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Manhattan, Kansas

Located in Riley County, Kansas, Manhattan was established in 1855. Known as 'The Little Apple.'. Kansas State University is here — Go Wildcats.
Founded 1855 | Population 56,000 | Peak 56,000 (2024) | County Riley County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Manhattan, Kansas

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1855Founded: 'The Little Apple.'.
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1863K-State: Kansas State University land grant.
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1890Higher Education: Educational institutions helped define Manhattan's character and economy.
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1942Military Presence: Military installations became a major part of Manhattan's identity and economy.
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2010Modern Era: Manhattan continued to develop as part of the region, with new infrastructure and community amenities.
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Complete Historical Timeline

1855 Culture
Founded
1863 Culture
K-State
1890 Culture
Higher Education
1942 Government
Military Presence
2010 Culture
Modern Era

Did You Know?

1
Known as 'The Little Apple.'.
2
Kansas State University is here — Go Wildcats.
3
Fort Riley, a major Army installation, is adjacent.
4
Manhattan is located in Riley County, Kansas.
5
Manhattan was founded in 1855.

Famous People from Manhattan, Kansas

CB
Charles Bachman
Engineer, Computer Scientist · Born Dec 11, 1924 · Died Jul 13, 2017 (age 92)
CP
Cassandra Peterson
Screenwriter, Singer · Born Sep 17, 1951 · Age 74
DR
Damon Runyon
Writer, Journalist · Born Oct 3, 1880 · Died Dec 10, 1946 (age 66)
DC
Del Close
Actor, Writer · Born Mar 9, 1934 · Died Mar 4, 1999 (age 64)
HS
Howie Shannon
Basketball Player, Basketball Coach · Born Jun 10, 1923 · Died Aug 16, 1995 (age 72)
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