Northup Theater

Hamilton County, Kansas is located in the western part of the state. It was initially home to a variety of Native American tribes, including the Pawnee, Kiowa, and Apache. European settlement began in the mid-19th century when the area was opened up for homesteading under the Homestead Act of 1862.

The county was officially established on February 27, 1873, and named after Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States. Early settlers faced harsh challenges, including droughts, but the discovery of underground water sources in the late 19th century brought much-needed relief to the agricultural community.

The first significant town in Hamilton County was Syracuse, which became the county seat in 1878. The town grew due to the establishment of the Santa Fe Trail and the arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway. By the early 20th century, Syracuse was a thriving community with a population of over 1,000.

The economy of Hamilton County has historically relied on agriculture, particularly wheat farming and cattle ranching. In the early 20th century, oil and gas exploration also became important industries in the area. Over the years, the county has faced challenges such as the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, but has persevered and maintained its reputation as an agricultural hub. Today, Hamilton County continues to be primarily rural, with its economy centered around agriculture and natural resources.