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Newton, KS

Frequently asked questions

Newton, KS

Newton is a city in and the county seat of Harvey County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 18,602. Newton is located 25 miles (40 km) north of Wichita. The city of North Newton is located immediately north and exists as a separate political entity. Newton is located at the intersection of Interstate 135, U.S. Route 50, and U.S. Route 81 highways.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 12.60 square miles (32.63 km²), all of it land. The city is in the central portion of the continental United States. U.S. Highway 81, also known as the Meridian Highway, stretches from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to Mexico City, Mexico through Central and South America. It passes through Newton, Kansas, and is known as "Main Street." U.S. Highway 50 runs past the White House in Washington, DC through Newton, Kansas, and continues to Sacramento, California.

For millennia, the land now known as Kansas was inhabited by Native Americans. In 1803, most of modern Kansas was secured by the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase. In 1854, the Kansas Territory was organized, then in 1861 Kansas became the 34th U.S. state. In 1872, Harvey County was founded.

In 1871, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway extended a main line from Emporia westward to Newton by July 1871. The town soon became an important railroad shipping point for Texas cattle. The city was founded in 1871 and named after Newton, Massachusetts, home of some of the Santa Fe stockholders.

In August 1871, there was a Gunfight at Hide Park, in which a total of eight men were killed. The incident began with an argument between two local lawmen, Billy Bailey and Mike McCluskie. Because of this incident, Newton became known as "bloody and lawless—the wickedest city in the West.".

In 1872, the western terminal for the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway and the railhead for the Chisholm Trail were established here. Shortly after the incorporation of the city in 1872, the Newton city council passed an ordinance prohibiting the running at large of buffalo and other wild animals.

On February 25, 2016, Newton was the site of the first of several related shooting incidents, which culminated in a mass shooting at an Excel Industries building in nearby Hesston that left three people dead and twelve others injured. The shooter, identified as Excel employee Cedric Larry Ford, was then killed by a responding police officer.

Newton places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, with multiple healthcare facilities catering to the community. The Newton Medical Center is a leading healthcare provider, offering a range of medical services and specialized care. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Newton 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 Get ATC Fit, Newton YMCA, and Faith & Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Newton, such as the Osage Nature Trail and Sand Creek Trail. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

The top Sites in Newton, KS are Kauffman Museum, Warkentin House, and Harvey County Historical Society.

Population: 18,602 (2020). ZIP Code: 67114. Area code: 316. Elevation: 1,434 ft (437 m). Area: 14.57 sq mi (37.73 km²).

FAQs

What is the crime rate in Newton, KS?

With a crime rate of 33 per one thousand residents, Newton has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 30. Within Kansas, more than 95% of the communities have a lower crime rate than Newton.

What is the nickname for Newton, KS?

During these days, Newton was filled with tales rivaled only by Dodge City and was called the “wickedest city in the west.” During this rowdy year as a Kansas cowtown, about 600,000 head of cattle were driven up the trail, and Newton became extremely rowdy. The popular gathering spot was Hyde Park, located south of the railroad tracks and west of Main Street.

Is Newton, KS a good place to live?

Living in Newton offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Newton, there are a lot of parks. Many families and young professionals live in Newton and residents tend to lean conservative.

Sources

Wikipedia 

City of Newton

Newton Medical Center 

Newton Parks and Recreation Department 

Get ATC Fit

Newton YMCA 

Faith & Fitness

Osage Nature Trail 

Sand Creek Trail

Kauffman Museum

Warkentin House

Harvey County Historical Society

Neighborhood Scout

Legends of Kansas

Niche

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