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Hesston, Kansas
Hesston, Kansas
from Wikipedia

Hesston is a city in Harvey County, Kansas, United States.[1] As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 3,505.[4] Large manufacturing facilities for AGCO (farm equipment) and Stanley Black & Decker (lawn mowers) are located in Hesston. It is home of Hesston College.

Key Information

History

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Early history

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For many millennia, the Great Plains of North America was inhabited by nomadic Native Americans. From the 16th century to 18th century, the Kingdom of France claimed ownership of large parts of North America. In 1762, after the French and Indian War, France secretly ceded New France to Spain, per the Treaty of Fontainebleau.

19th century

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1915 Railroad Map of Harvey County

In 1802, Spain returned most of the land to France. In 1803, most of the land for modern day Kansas was acquired by the United States from France as part of the 828,000 square mile Louisiana Purchase for 2.83 cents per acre.

In 1854, the Kansas Territory was organized, and in 1861, Kansas became the 34th U.S. state. In 1872, Harvey County was established within the Kansas Territory which included the land for modern day Hesston.

A post office was established as Elivon on February 10, 1873. It then moved near the current city site on April 24, 1878.[5]

In 1886, Hesston was founded and named after the Hess brothers who owned the land where a depot on the Missouri Pacific Railroad was built.[2][6] The post office was renamed to Hesston on December 16, 1887. Due to the railroad, Hesston became an important regional shipping point.[7]

20th century

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In 1909, the Mennonite Church founded the Hesston College, because many of the early settlers were Mennonite farmers.

In 1947, Lyle Yost and Adin Holdemann founded the farm equipment company Hesston Manufacturing Company.[8] In 1991, AGCO Corporation purchased the company. In 1960, John Regier founded the lawn mower company Excel Industries.[9]

In 1981, the Dyck Arboretum of the Plains was founded at the Hesston College.

On March 13, 1990, a large portion of Hesston was damaged by an F5 tornado during a tornado outbreak. A total of 226 homes and 21 businesses were destroyed, and several were swept completely from their foundations. 20 farms were torn apart in rural areas outside of Hesston. Light debris from Hesston was found 115 miles (185 km) away in Nebraska. One person died and 59 people were injured. After passing through Hesston, the tornado increased to an "extreme F5" near the city of Goessel. The severity of the damage left behind by this tornado led some meteorologists to believe that the Goessel tornado was among the strongest ever documented at that time.[10][11]

21st century

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On February 25, 2016, Hesston became the scene of a mass shooting in which three people were killed and twelve others injured at an Excel Industries building. Prior to that shooting, other shooting incidents occurred at the nearby city of Newton and also Old U.S. Route 81,[12] in which two people were wounded.[13][14] The shooter was identified as Excel employee Cedric Larry Ford, who was killed by responding police officers.[15][16]

In 2021, Stanley Black & Decker acquired Excel Industries.[17][18][19]

Geography

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According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.90 square miles (10.10 km2), all land.[20]

Climate

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The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Hesston has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.[21]

Demographics

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Historical population
CensusPop.Note
1930526
1940403−23.4%
195068670.2%
19601,10360.8%
19701,92674.6%
19803,01356.4%
19903,0120.0%
20003,50916.5%
20103,7095.7%
20203,505−5.5%
U.S. Decennial Census

2020 census

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The 2020 United States census counted 3,505 people, 1,357 households, and 945 families in Hesston.[22][23] The population density was 983.2 per square mile (379.6/km2). There were 1,454 housing units at an average density of 407.9 per square mile (157.5/km2).[23][24] The racial makeup was 90.01% (3,155) white or European American (88.53% non-Hispanic white), 1.63% (57) black or African-American, 0.6% (21) Native American or Alaska Native, 1.68% (59) Asian, 0.0% (0) Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 1.88% (66) from other races, and 4.19% (147) from two or more races.[25] Hispanic or Latino of any race was 4.59% (161) of the population.[26]

Of the 1,357 households, 30.7% had children under the age of 18; 60.0% were married couples living together; 24.1% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present. 28.3% of households consisted of individuals and 16.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.[23] The average household size was 2.4 and the average family size was 2.9.[27] The percent of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher was estimated to be 30.6% of the population.[28]

23.6% of the population was under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 21.1% from 25 to 44, 21.0% from 45 to 64, and 25.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41.9 years. For every 100 females, there were 109.1 males.[23] For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 113.6 males.[23]

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $50,644 (with a margin of error of +/- $10,797) and the median family income was $69,432 (+/- $24,126).[29] Females had a median income of $25,772 (+/- $7,009). The median income for those above 16 years old was $26,065 (+/- $10,118).[30] Approximately, 8.9% of families and 10.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.2% of those under the age of 18 and 1.8% of those ages 65 or over.[31][32]

2010 census

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As of the census[33] of 2010, there were 3,709 people, 1,345 households, and 972 families residing in the city. The population density was 951.0 inhabitants per square mile (367.2/km2). There were 1,433 housing units at an average density of 367.4 per square mile (141.9/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 92.7% White, 1.6% African American, 0.6% Native American, 1.7% Asian, 1.5% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.5% of the population.

