Bleeding Kansas

Historical marker location:
901 Espanade Street, Leavenworth, Kansas
( Marker is on Esplanade Street near Miami Street, on the left when traveling south.)

Historic Wayside Tour #12

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The first successful airplane flight west of the Mississippi River took place in Kansas in 1910, when Clyde Cessna flew his plane for the first time in Wichita.
Leavenworth County, Kansas, has a rich and varied history that stretches back to its early settlement in the mid-1800s. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, most notably the Kickapoo and Delaware tribes. In 1827, Fort Leavenworth was established by the United States Army, serving as an important outpost for the growing Western frontier.

The arrival of white settlers in the 1850s brought significant changes to the region. In 1854, Leavenworth City was founded, and it quickly became a bustling center of trade and commerce. The city was an important stop along the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails, playing a crucial role in westward expansion. Leavenworth thrived as a transportation hub, with steamboats navigating the Missouri River and the development of railroads in the area.

During the Civil War, Leavenworth County was deeply divided, reflecting the broader conflicts of the nation. The county's strategic location made it a contested area, and the town of Leavenworth became an important military supply base for Union forces. The region was also a hotbed of political activity, with pro-slavery and abolitionist factions clashing over their conflicting ideologies.

In the decades following the war, Leavenworth County continued to evolve and grow. Agriculture became a leading industry, with wheat and corn being major crops. The county also played a role in the development of industry, particularly in the manufacturing of cement and bricks. Today, Leavenworth County is known for its diverse economy and its historical significance. Visitors can explore the area's rich heritage through museums, historic sites, and events that celebrate the county's unique past.

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

  • 1855: Leavenworth County is established as one of the original 33 counties of the Kansas Territory.
  • 1858: The city of Leavenworth is officially incorporated.
  • 1863: Leavenworth becomes an important military post during the Civil War.
  • 1866: The first railroad reaches Leavenworth, enhancing the city's transportation and trade.
  • 1882: A devastating flood hits Leavenworth, causing significant damage to the city.
  • 1898: The Carnegie Library, the city's first public library, opens its doors.
  • 1918: Fort Leavenworth becomes the headquarters of the United States Army Combined Arms Center.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression brings economic struggles to Leavenworth County.
  • 1974: The historic downtown district of Leavenworth is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2004: The University of Saint Mary opens its campus in Leavenworth.