Finney County, Kansas

Finney County, located in western Kansas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Kansa and Pawnee. In the 1830s, the region became part of the United States through the Kansas-Nebraska Act, opening the door for settlement by white settlers.

The first permanent settlement in Finney County was established in 1872 by buffalo hunters and frontiersmen. The county was officially organized in 1884 and named after David W. Finney, a prominent attorney and civic leader. Agriculture played a crucial role in the county's early economy, with wheat, corn, and sorghum being the main crops.

In the late 19th century, the railroad arrived in Finney County, connecting it to the larger cities and markets. This development significantly boosted the local economy and allowed for the transportation of goods and people more efficiently. The town of Garden City, the county seat, became a hub for trade and commerce.

In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil and natural gas brought another economic boom to Finney County. The oil industry brought new residents and increased prosperity to the area. With the construction of highways and improvements in irrigation technology, the county's agricultural production also continued to thrive. Today, Finney County remains an important center for agriculture and energy production, contributing to the overall growth and development of western Kansas.
Brief timeline of the history of Finney County, Kansas:

  • 1883: Finney County was established on February 20, 1883.
  • 1884: The first courthouse in the county was completed.
  • 1885: Garden City, the county seat, was founded.
  • 1886: The first newspaper, Garden City Sentinel, was published.
  • 1910: The Kansas Soldier's Home was established in the county.
  • 1933: The Garden City Army Airfield, now known as Garden City Regional Airport, opened.
  • 1961: The Finney County Historical Museum was founded.
  • 1967: Construction began on the Garden City Community College.
  • 2007: Garden City Wind, a professional baseball team, was established.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Finney County, Kansas.