Once Described As The Most Important City In The Area, Neosho Falls Is Now A Ghost Town In Kansas

There are many towns and cities scattered around the Sunflower State that have an interesting story. Some of these locations have turned into thriving, bustling communities, while others have become ghost towns. Neosho Falls is one small town that was once referred to as the most important city in the area, but today, it is a ghost town in Kansas.

Settlers first arrived at the area in 1857. They built a dam across the Neosho River, creating small falls. This is where Neosho Falls receives its name.

Over the next several years, more settlers moved into the area. Neosho Falls quickly became a bustling town with a post office, cabins, a hotel, and various businesses. A newspaper was started in the area, and several churches and a schoolhouse were also built.

In 1867, Neosho Falls became the county seat of Woodson County.

However, over the years, elections would be held to move the county seat. In 1873, a final election was held that moved the county seat to Yates Center, which is where it has remained. Pictured above are the ruins of the old courthouse in Neosho Falls.

The small town continued to grow due to new businesses, banks, the railroad, oil, and more. In the early 1900s, Neosho Falls was known as one of the most important towns in the area.

However, over the years, this booming community soon began to dwindle.

Advancements in technology, the Great Depression, and changes to the railroad caused many Neosho Falls residents to look elsewhere to make a successful living. Throughout the years, multiple calamities struck the small town including several floods that destroyed much of the area and caused thousands of dollars in damage.

Today, you can visit Neosho Falls and what is left standing in this community.

The peak population of Neosho Falls was once approximately 1,200 individuals and today, it is just over 100 residents. There are only a handful of businesses and facilities still in the area. The post office, for example, is one feature of this town that has remained throughout the years.

Have you ever visited Neosho Falls? If so, we’d love to hear more about your trip to this ghost town in Kansas.

If you are looking for creepy places to visit around the Sunflower State, check out our creepy road trip in Kansas.