Early History of the First Park City
To most people of Wichita, the first Park City was mythical. But it was a city worthy of many a violent oath, worthy of being condemned and worthy of an aggressive animosity.
The first Park City was originated in 1870 located 14 miles northwest of Wichita. Its site now lies five miles directly west of Valley Center, between the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers. The serpentine Arkansas River swings into a great bend and at this bow, to the east and north of it; the pretentious City of Park City was first platted.
Both Wichita and Park City were located on a table flat bottom and both rested next to the Little Arkansas River. The banks of the river, however, were higher at Park City, a most momentous claim offset by Wichita’s persistence that their City was at the junction of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers. During this time, about 300 people lived there. It was flourishing, as much on its prospects as anything else, although most of the people west of it and many on the north have traded there. There were three large stores and a dram shop (tavern) in the business district. Many brochures were sent to eastern cities to attract residents.
Unfortunately, efforts to attract a railroad line and cattle route failed. When the railroad passed it by and came to Wichita, the town perished, and its houses were removed to Wichita, Newton and Hutchinson. Part of the Chisholm Trail at one time crossed the western edge of City. A marker to this event has been located north of 61st Street North on the west side of Broadway.
Living in Park City
Family
With Park City being a “family friendly” community there are many reasons for one to want to live here. Whether it’s going to events at an arena, getting the family together for car races at the dirt track, grabbing a bite to eat while you’re out and about, or even if you want to grab a new book to dive into at the public library!
Park City is also perfect for out of town relatives. With the many hotels within Park City, your family will have many options to choose from with what meets their expectations and lodging.