Wilson County, KS
Welcome to Wilson County, KansasWilson County is an old county. It was named for Colonel Hiero T. Wilson an officer at Fort Scott. Originally, the lands were part of the Osage Indian Reserve and subject to white man's occupation. During the Civil War the white man began moving in. The Kansas legislature of 1867 set the dimensions of what we call Wilson County. This was a troubled time with the north and south both being represented as well as the white man versus the Indians.
The struggle to become a county took many years. From about 1855 until 1867 the biggest struggle was over where the county seat was to be located.
History tells us the county seat has been moved six times. Each time with
controversy; theft of county records, raids on the courthouse in broad daylight, threats to local holders, neighbors and relations and actual shootings.
Trivia Questions about the History of Wilson County
Q)1. What former Fredonia musician gained fame by playing in the John Phillips Sousa Band and later becoming even more well-known for his collection and composition of Indian musical themes, as well as voice, piano, flute, band, and orchestra?
A) Thurlow Lieurance.
Q)2. What Wilson County native was the first person to break the sound barrier?
A) The test pilot Capt. Milburn Apt, of Buffalo, Kansas, was the first person to break the sound barrier.
Q)3. What Wilson County town could boast the only "petticoat" government in the world in 1935?
A) In 1935 the mayor and city council of New Albany, Kansas were all women. This made New Albany the only "petticoat" government in the world.
Q)4. Who was the Wilson Countian awarded the Carnegie Medal of Honor in 1922 and for what act did he receive this award?
A) Samuel P. Booker of Altoona, Kansas was awarded the Carnegie Medal of Honor in 1922 for his attempt to save two young men. The men had become overcome with "white damp" gas while cleaning a 33 foot well on the Mayor family farm near Neodesha. Booker lost his life in this attempt. The medal is on display at the Wilson County Historic Society Museum.
Explore Wilson County
Bandstand on the Courthouse Lawn
This charming bandstand was built in 1932 as a W.P.A. project. The roof was destroyed in the early 1960's and local residents and businesses donated money to rebuild it, with a picture from the county museum as the only guide.
Fredonia, KS LandmarksHistoric Presbyterian Church
The first and only Presbyterian Church was built in 1886. The building remained unchanged until 1920 when the building was raised to put a basement underneath.
Neodesha, KS Historic ChurchesHistoric St. Ignatious
The St. Ignatious Church originated in 1876 and the present church was built in 1912.
Neodesha, KS Historic ChurchesTracing Trails of Blood on Ice
Opothleyahola's (Hopoeithleyohola's) Great Escape 1. LOCATION: A nature trail of the approximate route used by Opothleyahola (Hopoeithleyohola)
Fredonia, KS Historic TrailsHistoric Downtown Square
Most of the buildings making up the Fredonia Downtown Square were built in the late 1800's & early 1900'
Fredonia, KS Historic DowntownsHistoric Clock Tower
Located on the north side of the Courthouse parking lot, the clock tower houses the massive clock from the original courthouse.
Fredonia, KS LandmarksNorman No. 1 Oil Well Museum
November 28, 1892, the Norman No. 1 oil well became the first and largest commercial oil well west of the Mississippi and it became the birthplace of the vast Mid-Continent Oil Field. Norman No. 1 was in continuous operation until 1919. The well was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1978
Neodesha, KS MuseumsScenic Skyline Drive
No tour to Fredonia is complete without going on this scenic drive up to the "Top of the Mound." From this vantage point, you may enjoy the sights for miles around or just enjoy the beautiful park and picnic facilities. An observation tower provides unobstructed views and photo opportunities.
Fredonia, KS Scenic DrivesOld Mill Dam
Scenic old mill dam, now part of the Fredonia electrical plant and mill dam park.
Fredonia, KS Historic MillsCemetery Tour
The Neodesha Cemetery has markers of some of the first founders and residents of early Neodesha. J.B. Keys, along with Robert S. Futhey discovered the present site of Neodesha. The claim to the land, bought for $500
Neodesha, KS CemeteriesWilson County Veterans Memorial
Located on the northwest corner of the Wilson County Courthouse lawn, this privately-funded memorial honors veterans from Wilson County. Additional veteran'
Fredonia, KS MonumentsFredonia Golf Club
Nine holes with grass greens. The clubhouse is open 10 a.m. to 7
Fredonia, KS Golf Courses