mile (61.6/km$2$). There were 93 housing units at an average density of 93.4 per square mile (36.1/km$2$). The racial makeup was 93.71% (149) white or European American (89.31% non-Hispanic white), 0.0% (0) black or African-American, 0.0% (0) Native American or Alaska Native, 0.0% (0) Asian, 0.0% (0) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 0.0% (0) from other races, and 6.29% (10) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 5.66% (9) of the population.

Of the 65 households, 26.2% had children under the age of 18; 44.6% were married couples living together; 16.9% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 44.6% of households consisted of individuals and 27.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.9 and the average family size was 2.3. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 24.5% of the population.

25.8% of the population was under the age of 18, 3.1% from 18 to 24, 22.0% from 25 to 44, 27.0% from 45 to 64, and 22.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44.3 years. For every 100 females, there were 80.7 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 81.5 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $58,452 (with a margin of error of +/- $13,349) and the median family income was $71,563 (+/- $20,272). Males had a median income of $40,417 (+/- $6,546) versus $23,750 (+/- $7,957) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $34,063 (+/- $10,056). Approximately, 0.0% of families and 8.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 0.0% of those under the age of 18 and 24.1% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 151 people, 74 households, and 40 families living in the city. The population density was 152.5 PD/sqmi. There were 101 housing units at an average density of 102.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.7% White and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.0% of the population.

There were 74 households, of which 12.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.2% were married couples living together, 6.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 45.9% were non-families. 40.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.04 and the average family size was 2.73.

The median age in the city was 51.3 years. 17.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 14.6% were from 25 to 44; 33.8% were from 45 to 64; and 26.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 56.3% male and 43.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 169 people, 81 households, and 54 families living in the city. The population density was 169.0 PD/sqmi. There were 104 housing units at an average density of 104.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 81 households, out of which 17.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.5% were married couples living together, 4.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.1% were non-families. 30.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.09 and the average family size was 2.58.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 16.6% under the age of 18, 2.4% from 18 to 24, 26.0% from 25 to 44, 22.5% from 45 to 64, and 32.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 51 years. For every 100 females, there were 79.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $24,750, and the median income for a family was $29,792. Males had a median income of $23,125 versus $16,250 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,028. About 7.3% of families and 12.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.5% of those under the age of eighteen and 23.8% of those 65 or over.

Education
The community is served by Oberlin USD 294 public school district. Norcatur schools were closed in school unification. The Norcatur High School mascot was Norcatur Cardinals.

Notable people

 * Dewey Adkins, Major League Baseball player
 * Elden Auker, Major League Baseball pitcher

title: Norcatur, Kansas


text:
Oberlin, Kansas

Oberlin is a city in and the county seat of Decatur County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, its population was 1,644.

History
Oberlin was platted in 1878. It was named after Oberlin, Ohio. Its first post office was established in April, 1878, and the city was incorporated in 1885.

On September 30, 1878, Northern Cheyenne, fleeing from Indian Territory to their homes in the north during the Northern Cheyenne Exodus, attacked homesteaders near Oberlin, then a tiny hamlet. The raid's victims are commemorated in the "Last Indian Raid in Kansas" room of the Decatur County Museum, and by a monument in the town cemetery.

Geography
Oberlin lies on the northwest side of Sappa Creek, a tributary of the Republican River, in the High Plains region of the Great Plains. Located at the intersection of U.S. Route 36 and U.S. Route 83 in northwest Kansas, it is 228 mi northwest of Wichita, 238 mi east of Denver, and 320 mi west-northwest of Kansas City.

According to the United States Census Bureau, it has a total area of 1.91 sqmi, all land.

