Butler County, KS
Butler County has been a rich cattle grazing land since the 1860s. As early as 1857, the first pioneers looked down on the beautiful Walnut River valley and decided to make it home. At the center of the Flint Hills, the area has changed little since Captain Zebulon Pike noted the hills covered with flint rock cobbles during his 1806 expedition across Kansas. The Name "Flint Hills" had identified the region ever since.Since the beginning a lore of cowboys, cattle drives, and western style living has entertained and amazed the area traveler. The first cattle drives began in Texas during 1865 when animals were driven to Kansas railroads through the Flint Hills. By 1885 the wild Texas cattle drives were over and 5 million cattle had passed through the Hills on their journey to eastern markets. The era of custom grazing of out-of-state cattle began, and today over 1 million head of cattle are fattened annually on the lush pasture land.
The peaceful tranquility of the region changed forever when oil was discovered near El Dorado in 1915.
Cattle grazing and bottom land farming gave way to the mixed economy of beef and black gold.
Several area driving tours are available for the interest of the photographer, bird watcher, fossil hunter, antique lover, fisherman or amateur historian. So treat yourself to one of the best kept secret in the land - Butler County, where rich history, breathtaking scenery, and adventure abound.
Explore Butler County
Butler County Courthouse
The historic Butler County Courthouse was built in 1909. Its Romanesque Style was designed by famed architect, George P. Washburn. Its terrazzo floors are still intact and reflect its elegant history. The first woman jury in Kansas met here in 1912.
El Dorado, KS Historic CourthousesWalter's Pumpkin Patch
Where Fall Begins! Walters' Pumpkin Patch has hours of entertainment for families of all ages. Our new O'
El Dorado, KS Pumpkin PatchesMissouri-Pacific Depot
The El Dorado Missouri-Pacific Depot began as a wooden structure in 1883 in a town of less than 2,000 people. It served as a center of activity and development for the community with news being brought in by train and other news transferred by the telegraph located at the depot.
El Dorado, KS Railroad HistoryCity Parks
Library Park - Adjacent to the Library on Highland Street, Library Park has a Gazebo, covered shelter, and playground equipment. South City Park
Towanda, KS RecreationCassoday Museum
Housed in the original Santa Fe Depot, this museum features an old-timer cowboy room and a variety of artifacts from Cassoday'
Cassoday, KS MuseumsEl Dorado State Park and Lake
Where Special Events Happen El Dorado Lake is located just north and east of the City of El Dorado at the edge of the scenic Flint Hills. The lake has approximately 8,000 surface acres of water with 98 miles of shoreline. There are approximately 6,000
El Dorado, KS State ParksWilliam Allen White Monument
The commemorative marble monument honors the Pulitzer Prize winning editor who was reared in El Dorado.
William Allen White
The world beat a path to the cluttered desk of William Allen White, publisher of a small daily newspaper, The Emporia Gazette in Kansas.
El Dorado, KS Monuments
Triple S Ranch Supply
A true "Don't judge a book by its cover" stop; something for everyone can be found at Triple S Ranch Supply. They meet your ranching needs as well as a full line of clothing for the cowboy and cowgirl. Ropes, hats and boots are available. If they don'
El Dorado, KS Venue Attractions