With all the hype surrounding the return of Dexter to TVs everywhere, I thought I should check out the Kansas town with the same name.
Dexter, Kansas (pop. 224 and holding steady), might be a dot on the map, but it’s got an impressive resume and I was shocked to find that everyone did not talk in a high-pitched voice.
Back in May 1903, a natural gas well was drilled just outside of town. Locals gathered, ready to cheer on a booming flame and a promising future. Instead? Nothing. The gas roared… but wouldn’t burn. What seemed like a dud turned out to be something rare and remarkable—helium. Researchers at KU analyzed the gas and confirmed it: Dexter was sitting on a wellspring of what would become a key player in airships, nuclear reactors, and most importantly party balloons everywhere.
A small but mighty Helium Memorial Park now marks the spot, complete with a historical marker and the original pipe from that very well. The park is also filled with quilt patterned signs to tie into the Cowley County Barn Quilt Trail. The barn quilt was a popular movement that began in Ohio.
But wait, there’s more!
Courtesy: travelks.com
The “Oh Henry!” Candy Bar was invented by a man named Tom Henry, whose family ran a small candy factory called “Henry’s Candies”. The Dexter factory sold “Momma Henry” bars, which were nearly identical to the original “Oh Henry!” candy bar. The factory sadly closed in 2024, but the story sticks. I know there are other stories connected to the creation of the “Oh Henry” bar, but I like this one.
I also stopped into The West Riley, a gem of a shop filled with vintage finds and custom-upholstered treasures. One standout? A 1940s radio shaped like a sailboat. Built by Mastercrafters of Chicago, it’s half radio, half conversation piece. The owner (Kendra Riley) who, along with her mom, reupholsters many of the shop’s pieces—has taste, talent, and terrific Kansas hospitality.
And across the street? That’s the old Dexter Bank, the last one robbed by the Dalton Gang before they met their maker in Coffeyville. Local lore says Henry Branson sold Grat Dalton the horse he rode off on—talk about being accidentally part of history.
Riley told me the city is working to remake this mural. It has seen better days and a hail storm really damaged it. I hope the town can bring it back to life, it was pretty cool.
So yeah, Dexter may be small. But it’s mighty, weirdly scientific, historically sweet, and has just the right amount of outlaw energy.
Check other great Kansas Road Trips