1893 Map of Great Bend

About this map

The Arkansas River carves a sweeping arc across this Central Kansas landscape, defining the early geography of Barton and Stafford counties. Surveyed in 1889, the map reveals a region transitioning into a productive agricultural and rail hub. The Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad parallels the river, connecting established grain and cattle centers like Great Bend, Ellinwood, and Pawnee Rock. To the north, the distinctive natural basin of Cheyenne Bottoms stands in contrast to the orderly township grids. Further south, the Missouri Pacific Railway serves a string of smaller settlements including Seward, Ratt, and Hudson. The presence of several alkaline features, such as Salt Marsh and Salt Springs, highlights the unique hydrology of the area, while smaller watercourses like Walnut Creek and Rattlesnake Creek provide the essential drainage for the surrounding farmsteads and townships.