Wichita, the largest city in Kansas, is located in the south central part of the state. Wichita is nicknamed the "Air Capital," due to its status as a major aircraft manufactural hub. Ranked by CNN/Money and Money magazine (2006) as one of the 10 best big cities to live in the United States, Wichita's diverse culture has something to offer everyone -- helping attract Wichita movers from all over.
Wichita is an economic center that is based around manufacturing and distribution. The city has a very large aircraft production industry as well as several oil refineries, mills, and food processing plants. Other manufactured goods include computers, electric products, and various pieces of machinery. The city is also known for its entrepreneurialism. Companies such as Pizza Hut, Coleman and White Castle all were founded in Wichita. Boeing, Airbus, and Cessna all have major production facilities in Wichita.
History:
The Wichita Indians inhabited the area for thousands of years before any Europeans discovered the land. Francisco Vasquez de Coronado first went to the area in 1541 and later the French explored the region in 1719. A permanent Indian establishment was built in the area in 1863. In 1870, Wichita was officially incorporated. The Woman's Christian Temperance Union, led by Carrie Nation in 1900, led a fight to close all the bars in Wichita. Oil was discovered in Wichita in 1914 and this helped fund the aeronautics industry. The aircraft industry of Wichita grew quickly in the 1920s, but the Depression brought layoffs and a closing of many factories. The industry was renewed, though, during World War II as a large demand of airplanes was necessary.
Tourism:
Wichita Mid-Continent Airport is located seven miles from the city. There are several minor league and collegiate sports teams in the area. The annual Wichita River Festival is a large event in the city that is one of the longest running in the state. Other destinations in Wichita include Sedgwick County Zoo, the Old Cowtown Museum, Exploration Place, and the Wichita Art Museum. Botanical contains a large number of renowned botanical gardens in the city.