Kansas County Seat Conflicts: The Elections, the Feuds, and the Wars

Since the establishment of Kansas Territory in 1855 well into the Twentieth Century, communities have fought over the privilege of being named the county seat. Over 60 of the state’s 105 counties have seen some attempt, successful or not, to move the county seat from first designated site. Some have been brief, like the two-month effort in Reno County. Some have been long, like the eight-decade struggle over the seat of Logan County. And some have become notorious for their violence, like the battle between Woodsdale and Hugoton in Stevens County. "Kansas County Seat Conflicts" recounts all the fights that author Robert Collins was able to document and research. There are fascinating period newspaper accounts, as well as analysis on the causes of these fights. Collins also considers what lessons can be drawn from these many and varied conflicts. This book also contains maps of the counties mentioned.