Learn About Baxter Springs, Kansas

Baxter Springs Overview

City History

Baxter Springs is a city located in Cherokee County, Kansas, United States. It was founded in 1868 as a trading post on the military road from Fort Scott to Fort Gibson. The city played a significant role during the Civil War, serving as a key supply point for Union forces. Baxter Springs was also a prominent stop on the historic Route 66, attracting travelers from all over the country.

Interesting Facts

- Baxter Springs is home to the oldest continuously operating bank in Kansas, the Baxter State Bank. - The city was the site of the infamous Baxter Springs Massacre in 1863, where Confederate guerrillas attacked a Union Army detachment. - Baxter Springs has a rich history of mining, with lead and zinc being the primary minerals extracted in the area.

Interesting People

- Harry E. Yarnell, a prominent admiral in the United States Navy, was born in Baxter Springs. - Brad Pitt, the famous actor, has ancestral ties to Baxter Springs.

Top Attractions in Baxter Springs

- Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum - Riverside Park - Baxter Springs Cemetery - Decades of Wheels Museum

Top Attractions Nearby

- Route 66 Vintage Iron Motorcycle Museum in Miami, Oklahoma - Downstream Casino Resort in Quapaw, Oklahoma - George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond, Missouri

Population History

The population of Baxter Springs has fluctuated over the years. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of approximately 4,000 residents.

Geography

Baxter Springs is located in the southeastern corner of Kansas, near the borders of Missouri and Oklahoma. The city is situated along Spring River, providing scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Economy

The economy of Baxter Springs is primarily driven by agriculture, mining, and tourism. The city's proximity to Route 66 and historical landmarks attracts tourists from all over the country, boosting the local economy.

Culture

Baxter Springs has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Native American, European, and African American influences. The city hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its diverse history and traditions.

Notable Landmarks

- Historic Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station - Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station - Fort Blair Historic Site

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