National Register Listing

Hodson Hotel

a.k.a. Hardesty House; KHRI #025-27

712 Main St., Ashland, KS
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Commerce

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2019.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture commerce inns, hotels, motels
The famous novel "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote is based on a true story that took place in Holcomb, Kansas in 1959.
Kansas random facts
Located in the southwestern corner of the state, Clark County, Kansas, has a rich and diverse history. Before European settlers arrived, the area was home to various indigenous tribes, including the Comanche, Cheyenne, and Kiowa. The county was officially established in 1873 and named after a Union General, Charles F. Clark, who served during the American Civil War.

The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway in the late 19th century had a significant impact on the development of Clark County. This led to an influx of settlers and the establishment of towns such as Ashland and Minneola. The county experienced an agricultural boom with the cultivation of crops like wheat and corn, which helped drive its economic growth.

In the early 20th century, Clark County faced several challenges, including the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. Severe drought and poor farming practices led to widespread soil erosion and crop failures, resulting in significant hardship for the farming community. The county was heavily affected by the Great Depression, with many residents struggling to make ends meet.

In recent years, Clark County has worked towards diversifying its economy and promoting tourism. The county's scenic landscapes, including the Cimarron National Grassland and the canyons of the Red Hills, attract outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Today, the county remains a close-knit community that cherishes its historical roots while looking towards a resilient and prosperous future.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Clark County, Kansas.

  • 1873: Clark County is established as a county in Kansas.
  • 1885: The town of Ashland, the county seat, is incorporated.
  • 1887: The Chicago, Kansas and Nebraska Railway is completed, connecting Clark County to the national rail network.
  • 1890: The population of Clark County reaches its peak with over 3,000 residents.
  • 1924: The first oil discovery is made in Clark County, leading to an oil boom in the area.
  • 1932: The Dust Bowl hits Clark County, causing severe drought and economic hardship.
  • 1950s: The agricultural sector of Clark County becomes more mechanized, leading to a decline in the rural population.
  • 1978: Clark County State Lake is established, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • 1991: The community of Englewood is devastated by a large wildfire, destroying many homes and businesses.
  • 2010: The population of Clark County is around 2,000 residents.