Boomtowns are built on optimism; ghost towns are what's left when it runs out. Welcome to Monroe. James Monroe Miller (May 6, 1852 – January 20, 1926) was a U.S. representative from Kansas.
Lincoln County holds 17 documented ghost towns, including Bacon, Cedron, Herman — Monroe keeps them company on the map.
The story of Monroe
Kansas ghost towns are what happens when the railroad changes its mind and the wheat stops paying.
James Monroe Miller (May 6, 1852 – January 20, 1926) was a U.S. representative from Kansas. Born in Three Springs, Pennsylvania, Miller attended the district school and graduated from Lycoming College, Williamsport, Pennsylvania, in 1875. He moved to Skiddy, Kansas, in 1875. Miller was Superintendent of schools in Council Grove, Kansas, for two terms, and while holding this position studied law. He was admitted to the bar in 1879 and commenced practice in Council Grove, Kansas. Miller was elected prosecuting attorney of Morris County, Kansas, in 1880 and again in 1884 and 1886.
What you'll find today
The on-the-ground condition of Monroe is unverified — it's listed here with unknown status. That could mean standing buildings, or an empty field. Go prepared for either, and consider sharing what you find so the record improves.
Nobody has confirmed the access situation, so treat any visit as reconnaissance: verify land ownership first, and be ready to admire from the road.
Getting there
Here's the honest truth: access to Monroe is unverified. We couldn't confirm whether the site sits on public land, private property, or something in between — so verify land ownership and local rules before visiting, and respect private property at all times.
Good to know
Ghost-town etiquette is simple: take only photographs. Removing artifacts is illegal on public lands and disrespectful everywhere else — and on federal land it can be a serious offense.
Survey Map
Approximate position — verify access locally before visiting
Monroe FAQs
01Where is Monroe located?
02What county is Monroe in?
03What is the history of Monroe?
04What remains at Monroe today?
05Can you visit Monroe?
Sources: account based on Wikipedia (“James Monroe Miller”), CC BY-SA.
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