There were 1,345 households, of which 32.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.4% were married couples living together, 7.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 27.7% were non-families. 25.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.48 and the average family size was 2.96.

The median age in the city was 37.2 years. 24.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 12.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.8% were from 25 to 44; 22.6% were from 45 to 64; and 19.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.0% male and 51.0% female.

Economy

[edit]
Hesston 5670 round baler

The two largest companies in Hesston are AGCO (Hesston Corp) and Excel Industries (Hustler).

In 1947, Lyle Yost founded the farm equipment company Hesston Manufacturing Company. In 1955, it introduced the first commercially available self-propelled windrower, then in 1967 it introduced the first hydrostatic drive windrower. In 1978, it introduced the first large square baler, then in 1988 it introduced the first totally automatically large round baler.[34] In 1974, the Hesston Company commissioned its first belt buckles,[35] which became popular on the rodeo circuit and with collectors. The company's controlling stake was sold to Italian corporation Fiat Trattori in 1977. The remainder of the company was purchased in 1987 by the same firm.[8] In 1991, the American-based equipment manufacturer AGCO Corporation purchased Hesston Corporation and later expanded the manufacturing facilities.

In 1960, John Regier founded the lawn mower company Excel Industries.[9] The company manufactures outdoor equipment, primarily Hustler and Big Dog mowers.[36] The original Hustler was the world's first twin-lever, zero-turn mower.[18] In 2021, Stanley Black & Decker acquired Excel.[17][18][19]

Government

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The Hesston government consists of a mayor and five council members. The council meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 6 pm.[37]

  • City Hall, 115 E Smith.

Arts and culture

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Parks and Recreation

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  • Eight city parks, including an 18-hole golf course,[40] disc golf course, and a dog park.[41]
  • Additional disc golf course on Hesston College campus

Education

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Mary Miller Library at Hesston College (2007)

Primary and secondary education

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The community is served by Hesston USD 460 public school district. It has three schools:

  • Hesston High School, 200 N. Ridge Road, Hesston.
  • Hesston Middle School, 100 N. Ridge Road, Hesston.
  • Hesston Elementary School, 300 E. Amos, Hesston.

College

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Media

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Print

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Newspaper

Radio

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Hesston is served by numerous radio stations of the Wichita-Hutchinson listening market area,[42] and satellite radio. See Media in Wichita, Kansas.

Television

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Hesston is served by over-the-air ATSC digital TV of the Wichita-Hutchinson viewing market area,[43] cable TV by Cox Communications, and satellite TV. See Media in Wichita, Kansas.

Infrastructure

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Transportation

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Interstate I-135 and highway US 81 pass through Hesston.

Hesston is served by a branch of the Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad operating between McPherson and Newton, where it connects to the BNSF Railway.

The Missouri Pacific Railroad formerly provided passenger rail service along a route from Eldorado to McPherson although this had ended prior to 1946.[44] As of 2025, the nearest passenger rail station is located in Newton, where Amtrak's Southwest Chief stops once daily on a route from Chicago to Los Angeles.[45]

Utilities

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Notable people

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References

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Further reading

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Hesston is a in Harvey County, central , , with an estimated 2025 population of 3,478. Incorporated in 1921, it serves as a regional hub along , located about 7 miles north of Newton and 35 miles north of Wichita. The community is defined by its strong Mennonite heritage, educational institutions, and manufacturing economy, reflecting a history of agricultural innovation and faith-based settlement. Founded in 1886 by the on land owned by the Hess family, Hesston quickly developed as a railroad town amid the influx of Mennonite settlers in the Halstead-Hesston area during the late . These settlers, many fleeing in and , brought farming expertise and established a lasting Anabaptist presence that influenced the city's culture, architecture, and social values. In 1909, the Mennonite Church founded Hesston College, a two-year liberal arts institution that opened on September 22 and continues to emphasize faith-integrated , attracting students from diverse backgrounds including international enrollees. Hesston's economy centers on advanced , with the operating its largest North American facility in the city since acquiring Hesston Corporation in 1991; the plant employs over 1,400 people and produces hay and forage equipment, though recent adjustments including 2024 layoffs have addressed softening demand. Other major employers include Excel Industries (a subsidiary of ), contributing to a of $72,620 as of 2023 and a low rate of 6.26%. The city's 3.90 square miles encompass residential neighborhoods, parks, and commercial districts, supported by excellent including a Class 3 fire rating and proximity to major highways.

