National Register Listings in Smith County, Kansas
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 Smith County
Smith County Timeline
Smith County, Kansas has a rich and diverse history that spans back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Kansa and Pawnee, who relied on the land's natural resources for sustenance and trade. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that European settlers began to arrive and shape the county's future.
In the mid-1800s, Smith County experienced a significant influx of pioneers, largely due to the establishment of the Oregon Trail and the desire for new opportunities in the West. These settlers were primarily farmers and ranchers, drawn to the fertile soil and vast grazing lands. The county was officially organized in 1872 and named after Major J. Nelson Smith, an early resident and Civil War veteran.
Over the years, Smith County developed into a thriving agricultural community, with farming as the backbone of its economy. Wheat, corn, and sorghum became staple crops, while cattle and hog farming also flourished. The growth of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's agricultural production and facilitated transportation of goods to larger markets.
Smith County also played a role in the Wild West era, with several notable outlaws passing through the region. Additionally, oil was discovered in the early 1900s, leading to a boom in industry and further economic diversification. Today, Smith County remains a rural area, with a strong focus on agriculture and a tight-knit community that values its heritage and natural beauty.
In the mid-1800s, Smith County experienced a significant influx of pioneers, largely due to the establishment of the Oregon Trail and the desire for new opportunities in the West. These settlers were primarily farmers and ranchers, drawn to the fertile soil and vast grazing lands. The county was officially organized in 1872 and named after Major J. Nelson Smith, an early resident and Civil War veteran.
Over the years, Smith County developed into a thriving agricultural community, with farming as the backbone of its economy. Wheat, corn, and sorghum became staple crops, while cattle and hog farming also flourished. The growth of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's agricultural production and facilitated transportation of goods to larger markets.
Smith County also played a role in the Wild West era, with several notable outlaws passing through the region. Additionally, oil was discovered in the early 1900s, leading to a boom in industry and further economic diversification. Today, Smith County remains a rural area, with a strong focus on agriculture and a tight-knit community that values its heritage and natural beauty.
Smith County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Smith County, Kansas.
- 1803 - The area that is now Smith County is part of the Louisiana Purchase
- 1860 - The first settlers arrive in the area
- 1867 - Smith County is officially organized and named after Major J. Nelson Smith, a Civil War veteran
- 1870 - The county's population reaches over 1,000 people
- 1880 - The town of Smith Center is established as the county seat
- 1914 - The Kansas Geological Survey discovers oil in Smith County, leading to an oil boom in the area
- 1930 - The county's population peaks at over 10,000 people
- 1950 - The land use in Smith County shifts from agriculture to livestock production
- 1980 - The population of Smith County declines to around 5,000 people
- 2000 - The county's population continues to decrease, falling below 4,000 people