Early Saline County was a land rich in Native American history. Only a few settlers migrated to the area prior to the railroad development that started in 1867. Milling and grains, livestock, and even gypsum mining all influenced the growth of Saline County. Salina became a prominent city, whereas Hedville and other towns were altered, almost lost, as the railroads continued to build and change their depots, creating boom and bust economies in the county. Tornados, fires, droughts, and floods challenged the hardy souls who called this area home. Salina and the towns that have survived the booms and busts have a robust history.

​The world of amusement finally came to Kansas in the 1880s after the success of America’s first Roller Coaster. The fascination of coasters, which started being constructed in many Kansas towns starting in 1877, had a big impact on Kansans. The state suffered a great loss when most of the pleasure parks started to decline before the 1920s. Some 20 years later, Kiddielands were prospering all over the state but they did not last long either as most closed before or in the 1980s. Joyland of Wichita was Kansas' last family park till it closed in 2006.

Snuggled on the shore of East Haven, the salt water community endured much over the years including natural disasters and economical down falls. Cosey Beach had such wonderful appeal when a trolley operated on the avenue along with a carousel, numerous eating establishments and hotels. The trolley and the many attractions which enticed visitors to the shore had come to pass. The once treasured beach resort known for its cleanliness and safety has downsized into a residential beach community.