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Derby, KS

Frequently asked questions

Derby, KS

Derby is a city in Sedgwick County, Kansas, United States, and the largest suburb of Wichita. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 25,625.

Derby is located at 37°33′9″N 97°15′41″W (37.552407, -97.261492). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 9.60 square miles (24.86 km²), of which 9.56 square miles (24.76 km²) is land and 0.04 square miles (0.10 km²) is water.

For many millennia, the Great Plains of North America were inhabited by Native Americans. From the 16th century to the 18th century, the Kingdom of France claimed ownership of large parts of North America. In 1762, after the French and Indian War, France secretly ceded New France to Spain, per the Treaty of Fontainebleau.

In 1802, Spain returned most of the land to France. In 1803, most of the land for modern-day Kansas was acquired by the United States from France as part of the 828,000 square miles (2,140,000 km²) Louisiana Purchase for 2.83 cents per acre.

In 1854, the Kansas Territory was organized, then in 1861 Kansas became the 34th U.S. state. In 1867, Sedgwick County was established within the state of Kansas, which included the land for modern-day Derby.

In 1870, settlers John Haufbauer and J.H. Minich built the first houses, smithies, and general stores on the site that would become Derby. In 1871, the community was named El Paso, after El Paso, Illinois, and was laid out and platted. In 1880, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway changed the name of its rail station to Derby, after railroad official C.F. Derby, to avoid confusion with El Paso, Texas.

In 1903, the city was incorporated with the name El Paso, but the city remained largely a rural community until after World War II.

The aviation industry had begun its growth in Wichita during the 1920s, and when the demands of the war required more airplanes, businesses such as Boeing, Cessna, and Beechcraft flourished. Boeing was located a few miles north of the city, which provided a close place for workers to live. Throughout the Cold War, Boeing maintained military contracts and kept jobs nearby. In 1952, the Air Force took over Wichita Municipal Airport and founded McConnell Air Force Base between Wichita and Derby. Many airmen found homes in Derby when space on base became occupied. From 1950 to 1956, the city population grew from 432 to approximately 5000 people. In 1956, the city's name was officially changed to Derby.

Health and wellness are fundamental to Derby's community ethos, with several healthcare facilities contributing to the well-being of residents. Notably, Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital plays a central role in providing comprehensive medical services. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Derby Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Planet Fitness and G&G Training. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Derby, such as the High Park Loop and Crane Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and the enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Derby, KS are Rock River Rapids Aquatic Park, Derby Historical Museum, and Field Station: Dinosaurs.

Population: 26,604 (2024). ZIP code: 67037. Area code: 316. Elevation: 1,293 ft (394 m). Area: 10.32 sq mi (26.74 km²).

FAQs

When did Derby, KS change its name?

Gradually, residents began to call the town Derby. The town of about 300 was formally incorporated on June 1, 1903. The town continued to be named El Paso until 1956 when the name was officially changed to Derby.

How many parks are in Derby, KS?

Derby is well-known for its extensive park system. Our parks staff manages more than 500 acres of parkland, 20 developed parks, and 14 green spaces, including playground structures and a variety of equipment and landscaping. Decarsky Park, Derby's newest park, features a dog park and four softball/youth baseball diamonds.

Is Derby, KS a good place to live?

Derby is in Sedgwick County and is one of the best places to live in Kansas. Living in Derby offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Many families and young professionals live in Derby and residents tend to lean conservative. The public schools in Derby are above average.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Derby

Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital

Derby Parks and Recreation Department

Planet Fitness 

G&G Training

High Park Loop 

Crane Park

Rock River Rapids Aquatic Park

Derby Historical Museum

Field Station: Dinosaurs

Derby KS

Niche 

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