Few People Know This Small Town In Kansas Is The Halfway Point Of The Contiguous 48 States

There are a surprising number of ways you can divide up the United States into two. One method is to take the 48 contiguous states (this method excludes the distant Hawaii and Alaska) and find the halfway point of those. When measured by that technique, do you know where is the middle of the United States? Drum roll please... you guessed it, Kansas! The little town of Lebanon is so small it's barely a blip on a map, but it's got the honor of being the Halfway Point of the Contiguous 48 States.

The population of Lebanon hovers right around 300 people. The town is less than half a square mile in area.

This small town in Kansas was founded in 1876, and a decade later, moved about four miles away to where it is today.

Since then, Hawaii and Alaska have become states, so technically, Lebanon lost its status as the true center.

That title now goes to Belle Fourche, South Dakota. However, Lebanon is still the official answer to the question, "Where is the middle of the United States?" when talking about the contiguous states.

Interestingly, Lebanon had already made history once before!

In February 1908, the temperature there dropped to -40 °F, which is still the lowest temperature ever recorded in Kansas.

Lebanon has a small plaque marking its status as the center of the United States.

Its a great spot to stop and take a photo to add to your travel memories book.

The nearby visitor's center is also a great place to stop. It's got some information about the history of the town.

While you're downtown, make sure to check out the historic jail and local shops. Many of them sell souvenirs advertising Lebanon's claim to fame.

The adorably small "U.S. Center Chapel" is not technically right at the center point of the country, but it's nearby.

As churches go, it's definitely worth a peek while you're in the area!

Have you ever been to Lebanon? If so, what were your favorite parts? Were you aware of its claim to fame as the center of the contiguous states? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

To take a look at another interesting small town in Kansas, read this article about Baxter Springs.

If you’re still in the mood for more Sunflowerr State adventures, take a look at this video: