Ellsworth in Ellsworth County, Kansas — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Historic Kansas
Prior to American settlement, American Indians occupied this land for centuries. Although relations between overland travelers, settlers, and the Indians were generally peaceful, tensions developed as traffic increased and more permanent settlers arrived. This area witnessed a number of violent clashes during the 1860s as Indians took action to defend their lands and the U.S. government responded.
Ellsworth, a former cattle town, is located approximately 7 miles south of here on K-14. Like other “Wild West” towns, Ellsworth experienced its share of lawlessness and violence. One incident in 1873 involved the shooting of several men, including the sheriff, and the taking over of Main Street.
Ahead are Wilson (with the Wilson reservoir 5 miles to the north); Russell, an oil town; and historic Hays and Fort Hays.
Erected 2012 by the State of Kansas & the Kansas Historical Society. (Marker Number 101.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Animals • Native Americans • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Kansas Historical Society series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1873.
Location. 38° 51.432′ N, 98° 8.012′ W. Marker is in Ellsworth, Kansas, in Ellsworth County. Marker can be reached from Interstate 70 at milepost 224,, 1.3 miles west of State Highway 156. Located in the I-70 westbound rest area, to left of service area building. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Ellsworth KS 67439, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 11 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Smoky Hills Region (approx. half a mile away); Civil War Memorial (approx. 10.2 miles away); Ellsworth County Veterans Memorial (approx. 10.2 miles away); 1873 County Jail (approx. 10.3 miles away); Kansas Pacific Stockyards (approx. 10.3 miles away); North Main Street (approx. 10.3 miles away); South Main (approx. 10.4 miles away); Grand Central Hotel (approx. 10.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ellsworth.
More about this marker. Marker was replaced in 2011-2012.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on September 19, 2015, by Mark Hilton of Montgomery, Alabama. This page has been viewed 416 times since then and 10 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on September 19, 2015, by Mark Hilton of Montgomery, Alabama.