Coffeyville, KS
County: Montgomery
History
Coffeyville, Kansas is a city located in Montgomery County in the southeastern part of the state. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century when it was first settled by European American pioneers in the 1850s.
The town was founded in 1869 and named after Colonel James A. Coffey, who was an early settler and surveyor in the area. It was officially incorporated as a city in 1872. Coffeyville quickly grew and developed as a trading center, thanks to its advantageous location along the Verdigris River.
In the late 19th century, Coffeyville experienced a significant economic boom as it became an important center for oil production. The discovery of oil in nearby fields brought rapid growth and prosperity to the city. Many oil companies, refineries, and related industries were established in Coffeyville, leading to a surge in population and economic activity.
However, Coffeyville is perhaps best known for the Dalton Gang's failed bank robbery that took place on October 5, 1892. The Dalton Gang, a notorious group of outlaws, attempted to rob two banks simultaneously in Coffeyville. The robbery turned into a violent shootout with law enforcement, resulting in the deaths of eight people, including four of the outlaws. The Dalton Gang's failed attempt and subsequent capture gained national attention and are still remembered as one of the most notable events in Coffeyville's history.
Throughout the 20th century, Coffeyville continued to be an important industrial and agricultural hub. The city's economy diversified with the establishment of other industries, including manufacturing and petrochemicals. Today, Coffeyville remains an important center for oil refining and has a mixed economy, with industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare.
Coffeyville has also preserved its history through various museums and landmarks. The Dalton Defenders Museum, located in the original Condon Bank building where the robbery took place, provides insight into the infamous historical event. The Brown Mansion, a stunning example of Georgian Renaissance Revival architecture, showcases the grandeur of early 20th-century affluent life. Both attractions offer visitors a glimpse into the city's past.
Overall, Coffeyville's history revolves around its growth as a trading center, the oil boom of the late 19th century, and the infamous Dalton Gang robbery. Today, the city continues to thrive and celebrate its rich heritage while looking toward a promising future.
Attractions
Brown Mansion
A historic mansion built in 1904 that offers guided tours showcasing the grand architecture and luxurious interior.
Dalton Defenders Museum
Depicting the infamous Dalton Gang's attempted robbery of the Condon Bank in 1892, this museum displays artifacts, pictures, and information about the event.
Perkins Building
This landmark building is known for housing the first Walsh Hotel, with various shops and restaurants occupying it now.
Coffeyville Aquatic Center
A water park featuring slides, pools, and a lazy river for both kids and adults to enjoy in the hot summer months.
Veterans Memorial Stadium
A sports stadium hosting high school football games and other community events.
Empire District Electric Company
A power plant offering guided tours to educate visitors about the process of generating electricity.
Coffeyville Historical Museum
Showcasing the rich history of Coffeyville through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts.
The Yesteryear Museum
An eclectic collection of antique cars, vintage motorcycles, and other memorabilia celebrating the golden age of transportation.
The Play Station
An indoor family entertainment center featuring miniature golf, arcade games, and go-karts.
Coffeyville Country Club
A golf course providing a scenic and challenging experience for golf enthusiasts.
Climate
Coffeyville, Kansas experiences a humid subtropical climate. The area has four distinct seasons, with hot and humid summers and relatively mild winters.
Summer in Coffeyville is characterized by high temperatures, with average highs ranging from the mid-80s Fahrenheit (29-32°C) in June to the mid-90s Fahrenheit (32-35°C) in July and August. It is also a relatively wet season, with occasional thunderstorms and an average of around 40 inches (102 centimeters) of annual rainfall. Summers can be muggy, with high humidity levels.
Fall in Coffeyville sees temperatures gradually cooling down, with average highs in the 70s Fahrenheit (21-26°C) in September, dropping to the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit (4-15°C) by November. It is a transition period characterized by mild temperatures, changing foliage colors, and occasional rainfall.
Winters in Coffeyville are generally mild, although cold spells can occur. Average highs range from the 30s to 40s Fahrenheit (-1 to 9°C), with occasional drops to below freezing temperatures. Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average annual accumulation of around 15 inches (38 centimeters). However, snowstorms are usually not severe and tend to melt relatively quickly due to the mild temperatures.
Spring in Coffeyville sees temperatures gradually warming up, with average highs in the 60s Fahrenheit (15-21°C) in March, increasing to the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit (21-32°C) in May. It is a season of blooming flowers, occasional showers, and increasing humidity levels.
Overall, Coffeyville, Kansas has a pleasant climate with a mix of hot summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Coffeyville, Kansas is a small city located in Montgomery County. While it is not a large city, there are several distinct neighborhoods that make up the community. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Coffeyville:
Downtown
The heart of Coffeyville, the downtown area is a mix of historic buildings, local businesses, and government offices. It is home to Main Street, where you can find shops, restaurants, and the town square. The downtown area has a charming small-town feel and is the focal point for community events and festivals.
Fairview
Located in the northern part of Coffeyville, Fairview is primarily a residential neighborhood. It is known for its well-maintained homes and tree-lined streets. Fairview is a family-friendly area with parks, playgrounds, and a community swimming pool. The neighborhood is also home to Fairview Elementary School.
Elm Grove
Elm Grove is located on the eastern side of Coffeyville. It is a mixed residential and commercial area. Elm Grove features a variety of housing options, including apartment complexes, single-family homes, and manufactured housing communities. It is also home to several small businesses and restaurants.
Field Kindley
Field Kindley is a neighborhood named after the local high school. It is located in the southeastern part of Coffeyville. The area includes residential streets as well as areas with larger properties and rural homes. Field Kindley High School, a public school with a strong athletic program, is a focal point of the neighborhood.
West Coffeyville
Located just across the state line in Oklahoma, West Coffeyville is technically a separate town but is considered part of the Coffeyville community. It is a small and rural area with a mix of residential and agricultural properties. West Coffeyville has its own school district and is home to Dearing Christian Church, which is a significant landmark in the area.
These are just a few of the neighborhoods that make up Coffeyville, Kansas. Each area offers its own unique features and amenities, creating a diverse and close-knit community.