Site No. JF00-072
Jct. of Thayer, Jefferson, Washington and Republic Co. lines, Mahaska, KS Local significance of the site: Exploration/settlement
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
About National Register Listings
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 geographic center of the contiguous United States is located in a field near Belle Fourche, South Dakota, but a marker for it is located in a small town called Belle Plaine, Kansas.
About Republic County
Republic County Timeline
Republic County, located in the state of Kansas, has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Pawnee and Kansa tribes, who relied on the fertile land for sustenance. European settlers began arriving in the mid-1800s, primarily German and Swedish immigrants, seeking opportunities for farming and homesteading.
In 1860, Republic County was officially organized and named after the Republican River that runs through it. The county quickly grew as more settlers arrived and established family farms. Agriculture became the backbone of the local economy, with crops such as wheat, corn, and sorghum being cultivated. The region also developed a strong tradition of livestock farming, particularly in cattle and poultry production.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Republic County saw significant growth in its communities. Towns such as Belleville, Cuba, and Scandia emerged as important trading centers and hubs of social activity. Railroads played a crucial role in the county's development, connecting farmers to markets and bringing in new residents and businesses. Despite the challenges of droughts and economic downturns, the county persevered and continued to thrive.
In the 20th century, Republic County experienced changes in its economic landscape. While agriculture remained a strong sector, new industries emerged, including manufacturing and aerospace. The county became known for its production of aircraft parts, contributing to Kansas' reputation as the "Air Capital of the World."
Today, Republic County continues to be a vibrant and resilient community. Its residents take pride in their agricultural heritage and are actively working to promote economic growth and preserve the county's unique history. With its picturesque landscapes and close-knit communities, Republic County highlights the ongoing spirit of tenacity and progress that has defined its history.
In 1860, Republic County was officially organized and named after the Republican River that runs through it. The county quickly grew as more settlers arrived and established family farms. Agriculture became the backbone of the local economy, with crops such as wheat, corn, and sorghum being cultivated. The region also developed a strong tradition of livestock farming, particularly in cattle and poultry production.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Republic County saw significant growth in its communities. Towns such as Belleville, Cuba, and Scandia emerged as important trading centers and hubs of social activity. Railroads played a crucial role in the county's development, connecting farmers to markets and bringing in new residents and businesses. Despite the challenges of droughts and economic downturns, the county persevered and continued to thrive.
In the 20th century, Republic County experienced changes in its economic landscape. While agriculture remained a strong sector, new industries emerged, including manufacturing and aerospace. The county became known for its production of aircraft parts, contributing to Kansas' reputation as the "Air Capital of the World."
Today, Republic County continues to be a vibrant and resilient community. Its residents take pride in their agricultural heritage and are actively working to promote economic growth and preserve the county's unique history. With its picturesque landscapes and close-knit communities, Republic County highlights the ongoing spirit of tenacity and progress that has defined its history.
Republic County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Republic County, Kansas.
- 1854 - The area that would become Republic County is opened for settlement as part of the Kansas-Nebraska Act.
- 1856 - The first settlers arrive in the area, which was then a part of Washington County.
- 1860 - Republic County is officially organized and named after the Republican River.
- 1863 - The county seat is established in Belleville.
- 1870 - The population of Republic County reaches over 7,000 people.
- 1871 - The Kansas Pacific Railway extends its line through the county, boosting economic growth.
- 1881 - The Belleville Telescope, the county's oldest newspaper, is established.
- 1887 - The first telephone exchange is established in Belleville.
- 1920s - Republic County experiences a significant decline in population due to agricultural difficulties and the effects of the Great Depression.
- 1960s - The county begins to focus on economic development and revitalization efforts.
- 1999 - The Belleville High Banks, a historic dirt racetrack, is reopened after decades of being closed.
- 2004 - The Pawnee Indian Museum, a state historic site, is opened to the public.
- 2017 - Republic County celebrates its 150th anniversary.