Hardtner, Kansas, was established in 1886 by Jacob Achenbach, who named it after Dr. John Hardtner, a landowner. A key moment in its history was the founding of the Hardtner Townsite Company to build a railroad line in 1908 to connect it to the outside world, a feat accomplished by overcoming opposition from the Santa Fe Railroad. The town also experienced a significant F2 tornado on June 2, 1929, which was noted for its slow movement and the high-quality photographs captured during the event.
Founding and Development
- 1884: Jacob Achenbach purchased 6,300 acres from Dr. John Hardtner, a landowner.
- 1886: Achenbach, along with others, formed the Hardtner Townsite Company.
- 1887: The townsite was laid out on a section of land purchased from Dr. Hardtner and officially named Hardtner. The first post office was established in July of the same year.
The Railroad
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1908:
Recognizing the need for rail access for the town's survival, Achenbach helped establish a company to build a line east to Kiowa.
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Construction:
The line had to cross the Santa Fe's tracks to connect with the Missouri Pacific Railroad, a planned connection point.
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Obstacle Overcome:
The Santa Fe's superintendent initially blocked the planned crossing but moved his private car after being informed that local cowboys were prepared to forcefully clear the path.
Notable Events and Features
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June 2, 1929 Tornado:
An F2 tornado struck Hardtner, causing minor damage but yielding some of the best tornado photographs captured to that date, due to its slow, deliberate movement.
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Achenbach Hospital:
In 1941, the town opened a hospital, funded by a bequest from Jacob Achenbach, but it closed in the early 1970s due to perpetual financial difficulties.
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Hardtner Cemetery:
The cemetery's land was donated in 1912, and it was organized into an association in 1920.
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Independence Day Celebrations:
Hardtner is known for its annual Independence Day celebrations, attracting people from the Kansas/Oklahoma border region with its parade, medallion hunt, pit beef sandwiches, and fireworks.