Sumner County

Sumner County is a county in south-central Kansas composed of rolling plains, farmland, and water resources that define its landscape. The region includes eleven incorporated cities with Wellington serving as the county seat and shares a border with Oklahoma to the south.

The county was established in 1870, created from portions of Marion and Butler counties to support the state's growing population. Its naming honored U.S. Senator Charles Sumner, a prominent advocate for abolishing slavery.

Agricultural traditions shape daily life across the county, where farmers markets and local festivals display regional crops and homemade goods. Community gatherings and craft fairs bring neighbors together to share their skills and products with visitors.

The region connects easily via Highways 81 and 160, which facilitate travel across south-central Kansas. Visitors should expect that rural areas require driving between locations, so planning activities ahead helps make the most of your time.

Argonia, one of the county's eleven cities, elected the first female mayor in the United States in 1887, showing early pioneering spirit. This groundbreaking election set a precedent for women in leadership roles decades before broader acceptance became common.

Location: Kansas

Inception: 1873

Capital city: Wellington

Shares border with: Sedgwick County, Grant County, Butler County, Cowley County, Kay County, Kingman County, Harper County

Website: http://co.Sumner.KS.us

GPS coordinates: 37.23330,-97.48330

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:24