Welcome to the Sunflower State, where history and culture come alive in every corner. Kansas State is a treasure trove of historical landmarks and fascinating stories that have shaped its identity over the years. From iconic figures like Amelia Earhart to famous battlefields from the Civil War era. There’s no shortage of intriguing places to explore in this great state. Join us as we take you on a journey through time, discovering all that makes State such a unique and captivating destination for any history buff or traveler looking for an adventure!
What is Kansas State?
Kansas State University is a public research university in Manhattan, Kansas, United States. Founded in 1866, it is the oldest university in the state of Kansas and the second-oldest school of higher education in the Midwestern United States. The university offers more than 200 undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located on an urban campus near downtown Manhattan, K-State has a student population of over 26,000.
State founded as the state’s land-grant college in 1866. During its early years, the school offered only basic instruction in agriculture and engineering. In 1892, the school merged with State Agricultural College (now known as Emporia State University) to form what is now known as Kansas State University–Emporia. In 1917, the school changed its name to State Normal School after adopting a new mission statement emphasizing teacher preparation and professional training for students entering occupations in society.
History of Kansas State
State is one of the most historically rich universities in the United States. The university has a long and illustrious history that dates back to 1867. State was founded as Western State Normal School, and it was originally located in Parsons, Kansas. In 1903, the school moved to Manhattan, and it became known as Kansas State Teachers College. In 1957, the college became a university.
State has a proud tradition of athletics. The university’s teams have won more than 250 conference championships in baseball, basketball, football, track and field, cross country, golf and tennis. Some of the most famous athletes who have attended State include Wilt Chamberlain, Buck O’Neil and Neil Armstrong.
What are some fun facts about Kansas?
- Kansas was the first state in the Union to admitted to the Union on July 4, 1859.
- The capital of Kansas is Topeka.
- The state’s official flower is the sunflower.
- The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is located in Keystone, SD and commemorates four American presidents—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Lincoln—who were all born in Kentucky and are buried there.
- Kansas is home to Washburn University, one of the top 50 universities in America according to U.S News & World Report rankings, as well as Truman State University and William Jewell College.
- The saying “behind every great man there’s a great woman” originates from Kansas history. In 1861, Elizabeth Cady Stanton co-founded the first women’s rights organization in America with Susan B. Anthony; their husband/partner Frederick Douglass was also a powerful advocate for civil rights during this time period.
