Wabaunsee County

Wabaunsee County is an administrative area in eastern Kansas with rolling hills, prairie grasslands, and waterways throughout. The county seat of Alma serves as the administrative hub, while Lake Wabaunsee near Eskridge is a notable water feature in the landscape.

The county was established in 1855 and named after Potawatomi Chief Waubonsie, whose name translates to dawn of day in the Potawatomi language. It became a focal point for conflicts over Kansas' future in the decades preceding the Civil War.

The Beecher Bible and Rifle Church shows the county's role in the free-state movement before the Civil War. This building stands as a witness to the struggles over Kansas' future during that era.

Alma provides administrative services for residents and visitors, including information and permits. The lake and rural landscape are best explored by car, and understanding local roads helps with planning your route through the county.

During World War II, Lake Wabaunsee hosted a German prisoner of war camp where detainees worked on local agricultural and infrastructure projects. This chapter of the county's story often goes unnoticed by visitors today.

Location: Kansas

Inception: 1855

Capital city: Alma

Shares border with: Pottawatomie County, Lyon County, Shawnee County, Osage County, Riley County, Morris County, Geary County

Website: http://Wabaunsee.KansasGov.com

GPS coordinates: 39.01861,-96.29250

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:53