Riley County

The county spreads across several hundred square miles in northeastern Kansas and includes the city of Manhattan and Fort Riley military installation. Both serve as centers of activity and administration in this area.

The county was established in 1855 by the territorial legislature and named after a general from the Mexican-American War. This founding was part of the early settlement and administration of the Kansas Territory.

Kansas State University in Manhattan shapes life in this region and draws students and visitors to the area. The institution and its research facilities are an important part of daily life for many people here.

The area is easily reached via Interstate 70 and several US highways, connecting to other regions. Main transportation routes allow visitors to explore the county and its different locations easily.

The county is managed by its own police department rather than an elected sheriff, as found in most other counties. This unusual arrangement is often surprising to visitors accustomed to typical US county law enforcement structures.

Location: Kansas

Inception: August 25, 1855

Capital city: Manhattan

Shares border with: Washington County, Geary County, Marshall County, Pottawatomie County, Wabaunsee County, Clay County

Website: http://RileyCountyKS.gov

GPS coordinates: 39.11306,-96.62806

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:08