History

Early history and founding

The land comprising present-day Hesston, Kansas, was originally part of the ancestral territories of Native American tribes including the Kaw (also known as Kansa) and Osage, who inhabited the region for centuries prior to European contact. These lands were acquired by the through the in 1803, which transferred approximately 828,000 square miles from to American control, encompassing what would become . Subsequent treaties, such as the separate 1825 treaties with the Osage and Kaw nations, ceded much of this territory to the U.S. government, facilitating white settlement in the mid-19th century as part of broader territorial expansions in after its organization as a territory in 1854. A post office named Elivon was established on February 10, 1873, in the rural area north of the future town site, serving early homesteaders in what was then part of McPherson County before Harvey County's boundaries were finalized. The community's development accelerated with the arrival of the railroad; in 1886, the Missouri Pacific Railroad extended its line through Harvey County, prompting the platting of Hesston as a town. Brothers Abraham L. Hess and Amos Hess, local landowners of Mennonite descent, donated the site for the railroad depot, leading to the town's naming in their honor and its establishment as a key shipping point for regional agriculture. The Elivon post office was relocated southward and renamed Hesston on December 16, 1887, solidifying the new settlement's identity. Hesston was incorporated as a of the third class on May 12, 1921, under Kansas law for municipalities with populations under 2,000, marking its formal transition from a railroad village to a governed community. From the onward, Mennonite settlers played a central role in the area's early growth, drawn by 's fertile prairie soils and establishing farms focused on , corn, and production that formed the economic backbone of the community. This agricultural emphasis reflected broader Mennonite migration patterns to central during the late , where families emphasized communal farming and pacifist values amid the post-Civil homestead boom.

20th century developments

In 1909, Hesston College was established by Mennonite leaders T. M. Erb and A. L. Hess as Hesston Academy and School, initially serving as a preparatory focused on training to support Mennonite communities west of the . The school opened on September 22 with 21 students and quickly expanded its curriculum, adding college-level courses by 1915 and offering four-year bachelor's degrees from 1918 to 1927. Following a directive from the Mennonite , the discontinued bachelor's programs in 1927; it had adopted a junior college organization in 1925 and fully transitioned thereafter, earning accreditation from the Kansas and the . It has since emphasized liberal arts education within a Mennonite framework. The establishment of Hesston Manufacturing Corporation in 1947 marked a pivotal shift toward industrial development, founded by local and inventor Lyle Yost along with partners Adin Holdeman and Elmer Berner to produce innovative farm equipment. Initially focused on attachments like the unloading auger to improve hay harvesting efficiency, the company specialized in haying machinery by the , renaming to Hesston Manufacturing in 1956 and introducing self-propelled swathers that revolutionized . This growth attracted workers and spurred economic expansion, contributing to population increases from 403 residents in 1940 to 686 in 1950 and 1,103 by 1960, as jobs drew families to the area. By the mid-20th century, Hesston had evolved from a small agricultural settlement into a hub, with the corporation becoming a leading U.S. producer of hay equipment. On March 13, 1990, an F5 struck Hesston, causing one death, injuring 60 people, and inflicting significant property damage estimated at $25 million across Harvey County. The storm destroyed or severely damaged 226 homes and 21 businesses, with about 90 homes deemed beyond repair and 30 completely leveled, though the community's resilience led to rapid rebuilding efforts.

21st century events

On February 25, 2016, a occurred at Excel Industries in Hesston, where employee Cedric Ford opened fire, killing two coworkers and injuring 14 others before being killed by police in a . The incident began earlier that day with random shootings in nearby Newton, escalating to the workplace rampage at the manufacturing plant. The community responded with unity and grief, holding vigils and support gatherings, as residents emphasized compassion over division in the face of tragedy. Five years later, in 2021, locals gathered for a remembrance event to honor victims and reflect on the town's resilience and recovery efforts, including resources and workplace safety initiatives. In September 2021, announced its acquisition of Excel Industries, the Hesston-based manufacturer of turf care equipment, for $375 million in cash, with the deal closing on December 1. This move integrated Excel's operations, including its Hesston facility, into 's outdoor products division, enhancing the company's portfolio in lawn and garden equipment. In October 2024, laid off fewer than 70 employees at its Hesston manufacturing facility, citing weakened demand in the agricultural equipment sector amid a broader slowdown in the farm economy. This followed earlier workforce reductions at the plant earlier in the year, reflecting ongoing adjustments to market conditions. In November 2025, the Hesston Foundation announced it was downsizing a proposed $20 million project in downtown Hesston, originally conceived by indicted businessman Ben Hartland, by retooling the nonprofit board, reducing the store's scale, and cutting costs to increase local control and financial viability. The revised plan aims to address the community's need for a full-service grocer while navigating challenges from Hartland's legal issues.

Geography

Location and topography

Hesston is situated in Harvey County in central at coordinates 38°08′13″N 97°25′50″W. The city lies approximately 6 miles north of Newton and 35 miles north of Wichita, forming part of the Wichita metropolitan statistical area. Its municipal boundaries are entirely within Harvey County, encompassing surrounding rural areas with limited direct adjacency to other incorporated places beyond Newton to the south. The city occupies a total land area of 3.56 square miles, with no incorporated water bodies. Topographically, Hesston features the characteristic flat plains of the region, with minimal relief and an average elevation of around 1,480 feet above . It is in close proximity to the Little Arkansas River, which traverses northern Harvey County and influences local drainage patterns. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural , where emphasizes crop production and on expansive fields. Soils in the Hesston area primarily consist of silt loams and silty clay loams, such as the Chase and Ost series, which formed under native vegetation and support fertile conditions for . Urban development, including residential, commercial, and industrial zones, is concentrated in the city center, contrasting with the broader rural expanse.

