1874 Centennial 1974

The Mennonites brought Turkey Hard Red Winter Wheat. The seeds were carefully selected, often kernel by kernel, frequently by grandparents and sometimes with the help of children. Many Mennonite families, here and in surrounding communities, managed amidst great difficulty to plant a few acres of this seed in the Fall of 1874.

In time, producing and milling hard winter wheat became a major source of wealth in Kansas. Consequently, the state is currently known as the "Bread Basket of the Nation." Today Turkey Hard Red Winter Wheat, although still available, survives largely as the parent of numerous improved varieties.

In addition to wheat, the Mennonites brought a wide variety of garden, flower, fruit, and field seeds including beets, beans, carrots, lettuce, peas, poppy seed, watermelon, apricot, peach, pear, oats, barley, rye, and others.

The Mennonites came mostly as tillers of the soil. They were honest, frugal, resourceful, industrious, and persevering. They helped turn the virgin prairie into productive farms and communities.

"The earth is the Lord's and the fulness [sic] thereof...."
Psalm 24:1

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Show me all markers in:  Moundridge, KS  |  McPherson County  |  67107  |  Kansas  |  United States of America

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Anabaptist - Mennonite Faith & Life
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The Challenge & Hope of the Future
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English Oak
Original Site of Hoffnungsfeld-Eden Church
In Memory of the Swiss Mennonite Congregation
Kansas Indian Treaty

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