Ellis County, Kansas lies in the western portion of Kansas, halfway between the cities of Denver, Colorado and Kansas City, Missouri. Ellis County serves as an important regional hub of commerce, with Interstate 70 and US Highway 40 bisecting the region. The city of Hays is the bustling county seat, a lively community that reflects the many exciting changes occurring in Kansas.

Census 2000 reported Ellis County's population as 27,060. Hays is the most populated city, with more than 20,000 residents. The cities of Ellis and Victoria each hold less than 2,000 people, and stand out as tightly knit communities that honor family values. Other towns in Ellis County include Antonino, Hog Back, Yocemento, and Schoenchen. The region averages over 300 sunny days per year, 22 inches of summer rainfall, and 20 inches of snow each year make for low humidity and crisp, clean air.

Western Kansas was settled after the end of the Civil War, when railroads expanded into the region. Fort Hays was built where the county seat is today, to help protect settlers from Indians. The town grew around the fort, beginning its life as a collection of saloons and dance halls. Today, Ellis County prides itself in having one of the lowest crime rates in the state, but when it began, it was one of the most violent and lawless areas on the Kansas frontier. Legends like Wild Bill Hickock and Calamity Jane lived here. The famous Boot Hill cemetery was located in Hays, not Dodge City, though many other towns carried on the tradition. Ellis County celebrates its colorful western history in events such as the Wild West Festival and Old Fort Hays Days.

Ellis County settlers were largely of Volga German descent, and that influence can be seen today in the wonderful architecture of the many churches and buildings remaining. The magnificent St. Fidelis Church in Victoria, known as the "Cathedral of the Plains", is one outstanding example. County residents honor these ethnic roots each year during Oktoberfest, one of the largest events of its kind in the Midwest.

Northwest Kansas is famed for being the "Pheasant Capitol of the World". Ellis County is a Mecca for hunters and sportsmen. Dove, quail, turkey deer and antelope are prevalent throughout the region. The Cedar Bluff Reservoir and Lake Wilson are two excellent fishing spots within Ellis County. Bass, bluegill and catfish abound here.

Ellis County, Kansas maintains an outstanding quality of life. With a low cost of living, affordable housing and lower than average utility rates, citizens have more time to enjoy the wonderful natural resources around them. Community spirit runs high here, and residents look forward to future growth with a keen eye toward protecting their standard of living.

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