National Register Listing

Elk County Courthouse

127 N. Pine, Howard, KS
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Politics/government

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2009.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture politics government law courthouses buildings
The famous outlaw Jesse James was killed in St. Joseph, Missouri, which is just across the border from Kansas.
Kansas random facts
Elk County, Kansas, has a rich and intriguing history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Osage, Kaw, and Cherokee. With the arrival of European settlers in the mid-1800s, Elk County became a pivotal part of the westward expansion and subsequent development of Kansas.

In the 1850s, Elk County saw an influx of settlers who were attracted by the fertile land and abundant wildlife. During this time, the county's economy relied heavily on agriculture, specifically farming and ranching. The town of Howard, which would later become the county seat, was established in 1870 and quickly became a center for trade and commerce.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by periods of growth and prosperity in Elk County. The discovery of lead and zinc deposits in the area brought about a mining boom, and several mining towns, such as Elk Falls and Moline, sprang up. This economic boom led to the construction of rail lines and the further development of infrastructure in the county.

However, like many rural areas, Elk County faced challenges in the 20th century, including the Great Depression and the decline of the mining industry. These events resulted in a decline in population and economic hardship. Despite these challenges, Elk County has managed to retain its rural charm and agricultural heritage.

Today, Elk County is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the impressive Elk River and the expansive Elk City Lake. The county thrives on agriculture and outdoor recreation industries, attracting visitors with opportunities for hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking. With its rich history and scenic beauty, Elk County continues to be a unique and vibrant part of Kansas.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Elk County, Kansas.

  • 1803 - The land that is now Elk County was part of the Louisiana Purchase.
  • 1865 - Elk County was established by the Kansas Legislature.
  • 1870 - The first permanent settlers arrived in the area.
  • 1875 - The first post office was established in Elk County.
  • 1887 - The town of Howard became the county seat.
  • 1900 - The population of Elk County reached its peak with over 11,000 residents.
  • 1931 - A devastating flood caused significant damage in Elk County.
  • 1940s - The discovery of oil and gas in the area brought economic growth to the county.
  • 1950s - The population began to decline due to the decline in oil and gas production.
  • 1972 - The Elk County Historical Society was established.
  • 1982 - The county courthouse in Howard was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2010 - The population of Elk County was approximately 2,882.