Climate
Oberlin has a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa), with hot, dry summers and cold, dry winters. The hottest temperature recorded in Oberlin was 114 F on July 24, 1936, while the coldest temperature recorded was -32 F on January 11, 1918.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 1,644 people, 771 households, and 428 families in Oberlin. The population density was 860.7 per square mile (332.3/km$2$). There were 970 housing units at an average density of 507.9 per square mile (196.1/km$2$). The racial makeup was 93.31% (1,534) white or European American (91.67% non-Hispanic white), 0.43% (7) black or African-American, 0.24% (4) Native American or Alaska Native, 0.36% (6) Asian, 0.0% (0) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 0.36% (6) from other races, and 5.29% (87) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 3.16% (52) of the population.

Of the 771 households, 21.8% had children under the age of 18; 43.5% were married couples living together; 29.4% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 41.8% of households consisted of individuals and 21.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.9 and the average family size was 2.7. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 11.6% of the population.

20.4% of the population was under the age of 18, 5.8% from 18 to 24, 20.7% from 25 to 44, 24.2% from 45 to 64, and 28.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49.1 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.7 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 108.3 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $35,771 (with a margin of error of +/- $2,433) and the median family income was $52,150 (+/- $13,156). Males had a median income of $38,068 (+/- $5,006) versus $21,307 (+/- $7,424) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $32,617 (+/- $4,329). Approximately, 19.5% of families and 17.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 27.1% of those under the age of 18 and 4.5% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,788 people, 824 households, and 477 families residing in the city. The population density was 936.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,046 housing units at an average density of 547.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.9% White, 0.7% African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.4% from other races, and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 824 households, of which 21.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.8% were married couples living together, 7.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.1% were non-families. 39.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.07 and the average family size was 2.73.

The median age in the city was 52 years. 20% of residents were under the age of 18; 4.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 17.4% were from 25 to 44; 29% were from 45 to 64; and 29.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.4% male and 52.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,994 people, 879 households, and 550 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,039.7 PD/sqmi. There were 1,048 housing units at an average density of 546.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.79% White, 0.25% African American, 0.15% Native American, 0.20% Asian, 0.05% Pacific Islander, 0.25% from other races, and 1.30% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.15% of the population.

There were 879 households, out of which 25.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.8% were married couples living together, 7.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.4% were non-families. 36.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.15 and the average family size was 2.78.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.6% under the age of 18, 5.1% from 18 to 24, 21.0% from 25 to 44, 21.4% from 45 to 64, and 29.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 85.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 79.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,816, and the median income for a family was $34,583. Males had a median income of $27,177 versus $16,488 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,271. About 5.0% of families and 6.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.1% of those under age 18 and 4.4% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
Oberlin is home to the Last Indian Raid Museum, which contains multiple late 19th and early 20th century buildings filled with artifacts chronicling the history of the area and early Plains settlers. Examples include a 1930s grocery store and a one-room schoolhouse built in 1922.

Its a recreation center, completed in 2010, includes a 3D-capable movie theater and a bowling alley.

The Oberlin Area Band is an intergenerational band that rehearses weekly and performs quarterly.

Parks and recreation
The Oberlin City Park, near Decatur Community High School, and has a playground, picnic shelter, band shell, and full basketball court, and is home to the Oberlin swimming pool.

Sappa Park
The City of Oberlin is the owner of the Sappa Park two miles east of town. Formerly a state park, it has wetlands, bike and hiking paths, a nine-hole disc golf course, and a shelter house built by the Works Progress Administration in the 1930s. It is currently undergoing a multi-year improvement project. A nine-hole golf course is adjacent to it.

The park, originally by a lake, was developed in 1935 by the National Park Service. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) hired unemployed young men to build its dam and shelter house. It was dedicated in 1939, but over the years silt filled the lake and it was drained. Part of the lake has recently been restored as a wetlands.

Government
Oberlin is a city of the third class, according to state statute, with a mayor-council form of government. The city council consists of five members and meets on the first and third Thursday of each month at 7PM.

Education
The community is served by Oberlin USD 294 public school district, which operates two schools in the city: Oberlin Elementary School (Grades Pre-K-6) and Decatur Community Junior/Senior High School (7-12).

Media
The Oberlin Herald is the city's sole newspaper, published weekly.

