INTERTWINED LEGACIES: EMPORIA AND ITS RAILROADS: 1857-1900

Abstract

The aim of this research was to follow the development of the city of Emporia, and several of the railroads that connected to it early in the history of Kansas, specifically from 1857 to 1900. This investigation was conducted in order to determine a correlation between the success that railroads had and the success that the town enjoyed by association. The dependence that these early railroads had on Emporia for their continued success was also examined. In order to best analyze the totality of this relationship, several topics are covered in depth, including economics, culture, politics, the social changes railway connection brought, and how influences in Emporia could affect the grander workings of the railroad companies. Finally, to determine a legacy, evidence of the railroads' impact on Emporia in the present day is also briefly analyzed.