Climate

Hesston has a under the Köppen classification (Cfa), featuring hot, humid summers, cold winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year. The average annual precipitation totals about 33 inches, supporting in the surrounding region while contributing to occasional flooding risks. Temperatures exhibit significant seasonal variation, with average highs reaching 93°F in and dropping to 45°F in . Lows average 69°F in summer and 23°F in winter, creating a range that spans from mild to severe cold snaps. The all-time record high was 112°F in 1936, while the record low of -22°F occurred in 1989, reflecting the extremes possible in south-central . Precipitation peaks in spring, with May and each receiving around 4 inches on average, driven by frequent thunderstorms, while winter months are drier. Occasional droughts, particularly in summer, can impact local and farming. As part of , Hesston is prone to , including an F5 in 1990 that caused widespread destruction (detailed in developments). Annual patterns feature heightened and risks from to .

Demographics

2020 census

As of the , Hesston had a total of 3,505 residents. The was 985 people per . The age was 41.9 years. The racial and ethnic composition of Hesston was predominantly , reflecting a homogeneous . Detailed breakdown from the is as follows:
Race/EthnicityPercentageNumber
90.01%3,155
or Latino (of any race)4.59%161
Two or more races2.28%80
Asian1.14%40
or African American0.86%30
Housing data indicated 1,357 households with an average household size of 2.58 persons. Of the total housing units, 68.5% were owner-occupied, and the median home value among owner-occupied units was $162,000. Socioeconomic indicators showed a median household income of $68,125 and a poverty rate of 6.8% as of the 2016-2020 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. More recent 2023 ACS estimates indicate a median household income of $72,620 and a poverty rate of 6.26%.

2010 census

As of the , the population of Hesston, Kansas, was 3,709 residents, reflecting a 15.5% increase from the 3,210 recorded in 2000. The stood at 1,042 per (402.3 per square kilometer), calculated over a land area of approximately 3.56 square miles (9.22 square kilometers), indicating a compact urban footprint typical of small Midwestern cities. The median age was 36.5 years, with a balanced sex distribution of 48.5% male and 51.5% female. The racial and ethnic composition of Hesston was predominantly , comprising 92.7% of the (3,440 individuals), followed by or Latino residents of any race at 4.5% (167 individuals). Other groups included 1.1% identifying as two or more races (41 individuals) and 0.8% Asian (30 individuals), with smaller proportions of Black or African American (0.5%), American Indian and Alaska Native (0.4%), and Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander (0.1%). Foreign-born residents accounted for about 2.3% of the total. Household data revealed 1,270 in Hesston, with an average household size of 2.58 persons and an average family size of 3.08. Of these, 70.2% were owner-occupied units, while 29.8% were renter-occupied. The value of owner-occupied housing units was $124,000, underscoring stable residential investment in the community. Economic indicators from the 2006-2010 (ACS) 5-year estimates showed a household income of $58,750, above the state average of $49,341 for the period, reflecting a middle-class profile driven by and . The per capita income was $22,959. The poverty rate was relatively low at 5.2%, affecting 193 individuals, with 4.1% of families below the threshold—lower than the national rate of 15.1%—indicating economic resilience.
Demographic CategoryValue (2010)
Total Population3,709
1,042/sq mi
Median Age36.5 years
Households1,270
Average Household Size2.58
Owner-Occupied Housing70.2%
Median Home Value$124,000
Median Household Income$58,750
Poverty Rate5.2%
This 2010 baseline provides context for demographic shifts observed in subsequent censuses, such as the count. As of July 2024, the estimated population of Hesston was 3,482, reflecting a slight decline from .

