The Oldest Active Geocache

Thomas County is a county located in the state of Kansas, USA. It was established on March 20, 1885, and named after George Henry Thomas, a Union Army general during the American Civil War. Like many counties in Kansas, it was primarily settled by European immigrants in the late 1800s, attracted by the promise of fertile land and opportunities for farming.

Early settlers faced numerous challenges, including droughts and locust plagues, but they persevered and established thriving agricultural communities. The county's main crops initially included corn, wheat, and sorghum. In the early 1900s, the discovery of oil brought economic prosperity to the region, leading to increased population and infrastructure development.

During the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, Thomas County, like much of the Great Plains, experienced severe soil erosion and devastating drought. This period caused widespread economic hardships for the agricultural community. However, in the post-World War II era, advancements in irrigation technology and farming practices helped revive the county's agricultural industry.

Today, Thomas County remains primarily rural, with agriculture playing a vital role in the economy. The county is known for its production of wheat, sorghum, and beef. The town of Colby serves as the county seat and is home to many of the county's institutions, including the Thomas County Courthouse and Colby Community College. Despite challenges throughout its history, Thomas County continues to be a resilient and agricultural-focused community.