Ten fun facts about Kansas

1. A State of Inspiration

The state of Kansas is known for its inspiring motto, “to the stars through difficulties”. This phrase is a reminder of the state's pioneering spirit and determination to overcome any obstacle. It is a reminder of the state's history of perseverance and resilience, from the early settlers who crossed the plains to the modern-day Kansans who strive to reach their goals. The motto is a source of pride for all Kansans, and a reminder that no matter how difficult the journey may be, with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

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2. Home to the Sunflower and Cottonwood

The beautiful state of Kansas is home to two iconic symbols: the sunflower, its state flower, and the cottonwood, its state tree. The sunflower is a bright and cheerful flower that is native to the region and is a popular choice for gardens and bouquets. The cottonwood is a large, deciduous tree that is also native to the area and is known for its strong wood and its ability to provide shade. Both of these symbols are beloved by the people of Kansas and are a reminder of the state's natural beauty.

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3. The State with a Name from a Native American Tribe

The state of Kansas gets its name from a Sioux word, "Kansa", which literally translates to "People of the South Wind". This phrase is thought to refer to the Native American tribe that originally inhabited the area, the Kansa people, who were known for their strong connection to the south wind. The Kansa people were a nomadic tribe that lived in the area for centuries before the arrival of European settlers.

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4. Birthplace of Historymakers

Kansas is the birthplace of some of the most influential figures in history, including Walter Chrysler, the founder of Chrysler Automobiles; Stan Kenton, a renowned jazz musician; Jess Willard, a heavyweight boxing champion; Robert Dole, a former U.S. Senator; and Amelia Earhart, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. These individuals have all left an indelible mark on the world, and their legacy continues to live on in the state of Kansas.

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5. Record-Breaking Winds in Dodge City, KS

The city of Dodge City, located in the state of Kansas, holds the record as the windiest city in the United States. With an average wind speed of 14.3 mph, Dodge City experiences strong winds throughout the year, making it the windiest city in the country. The winds are so strong that they can cause dust storms and other weather-related issues. The city is also known for its strong gusts of wind, which can reach up to 50 mph.

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6. "Hattie McDaniel Makes History: 1st Black Woman to Win Oscar"

Hattie McDaniel, a Kansan born in Wichita, made history in 1940 when she became the first African American woman to win an Academy Award for Best Actress. Her award-winning performance was for her role as Mammy in the classic film “Gone with the Wind”. McDaniel was the first African American to be nominated for an Academy Award, and her win was a groundbreaking moment in Hollywood history.

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7. In Kansas, it's against the law to hit or punch a vending machine

In Derby County, Kansas, it's against the law to hit or punch a vending machine if it has taken your money. This law was put in place to protect people from the frustration of losing their hard-earned cash, as well as to protect the machines from being damaged. It's a reminder that, while it can be tempting to take out your anger on a machine, it's important to remember that it's not the machine's fault.

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8. Kansas' Largest Public Pool Holds 2.5 Million Gallons of Water

The largest public swimming pool in the state of Kansas is located in Garden City and holds an astonishing 2 ½ million gallons of water. This impressive pool is the perfect place to cool off during the hot summer months, and is sure to provide hours of fun for the whole family. With its vast size, the pool is capable of accommodating large groups of people, making it an ideal spot for birthday parties, family reunions, and other special events.

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9. Kansas home to highest population of prairie chickens in US

Kansas is home to the highest population of prairie chickens, also known as grouse, in the United States. These birds are a species of the prairie grouse family and are native to the Great Plains region of North America. They are known for their unique mating rituals, which involve males gathering in large groups and performing a "booming" dance to attract females. The prairie chicken population in Kansas has been steadily increasing in recent years due to conservation efforts, making it the ideal habitat for these birds.

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10. Reverend Graham: Whole Wheat Crusader

Reverend Sylvester Graham, a native of Kansas, was the namesake of the popular graham cracker. He was a passionate advocate of whole wheat products, and his namesake snack is a testament to his beliefs. The graham cracker is made with whole wheat flour, and is a staple in many pantries across the United States. It is a popular snack for both children and adults, and is often used as a base for other desserts.

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