Ellsworth County

Ellsworth County is an administrative region in central Kansas that covers flat to gently rolling terrain shaped by the Smoky Hill River. The landscape is primarily agricultural, with the county seat located in the town of Ellsworth at its center.

The county was established in 1867 during the period of westward expansion and settlement. It was named after a military fort that marked the region's role as a strategic outpost during that era.

The county maintains two educational districts, Central Plains USD 112 and Ellsworth USD 327, serving different regions of the local community through multiple schools.

Visitors will find the courthouse and basic services in the town of Ellsworth, which serves as the administrative hub. The region is best explored by car, as communities are connected by regional highways.

Ghost towns like Arcola and Terra Cotta lie within the county boundaries, marking places where communities once thrived during pioneering times. These remnants offer visitors glimpses into the area's former settlement patterns.

Location: Kansas

Inception: February 26, 1867

Capital city: Ellsworth

Shares border with: Lincoln County, Rice County, Saline County, McPherson County, Barton County, Russell County

Website: http://EllsworthCounty.org

GPS coordinates: 38.65444,-98.21278

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:58