Two FM radio stations are licensed to and broadcast from Oberlin:

 * K-LOVE (translator station K217CY), at 91.3 FM, playing a Christian Contemporary format

Oberlin is in the Wichita-Hutchinson, Kansas television market. NBC affiliate KSNK, licensed to McCook, Nebraska, broadcasts on channel 8 from studios west of Oberlin. It is a satellite station of KSNW in Wichita.

Notable people
Notable people who were born in and/or have lived in Oberlin include:
 * Brun Campbell – ragtime composer, pianist
 * Sam Francis – #1 pick in 1937 NFL Draft, football coach at Kansas State University standout fullback for Nebraska Cornhuskers
 * Elmer Hackney – NFL running back
 * Richard Rogers – U.S. federal judge
 * Cora Simpson – nurse and nurse educator, founder of nursing school in Fuzhou, China

title: Oberlin, Kansas


text:
Abilene, Kansas

Abilene (pronounced ) is a city in and the county seat of Dickinson County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 6,460. It is home of The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum and the Greyhound Hall of Fame.

19th century
In 1803, most of modern Kansas was secured by the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase. In 1854, the Kansas Territory was organized, then in 1861 Kansas became the 34th U.S. state.

In 1857, Dickinson County was founded and Abilene began as a stage coach stop, established by Timothy Hersey and named Mud Creek. It was not until 1860 that it was named Abilene, from a passage in the Bible (Luke 3:1), meaning "grassy plains".

In 1867, the Kansas Pacific Railway (Union Pacific) pushed westward through Abilene. In the same year, Joseph G. McCoy purchased 250 acres of land north and east of Abilene, on which he built a hotel, the Drover's Cottage, stockyards equipped for 2,000 heads of cattle, and a stable for their horses. The Kansas Pacific put in a spur line at Abilene that enabled the cattle cars to be loaded and sent on to their destinations. The first twenty carloads left September 5, 1867, en route to Chicago, Illinois, where McCoy was familiar with the market. The town grew quickly and became the first "cow town" of the west.

McCoy encouraged Texas cattlemen to drive their herds to his stockyards. From 1867 to 1871, the Chisholm Trail ended in Abilene, bringing in many travelers and making Abilene one of the wildest towns in the west. The stockyards shipped 35,000 head in 1867 and became the largest stockyards west of Kansas City, Kansas. In 1871, more than 5,000 cowboys herded from 600,000 to 700,000 cows to Abilene and other Kansas railheads. Another source reports 440,200 head of cattle were shipped out of Abilene from 1867 to 1871. As railroads were built further south, the end of the Chisholm Trail was slowly moved south toward Caldwell, while Kansas homesteaders concerned with cattle ruining their farm crops moved the trail west toward and past Ellsworth.

Town marshal Tom "Bear River" Smith was initially successful policing Abilene, often using only his bare hands. He survived 2 assassination attempts during his tenure. However, he was murdered and decapitated on November 2, 1870. Smith wounded 1 of his 2 attackers during the shootout preceding his death, and both suspects received life in prison for the offense. He was replaced by Wild Bill Hickok in April 1871. Hickok's time in the job was short. While the marshal was standing off a crowd during a street brawl, gambler Phil Coe took two shots at Hickok, who returned fire, killing Coe but Hickok then accidentally shot his friend and deputy, Mike Williams, who was coming to his aid. Hickok lost his job two months later in December.

In 1880, Conrad Lebold built the Lebold Mansion. Lebold was one of the early town developers and bankers from 1869 through 1889. The Hersey dugout can still be seen in the cellar. The house is now a private residence. A marker outside credits the name of the town being given by opening a Bible and using the first place name pointed to.

In 1887, Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway built a branch line from Neva (3 mile west of Strong City) through Abilene to Superior, Nebraska. In 1996, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway merged with Burlington Northern Railroad and renamed to the current BNSF Railway. Most locals still refer to this railroad as the Santa Fe.

