Historical Marker

Founding of the Santa Fe Railway

Historical marker location:
819 Commercial Street, Atchison, Kansas
( Marker is on Commercial Street near 9th Street, on the right when traveling west.)

  A brief timeline of the history of Santa Fe Railway

  • 1859: The Atchison and Topeka Railroad Company is founded in Kansas, with the goal of connecting the towns of Atchison and Topeka.

  • 1863: The Atchison and Topeka Railroad reaches Santa Fe, New Mexico, completing its initial transcontinental route.

  • 1880: The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway Company is formed through a merger with the Southern Kansas Railway Company.

  • 1883: The Santa Fe Railway completes its second transcontinental line, reaching Los Angeles, California. This expansion enables the railway to connect the Midwest and Southwest to the Pacific Coast.

  • 1893: The California Limited, a luxury passenger train, begins service on the Santa Fe Railway, offering a high standard of travel for affluent passengers.

  • 1901: The Grand Canyon Railway, a subsidiary of the Santa Fe Railway, is established to provide transportation to the Grand Canyon National Park.

  • 1926: The Santa Fe Railway introduces the Super Chief, a luxurious all-Pullman sleeping car train that becomes known as the "Train of the Stars" due to its popularity among Hollywood celebrities.

  • 1934: The Santa Fe Railway launches the Chief, another premier passenger train, offering a more affordable option than the Super Chief but still maintaining a high level of service.

  • 1948: The Santa Fe Railway introduces the El Capitan, a streamliner passenger train that becomes famous for its distinctive "Warbonnet" red and silver paint scheme.

  • 1967: The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway changes its official name to the Santa Fe Railway.

  • 1995: The Santa Fe Railway merges with the Burlington Northern Railroad, forming the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation (BNSF). This merger creates one of the largest railroad systems in the United States.

  • 1996: The Santa Fe Railway is officially absorbed into the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF), marking the end of the Santa Fe Railway as an independent entity.

Today, the Santa Fe Railway's legacy lives on through the continued operation of many of its routes by BNSF, as well as its historical significance in the development of the American West and its iconic role in passenger train travel.

The state flower of Kansas is the sunflower, which is also featured on the state flag and seal.
Kansas random facts
Atchison County, KS, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Kansa and Ioway, who lived off the land and relied on the Missouri River for transportation and trade.

In the early 1800s, European explorers made their way to the region, and in 1854, the Kansas-Nebraska Act opened the area to settlement. Atchison County was officially established in 1855 and named after David Rice Atchison, a prominent senator from Missouri. The county quickly attracted settlers, who were drawn to its fertile farmland and ample natural resources.

During the mid-1800s, Atchison County became a significant transportation hub. It was a crucial stop on the Pony Express route, a mail delivery service that connected the East and West coasts. The county was also an important stop on the Underground Railroad, with many abolitionists aiding escaping slaves on their journey to freedom.

In the late 19th century, Atchison County saw further growth and development. The city of Atchison became a booming industrial center, with a thriving manufacturing sector and a busy river port. The county was also home to several educational institutions, including Benedictine College, which was founded in 1858.

Today, Atchison County continues to celebrate its history and heritage through various cultural events and museums. The area's beauty and historical significance attract visitors from near and far, making it a popular destination for those interested in exploring the history of this vibrant community.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Atchison County, Kansas.

  • 1854 - Atchison County established as a county in Kansas Territory
  • 1855 - First election held in Atchison County
  • 1856 - Atchison becomes an incorporated city
  • 1860 - Population of Atchison County reaches over 8,000
  • 1863 - Atchison experiences a severe flood, causing significant damage
  • 1867 - Atchison County Fair established
  • 1872 - Construction of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad begins
  • 1887 - Benedictine College founded in Atchison
  • 1919 - Amelia Earhart born in Atchison
  • 1920 - Atchison County population peaks at over 20,000
  • 1933 - The Great Depression impacts Atchison County, leading to economic challenges
  • 1954 - Atchison celebrates its centennial
  • 1964 - Northeast Kansas Flood causes significant damage in Atchison County
  • 2005 - Snowstorm hits Atchison County, leaving the county without power for days
  • 2010 - Atchison County population is over 16,000