Anderson County Overview
Anderson County is located in the east-central region of Kansas, with a population of approximately 7,858 as of the latest census. Established in 1855, the county has a rich agricultural history, and it played a role in the westward expansion of the United States. The county seat is Garnett, which serves as the administrative and cultural center of the area.
The county is bordered by several neighboring counties, including Franklin County to the north, Coffey County to the west, Allen County to the south, and Linn County to the east. Anderson County’s rolling hills and prairies are characteristic of the central plains, and its location in Kansas provides a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters.
- County Seat: Garnett
- Number of Cities and Towns: 8
- Major School Districts: USD 365, USD 479
Garnett
Garnett Overview
Garnett, the county seat of Anderson County, is centrally located in the county. It lies near the intersection of U.S. Highway 169 and U.S. Highway 59, making it a vital transportation hub for the region. The city is bordered by Franklin County to the north and Coffey County to the west, placing it within a rich agricultural and rural environment.
Garnett was founded in 1857 and has a rich history tied to the westward expansion and settlement of Kansas. Today, it serves as the county’s administrative and cultural center, with several historical landmarks, such as the Anderson County Courthouse, and a thriving downtown area that showcases the community’s heritage. Garnett enjoys a moderate climate, typical of Kansas, with hot summers, mild springs, and cold winters.
- Population: 3,328
- Population Density: 1,154 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 66032
- Road Network: U.S. Highway 169, U.S. Highway 59, Kansas Highway 31
- Nearest Airports: Garnett Municipal Airport, Kansas City International Airport (approx. 90 miles)
- Libraries: Garnett Public Library
- Hospitals: Anderson County Hospital
Schools in Garnett
Garnett is served by Unified School District 365, which includes several schools for different age groups. Garnett Elementary School (PreK-5) has around 500 students, focusing on foundational learning in a supportive environment. Anderson County Junior-Senior High School (grades 6-12) is home to about 600 students and offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities. Both schools have a reputation for academic achievement, strong community involvement, and providing diverse learning opportunities for students of all ages.
Colony
Colony Overview
Colony is a small town located in the southwestern part of Anderson County, close to the borders of Allen County. Colony is a small, tight-knit community primarily supported by agriculture and local businesses. The town was established in the late 1800s during a period of westward expansion and remains a proud rural community to this day.
The weather in Colony is similar to that of the rest of Anderson County, with hot summers, mild falls, and cold winters. The town is home to several historic buildings that offer a glimpse into Kansas’ pioneering history.
- Population: 407
- Population Density: 781 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 66015
- Road Network: U.S. Highway 169, Kansas Highway 58
- Nearest Airports: Garnett Municipal Airport, Allen County Regional Airport
- Libraries: Colony Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Garnett (Anderson County Hospital)
Schools in Colony
Colony is served by Unified School District 479, which includes Crest Elementary School (PreK-5) and Crest Junior-Senior High School (grades 6-12). Crest Elementary has an enrollment of approximately 100 students and emphasizes community involvement and individualized learning. Crest Junior-Senior High School, with about 150 students, offers a comprehensive curriculum, preparing students for post-secondary education and employment opportunities in a rural setting. Both schools are known for their close-knit educational environments.
Greeley
Greeley Overview
Greeley is a small city in the northeastern part of Anderson County, near the Franklin County border. It was founded in 1855 and named after Horace Greeley, a prominent American newspaper editor and advocate for westward expansion. Greeley is one of the oldest settlements in the area and maintains a small, rural character.
Greeley’s historical charm is highlighted by several old churches and buildings. The town’s climate, like much of Anderson County, features hot summers and cold winters. It is surrounded by agricultural lands, and farming continues to be a major part of the local economy.
- Population: 302
- Population Density: 850 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 66033
- Road Network: U.S. Highway 169, Kansas Highway 31
- Nearest Airports: Kansas City International Airport, Garnett Municipal Airport
- Libraries: Greeley Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Garnett (Anderson County Hospital)
Schools in Greeley
Greeley is part of Unified School District 365. Greeley Elementary School (PreK-5) serves approximately 120 students, focusing on personalized learning and community engagement. For middle and high school, students attend Anderson County Junior-Senior High School in Garnett. The schools in Greeley offer strong academic programs, preparing students for further education or careers in various fields.
Westphalia
Westphalia Overview
Westphalia is a small rural community located in the southeastern part of Anderson County. It was settled by German immigrants in the late 1800s, and much of its architecture and community traditions reflect this heritage. The town is surrounded by agricultural lands, contributing to its small-town charm and reliance on farming as a major economic driver.
The weather in Westphalia is typical for Anderson County, with warm, humid summers and cold winters. The community is known for its annual festivals and close-knit population.
- Population: 128
- Population Density: 478 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 66093
- Road Network: U.S. Highway 169, County Road 1100
- Nearest Airports: Garnett Municipal Airport, Coffey County Airport
- Libraries: Westphalia Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Garnett (Anderson County Hospital)
Schools in Westphalia
Westphalia is also part of USD 365, with Westphalia Elementary School (PreK-5) located in the town. It serves approximately 90 students. Students in grades 6-12 typically attend Anderson County Junior-Senior High School in Garnett. Westphalia’s schools are known for their personalized approach to education, with small class sizes and a focus on individual student needs.
Kincaid
Kincaid Overview
Kincaid is a small town located in the southern part of Anderson County. It was established in the late 19th century and quickly became a center for agriculture. Although small in size, Kincaid boasts a rich history, including several historical landmarks that reflect the town’s role in the growth of the region.
The town enjoys a similar climate to other areas in Anderson County, with hot summers and cold winters. Kincaid hosts the Kincaid Fair, one of the oldest fairs in Kansas, each fall, which attracts visitors from across the region.
- Population: 122
- Population Density: 338 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 66039
- Road Network: Kansas Highway 31, U.S. Highway 169
- Nearest Airports: Allen County Regional Airport, Garnett Municipal Airport
- Libraries: Kincaid Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Garnett (Anderson County Hospital)
Schools in Kincaid
Kincaid falls under the Unified School District 479, with students attending schools in nearby Colony. The primary schools for the area are Crest Elementary School and Crest Junior-Senior High School, which offer PreK-12 education. With small class sizes and a focus on community values, the schools provide strong educational foundations to their students.
Lone Elm
Lone Elm Overview
Lone Elm is a tiny unincorporated community in Anderson County. It is located near the eastern border of the county and is characterized by its rural, agricultural setting. The town has historical significance, as it was a notable stop along the Santa Fe Trail, serving pioneers and traders moving westward.
The climate in Lone Elm mirrors that of the rest of Anderson County, with hot summers and cold winters. Agriculture remains a key part of life in this small community.
- Population: 25
- Population Density: 62 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 66039
- Road Network: County roads
- Nearest Airports: Garnett Municipal Airport, Kansas City International Airport
- Libraries: None
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Garnett (Anderson County Hospital)
Schools in Lone Elm
Lone Elm is part of USD 365, and students attend schools in nearby Garnett. Garnett Elementary School and Anderson County Junior-Senior High School serve the area’s students. Both schools offer a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities, ensuring well-rounded education for the children in this rural community.