Located in
Rice County, in the
South Central Region of the state, not far north of the
Arkansas River. Founded: 1872 Population: 182 (1990) Elevation: 1680 feet.
Alden originated in the manner of many western towns; land was homesteaded along the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad and ultimately the population increased until a trade center was feasible. The historical AT&SF railroad depot is open to view local railroad history. Alden was named after the son of Mr. Nickerson, the division superintendent of the AT&SF. The original city of Alden was established in 1881.
