Chautauqua County, Kansas
Chautauqua County is located in the southeastern corner of Kansas, with the Caney River flowing through its rural landscape. With a population of only about 3,500 residents, the county offers a peaceful setting defined by open farmland, small communities, and rural character.
Sedan, the county seat, is known for its distinctive yellow brick road, with more than 10,000 personalized bricks forming its historic main street. This unique feature gives the community a memorable local attraction and reflects its strong small-town identity.
Just east of the county is the Little House on the Prairie historic site, associated with Laura Ingalls Wilder and her time in the region. Sedan City Lake provides opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation, while local festivals and community events bring residents together throughout the year.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Chautauqua County |
| County Seat | Sedan |
| Etymology | Named after Chautauqua County, New York, from which many early settlers hailed |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Sedan, Longton, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 166, Kansas Highway 99 |
| FIPS Code | 20-019 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,072 square miles (land: 1,066 sq mi, water: 6 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Elk County (North), Montgomery County (East), Washington County, Oklahoma (Southeast), Osage County, Oklahoma (South), Cowley County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Kansas |
| Coordinates | 37.11°N, 96.17°W |
| Major Landmarks | Chautauqua County Courthouse, Chautauqua Lake, and the nearby Flint Hills |
| Population | 3,500 |
