Ellsworth was known as a cow town in the 1870's.when the Kansas Pacific Railroad operated a stock yard here for shipping cattleto eastern markets. It was once called the "Wickedest Cowtown In Kansas". The city was named Fort Ellsworth which was built in 1864. Due to speculation on imminent railroad construction, the population of Ellsworth boomed to over 2,000 by the time it was incorporated in 1867. It has since been said, "Abilene" the first, "Dodge City", the last, and "Ellsworth" the wickedest. During the 1860's and into the 1870's, Ellsworth was known for being the "wickedest" cattle town in Kansas because of the numerous killings followng shootouts between drunken cowboys. The town sported numerous saloons,brothels and gambling halls with prostitution being rampant.
James Butler Hickock , better known as "Wild Bill Hickock" ran for Ellsworth County Sheriff in 1868. Lawman "Wyatt Earp" served in Ellsworth, Kansas for a short time. And General George Armstrung Custer was stationed here at Fort Ellsworth in the 1860's when it was built.
At this site you will find 3 billboards of interest about the history of Ellsworth, Kansas.
Congratulations to rgourley for FTF!!!