History of Barber County, Kansas
Barber County, located in south-central Kansas, is known for its historical significance in the development of the American West. Established in 1867, the county is named after Thomas W. Barber, a prominent early settler and military figure. The county’s history is shaped by the westward expansion, Native American tribes, cattle ranching, and the rise of agriculture. Over the years, Barber County has seen dramatic changes, from its early days as a frontier region to a modern agricultural community. Today, it boasts a rich history that is reflected in its landmarks, museums, and rural landscapes.
Origins and Early History
Native American Inhabitants
Before European settlers arrived, Barber County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Wichita, Osage, and Cheyenne. These tribes lived in the region for centuries, relying on hunting, fishing, and farming to sustain their communities. The Wichita people, in particular, established villages along the streams and rivers of the county, where they engaged in agriculture, growing crops like corn, beans, and squash.
When European settlers began moving westward in the early 1800s, they came into conflict with the native tribes, especially as settlers encroached upon their land. The U.S. government signed treaties with Native American tribes, leading to the forced relocation of many tribes, including the Osage and the Cheyenne, to reservations further west.
The Santa Fe Trail
The Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route connecting Missouri to New Mexico, passed through parts of what is now Barber County. The trail played a pivotal role in the early settlement of the region, as it facilitated the movement of goods, cattle, and settlers. This trade route was instrumental in establishing connections between the eastern United States and the southwestern frontier, contributing to the growth of towns and trade hubs along the way.
The Santa Fe Trail passed through the eastern edge of Barber County, linking it to the larger economy and trade networks of the 19th century. While much of the trail passed through present-day Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma, the section of the trail running through Barber County became an important route for westward expansion.
Formation of Barber County
Early Settlement and the Cattle Ranching Era
Barber County was officially established in 1867, shortly after the conclusion of the Civil War. At this time, the region was part of the larger frontier, which was still largely unexplored by settlers. As the American government pushed westward, the county became a key location for cattle ranching. The vast prairies of Barber County, with its wide open spaces and fertile grasslands, were ideal for raising cattle, and the county quickly became known for its cattle ranching industry.
Early settlers in the area took advantage of the Homestead Act of 1862, which provided land to settlers willing to farm or ranch. As a result, many ranchers moved into Barber County, establishing large cattle ranches. The area was soon known for its herds of cattle, and by the 1870s, the county was home to several thriving ranching communities.
The Role of the Railroad
In the late 19th century, the expansion of the railroad significantly impacted Barber County. The Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway reached Barber County in the 1880s, providing a vital transportation route for cattle and goods. The railroad allowed farmers and ranchers in the area to ship their products to other parts of the country, expanding the local economy and making Barber County a key part of Kansas’ agricultural industry.
The railroad also helped spur the growth of small towns and settlements in the county, as people could now travel more easily to and from the region. The towns of Medicine Lodge, the county seat, and Kiowa, among others, grew rapidly during this time, becoming hubs for trade, commerce, and transportation.
Key Historical Events
The Battle of the Comanche Crossing (1872)
One of the most significant historical events in Barber County was the Battle of the Comanche Crossing, which took place in 1872. The battle occurred near Medicine Lodge when a group of Native American warriors, including Comanche, Kiowa, and Cheyenne, clashed with the U.S. Army. This skirmish was part of a series of conflicts between Native American tribes and settlers in the late 19th century as the U.S. government sought to force native peoples onto reservations and open up land for settlers.
The Battle of the Comanche Crossing was a small but intense encounter, and it marked a period of increasing tension between the native tribes and settlers in the region. Though the battle was not decisive, it is a significant part of Barber County’s history, as it reflects the broader struggles faced by indigenous people during westward expansion.
The Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty
In 1867, the Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty was signed at Medicine Lodge Creek in Barber County. This historic treaty was negotiated between the U.S. government and several Native American tribes, including the Kiowa, Comanche, Apache, and Arapaho. The treaty was intended to bring peace between the Native Americans and settlers in the region by establishing designated reservations for the tribes.
Although the treaty promised protection and land rights for the tribes, its implementation was problematic, and many tribes were dissatisfied with the terms. The treaty is a crucial part of Barber County’s history, as it marked a significant turning point in relations between Native Americans and the U.S. government. Today, the Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty is commemorated with historical markers in the area.
Historical Sites in Barber County
1. Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Monument
Overview: The Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Monument marks the location where the Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty was signed in 1867. The monument honors the agreement between the U.S. government and Native American tribes, commemorating the complex history of Native American displacement and the efforts to establish peace during a turbulent time. The site also offers visitors a chance to reflect on the impact of westward expansion on indigenous peoples.
Location: Medicine Lodge, Kansas
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Ample parking is available at the monument site, with designated parking areas for visitors.
2. Barber County Historical Museum
Overview: The Barber County Historical Museum in Medicine Lodge is dedicated to preserving the history of the county, with exhibits covering its founding, Native American heritage, ranching history, and the impact of the railroad. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Barber County’s development over the years. The museum is a great resource for anyone interested in the region’s past.
Location: Medicine Lodge, Kansas
Ticket Price: $5 for adults, $2 for children (as of 2023)
Parking Information: Free parking is available at the museum, with designated spaces for visitors.
3. The Big Cow at the Kiowa City Park
Overview: A quirky but beloved landmark in Barber County, the Big Cow at Kiowa City Park is a large statue of a cow that symbolizes the county’s rich history in cattle ranching. The statue is a popular spot for photos and has become an iconic representation of the county’s agricultural past. Visitors can also enjoy the surrounding park and picnic areas.
Location: Kiowa, Kansas
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Parking is available at Kiowa City Park, with ample space for visitors.
4. The Comanche Crossing Historic Site
Overview: The Comanche Crossing Historic Site is located near the site of the Battle of the Comanche Crossing, which took place in 1872. The site offers historical markers that describe the events of the battle and the history of Native American conflicts in the region. It provides a glimpse into the struggles between indigenous people and settlers during the westward expansion.
Location: Near Medicine Lodge, Kansas
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Limited parking is available near the historic site, with additional parking at nearby public spaces.
Geography and Climate
Barber County is located in south-central Kansas and is characterized by its flat to gently rolling terrain, with prairies and grasslands dominating the landscape. The county is part of the Great Plains, and its land is primarily used for agriculture, including wheat, corn, and cattle ranching. The county is also home to several rivers and streams, including the Medicine Lodge River and the Arkansas River, which provide essential water resources for farming and wildlife.
The climate in Barber County is classified as semi-arid, with hot, dry summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing, with occasional snow. Precipitation is relatively low, with the majority of rainfall occurring during the spring and early summer months.
County Facts
- Year Founded: 1867
- County Seat: Medicine Lodge
- Population: Approximately 4,800 (2020 census)
- Population Density: 9 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Medicine Lodge, Kiowa
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 160, U.S. Highway 281
- Adjacent Counties: Comanche County, Kingman County, Harper County, Pratt County, and Barber County, Kansas
Barber County’s rich history, shaped by early Native American tribes, the cattle ranching era, and key events like the Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty, offers a window into the development of the American West. With its historical landmarks, museums, and natural beauty, the county provides a unique look at the past and a place for future generations to explore the legacy of this fascinating region. Whether you’re interested in history, agriculture, or simply enjoying the rural landscape, Barber County remains a vital part of Kansas’ heritage.
