Cottonwood Falls

Cottonwood Falls is a city in Chase County, Kansas, defined by a prominent limestone courthouse with a distinctive mansard roof and stonework quarried locally. This building serves as the town's focal point and demonstrates the craftsmanship of regional construction materials used in the 19th century.

The settlement began in 1854 when a trader established a cattle operation near a creek, eventually leading to the town's founding in 1859. The courthouse came later as the community grew and became an established county seat.

The Prairie Fire Festival draws people together each year with music, food, and activities that reflect the community's connection to local traditions and the wider region.

The town sits in a flat region with straightforward road access, making it easy to navigate on a day visit to explore the local buildings and surroundings. Most points of interest cluster near the town center, walkable from the courthouse area.

Several structures including a historic commercial building and a 19th-century bridge are registered as properties of historical significance, reflecting the variety of architectural styles found throughout the town. These buildings offer insight into how construction techniques evolved during that era.