About Wellsville
Wellsville, Kansas, is a small community (population about 1800) in the heartland of the nation. We boast a "proud past and a growing future". Tree-shrouded houses and a charming brick Main Street attest to its longevity. The City of Wellsville dates back to 1870, when a Mr. Wells, who was a surveyor for the Santa Fe Railroad, encouraged growth and development of the area. The City was incorporated on July 8, 1884. In years past, the primary source of income was derived from agriculture; however, that has gradually changed. In addition to farming and ranching, we now have a large portion of our population that commutes to jobs in the Kansas City area. Wellsville is the home of the famous artist, Grandma Layton, and of award-winning Nashville singer, Chely Wright. For more information visit:
Its location is one of the perks of living in Wellsville. Situated on I-35, we are only 20 minutes from the Kansas City metropolitan area and all it has to offer. If you are a college sports fan (or have one in your household), plan on catching a game at the University of Kansas, which is only 30 minutes away, or at Kansas State University, about a two- hour drive. Within 15 minutes are two private colleges: Baker University (Methodist) and Ottawa University (Baptist). Johnson County Community College in Olathe and Neosho County Community College in Ottawa are also convenient to attend. All of these fine schools provide great opportunities to either attain a degree or for continuing education, as well as a myriad of other sport and cultural attractions. For you boating, camping and fishing enthusiasts, we can recommend four lakes, none of which exceed 45 minutes away.
Wellsville is located in Franklin County, and is in a position for rapid expansion. Three of the surrounding counties, Douglas, Johnson, and Miami, are already some of the fastest growing in the state. We are bracing for the nearby addition of a facility by the Burlington Northern Railroad, which should result in the influx of thousands of people to the area. Many families are already attracted to Wellsville, as developments spring up to meet the demands of housing. Fortunately, our city and school officials are thinking about the future and are working to ready us for continued growth.
Our business district includes the usual: banks, grocery store, service stations, insurance agencies, doctor and dentist offices, barber and beauty shops, drug store and car wash. Additionally, we have veterinarians, real estate offices, restaurants, auto body shop, auto sales, library, machine shop, moving company, funeral home, swimming pool, exercise facility, and five Protestant churches. Fortunately, several exceptional hospitals are close, including Olathe Medical Center, Lawrence Memorial and Ransom Memorial.
We offer ample opportunity for community involvement. There are approximately 12 organizations for adults in participate in, involving a wide range of interests. Youth can join the Scouting programs, 4-H, or a variety of sporting teams, sponsored by the Wellsville Recreation Commission.
Obviously, Wellsville has much to recommend itself. From its early agricultural roots, Wellsville has developed and espoused small-town rural values while having the conveniences of being near a large metropolitan area. This "small town" atmosphere is appealing to many parents with young families. The community is experiencing steady growth at this time, and is situated to continue this trend. Recreational and cultural opportunities are easily accessed; another boon for the town. All in all, Wellsville is a great place to live!