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The first successful oil well west of the Mississippi was drilled in 1860 in Neodesha, Kansas, which led to the state becoming a major oil producer in the early 20th century.
About Shawnee County
Shawnee County Timeline
Shawnee County, located in the state of Kansas, has a rich history intertwined with the growth and development of the region. The area that is now Shawnee County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, Potawatomi, and Kansa. European exploration of the region began in the early 19th century when French fur traders arrived, followed by American settlers.
In 1854, the Kansas-Nebraska Act led to the establishment of the Kansas Territory, including what would become Shawnee County. The area saw significant turmoil and violence during the Bleeding Kansas era, as tensions rose between pro-slavery and anti-slavery settlers. Shawnee County specifically played a role in this conflict, with several incidents occurring within its borders.
The year 1855 marked the official founding of Shawnee County, with the establishment of Topeka as its county seat. The city grew rapidly, becoming the state capital of Kansas in 1861. With the advent of the railroad in the late 19th century, Topeka and Shawnee County experienced further expansion and economic growth.
Throughout the 20th century, Shawnee County continued to thrive. It became a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and aviation industries. The county also played a significant role in the civil rights movement. Notable events include the landmark Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court case, which originated in Topeka and led to the desegregation of schools nationwide.
Today, Shawnee County remains a vibrant and diverse community, with a strong focus on education, arts, and culture. Its rich history is preserved through numerous historical sites, museums, and landmarks, reminding residents and visitors alike of the region's past.
In 1854, the Kansas-Nebraska Act led to the establishment of the Kansas Territory, including what would become Shawnee County. The area saw significant turmoil and violence during the Bleeding Kansas era, as tensions rose between pro-slavery and anti-slavery settlers. Shawnee County specifically played a role in this conflict, with several incidents occurring within its borders.
The year 1855 marked the official founding of Shawnee County, with the establishment of Topeka as its county seat. The city grew rapidly, becoming the state capital of Kansas in 1861. With the advent of the railroad in the late 19th century, Topeka and Shawnee County experienced further expansion and economic growth.
Throughout the 20th century, Shawnee County continued to thrive. It became a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and aviation industries. The county also played a significant role in the civil rights movement. Notable events include the landmark Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court case, which originated in Topeka and led to the desegregation of schools nationwide.
Today, Shawnee County remains a vibrant and diverse community, with a strong focus on education, arts, and culture. Its rich history is preserved through numerous historical sites, museums, and landmarks, reminding residents and visitors alike of the region's past.
Shawnee County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Shawnee County, Kansas.
- 1817 - Shawnee County established as part of the Territory of Missouri.
- 1825 - Treaty of St. Louis establishes Shawnee Indian reservation in the area.
- 1830 - Shawnee Indians are removed from the reservation as part of the Indian Removal Act.
- 1845 - Shawnee County is officially organized with Tecumseh as its county seat.
- 1855 - Topeka becomes the county seat of Shawnee County.
- 1857 - The first courthouse in Shawnee County is completed.
- 1870 - The population of Shawnee County reaches over 13,000 people.
- 1930 - The population of Shawnee County exceeds 95,000 people.
- 1954 - Topeka becomes the site of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court case.
- 1977 - The first women are sworn into office as Shawnee County Commissioners.
- 1996 - The Kansas Expocentre in Topeka opens, becoming a major entertainment venue.
- 2007 - The Heartland Park Topeka sports complex undergoes significant renovations.