1880 Guide to the Arkansas Valley and the Lands of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe R.R. Co. in South-West Kansas

“A Market Making Railroad Insures an Enterprising, Prosperous People.”

“Do you wish to know why Kansas is more favorably located for a residence and for agricultural pursuits than any other part of the United States? This circular will tell you. Do you wish to have a good county map of Kansas, showing its railroads, principal towns, and water system; also all the railroad lines leading into the state? Preserve and carefully study the map in this circular. Do you wish to know where to go if you intend emigrating westward, where to find the best agricultural and grazing lands at low rates and on long credits, with large discounts for cash; the best climate, the best grasses, the best water, and the best building stone? Read the circular. It will point you to the very spot.” – Text, back cover.

This uncommon ephemeral pamphlet was printed by the Times Printing Company of Leavenworth, Kansas in 1880 on behalf of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad. It was distributed, free of charge, to prospective emigrants looking to relocate on company lands in the fertile region along the Arkansas River.

A large map shows ATSF lines running between Kansas City, Leadville (CO), and Santa Fe, with extensions offering access beyond transportation hubs like Chicago and St. Louis. Granted property (available for sale) is shaded in gray across much of Kansas, offering enticing opportunities for the farmer and miner alike. Tables of statistics, descriptive text on local resources and climate, and information on frontier homesteading are also provided to encourage investment and land ownership.

Source: Cornell University