Downtown Wichita Live Cam
The county seat of Sedgwick County
History
Downtown Wichita, Kansas has a rich history that dates back to the 1860s. The city was founded in 1864 and quickly became a center of commerce and trade in the region. In the early days, the downtown area was dominated by wooden structures and dirt streets, but as the city grew and prospered, more substantial buildings were constructed.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, downtown Wichita saw a building boom as a result of the growing economy. Many iconic buildings were constructed during this time, including the Garvey Center, the Kansas Gas & Electric Building, and the Wichita Carnegie Library. These buildings helped to establish Wichita as a major city in the Midwest.
During the 1920s and 1930s, downtown Wichita became a hub for entertainment and nightlife. The Orpheum Theatre, the Cotillion Ballroom, and other venues hosted famous musicians and entertainers from across the country. At the same time, the city's growth and prosperity were also reflected in the construction of new high-rise buildings, such as the Wichita National Bank Building (now the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center).
In the decades that followed, downtown Wichita continued to evolve and change. The area saw significant decline during the 1970s and 1980s as businesses moved out to the suburbs, but efforts to revitalize the area began in the 1990s. The construction of Intrust Bank Arena in 2010 brought new life to downtown Wichita, and the area has continued to grow and develop in recent years.
Today, downtown Wichita is a vibrant and diverse area that is home to many businesses, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The area has a rich history that is celebrated through events, tours, and museums. With ongoing efforts to improve the area's infrastructure and attract new businesses and residents, downtown Wichita is poised for continued growth and prosperity in the years to come.