Travel Attraction History: Legends of Dodge City, Kansas

Dodge City, Kansas is packed with exciting history and amazing experiences. How did this little, yet infamous, cowboy town get its reputation? The best way to find out is to experience the historic sights of this town for yourself. Here are a few fascinating details for the wildest city in the Wild West.

1865

Fort Dodge was created in 1865 on the Santa Fe Trail to keep travelers safe, supply U.S. mail and provide troops for ongoing wars. Fort Dodge was an essential asset for the founding of Dodge City.

1871

Six years after Fort Dodge came into play, Henry L. Sutler built a three-room sod house just five miles from Fort Dodge. This was the beginning of Dodge City. Sutler’s home became a frequent stopping place for buffalo hunters and traders. At the time, the West was replete with buffalo herds. From the years 1872-74, 850,000 buffalo were hunted and killed. This massive switch in land occupation was a key part in the development of Dodge City.

1872

The founder of Dodge City, George M. Hoover settled in 1872. When the town was founded in October Hoover actually named it Buffalo City, however, that name only lasted two months as there was already a Buffalo, KS. Hoover is considered one of the “Seven Old Timers” of Dodge City. He opened the first business in the town, which was a saloon, and during his life he served four terms as the mayor and was president of the bank until his death in 1914.

1873

Dodge City’s wild reputation must come from somewhere. For Dodge City, that reputation comes from the first year. With no lawmen and no order, the people were left to run wild. Approximately 15 men were killed in the first year, buried in the famous Boot Hill Cemetery. The first recorded murder was committed by a gambler who shot a man by the name of Black Jack for “no reason.” In June of 1873 Sheriff, Charlie Bassett was elected and put the brakes on the famously wicked town.

Today

Dodge City is rich in history and intrigue. Today the small town of roughly 27,000 people welcome tourists from all over. Boot Hill Museum commemorates the legacy and legends of Dodge City, and if you want to see exactly how these people lived, then the Home of Stone is a can’t-miss experience.

Plan a trip today to this history-rich city and for an authentic taste for the Wild West. Book your stay with Best Western Rewards for additional savings and to earn points that never expire.