City history
From its indigenous roots to its emergence as a global aviation leader, discover the historical evolution of Wichita, Kansas.
Chapter one
Indigenous name
"People"
The Wichita people, a Caddoan-speaking group, inhabited the region. The name Wichita is derived from how neighboring tribes referred to them.
Named after the Wichita tribe
The city was officially established on the banks of the Arkansas River.
Chapter two
Wichita transitioned from local solar time to standardized Central Time following railroad expansion.
The city adopted standardized daylight saving time following federal legislation in the United States.
Chapter three
The town was formally established by settlers on the Arkansas River.
The rise of aircraft manufacturing began, setting the stage for Wichita's aviation dominance.
Wichita became the county seat for Sedgwick County, boosting its regional status.
The iconic river-side sculpture was completed, celebrating the city's geography.