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
Historic 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 DrivesKuenzli Creek Oxen Tours
Experience the speed of travel on the western trails throughout the Tallgrass Prairie of the Flint Hills. Our two hour tour makes a wholesome and educational family outing. We prefer family groups of about six or less.
Alma, KS ToursAg 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 MuseumsWabaunsee Co. Historical Society & Museum
A focal point for visitors near and far. The museum features turn-of- the-century farm exhibits, a blacksmith shop, leather-making display, an early day doctor's office, an 1880 schoolroom, a 1928
Alma, KS MuseumsWabaunsee County Court House
This beautiful building was constructed in 1931. It is constructed of Carthage and native stone. The Carthage stone, used on the outside for facing, gives the appearance of a granite building. All outside walls are backed up with eight inches of native stone.
Alma, KS Historic CourthousesPeace United Church of Christ
This native stone church was erected in 1881. Peter Land and August Beutel were responsible for the construction of the church. The bell and tower were added in 1897, as a gift of Johann and Maria Klockman.
Alma, KS Historic ChurchesHoly 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 Churches