Economy

Major industries

Hesston's economy is dominated by , particularly in the production of agricultural , which has become a cornerstone of the local industrial base. maintains a significant manufacturing facility in the city, specializing in hay and such as large square balers, combines, headers, and windrowers under brands like . This plant originated from the Hesston Corporation, which AGCO acquired in March 1991 to expand its portfolio in farm machinery. Another key player is Excel Industries, a manufacturer of premium commercial and residential turf care , including zero-turn riding mowers under brands like Hustler and . Excel, founded in Hesston in 1960, was acquired by in December 2021 for $375 million, enhancing the company's outdoor power offerings. Agriculture remains a vital sector surrounding Hesston, with the rural areas of Harvey County focused on soybeans and production as the primary crops, alongside corn, sorghum, and ranching. Soybeans cover extensive acreage in the region, supporting 's position as the leading U.S. wheat producer, while serves as a drought-tolerant crop used for feed and . operations contribute to livestock inventory, with local farms integrating practices into rotations for sustainable . Processing facilities in the area, including elevators and feed mills, handle harvest and storage to support these farming activities. Other notable employers include Hesston College, which provides education services and employs staff in academic, administrative, and support roles within a Mennonite-affiliated institution. The city also sustains smaller-scale operations in retail trade, offering to residents, and healthcare, including clinics and social assistance programs that serve the community's needs. This industrial emphasis traces back to a historical shift in the post-1940s era, when the founding of Hesston Manufacturing Company in 1947—initially producing innovative hay tools like the self-propelled windrower—drew and jobs away from pure toward mechanized production. By the mid-20th century, this transition had transformed Hesston into a hub, diversifying the local economy while complementing the surrounding agrarian landscape. In 2023, Hesston's workforce consisted of 1,470 employed individuals, reflecting a stable local labor market within Harvey County. The unemployment rate for the county, which encompasses Hesston, averaged 3.1% that year, slightly above the national figure but indicative of steady employment conditions. Median household income in Hesston reached $72,620, supporting a relatively affluent community compared to broader averages. Commute patterns in Hesston emphasize reliance on personal vehicles, with 84.1% of workers driving alone to their jobs, followed by 5.6% working from home and smaller shares using other modes like walking. The average one-way commute time stands at 17.4 minutes, often to nearby employment hubs such as Newton or Wichita, facilitating efficient access to regional opportunities without excessive travel burdens. The local economy faced challenges in 2024, particularly with layoffs at major employer AGCO's Hesston facility, where fewer than 70 positions were eliminated due to softening agricultural demand. This event underscores Hesston's vulnerability to sector fluctuations, as the city's job market remains closely linked to cycles in agriculture-related production. Looking ahead to 2025, efforts encountered setbacks, including the downsizing of a proposed $20 million project by the Heartland Foundation, which could have created up to 50 retail jobs but was scaled back amid leadership changes and financial revisions. This adjustment may temper short-term growth in service-sector , though broader recovery in could stabilize trends.

Government

City administration

Hesston operates under a - form of government, as established since its incorporation as a of the third class in 1891. The structure includes an elected and a five-member , all serving four-year staggered terms, with general municipal elections held in the fall. As of November 2025, the is David K. Kauffman, whose term expires in 2026; Susan Swartzendruber was elected as the incoming in the November 2025 election. The current members (prior to January 2026 changes) are Larry E. Fuqua, Susan Swartzendruber, Brad Unruh, F.C. (Clare) Moore, and Michael Wallace. In the November 2025 election, Brad Unruh was re-elected to council and Kevin Logan was elected to fill the vacated by Swartzendruber (who was elected ), effective January 2026. City council meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m., in compliance with the Open Meetings Act, with agendas and minutes available publicly. The municipal administration oversees key departments including administration, finance, and (encompassing and ), which handle daily operations, fiscal , and growth initiatives. The city's annual budget, which funds these operations across general, special revenue, and enterprise funds, totals approximately $10 million, as reflected in recent adopted budgets. Focusing on current operations, the emphasizes efficient through interdepartmental coordination and public engagement. Recent initiatives include the adoption of a 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, which prioritizes infrastructure improvements such as utility upgrades and transportation enhancements, alongside efforts like business attraction partnerships and housing incentives. These plans build on ongoing collaborations with the Harvey County Economic Development Council to support sustainable growth.

Public safety

The Hesston Police Department operates as the primary for the city, staffed by eight personnel including sworn officers and administrative support, dedicated to maintaining public order, preserving property, and protecting citizens' rights through ethical and professional service. The department handles routine patrols, investigations, and , with operations based out of city hall and available during standard business hours supplemented by on-call response. Hesston maintains a low overall rate, with a total of approximately 5.4 incidents per 1,000 residents in 2023, significantly below national averages, reflecting effective local enforcement and community cooperation. The Hesston Fire/EMS Department provides fire suppression, , and rescue operations to about 5,000 residents across a 75-square-mile spanning parts of Harvey and McPherson Counties, operating with six full-time staff and 15 paid-per-call volunteers. This combination structure ensures rapid response to over 1,000 annual calls, earning an ISO Class 3 rating for efficient service delivery. As of 2025, the department is actively recruiting for a full-time / position to bolster its capacity amid growing demands. Emergency management in Hesston is coordinated through the Harvey County Emergency Operations Plan, which includes systems with outdoor sirens and designated shelters to mitigate risks common to the region. The system supported effective responses to historical , such as the 1990 F5 that destroyed over 200 structures, where local facilitated evacuations and recovery efforts. Similarly, in the 2016 workplace shooting at Excel Industries, Hesston police swiftly intervened, with the department's chief neutralizing the threat and preventing further casualties in a coordinated effort with county authorities. In 2025, the department continues recruitment for full-time officer positions to enhance response capabilities.

