Kiowa County, Kansas

Kiowa County is located in the southwestern part of Kansas and has a rich history dating back to its settlement in the late 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Kiowa and Comanche tribes, who roamed the prairies and lived off the land. In the 1870s, the area became a hub for cattle ranching, attracting settlers and establishing a community.

The county was officially established on April 11, 1885, and was named after the Kiowa Native American tribe that once inhabited the area. With the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, Kiowa County experienced rapid growth and development, as it became an important shipping point for livestock and agriculture.

During the early 20th century, the county faced numerous challenges, including droughts and the Great Depression. These hardships led to a decline in population and a shift in the county's economic activities. However, the resilience and perseverance of the community allowed them to adapt and overcome these challenges.

In recent decades, Kiowa County has experienced a revival, with a renewed focus on agriculture, wind energy, and tourism. The community continues to celebrate its history through events and landmarks that pay homage to its past. Today, Kiowa County remains a vibrant rural community, with a strong agricultural base and a commitment to preserving its heritage.
Brief timeline of the history of Kiowa County, Kansas:

  • 1873 - Kiowa County is established and named after the Kiowa Native American tribe.
  • 1886 - The Chicago, Kansas and Nebraska Railway is completed, connecting the county to the national rail network.
  • 1893 - The town of Greensburg is founded as the county seat.
  • 1914 - The Kiowa County Courthouse is built, becoming a historic landmark in the county.
  • 1930s - The Dust Bowl devastates the agricultural industry in Kiowa County, leading to a decline in population and economic hardship.
  • 1955 - The world's largest hand-dug well is completed in Greensburg, becoming a popular tourist attraction.
  • 2007 - The town of Greensburg is hit by an EF5 tornado, causing widespread destruction.
  • 2009 - Greensburg becomes the first city in the United States to mandate that all city buildings be built to LEED platinum standards for energy efficiency and sustainability.

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

Audiobooks about the history of Kansas.