Bourbon County, Kansas is located in the east-central part of the state and covers an area of 645 square miles. The county lies in the Osage Plains region and is generally flat with rolling hills. There are several creeks that run through the county including Marmaton River, Spring River, and Little Osage Creek. The elevation ranges from 780 to 1150 feet above sea level.
The climate in Bourbon County is humid continental with hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from a high of 86 degrees Fahrenheit in July to a low of 24 degrees Fahrenheit in January. On average, the county receives around 36 inches of rainfall per year with most precipitation occurring during the spring months. Snowfall averages around 16 inches per year with most occurring during December and January.
The landscape of Bourbon County consists mainly of grassland but there are also some wooded areas located along creeks and rivers as well as some small patches of forest scattered throughout the county. There are several parks located throughout Bourbon County including Fort Scott National Historic Site which features a restored fort from the 1800s as well as several hiking trails that provide visitors with scenic views of the area’s natural beauty. Additionally, there are several lakes located throughout Bourbon County which provide opportunities for fishing and other outdoor recreational activities such as camping and boating.
Country seat and other main cities of Bourbon County, Kansas
The county seat of Bourbon County, Kansas is Fort Scott. This small city is located in the southeast corner of the county and is home to a population of 8,087 people. Fort Scott was originally established as a military post in 1842 and eventually grew into a small town. Today, it is known for its historic sites and buildings that provide visitors with an insight into the city’s past.
According to COUNTRYAAH.COM, other main cities in Bourbon County include Uniontown, Fulton, Bronson, Redfield, Mapleton, Hiattville, and Garland. Uniontown is located in the southwest corner of the county and has a population of 304 people. The city features several historic buildings such as the Uniontown Bank building which dates back to 1887 and provides visitors with a glimpse into life during this time period. Fulton is located in the northwestern part of Bourbon County and has a population of 1,194 people. It features many old buildings from the late 1800s including several churches that are still actively used today.
Bronson is located on the northern edge of Bourbon County and has a population of 584 people. It was first settled by German immigrants in the 1850s who established businesses such as sawmills which helped to fuel its growth over time. Redfield lies on the eastern edge of Bourbon County with a population of 477 people. The town features several historic buildings including an old schoolhouse that was built in 1888 which now serves as a museum for visitors to explore its past history.
Mapleton is located along Marmaton River near Fort Scott with a population of 614 people. This small town features many older homes from the late 1800s as well as some newer buildings that have been constructed more recently over time. Hiattville lies just south of Mapleton with a population of 230 people while Garland lies on Little Osage Creek near Uniontown with a population of 244 people. Both towns feature numerous old homes from their founding days which still stand today providing visitors with an insight into their past history.
History of Bourbon County, Kansas
Bourbon County, Kansas was established in 1855 and is located in the southeast corner of the state. It was named after Bourbon County, Kentucky, where many of the early settlers had come from. The county was originally populated by Native American tribes such as the Osage and Kansa, who lived in villages along the Marais des Cygnes River. In 1856, the first Euro-American settlers arrived and began to establish homesteads.
The county experienced a period of rapid growth during the Civil War era when it became a major producer of wheat for Union forces. The railroad arrived in 1865 which further increased settlement and development. By 1870, there were over 4,000 people living in Bourbon County. Farming became an important industry with corn, wheat and oats being grown on large tracts of land. Cattle ranching also developed with several large ranches being established throughout the county.
In 1877 oil was discovered in Bourbon County which led to a brief boom period for the local economy as oil derricks were constructed throughout the area. Although this boom eventually subsided, it left behind a lasting legacy with several oil-related businesses still existing today. Tourism has also become an important industry with visitors coming to Bourbon County to explore its historical sites and experience its rural charm and natural beauty.
Economy of Bourbon County, Kansas
The economy of Bourbon County, Kansas has been shaped by its rich history. Agriculture has long been an important industry in the area, with corn, wheat and oats being the primary crops grown in the region. Cattle ranching is also a major industry with several large ranches still operating throughout the county today. Oil was discovered in 1877 which led to a brief boom period for the local economy as oil derricks were constructed throughout the area. Although this boom eventually subsided, it left behind a lasting legacy with several oil-related businesses still existing today.
Tourism has also become an increasingly important part of Bourbon County’s economy with visitors coming to experience its rural charm and natural beauty. There are numerous historical sites to explore such as Fort Scott National Historic Site and Fort Scott Military Cemetery. Outdoor recreation is also popular in Bourbon County with activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking and camping being available at various state parks and wildlife areas.
In recent years, there has been an effort to attract new businesses and industries to Bourbon County in order to diversify its economy. The county is home to several industrial parks which provide space for businesses looking to expand or relocate into the area. The county government has also implemented various incentives such as tax credits and grants for companies that invest in the local community or create jobs for local residents. Overall, Bourbon County is well positioned for continued economic growth due to its diverse range of industries and attractive business climate.