The story of the great bison herds in Kansas is a poignant chapter in the broader narrative of the American West. Once, millions of bison roamed the Great Plains, from Canada to Mexico, creating an ecological balance and serving as a cornerstone for Native American cultures. In Kansas, this story unfolds with a mixture of awe for what was and sorrow for what became.
Historical Abundance and Decline
The vast prairies of Kansas were once the roaming grounds of countless bison, integral to the ecosystem and the way of life for Native American tribes who depended on them. These majestic creatures were not only a food source but also provided materials for clothing, shelter, and tools. However, by the late 1880s, the bison were driven to the brink of extinction. The settlement of western North America brought waves of trappers and traders who killed millions of bison for their hides and meat, highly sought after in the east. Moreover, bison were killed for sport, with their carcasses left to rot on the prairie.