Historical Markers in Scott County, Kansas
The geographic center of the contiguous United States is located in a field near Belle Fourche, South Dakota, but a marker for it is located in a small town called Belle Plaine, Kansas.
About Scott County
Scott County Timeline
Scott County, Kansas, located in the central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Apache, Arapaho, and Cheyenne. In the mid-19th century, European settlers began to arrive, attracted by the fertile land and the presence of the Santa Fe Trail. The county itself was officially established in 1873 and named after Major General Winfield Scott, a distinguished military figure of the time.
The early days of Scott County were characterized by the development of agriculture and cattle ranching. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further spurred the growth of the area, as it connected Scott County's farmers and ranchers to larger markets. The county became known for its production of wheat, melons, and sorghum, as well as for its sizable cattle industry.
In the early 20th century, Scott County faced several challenges, including droughts and the Great Depression. The Dust Bowl, which affected many parts of the Great Plains, hit Scott County particularly hard, leading to severe erosion and economic hardship. However, resilience and innovation allowed the county to recover in the years that followed.
Today, Scott County is a vibrant community with a strong agricultural focus. It continues to be a leader in wheat, corn, and sorghum production, as well as cattle ranching. The county is also home to a number of tourist attractions, including the El Quartelejo Museum and Historic Site, which preserves the history of the area's Native American inhabitants, and the Lake Scott State Park, known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Overall, Scott County's history is a testament to the determination and resourcefulness of its residents in the face of adversity.
The early days of Scott County were characterized by the development of agriculture and cattle ranching. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further spurred the growth of the area, as it connected Scott County's farmers and ranchers to larger markets. The county became known for its production of wheat, melons, and sorghum, as well as for its sizable cattle industry.
In the early 20th century, Scott County faced several challenges, including droughts and the Great Depression. The Dust Bowl, which affected many parts of the Great Plains, hit Scott County particularly hard, leading to severe erosion and economic hardship. However, resilience and innovation allowed the county to recover in the years that followed.
Today, Scott County is a vibrant community with a strong agricultural focus. It continues to be a leader in wheat, corn, and sorghum production, as well as cattle ranching. The county is also home to a number of tourist attractions, including the El Quartelejo Museum and Historic Site, which preserves the history of the area's Native American inhabitants, and the Lake Scott State Park, known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Overall, Scott County's history is a testament to the determination and resourcefulness of its residents in the face of adversity.
Scott County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Scott County, Kansas.
- 1803 - The area that would become Scott County is part of the Louisiana Purchase.
- 1864 - The Kansas-Nebraska Act divides the region, and Scott County becomes part of Kansas Territory.
- 1886 - Scott County is officially established as a county in Kansas.
- 1887 - The first railroad, the Kansas Pacific Railway, reaches Scott County, facilitating growth and development.
- 1901 - The town of Scott City is founded as the county seat of Scott County.
- 1930s - The Dust Bowl era hits Scott County, resulting in severe drought and economic hardship for the residents.
- 1950s - The discovery of oil and gas reserves leads to increased economic activity in Scott County.
- 1960 - El Quartelejo Museum is established to preserve the history of Native American settlements in the area.
- 1990 - Santa Fe Trail historical markers are placed in Scott County, commemorating the trail's significance in the region.
- 2001 - The Battle Canyon historic site is designated, recognizing the site of a significant Native American battle.