10 fun and interesting Wichita facts

1. The Heart of Kansas

Nestled in the south central region of Kansas, Wichita is the largest city in the state and the 49th largest in the entire United States. With a population of over 389,000, Wichita is a bustling metropolis that offers a variety of attractions, from its vibrant downtown area to its numerous museums and galleries. With its convenient location, Wichita is a great place to visit and explore, offering something for everyone.

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2. The Jones Automobile Company: A Legacy of Wichita Automobiles

The Jones Automobile Company was based in Wichita, Kansas, and to this day, the only Jones vehicle still in existence is proudly on display in the city. This unique piece of automotive history is a reminder of the city's past and the legacy of the Jones Automobile Company. The vehicle is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the company's founders and employees, and serves as a reminder of the city's proud automotive history.

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3. The Historic Wichita Airport

Prior to the advent of modern air travel, Wichita was home to one of the busiest airports in the United States. With no planes capable of crossing the country without stopping, the airport in Wichita was a major hub for travelers, with hundreds of flights arriving and departing each day. This made it a vital part of the nation's transportation infrastructure, allowing people to quickly and easily travel from coast to coast.

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4. Wichita's Electric Guitar Revolution

In 1932, Gage Brewer sparked a revolution in Wichita when he brought back electric guitars from California to be played at Halloween shows. Although the electric guitars didn't catch on right away, they eventually grew in popularity over the next few years. Today, electric guitars are a staple of Wichita's music scene, and the city is known for its vibrant and diverse music culture.

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5. In Wichita, Kansas, Innovation has a Long History

Wichita, Kansas has a long history of innovation and invention. In 1894, the city was the birthplace of mentholatum, a popular ointment used to treat a variety of ailments. Seven years later, in 1901, Wichita became the home of Coleman lanterns, a brand of portable gas-powered lamps that are still used today. This city has been a hub of invention for over a century, and its legacy of innovation continues to this day.

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6. The First White Lunch Counter Sit-In

In 1960, Wichita made history when African Americans took a stand against segregation by becoming the first to sit at a white lunch counter. This brave act of civil disobedience was a major milestone in the civil rights movement, and it set a precedent for other cities to follow. The event was a major turning point in the fight for racial equality, and it has been remembered as a symbol of courage and perseverance in the face of adversity.

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7. Wichita's Lost White Castle

In 1921, Wichita, Kansas was the birthplace of the White Castle burger chain. For 17 years, the city was home to the first White Castle franchise, until 1938 when it closed its doors. Since then, Wichita has been without a White Castle, leaving locals to find their cravings for sliders elsewhere.

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8. The Sedgwick County Zoo: A Collection of Wonderful Animals

The Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas is one of the largest zoos in the nation, boasting an impressive collection of over 2,500 animals from around the world. From African elephants and giraffes to snow leopards and red pandas, the zoo offers visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom. With its wide variety of species, the Sedgwick County Zoo is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Wichita.

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9. Why Wichita's Ban on Cherry Pie ala Mode is Still in Effect

In Wichita, it is illegal for restaurants to sell cherry pie ala mode on Sundays. This law has been in place since the 1950s, when the city council passed a law prohibiting the sale of ice cream with pie on Sundays. This law is still in effect today, and restaurants must abide by it or face a fine. Despite this, many restaurants in Wichita still offer cherry pie ala mode on other days of the week, allowing customers to enjoy this classic dessert.

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10. Wichita's Weird Law: Making Lewd Remarks Can Land You in Jail

In Wichita, Kansas, there is an unusual law that states that anyone who makes lewd remarks on the telephone can be jailed for up to one year. This law is strictly enforced, and those who are found guilty of this offense can face serious consequences. This law is in place to protect the citizens of Wichita from unwanted and inappropriate conversations, and to ensure that the city remains a safe and comfortable place to live.