Harper County Courthouse

200 N. Jennings Ave., Anthony, KS
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

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.

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The famous outlaw Jesse James was killed in St. Joseph, Missouri, which is just across the border from Kansas.
Harper County, located in southern Kansas, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s. The area was first inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Kansa and Osage, who relied on the abundant wildlife and fertile land for their sustenance. However, as European settlers began to expand westward, conflicts arose, leading to the displacement of the native populations.

In 1873, Harper County was officially established, named after the governor of Kansas at the time, Marion Harper. The region quickly became an important hub for trade and agriculture, thanks to its prime location along the Chisholm Trail. Cattle drives into Texas and neighboring states brought prosperity to the area, attracting more settlers to the growing communities within the county.

The late 19th century saw the arrival of railroads, which further boosted Harper County's economic development. The construction of the Santa Fe Railroad in the 1880s created new opportunities for trade and transportation, allowing goods and people to easily flow in and out of the county. This led to the establishment of additional towns, such as Anthony and Harper, which continued to thrive as agricultural centers.

Throughout the 20th century, Harper County faced its share of challenges, including the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. However, the resilient spirit of the residents allowed them to overcome these difficulties and adapt to changing circumstances. Today, Harper County remains an important agricultural area, with farming and ranching still playing a vital role in the local economy. The county also offers various recreational opportunities, such as Lake Harper and the Flinthills Nature Trail, attracting visitors and contributing to its continued growth and prosperity.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Harper County, Kansas.

  • 1803: The area that would become Harper County is acquired as part of the Louisiana Purchase.
  • 1867: The Medicine Lodge Treaty is signed, allowing settlement in the area.
  • 1873: Harper County is officially organized.
  • 1887: The railroad reaches Harper County, enhancing transportation and economic opportunities.
  • 1900s: Agriculture becomes the primary industry, with farming and ranching playing a significant role in the county's economy.
  • 1920s: Oil is discovered in Harper County, leading to a boom in the oil industry and economic growth.
  • 1930s: The Dust Bowl devastates the area, causing agricultural hardships and population declines.
  • 1960s: Lake City Army Ammunition Plant is established, providing employment opportunities in the county.
  • Today: Harper County continues to be a center for agriculture, oil production, and the manufacturing industry.