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Knob Noster is located on U.S. Highway 50, approximately 60 miles east of Kansas City, Missouri. A short distance northeast of town there are two hills, called knobs. The hills have become a landmark for the community and are closely related to the organization and background of the town.
According to historical information, the name Knob Noster is taken from the hills. Knob, meaning the hills, and "noster", being the Latin derivation meaning "our", were formed together to create "Our Knob", or Knob Noster.
Knob Noster had its beginning in 1850 when a post office was established in the original “Old Town” settlement, located one mile north of the present town. W.A. Wortham then settled in Knob Noster in 1854. By 1860, when the Missouri Pacific Railroad made its way into the territory, the town had a population of 450, with 30 professions and businesses, a Masonic Lodge and seminary. When the current owner of the land that would bring the railroad through town would not give up the land to make that possible, Sam Workman took 40 acres of his land and laid out the town and offered the railroad some of his property. He then laid out a town one mile south of the original settlement.
In 1867, the frame buildings that had been constructed on Main Street burned. Brick to rebuild the buildings was acquired from a company located a short distance outside of town. Although the buildings have changed a great deal from 1850, the atmosphere of hospitality and friendliness is still apparent in this community where Whiteman Air Force Base and Knob Noster State Park have become an integral part of the community life.
Originally, Knob Noster was primarily a farming community. With the advent of Whiteman Air Force Base and the tourist attraction of Knob Noster State Park, the town's population has grown to the present estimated count of nearly 2,800.
The city of Knob Noster has established and maintained public improvements that support a full service community. Although the city remains relatively small, its location allows for a strong industrial and commercial business base, local sales tax revenue, and the development of a higher quality of life.
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