The Beginnings of Business

Manhattan's businesses developed around the transportation available at the time. Initially, the Kansas River and the Military Trail leading to Fort Riley were the only routes to get to Manhattan. With the arrival of the railroads, commerce quickly grew in the downtown area. By the 1880's, the southeast portion of downtown was home to grain elevators, lumber yards, several hotels and all of the other businesses needed to build a growing community.
In 1987, Manhattan began a redevelopment of the downtown highlighted by the building of Manhattan Town Center on the east end of Poyntz Avenue. This project relocated a number of business-to-business companies, solidifying downtown as the city's retail district.
Following the mall project, a new bridge was constructed over the Kansas River displacing an additional number of the original businesses.
The movement toward retail and entertainment business continues today in Manhattan's downtown.
Credits: Photos - Riley County Historical Society

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Show me all markers in:  Manhattan, KS  |  Riley County  |  66502  |  Kansas  |  United States of America

Manhattan's Union Pacific Depot - Revived
Colorado Street
Yuma Street
The American Veteran
Riley County Courthouse
Carnegie Library
Amanda Arnold Arch
Damon Runyon
Osage Street
Ft. Leavenworth - Ft. Riley Military Road

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