Education

Public schools

Hesston USD 460 operates as the primary public school district for the city of Hesston, Kansas, serving approximately 860 students in grades K-12 across three main campuses. The district emphasizes a comprehensive K-12 education with a student-teacher ratio supporting individualized instruction, employing about 65 certified and 55 classified staff members. Hesston Elementary School covers grades K-4, Hesston Middle School serves grades 5-8 with an enrollment of around 268 students, and Hesston High School educates grades 9-12 with approximately 259 students. Academic performance remains strong, highlighted by a 96% four-year graduation rate and a 70% postsecondary effectiveness rate, earning the district the KSDE Commissioner's Award of Honor, Gold Star Graduation Rate Award, Gold Star Postsecondary Success Award, and Silver Star Academically Prepared Award in 2025. In the same year, Hesston High School mathematics teacher Jason Peters was selected as one of eight statewide finalists for the 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year, recognizing his 24 years of innovative math instruction. Extracurricular activities thrive, particularly in athletics, where the Hesston High School boys' team captured the Class 3A state championship in March 2025 by defeating Goodland in the title game, marking their fourth title in five years. The football program also advanced to the playoffs that fall, though it ended with a 13-17 loss to Rock Creek in the regional round. District facilities underwent significant modernization in 2025, including the opening of a new 5-12 building in , which features enhanced measures, updated labs, and technology integration to support STEM-focused learning environments. These upgrades align with long-term plans to replace aging structures and foster innovative , including proposed expansions for elementary facilities.

Higher education

Hesston College serves as the primary institution of higher education in Hesston, Kansas, operating as a private two-year affiliated with . Founded on September 22, 1909, by the Western District Conference of the Mennonite Church to provide postsecondary education for young people in the region, it emphasizes a Christ-centered environment that integrates academic, social, and spiritual development. The college enrolls approximately 400 students for the 2025-26 academic year, drawing from about 30 states and 15 countries, with a focus on hands-on learning and . The institution offers a range of associate degrees designed for transfer or direct entry into careers, including programs in aviation (Professional Pilot, A.A.A.S.), business, and health and medical occupations, alongside over 50 areas of study in liberal arts and sciences. It also provides bachelor's degrees in high-demand fields such as nursing (B.S.N.), aviation (B.S.), engineering (B.S.), and business management (B.A.), with the nursing program, established in 1966, achieving a 100% NCLEX pass rate for graduates in recent years. In April 2025, Hesston College announced the launch of three new bachelor's programs for fall 2025—B.S. in Health Science, B.S. in Health and Human Performance, and B.A. in Sports Management—in partnership with Kansas Health Science University, which includes accelerated 3+4 pathways to osteopathic medicine and other health professions to address regional workforce needs. Athletics play a key role in campus life, with the Larks competing in the across sports like , , and soccer. The 2024-25 men's team concluded the season with an 11-17 overall record and 5-9 in conference play. In September 2025, the college inducted its third class into the Athletic Hall of Fame, honoring coach Francis "Fran" Chupp (class of 1961), athletes Larry Beckler (1970), Craig Birky (1983), and Christy (Walker) Cornell (1991), as well as the 1992-93 team for their contributions to the program's legacy. The campus spans 50 acres and features modern facilities supporting both academics and student life, including two residential dormitories with air-conditioned rooms and communal spaces, academic buildings like the Mary Miller Library, and sports complexes such as Stewart Fieldhouse for , , and fitness activities.

Community and culture

Arts and culture

Hesston's arts and culture are deeply shaped by its Mennonite heritage, which emphasizes , , and Anabaptist values of inclusivity and . As a small town closely tied to Hesston College—a Mennonite founded in —the local scene integrates educational and performative arts with traditions of choral music and cultural reflection. This heritage fosters events that celebrate diversity and faith, while groups promote accessible creative expression without large-scale museums, instead drawing on regional networks for broader artistic ties. A key cultural landmark is the Dyck Arboretum of the Plains, a 13-acre located at 177 W. Hickory Street in Hesston. Established to highlight native , it features over 600 species of , a pond, walkways, wildflower plots, and demonstration areas for and . The arboretum offers educational programs such as FloraKansas Native Plant Days, nature book clubs, and guided events on land stewardship, aligning with Mennonite principles of environmental care. Managed in partnership with Hesston College, it serves as a serene space for and learning about the ecosystem. Local arts thrive through community theater and music groups centered at Hesston College and nearby churches. The college's theater program, housed in the renovated Keim Center for Performing Arts Education, provides hands-on experience in productions like , emphasizing storytelling inspired by global and faith-based sensibilities. Music offerings include vocal ensembles such as the Singers, who perform sacred and secular works at campus and community events, including biennial tours. The Central Kansas Master Chorale hosts performances at Hesston Mennonite Church, featuring choral events like the Madrigal Festival and Masterworks concerts that blend diverse voices with Anabaptist themes. These groups collaborate with regional ensembles, such as Hesston Bethel Performing Arts, for concerts ranging from choral to instrumental music. Cultural events at Hesston College highlight Mennonite influences through annual gatherings that promote unity and heritage. , held in late September 2025, included class reunions, student performances, an ceremony, and athletic events to foster community bonds. The Cultures Fair on November 5, 2025, showcased international foods, stories, and activities celebrating campus diversity in line with Mennonite values of . Other events, such as the Hymn Festival marking Anabaptism's 500th anniversary in January 2025, feature sacred music to reflect on history. These occasions underscore Hesston's commitment to cultural and service-oriented traditions.

