Graham County, Kansas
Graham County is tucked away in northwest Kansas, surrounded by the wide-open landscapes of the High Plains. Hill City, the county seat, offers a welcoming small-town atmosphere amid the county’s largely flat rural scenery.
Nearby, the Nicodemus National Historic Site preserves the history of Nicodemus, the oldest Black settlement west of the Mississippi River. The historic site provides visitors with an important opportunity to learn about the community’s African American heritage and settlement history.
The Solomon River provides opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and outdoor recreation. Each August, the Graham County Fair brings the community together with livestock exhibits, homemade pies, and traditional fair activities. With its expansive rural landscape and minimal light pollution, the county also offers excellent conditions for stargazing beneath the wide-open Kansas sky.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Graham County |
| County Seat | Hill City |
| Etymology | Named after John L. Graham, Union captain and Civil War hero |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Hill City, Morland, and several unincorporated communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 24, U.S. Highway 283 |
| FIPS Code | 20-065 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 900 square miles (land: 897 sq mi, water: 3 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Norton County (North), Phillips County (Northeast), Rooks County (East), Ellis County (Southeast), Trego County (South), Gove County (Southwest), Sheridan County (West), Decatur County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Kansas |
| Coordinates | 39.38°N, 100.18°W |
| Major Landmarks | Graham County Historical Museum, and the Monument Rocks (a National Natural Landmark) |
| Population | 2,500 |
