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Eureka, Kansas

Eureka, Kansas

"Eureka" - ("I found it") -

shouted one of the small bands of hardy pioneers who in August of 1857 discovered a spring of cool , clear water not far from what is now known as Fall River.Abundant drinking water was a strong factor in their search for a place to settle; therefor, they soon agreed that they had found an ideal place and laid claim to the area for a town site they chose to name Eureka!

Makeshift cabins and shanties became temporary homes and Fort Montgomery was built as a defense against Indians, but they offered no problems. In 1872, Eureka was chosen to be the Greenwood County seat and a courthouse was built.

Most of the earliest pioneers sought and found fertile land along the rivers and streams. Later, settlers had to be satisfied with the hill land which was covered with native grass. Ironically, that grass proved to be among the most nutritious in the world. Cattle ranching soon became a powerful force, and Eureka became it's hub. Two railroads were built thru the town. The elegant Greenwood Hotel was completed in 1884, and became the rendezvous of the local ranch owners, the Texan cattle owners, and the Kansas City buyers.

Oil was discovered in the county in 1917 and for many years it brought prosperity to Eureka and the county. Eighty years later, oil is still an important source of revenue for the area.

Today, Eureka has all the elements which make a town a pleasant place to live; excellent schools, churches, health services, restaurants, and lodging for tourists. Eureka Downs, our local horse-racing track, is but one of a variety of recreational facilities which are in place for the enjoyment of the public.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Greenwood County Historical Museum

The Greenwood County Historical Museum houses artifacts including geneological records, maps agricultural tools, house-hold items, and interesting displays. See the doll house, shaving mugs, tool chest (1860), 1900

Eureka, KS Museums

Outdoor Recreation

Canoe trips - down scenic Fall River, 6-8 miles/3/4 hours. Also guided backpack trips, Spring and Fall. Camping - area lakes, Fall River and Christian Hills Camp. Hunting - the best anywhere! Quail, Prairie Chicken, Turkey, Deer, and Rabbits.

Eureka, KS Recreation

United Methodist Church

The cornerstone of the first frame church was laid in 1868. It must have taken a while to erect the first church, as it was not finished until 1870. That church was destroyed by a tornado in 1873. The cornerstone for the present stone church was laid September 18, 1873

Eureka, KS Historic Churches

Greenwood Hotel

This brick building was dedicated in 1884. The original building, 50' x 100', consisted of three stories and a small basement. The addition to the east was built in 1923 and the exterior of the original building received a stucco treatment in 1926, creating a Spanish look. The hotel cafe (

Eureka, KS Historic Buildings

Carnegie Library

The present building was built by the Carnegie Foundation and the Entre Nous Club at a cost of $20,000. It opened to the public September 26, 1914. The Entre Nous club donated their collection of 25,000

Eureka, KS Carnegie Libraries

Things to do near Eureka, KS

Bartell Hotel

This hotel, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, was built in February 1880. The red brick hotel contai...