In 1890, Dr. A.B. Seelye founded the A.B. Seelye Medical Company. Seelye developed over 100 products for the company including "Wasa-Tusa", an Indian name meaning to heal.

20th century
Abilene became home to Dwight D. Eisenhower when his family moved to Abilene from Denison, Texas in 1892. Eisenhower attended elementary school through high school in Abilene, graduating in 1909. The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum is the burial site of President Eisenhower, his wife, Mamie, and their first-born son Doud Dwight.

Geography
Abilene is on the north side of the Smoky Hill River in the Flint Hills region of the Great Plains. Mud Creek, a tributary of the Smoky Hill, flows south through the city. Located in North Central Kansas at the intersection of Interstate 70 and K-15, Abilene is approximately 27 mi east of Salina, Kansas, 94 mi north of Wichita, and 139 mi west of Kansas City.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has an area of 4.68 sqmi, all of it land.

Climate
Located in the transition zone between North America's humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) and humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa) zones, Abilene experiences hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. In the spring, severe thunderstorms bring the threat of tornadoes and hail. The hottest temperature recorded in Abilene was 113 F on July 13, 1954 and July 15, 1954, while the coldest temperature recorded was -29 F on February 12, 1899.

Economy
Abilene remains a cattle yard town, loading onto the rail system, along with grain and other crops.

It is the birthplace of Sprint Telecommunications.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 6,460 people, 2,797 households, and 1,675 families in Abilene. The population density was 1,356.6 per square mile (523.8/km$2$). There were 3,137 housing units at an average density of 658.8 per square mile (254.3/km$2$). The racial makeup was 91.93% (5,939) white or European American (89.52% non-Hispanic white), 0.87% (56) black or African-American, 0.36% (23) Native American or Alaska Native, 0.34% (22) Asian, 0.12% (8) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 1.47% (95) from other races, and 4.91% (317) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 5.65% (365) of the population.

Of the 2,797 households, 26.9% had children under the age of 18; 44.7% were married couples living together; 30.0% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 35.8% of households consisted of individuals and 18.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.1 and the average family size was 2.9. The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 21.2% of the population.

23.1% of the population was under the age of 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 22.3% from 25 to 44, 24.6% from 45 to 64, and 22.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42.3 years. For every 100 females, there were 106.9 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 111.9 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $47,829 (with a margin of error of +/- $10,161) and the median family income was $69,815 (+/- $11,480). Males had a median income of $36,933 (+/- $6,402) versus $21,540 (+/- $3,802) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $30,625 (+/- $4,869). Approximately, 4.8% of families and 8.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.2% of those under the age of 18 and 8.5% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the 2010 census, there were 6,844 people, 2,878 households, and 1,781 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,463.6 PD/sqmi. There were 3,143 housing units at an average density of 671.6 /sqmi. The city's racial makeup was 94.9% White, 0.9% African American, 0.4% American Indian, 0.2% Asian, 1.1% from some other race, and 2.4% from two or more races. 4.7% of the population was Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 2,878 households, of which 31.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.3% were married couples living together, 4.0% had a male householder with no wife present, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.1% were non-families. 33.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33, and the average family size was 2.97.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 25.7% under the age of 18, 6.9% from 18 to 24, 23.7% from 25 to 44, 24.5% from 45 to 64, and 19.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39.6 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.2 males age 18 and over.

The city's median household income was $48,115, and the median family income was $61,146. Males had a median income of $42,332 versus $29,325 for females. The city's per capita income was $21,820. About 7.3% of families and 10.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.1% of those under age 18 and 15.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The community is served by Abilene USD 435 public school district.

Transportation
Interstate 70 and U.S. Route 40 run concurrently east–west immediately north of Abilene, intersecting highway K-15, which runs north–south through the city.

Abilene Municipal Airport is on the city's southwest side. Publicly owned, it has one asphalt runway and is used predominantly for general aviation.

The Kansas Pacific (KP) line of the Union Pacific Railroad runs east–west through the city. It intersects a BNSF Railway line which enters the city from the east and then turns north.

