Cowley County, Kansas
Cowley County stretches across south-central Kansas and is home to about 35,000 residents. Winfield and Arkansas City are the county’s two largest communities, each contributing to the area’s lively local character and community identity.
Every September, the Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield attracts bluegrass music fans from across the region and beyond. Visitors can also find entertainment at Kanza Casino, located just south of Arkansas City.
Architecture enthusiasts can explore the county’s historic stone arch bridges, which showcase an important part of its local heritage. Arkansas City also offers a variety of attractions, from a waterpark to a prehistoric Native American village, providing plenty of opportunities for history, recreation, and exploration.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Cowley County |
| County Seat | Winfield |
| Etymology | Named after Matthew Cowley, an early settler and politician |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Winfield, Arkansas City, Burden, Cedar Vale, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 160, U.S. Highway 77, Kansas Highway 15, Kansas Highway 55 |
| FIPS Code | 20-035 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,116 square miles (land: 1,113 sq mi, water: 3 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Butler County (North), Elk County (Northeast), Chautauqua County (East), Osage County, Oklahoma (South), Kay County, Oklahoma (Southwest), Sumner County (West), Sedgwick County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Kansas |
| Coordinates | 37.31°N, 96.99°W |
| Major Landmarks | Winfield City Lake, Cowley County Historical Society Museum, and the Walnut Valley Festival |
| Population | 35,000 |
