Larned, KS

Larned is a city located in Pawnee County, Kansas, United States. It was named after General Benjamin F. Larned, who was stationed at Fort Larned, a historic military outpost located nearby. The city has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century.

Larned was originally settled in 1859 by Colonel Stephen Johnson and was initially known as "Greer." The settlement was strategically located on the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route connecting Missouri to the Southwest. This made Larned an important stopover point for settlers, traders, and military personnel traveling through the region.

In 1859, the United States Army established Fort Larned a few miles southwest of the settlement. The fort was built to protect settlers and travelers from Native American attacks as tensions grew in the region. Fort Larned quickly became a vital supply base for the Army and played a significant role in the Indian Wars of the late 19th century.

As the settlement grew around the fort, it was officially incorporated as the city of Larned on October 21, 1873. Throughout the late 19th century, Larned grew as a center for trade and agriculture. The railroad arrived in the city in 1886, further boosting its growth and economic development.

Larned also played a role in the education sector. In 1882, the State Insane Asylum was established in the city, leading to the creation of the Larned State Hospital, a psychiatric hospital that is still operational today.

Over the years, Larned has faced challenges, including the devastation caused by the Great Flood of 1900, which led to the construction of a levee system to protect the city from future floods. The community has also experienced economic ups and downs, with fluctuations in agriculture, oil, and natural gas industries impacting the local economy.

Today, Larned continues to thrive as a small but vibrant city in Kansas. It is known for its historic sites, including Fort Larned National Historic Site, which preserves the remains of the former military post. The city also celebrates its heritage with various events and festivals, including the Santa Fe Trail Days, which commemorates its role in the westward expansion.

Overall, Larned's history is deeply intertwined with the development of the American West, from its early days as a frontier settlement to its growth as a trade hub and military outpost.

Fort Larned National Historic Site

A well-preserved 19th-century military fort that offers guided tours and exhibits.

Pawnee County Historical Museum

Showcasing the history of Pawnee County through various artifacts, photographs, and exhibits.

Santa Fe Trail Center

A museum dedicated to the history of the Santa Fe Trail, including interactive displays and artifacts.

Central States Scout Museum

Highlighting the history of scouting with a collection of uniforms, badges, and memorabilia.

Larned State Hospital Complex

A historic psychiatric hospital with architecturally significant buildings and grounds.

Jordaan Memorial Library

A Carnegie library that features a beautiful façade and a collection of books.

Wetlands Education Center

A nature reserve and educational facility that offers bird watching, fishing, and nature trails.

Santa Fe Trail Park

A scenic park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.

Central Kansas Threshing Days

An annual event that celebrates the area's agricultural heritage with antique farm equipment demonstrations, tractor pulls, and more.

Fort Larned Lions Club Rodeo

A popular rodeo event held annually in Larned, featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and other rodeo competitions.

Larned, Kansas experiences a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summers in Larned are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the 90s°F (32-35°C), and occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures into the 100s°F (38-40°C) range. Thunderstorms are quite common during the summer, providing much-needed rain for the area.

Winters in Larned are cold and often accompanied by snow. Average high temperatures in winter range from the 30s°F (around 0-5°C) to the 40s°F (4-9°C), while overnight lows can drop below freezing, averaging in the 20s°F (-1 to -6°C). Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average of around 14 inches (36 cm) of snow per year.

Spring and autumn tend to be mild and pleasant in Larned. Spring brings warmer temperatures, with highs in the 50s°F (around 10-15°C) to 70s°F (21-27°C), and occasional rain showers. Autumn brings cooler temperatures, with average highs ranging from the 50s°F (around 10-15°C) to the 70s°F (21-27°C), and beautiful foliage colors.

Overall, Larned, KS experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with hot summers, cold winters, and mild springs and autumns. It is recommended to be prepared for the sometimes extreme weather conditions when visiting or living in Larned.

Larned, Kansas is a small city located in Pawnee County. While it is relatively compact, Larned does have a few distinct neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Larned:

Downtown Larned

The heart of the city, downtown Larned, is where you'll find historic buildings, local businesses, and restaurants. This area offers a charming small-town feel, with tree-lined streets and a friendly atmosphere. It is the hub of community activities and events.

Northside

The Northside neighborhood is mainly residential, with a mix of older and newer homes. It is a quieter area compared to downtown but still provides easy access to amenities and schools. Many families and retirees choose to live in this area.

Eastside

Located on the eastern side of Larned, this neighborhood offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. It contains a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. There are also several parks and green spaces in this area.

Westside

The Westside neighborhood is primarily residential, consisting of mainly single-family homes and some apartment complexes. It is a peaceful and family-friendly area, with well-maintained streets and a close-knit community feel.

Southside

The Southside of Larned is characterized by a mix of residential and industrial areas. It is home to several manufacturing plants and businesses. The neighborhoods in this area tend to be more spread out, offering larger lot sizes and a more rural feel.

Overall, the neighborhoods in Larned, KS, provide a range of housing options and amenities, catering to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you prefer a lively downtown atmosphere or a quieter residential area, you can find a suitable neighborhood in Larned.