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Greenwood County

county

Greenwood County, located in southeastern Kansas, is characterized by its rolling Flint Hills and tallgrass prairie. As of 2024, the population was estimated to be around 5,871. The county seat and largest city is Eureka. Greenwood County offers a blend of rural charm and natural beauty, attracting those who appreciate outdoor activities and a close-knit community. The economy of Greenwood County is largely based on agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and farming. The agriculture sector significantly contributes to the county's output and employment. Other sectors include healthcare, manufacturing, and education. The county also has a historical connection to the oil industry, though its prominence has declined over time. Greenwood County is distinctive for its location within the Flint Hills, one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems. This unique natural feature supports a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hunting, fishing, and camping. The county's history is rooted in early settlement and agriculture, with several historical sites and ghost towns that reflect its past.

Greenwood County, Kansas

Overview
Classification
County
FIPS Code
20073
Country
United States
County
Greenwood County
Geography
Region
Flint Hills
Total Area
1,153 sq mi
Land Area
1,143 sq mi
Water Area
9.3 sq mi
Latitude
37.8667
Longitude
-96.2667
Climate
Typical Midwestern climate with hot summers and cold winters.
Notable Features
Flint Hills · Tallgrass Prairie
Neighboring Areas
Lyon County · Coffey County · Woodson County · Wilson County · Elk County · Butler County · Chase County
Demographics
Population (2020)
6,016
Est. Population (2024)
5,871
Median Age
48.4
Median Income
$58,276
Poverty Rate
12.4%
Owner-Occupied
80.5%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of the county is approximately 91.2% White, 3.9% Hispanic, and 3.1% Two or More Races.
Governance
Government Type
County Commission
Governing Body
Board of County Commissioners
Body Size
5 members
Municipal Services
Appraiser's Office · Attorney's Office · County Clerk · Court Services · EMS · Economic Development · Emergency Management · Fire District #1 · Health Department · Noxious Weed · Register of Deeds · Road & Bridge, Landfill, Recycle · Senior Services · Sheriff · Treasurer's Office
Economy
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
Economic Profile
Agriculture · Ranching · Small businesses
Employment Sectors
Health Care & Social Assistance · Manufacturing · Educational Services · Agriculture
Major Employers
Beef cattle ranching and farming · Feedlots and dual-purpose ranching and farming
Education
School Districts
Madison-Virgil USD 386 · Eureka USD 389 · Hamilton USD 390 · West Elk USD 282 · Fredonia USD 484 · Bluestem USD 205 · Flinthills USD 492 · Leroy-Gridley USD 245
Infrastructure
Transportation
Highways · Railroads
Utilities
Rural water districts · Electric cooperatives
Major Facilities
Greenwood County Courthouse · Hospitals
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Fall River State Park · Toronto Lake · Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
Parks & Trails
City parks in Eureka, Madison, and other towns · Various trails and access points in the Flint Hills
History
Founded
1855
Named After
Alfred B. Greenwood, U.S. Congressman from Arkansas
Historical Significance
Greenwood County represents the historical patterns of settlement and agricultural development in Kansas, particularly within the unique Flint Hills region. Its early history was shaped by the conflicts over slavery and the challenges of frontier life.
Key Events
Establishment of the county in 1855 · Early settlement by pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions · Conflicts during the Civil War · Development of agriculture and ranching · Construction of railroads in the late 19th century