Long Island School
a.k.a. Northern Valley Middle School
Washington School, Long Island, KS Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2005.
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.
The state flower of Kansas is the sunflower, which is also featured on the state flag and seal.
In the 1860s, European settlers began arriving in the area, attracted by the promise of fertile land and opportunities for agriculture. In 1872, Phillips County was officially established and named after William A. Phillips, a former Civil War colonel and Kansas congressman. The county quickly grew as more settlers flocked to the area, building towns and establishing farms.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Phillips County experienced significant economic growth. The railroad arrived in the 1880s, connecting the county to larger cities and facilitating the transportation of goods. Agriculture, particularly wheat farming, became the backbone of the county's economy, with many farmers embracing mechanization and modern farming techniques.
However, like many rural areas, Phillips County faced numerous challenges over the years. The Great Depression in the 1930s hit the county hard, leading to a decline in agricultural production and economic hardship for many residents. In recent years, the county has focused on diversifying its economy, promoting tourism, and supporting small businesses to ensure a sustainable future.
Today, Phillips County is a thriving rural community, known for its picturesque landscapes, strong agricultural heritage, and close-knit community spirit. It continues to embrace its history while looking towards the future and finding innovative ways to grow and prosper.
Phillips County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Phillips County, Kansas.
- 1800s - The territory that is now Phillips County, Kansas, was populated by Native American tribes, including the Cheyenne and Arapaho.
- 1850s - European settlers began to migrate to the area, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching.
- 1872 - Phillips County was officially established on February 26, named after William A. Phillips, a politician and newspaper editor.
- Late 1800s - The county experienced rapid growth and development, with the establishment of towns such as Phillipsburg and Logan.
- 1886 - The Kansas Wesleyan University was founded in Phillipsburg, providing educational opportunities for the community.
- Early 1900s - The county faced challenges such as droughts, economic fluctuations, and the impact of World War I.
- 1930s - The Great Depression hit Phillips County hard, causing widespread poverty and unemployment.
- 1940s - Phillips County contributed to the war effort during World War II, with many residents serving in the armed forces.
- 1950s-1960s - The county began to recover economically after the war, with increased mechanization in agriculture and the growth of industries.
- 1970s-1990s - Phillips County faced the challenges of declining population and economic diversification, leading to efforts to attract new industries and businesses.
- 2000s - The county continues to focus on economic development, with a focus on tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy.