about

the good neighbor

We strive to be a place where families grow, businesses thrive, and neighbors stick together.

It's Kind of a Funny Story...

“When live gives you salt, pretent it’s oil.”

– Blanchard, probably

1886
Ben Blanchard organized a town company to purchase 280 acres of land just South of the river. They named it South Hutchinson.
1887
Word spread, the population boomed, and South Hutchinson grew. The first city election was held on January 18th, resulting in the election of R.H. Chitten, mayor; J.A. Quick, police judge; and five councilmen: J.N. Conley, W.R. Williams, J. McFarland, C. Holloway, and L.T. Williams.
Date TBD
Blanchard became convinced that a vast oil supply lay beneath the South Hutchinson soil. Leveraging this as an incentive to settlers, he hired a firm to drill for oil. But when days had passed and only salt had been discovered, he got the bright idea to dump a few barrels into the hole himself.
Date TBD
When that didn’t work, and the well ultimately produced a vein of salt, Blanchard rode whatever wave of publicity he could, welcoming The Pennsylvania Salt Works as the town’s first salt plant. Everything was going well–and then a severe wind and rainstorm struck. City buildings were washed away, and with it, investors’ money and Blanchard’s dream.
1890s
Blanchard fled in disguise, but dedicated community members remained. The people of South Hutchinson would not let it become a ghost town. They worked hard to keep the city alive, displaying the resilience and perseverance we continue to hold dear even now.
Present
Today, we take pride in our heritage and work to uphold the legacy of community members before us by continually pushing for progress in South Hutchinson. We know that slow and steady wins the race, and through economic initiatives intended to best serve our residents, we actively strive for a better future for our city.

Our Promise

To cultivate a vibrant, united community marked by sustainable housing initiatives and economic vitality. We commit to empowering South Hutchinson to achieve its fullest potential as a destination for opportunity, inspiration, and belonging.

Our Values

Heritage

Honoring where we come from as we get to where we’re going.

Safety

Home to great first responders and neighbors who look out for each other.

Collaboration

Our city knows we get more done when we work together.

Community

Rooted in connection, we get to know everyone by name.

Progress

Moving forward with purpose and heart, but never losing who we are.

Meet Your Council Members

Business Partners

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, we invite you to explore all there is to love about South Hutch.

Please select listing to show.

Business Partners

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, we invite you to explore all there is to love about South Hutch.

Please select listing to show.

Business Partners

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, we invite you to explore all there is to love about South Hutch.

Please select listing to show.