St. John's Military School Veterans Memorial

Saline County, Kansas has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The land that would become Saline County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Kansa and Pawnee. European settlers began to arrive in the area in the early 1800s, drawn by the fertile land and abundant wildlife.

In 1858, Saline County was officially established by the Kansas Territorial Legislature. The county was named after the Saline River, which runs through the region. The county's early years were marked by rapid growth and development, thanks to the arrival of the railroad in the 1860s.

During the Civil War, Saline County was a hotbed of both pro-Union and pro-Confederate sentiment. The county was deeply divided, with some residents supporting the abolitionist cause and others sympathizing with the South. This led to frequent conflicts and tensions throughout the war years.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Saline County experienced a boom in agriculture and industry. The discovery of oil in the area in the early 1900s brought further economic growth. Today, Saline County is a thriving community with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. The county is also home to a number of historical sites and landmarks, such as the Smoky Hill Museum and the Rolling Hills Wildlife Adventure.