National Register Listing

Santa Fe Trail Ruts

a.k.a. Santa Fe Trail Remains

9 mi. W of Dodge City on U.S. 50, Dodge City, KS
Local significance of the site:
Exploration/settlement

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1966.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

Audiobooks about the history of Kansas.
The Kansas State Capitol building in Topeka features a famous mural called "Tragic Prelude" by John Steuart Curry, which depicts abolitionist John Brown and other figures from Kansas history.
Kansas random facts
Ford County is located in southwestern Kansas and was established in 1873. The county was named after Colonel James H. Ford, a prominent military figure during the American Civil War. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Apache and Comanche, before European settlers arrived.

The county's development was greatly influenced by the expansion of the railroad in the late 19th century. The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway played a significant role in shaping Ford County's economy and attracting new residents. The introduction of rail transportation brought increased opportunities for trade and commerce, leading to the establishment of towns such as Dodge City.

Dodge City, the county seat and largest city in Ford County, quickly became a center for cattle trading and ranching. During the late 1800s, the city gained fame as a wild and lawless frontier town, known for its numerous saloons, brothels, and notorious outlaws. However, efforts were made to civilize the town, and by the early 20th century, Dodge City had transitioned into a more orderly and prosperous community.

In more recent years, Ford County has experienced growth and diversification in its economy. Agriculture remains an essential component, with crops such as wheat, corn, and sorghum being major contributors. Additionally, the county has seen the development of manufacturing industries, including food processing and automobile parts production. Ford County continues to be a vibrant and dynamic community, preserving its rich history while embracing the opportunities of the present.

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

  • 1855 - Ford County is officially established as a county in the Kansas Territory.
  • 1873 - Dodge City is founded as the county seat of Ford County.
  • 1875 - The "Dodge City War" erupts, a conflict between lawmen and saloon owners.
  • 1878 - The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway reaches Dodge City, boosting the town's growth.
  • 1882 - The first cattle shipment from Dodge City's stockyards is sent to Eastern markets.
  • 1884 - Dodge City becomes known as the "Wickedest Little City in America" due to its wild and lawless reputation.
  • 1910 - The population of Dodge City reaches its peak at around 4,000 residents.
  • 1925 - The Boot Hill Museum is founded in Dodge City to preserve the town's Wild West history.
  • 1942 - The United States Army establishes the Dodge City Army Airfield during World War II.
  • 1951 - The Dodge City Airport is constructed.
  • 1963 - The Longhorn Building, a historic hotel in Dodge City, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1983 - The Boot Hill Casino & Resort opens in Dodge City.