Mulvane, KS
County: Sumner
History
Mulvane is a city located in Sedgwick and Sumner counties in the state of Kansas, United States. The city was founded in 1879 as a railroad town by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. It was named after Joab Mulvane, a Santa Fe Railroad official.
During its early years, Mulvane served as an important transportation hub with the railroad playing a significant role in the city's growth. The railway brought new settlers, businesses, and opportunities to the area. The town quickly developed a commercial district and became a center of trade for the surrounding agricultural community.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Mulvane experienced steady growth and development. The city saw the establishment of various services, including schools, churches, and a post office. In 1881, Mulvane became an incorporated city.
Throughout the 20th century, Mulvane continued to flourish, attracting industries such as oil refining, manufacturing, and agriculture. The city's location on the outskirts of the Wichita metropolitan area contributed to its growth. Mulvane also became known for hosting popular events like the Mulvane Old Settlers Day celebration, which began in 1878 and is one of the oldest continuously held harvest festivals in Kansas.
In recent years, Mulvane has experienced a surge in residential and commercial growth, with an increasing number of people choosing to make the city their home. The population has steadily grown, and the city continues to evolve as a vibrant community.
Mulvane is also home to the Kansas Star Casino, a major entertainment venue that attracts visitors from across the region. The casino has contributed to the city's economic growth and increased tourism.
Overall, Mulvane's history is closely tied to its association with the railroad, its function as a transportation hub, and its agricultural heritage. The city's growth and development have made it an important part of the region's history and a thriving community in present times.
Attractions
Kansas Star Casino
A popular gaming and entertainment venue featuring slot machines, table games, live poker, and live entertainment events.
Sumner County Historical and Genealogical Center
A museum and research center showcasing the history and culture of Sumner County, with exhibits on Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and local industries.
Wild West World
A theme park that offers family-friendly rides, live entertainment, and cowboy-themed games and activities.
Kansas Wildlife Exhibit
A wildlife sanctuary and educational center where visitors can see various species of animals native to Kansas, including bears, mountain lions, and birds of prey.
Kansas National Guard Museum
A military museum that honors the history and contributions of the Kansas National Guard, featuring exhibits on weapons, uniforms, vehicles, and the role of the guard in Kansas history.
Mulvane Old Settlers Festival
An annual event held in August that celebrates the town's pioneer heritage with live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, carnival rides, and a parade.
Lake Afton Park
A scenic park and recreational area with a lake for boating and fishing, hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a campground.
Mulvane Sports Complex
A sports complex featuring multiple baseball and softball fields, soccer fields, and a disc golf course.
Mulvane Mural Project
A series of outdoor murals painted by local artists that showcase the town's history and culture, located around the downtown area.
Swanson Park
A community park with playgrounds, sports courts, walking trails, and a swimming pool.
Climate
The climate of Mulvane, Kansas is classified as a humid subtropical climate. It experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.
Summers in Mulvane are typically hot and humid. The average high temperature in July, the hottest month, is in the low 90s Fahrenheit (32-34 degrees Celsius), but it can occasionally reach the upper 90s (around 37 degrees Celsius) or even exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) during heatwaves. Humidity levels can be high, making the heat feel more intense. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, which can bring heavy rainfall and occasional severe weather.
Autumns in Mulvane are mild and pleasant. The temperatures gradually cool down through the season, with average highs in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 24 degrees Celsius) in October, dropping to the low 50s Fahrenheit (around 10 degrees Celsius) by November. The region experiences beautiful fall foliage as the leaves change color, making it a popular time for outdoor activities.
Winters in Mulvane are cold but relatively moderate compared to some northern states. Average high temperatures in December and January range from the upper 30s to the low 40s Fahrenheit (around 4-7 degrees Celsius), with occasional drops below freezing. Snowfall is typical during winter months, but amounting to only a few inches on average. However, cold snaps and occasional ice storms can occur, leading to hazardous conditions.
Springs in Mulvane are mild and comfortable. March and April see average high temperatures in the 60s Fahrenheit (around 15-20 degrees Celsius), gradually rising to the 70s Fahrenheit (around 21-26 degrees Celsius) in May. The area experiences a significant amount of rainfall during the spring months, which contributes to the region's lush greenery.
Overall, Mulvane, Kansas has a climate that experiences all four seasons. However, it is characterized by hot and often humid summers, pleasant autumns, mild winters with occasional snowfall, and comfortable springs.
Neighborhoods
Mulvane, KS is a small city located in Sumner County, Kansas. While it doesn't have distinct neighborhoods in the traditional sense, there are a few notable areas within the city:
Downtown Mulvane
The heart of the city, the downtown area features a mix of commercial and residential spaces. It is home to a variety of local businesses, shops, and restaurants. The Main Street area is known for its quaint charm and historical buildings.
Prairie Hills
Located on the eastern side of Mulvane, Prairie Hills is a residential neighborhood featuring single-family homes on spacious lots. The area offers a suburban feel with a peaceful atmosphere. It is popular among families and individuals seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Westview
Situated on the western side of Mulvane, Westview is another residential neighborhood that primarily consists of single-family homes. Similar to Prairie Hills, it offers a suburban setting and is suitable for families and those who appreciate a sense of community.
South Mulvane
South Mulvane is an area located in the southern part of the city. It is home to several parks, including the Mulvane Sports Complex, which features baseball and softball fields. Residents of South Mulvane enjoy easy access to recreational activities and outdoor spaces.
Industrial Area
Mulvane has an industrial area located on the outskirts of the city. It includes various manufacturing and industrial facilities, providing employment opportunities for local residents.
Overall, Mulvane, KS offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces in a small-town setting. It is known for its friendly community, affordable housing, and close-knit atmosphere.