Our Past Is Present June 14, 2018

June 14, 2018

            You are reading “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.

            When you read the story this morning, we are sure you will agree that Junction City businesses have increased in number and diversity.  Sometimes we complain about not having enough restaurants, manufacturing and other resources in town, but take a listen to what was here over one hundred years ago.  Perhaps we need to be more thankful for what we have, but still encourage more growth.

            There was a headline in the Daily Union newspaper in 1905 that caused attention to the increased building of residences and businesses in Junction City.  The story explained that the section of the city where most of the increase in building took place was on Washington Street - a block to the north and a block to the south of Seventh Street.

            W.H. Thompson had built one of the finest and most substantial buildings in the city. 

Ziegler and Dalton were beginning work on a stone building that would be

one of the most attractive buildings of its kind in Central Kansas when it was completed. 

Other buildings in the area were being improved with additions and remodeling both inside and

out.  All of the improvements to the business section of Junction City were to be completed in

the fall.  Cement walks with curbs and gutters would be installed on both sides of Washington

Street in place of the limestone sidewalks, which had become uneven. Streets and alley

crossings were also being laid in concrete. 

            Even over a hundred years ago, there was still that desire to keep growing.  Thanks to our City Commission, City Manager, the Chamber of Commerce and all who work so hard to keep our city well maintained and growing.  And… that’s our time together on “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.