Parks and recreation

Hesston maintains nine public parks and recreational facilities, providing diverse opportunities for outdoor leisure and community gatherings. These include King Memorial Park, the city's largest, which features playgrounds, shelters with grills, a , skate park, and sand courts. Other notable parks encompass Heritage Park with courts and shaded areas, Hickory Dog Park offering an off-leash area with agility equipment, and Interstate Park, a rustic site along Emma Creek equipped with targets and a nine-hole course. The Hesston Municipal , an 18-hole facility spanning the at 520 Yost Drive, serves as a key recreational amenity with modern features including GPS-equipped carts, a pro shop, dining options, and a practice area with swing analysis technology. In 2025, the course hosted significant events such as the KSHSAA 6A Girls State Championship and the inaugural Par For The Pair benefiting the Harvey's Pink Hope Foundation, alongside its annual schedule of leagues and scrambles like the FFA Blue and Gold Scramble. Hesston Recreation & Community Education (HRCE) oversees programs emphasizing youth sports and community activities, including basketball clinics for grades K-6, track meets, and aquatic programs at the adjacent Aquatic Center with lap lanes, diving boards, and a children's slide. A network of paved walking and biking trails links several parks, such as the 0.5-mile Dyck Arboretum Nature Trail segment, fostering connectivity to green spaces like the adjacent Dyck Arboretum of the Plains, an educational site briefly serving as an extension for casual recreation. Outdoor events enhance park usage, with free summer concerts held in venues like King Memorial Park, featuring local acts such as The Sweetbloods and Rob Justice during July evenings. Holiday celebrations include the Holly Jolly Hesston series, encompassing community tree lightings, Santa visits, and outdoor sleigh rides in December, alongside the Prairie Lights display at Dyck Arboretum for illuminated winter walks.

Notable residents

Lyle Yost (1913–2012) was a prominent Hesston native, , inventor, and entrepreneur who founded Hesston Corporation in 1947, revolutionizing with innovations like the unloading auger that accelerated harvesting efficiency. Born on a northwest of Hesston, Yost's business grew into a major employer, shaping the town's industrial landscape and supporting local through donations to education and community projects. Katie Sowers (born 1986), a Hesston native and Hesston College alumna, achieved national recognition as the first openly LGBTQ+ coach and first woman to coach in a with the in 2020, advancing gender diversity in professional football. Her journey from local sports participation to roles highlights Hesston's influence on athletic pursuits, inspiring community youth programs. In education, Jason Peters, a longtime mathematics teacher at Hesston High School, was named a 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year finalist for Region 4, recognizing his 24 years of dedication to fostering student success in STEM fields and community involvement. These figures exemplify how Hesston residents have extended their local roots to broader impacts in industry, , and , reinforcing the town's emphasis on and service.

Media

The primary print medium serving Hesston is the Hesston Record, a that provides coverage of , sports, events, and community issues in the city and surrounding Harvey area. Originally established in the as part of Hesston's early tradition, it was integrated into the broader Harvey County Now publication in 2020, which combines content from multiple county weeklies including the former Newton Now and Harvey County Independent. Published every by Kansas Publishing Ventures, the Hesston Record edition focuses specifically on Hesston-specific stories while benefiting from the parent paper's resources, making it the largest locally owned newspaper in Harvey . Residents also rely on regional daily newspapers for wider Kansas coverage, such as The Kansan (formerly the Newton Kansan), based in nearby Newton, which offers in-depth reporting on Harvey affairs including Hesston developments, and The Wichita Eagle, a major metropolitan daily from Wichita that includes occasional features on small-town Harvey news. These papers are distributed through subscriptions and single-copy sales in Hesston, supplementing the local weekly with broader state and national perspectives. In recent years, the Hesston Record and Harvey County Now have embraced a digital shift, offering full online editions at harveycountynow.com with archives, e-editions, and email newsletters for subscribers. The City of Hesston's official (hesstonks.org) complements this by publishing periodic community newsletters and updates on municipal matters, distributed in print at city hall and online, though these are not formal newspapers. As of 2025, the Hesston Record has provided ongoing coverage of key local developments, including the Heartland Foundation's revision of a $20 million project on —initially proposed in 2023 but downsized following the indictment of a key businessman involved—aiming for a more feasible full-service store opening potentially in 2027. The paper has also highlighted school achievements, such as Hesston High School's Class 3A boys state championship in March 2025, academic honors at Hesston College including spring 2025 recognitions, and a local teacher's finalist status for Teacher of the Year.

