Wabaunsee County, KS
This land was the home of the Pottawatomie and Kaw Indians before it became a county in 1882. The first log house was built in Wabaunsee County in 1842. It was first known as Richardson County but was later named for Chief Wabaunsee of the Pottawatomie Tribe and means "Dawn of Day". It is located in the beautiful Flint Hills of Kansas. Thousands of cattle roamed our hills in spring and summer. Wild flowers grow abundantly and photographers find their dreams can come true.
Alma is the county seat, but became so only after three elections with Wabaunsee running a close second each time.
During the Civil War, people came from Connecticut wanting Kansas to remain a free state, and formed the Beecher Bible and Rifle Colony bringing with them guns to fight if needed, and Bibles to teach others about Christianity.
An underground railroad was organized out in the country to help slaves escape to Canada, but it did not reach into the towns. The home of Captain Mitchell in the north part of the County was one of the stations to keep the slaves in hiding until they were taken into Iowa and on to Canada. Most of the early immigrants came into this area from Germany.
Each town in Wabaunsee County: Alma, Alta Vista, Eskridge, Harveyville, Maple Hill, McFarland, Paxico and Wabaunsee, is a typical small town with friendly people who are happy to live here.
Explore Wabaunsee County
Ag Heritage Park
Living the farm life, Everett and Hazel have a natural passion for collecting antique farm machinery, as well as items that portray historic ag life. The "Ag Heritage Park" is the culmination of Everett and Hazel's efforts to collect memorabilia that commemorates ag life.
Alta Vista, KS MuseumsHistoric Stone Fences
The federal government abolished the open range in a law passed in 1867. The government paid farmers $.40 per rod (16.5 feet) to build and maintain a 4.5
Alma, KS Scenic DrivesEck/Stratton Residence
The gingerbread trim home was built by Mr. Eck, who was a lumberman in Alma. It was built in 1904 and features a turret room, a tower resembling a castle, and original lap siding.
Alma, KS Famous HomesLake Wabaunsee
Lake Wabaunsee is a wonderful recreational lake and community to call home, vacation or just visit! This 216 acre, spring-fed lake cannot be matched for its spectacular view and hospitality in the Flint Hills of Wabaunsee County, Kansas. Only a mere 45
Eskridge, KS RecreationHistoric Business District
As was common in Kansas after the Civil War, the railroad had a vested interest in developing new towns. In 1887
Paxico, KS Historic DowntownsClapboard Ravine Drive
This is a beautiful scenic seven mile drive through the Flint Hills. This drive starts just north of Alma on the gravel road heading east past the Clapboard Acres housing development. About 1 1/2
Alma, KS Scenic DrivesHoly Family Catholic Church
The construction of this native stone church was the result of the original frame church burning. The cornerstone of this church was laid August 27, 1899 in the new native rock structure measuring 44 by 100
Alma, KS Historic ChurchesD.R. and E.W. Bruman/Schroeder Residence
Over the door, chiseled in ornate German script the date, 1882
Alma, KS Famous HomesWabaunsee High School
WHS serves the communities of Alma, McFarland, Paxico and Maple Hill. It was constructed in 1938 and is an example of one of the many native stone buildings located in Alma. With its limestone exterior and red tile roof, it is considered one of the most beautiful high schools in Kansas.
Alma, KS Historic Buildings