National Register Listing

Santa Fe Trail-Rice County Trail Segments

a.k.a. Ralph's Ruts;NPS Master Plan #93A

Bushton Blacktop (FAS Hwy. 570), 3/4 mi. N of US 56, Chase, KS
Local significance of the site:
Transportation; Commerce; Military

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1995.

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Kansas.
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.
Kansas random facts
Rice County, Kansas, located in the central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Pawnee and Kansas tribes, who relied on the fertile land and abundant wildlife for their sustenance.

The county was officially established on February 26, 1867, and was named after Samuel Allen Rice, a Brigadier General in the American Civil War. The early settlers faced challenges such as limited resources and harsh weather conditions, but with perseverance and hard work, they managed to develop thriving communities.

One significant event in Rice County's history is the arrival of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in the late 19th century. This led to a boom in population and commerce, as the railway brought much-needed transportation and encouraged further settlement in the area. The towns of Lyons and Sterling emerged as important railway hubs, attracting businesses, industries, and new residents.

As with many rural communities, agriculture played a vital role in shaping Rice County's history. Wheat, corn, and sorghum became the main crops grown in the region, and several flour mills and grain elevators were established to support the local economy. Today, agriculture remains a significant industry in the county, with farmers utilizing advanced technologies to maximize productivity.

In summary, Rice County, Kansas, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in the late 1800s. The area has seen the influence of Native American tribes, the impact of the railway, and the growth of agriculture as cornerstones of its development. Today, Rice County continues to thrive as a vibrant community, preserving its past while embracing a promising future.

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

  • 1855 - The Kansas Territory is organized, including what is now Rice County.
  • 1867 - Rice County is officially established and named after Samuel A. Rice, a Union Army officer.
  • 1878 - The town of Lyons is founded as the county seat.
  • 1887 - The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway reaches Rice County, boosting the local economy.
  • 1909 - The city of Sterling is incorporated.
  • 1937 - The Dust Bowl severely affects Rice County, leading to soil erosion and agricultural challenges.
  • 1959 - Kanopolis State Park is established, providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors.
  • 1975 - The Central Kansas Extension District is formed, offering educational programs to the residents.
  • 1996 - The Commission on the Status of Women in Rice County is established to promote gender equality.