Broadcast media

Hesston residents primarily access radio broadcasts from the Wichita metropolitan market, which encompasses Harvey County and provides a wide array of formats receivable via standard FM and AM signals. Notable stations include KFH (1240 AM), a sports-focused outlet owned by that covers regional and national sports events, and KNSS (1330 AM and 98.7 FM), a news and talk station delivering local Wichita-area updates, traffic, and weather reports. Nearby in Newton, KJRG (950 AM) offers religious programming, while KKGQ (92.3 FM) provides sports coverage with a focus on local high school and college games. Public radio options are available through KMUW (89.1 FM) from and KHCC (90.1 FM) from , both emphasizing educational content and affiliations. Television services in Hesston fall under the Wichita-Hutchinson designated market area (DMA #71), where over-the-air digital signals from major network affiliates reach the community. Key stations include KWCH (channel 12, CBS affiliate licensed to Hutchinson), which provides local news, weather, and sports coverage for south-central Kansas, and KAKE (channel 10, ABC affiliate in Wichita), known for its eyewitness reporting and community-focused programming. Other accessible channels encompass KSNW (channel 2/3, NBC) for national news and entertainment, as well as public broadcasting from KPTS (channel 8, PBS) in Hutchinson. Hesston has no dedicated local television station, relying instead on these regional broadcasters for daily content. Cable television is predominantly provided by Cox Communications, which serves Hesston with packages including local channels from the Wichita-Hutchinson market, premium networks, and on-demand options. Cox's infrastructure supports digital cable delivery, enabling access to hundreds of channels and integration with streaming apps for enhanced viewing. For public access, Hesston lacks a municipal TV channel, but the Hesston College Amateur Radio Club (call sign K0HC) engages students in non-commercial radio activities, including national competitions and emergency communications training, fostering community interest in broadcasting. In recent years, has supplemented traditional broadcasts, with Hesston residents turning to online platforms from local stations like KWCH and KAKE for live feeds and archived content. This shift aligns with broader trends toward digital consumption, where apps and websites provide real-time updates on community events without reliance on linear TV schedules.

Infrastructure

Transportation

Hesston is accessible via major highways, with Interstate 135 and U.S. Route 81 running concurrently north-south through the eastern side of the city, providing direct connections to Wichita to the south and Salina to the north. These routes facilitate efficient regional travel, with Exit 40 on I-135 serving the city center and nearby amenities. Local streets in Hesston follow a grid-based layout, centered around Main Street and numbered avenues, enabling straightforward navigation within the compact urban area. Rail service in Hesston is provided by the Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad (K&O), a shortline freight carrier operating a through the city that connects McPherson to the west with Newton to the east, where it interchanges with the . This line supports local industrial shipments but offers no passenger service. The nearest airport to Hesston is Newton City-County Airport, located approximately 10 miles southeast (16 miles by road), serving general aviation needs. For commercial flights, Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport lies about 32 miles south, offering regional and national connections via major airlines. Public transportation in Hesston is limited, with residents primarily relying on personal vehicles for daily mobility. The Harvey County Interurban provides on-demand bus and minivan service for shopping, medical, and recreational trips within the county, including pickups in Hesston. Taxis are available on demand, and Amtrak passenger rail stops at the nearby Newton station, about 8 miles south. Complementing these options, the city maintains several bike paths and walking trails integrated into parks and along streets, such as the 0.5-mile Dyck Arboretum Nature Trail and segments totaling over 3 miles for non-motorized recreation.

Utilities

Hesston's public is drawn from municipal wells tapping into the of the Equus Beds aquifer, located approximately four miles west of the city limits, with the aquifer receiving recharge influenced by the nearby Little Arkansas River. The water undergoes treatment including chlorination to ensure potability before distribution. While specific treatment plant capacity details are not publicly detailed in recent reports, the system's supports the city's of around 3,500 residents through a 500,000-gallon elevated providing storage and pressure maintenance between 72 and 80 psi. Electricity services in Hesston are provided by Evergy, the state's largest formerly known as Westar Energy, serving the region through a network that emphasizes reliability and . Evergy has committed to integrating renewables by adding 5,100 megawatts of and solar capacity over the next two decades as part of its long-term resource plan to reduce carbon emissions and meet growing demand. The city's wastewater treatment is managed by a municipal plant originally built in 1980 and upgraded in 2015, with a maximum capacity of 1.3 million gallons per day, though it typically processes 370,000 to 430,000 gallons daily across approximately 26 miles of sewer lines and multiple lift stations. Waste management includes recycling programs such as a free yard waste recycling site for residents and a reserve-a-dumpster initiative for bulk items, handled in partnership with providers like . In 2025, the city conducted sewer maintenance cleaning operations from July 21 through August 1 in areas east of to ensure system efficiency. Broadband internet in Hesston is primarily delivered by via fiber-powered networks offering speeds up to 2 gigabits per second, supporting high-demand applications. The city has supported broadband enhancements through regional initiatives in Harvey County, including grant-funded projects aimed at expanding access to facilitate and digital connectivity for residents and businesses.

References

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