Barton County History
Barton County was established February 26, 1867, and was named for Clara Harlowe Barton. Barton helped to provide medical supplies to soldiers during the Civil War and founded the American Red Cross in 1881.
The first courthouse was built in 1873. It was made of brick and the corners were made of cut stone. In 1918 a new courthouse was needed. The new classical style building was built of white stone blocks and trimmed marble. The building boasts arched upper windows and six ionic columns on each side of the building. In 1952 the steps were removed and two ground floor entrances were made.
According to records, the first marriage in the county was performed on November 28, 1872. The first baby was born October 2, 1871. The first death occurred in January of 1872. The first court session was held in April of 1873. Built in 1873, School District No. 1 was the first public school in Barton County.
Barton County, Kansas 1887 Map