The city of Abilene provided demand responsive transport.

Print
Abilene has one daily newspaper, The Abilene Reflector-Chronicle.

Radio
The following radio stations are licensed to Abilene:

AM

FM

Television
Abilene is in the Wichita-Hutchinson, Kansas television market.

Points of interest

 * Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad - A tourist railroad based out of the old Rock Island train depot in Old Abilene Town; it hauls passengers between Abilene and Enterprise.
 * Eisenhower Presidential Center and the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. - Contains murals depicting President Eisenhower's life, painted by artists, Louis George Bouché and Ross Moffett in 1954.
 * Great Plains Theatre - Originally First Presbyterian Church, built in 1881, Landmarked, and is now a live professional theatre, and movie theatre.
 * Greyhound Hall of Fame - Near the Eisenhower Presidential Library, the hall exhibits the history of the greyhound breed and of greyhound racing.
 * Heritage Center of Dickinson County - Two museums including the Historical Museum and the Museum of Independent Telephony. The Museum of Independent Telephony tells the story of C. L. Brown, whose independent Brown Telephone Company grew to become Sprint Corporation and then T-Mobile.
 * Lebold Mansion - National Register Property listed in 1973. Built in 1880 in the Italianate Tuscan villa style. This decorative arts museum was once home to one of the finest collections of American Victorian antiques and artifacts. However, the museum closed to all tours in June 2010 and was sold to new owners as a private residence on 9/15/10.
 * Old Abilene Town - Constructed as a replica historic district, beginning in the late 1950s, it includes several original buildings that have been moved from their original locations.
 * A. B. Seelye House and Museum - A Georgian style mansion built in 1905 at a cost of $55,000. The 25 room mansion contains the original furniture and Edison light fixtures. The Patent Medicine Museum contains many artifacts of the A.B. Seelye Medical Company. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is a museum showcasing Seelye, an advocate of patent medicines.
 * Kansas Historical Marker - Historic Abilene, on south Sixth Street.

Cultural
Cowboy-era Abilene is the fictional setting for the Randolph Scott-starring 1946 film Abilene Town, which in turn became the inspiration behind the 1963 hit song "Abilene", recorded by George Hamilton IV.

British singer-songwriter John Cale's song "Buffalo Ballet" from his 1975 album "Fear" reflects a cynical view of the town's history from the days it was "young and gay" until it "drowned in wealth and pain", as an example of the expansion of the American Frontier.

The main storyline of western video game Call of Juarez: Gunslinger is at Abilene.

The much larger city of Abilene, Texas takes its name from Abilene, Kansas.

Notable people

Old West figures who lived in Abilene during its period as a cowtown included Wild Bill Hickok, cattle baron Joseph McCoy, gambler Phil Coe, marshal Tom "Bear River" Smith, gunfighters Pat Desmond, John Wesley Hardin, and Ben Thompson, and Thompson's sister-in-law Libby, a prostitute and dance hall girl. President of the United States and five-star general Dwight D. Eisenhower grew up in Abilene as did his brothers Edgar, Earl, and Milton. Eisenhower is buried in Abilene, along with his wife Mamie and their eldest son Doud, on the grounds of his presidential library.

Other notable individuals who have lived in Abilene include these:
 * C. Olin Ball, food scientist, inventor
 * Harry Beaumont, Oscar-nominated film director
 * Joseph Burton, U.S. Senator from Kansas
 * Steve Doocy, journalist, author
 * Marlin Fitzwater, former Press Secretary of Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush.
 * Edward Little, U.S. Representative from Kansas
 * Deane Malott, university administrator
 * Frank Parent, California court judge
 * Mike Racy, commissioner for MIAA previously vice president for NCAA
 * Everett Stewart, World War II flying ace
 * Hy Vandenberg, Major League Baseball pitcher
 * Cody Whitehair, center for the Chicago Bears

Sister cities

 * 🇯🇵 Omitama, Ibaraki, Japan

title: Abilene, Kansas