Kansas experienced a period of rapid construction in the late 1880’s that marked both the urban and rural environments. The growth was the result of an unparalleled atmosphere of opportunity brought about by a collusion of easy credit, liberal land policy, and a shared vision of progress. While many of these 19th century claims seem ludicrous today, they seemed very real at the time. This paper studies the boom in the central part of Kansas and its lasting effects on the politics, built environment, and culture of the state. The end of the boom brought about a changed political and economic landscape that reflected lessons learned in the boom years.