Pearl, Kansas facts for kids
Pearl is a small, unincorporated community in Dickinson County, Kansas, United States. An unincorporated community means it's a place where people live, but it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. Instead, it's part of the larger county.
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History of Pearl
Pearl has a long history, especially with its post office and railroads.
Early Days and the Post Office
Pearl had its own post office for many years. It opened in 1883. This was an important place for people to send and receive mail. The post office served the community for over 50 years. It finally closed its doors in 1935.
Railroads and Their Journey
Railroads played a big part in Pearl's past. The Rock Island Railroad used to run through the area. It served Pearl for a long time. However, the Rock Island company faced financial trouble. It went out of business in 1980.
After that, another railroad, the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (known as the Katy), took over the tracks. They called this part of the line the Oklahoma-Kansas-and Texas (OKT). In 1988, the Katy railroad became part of the Union Pacific Railroad. Some of the old tracks were removed. But a section from Abilene to Woodbine was saved. The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad bought this part of the track in 1993. This railroad still uses the tracks today.
What Remains Today
Today, Pearl is a quiet place. You can still see the railroad tracks that once carried trains through the community. There is also a large CO-OP grain elevator. This is a tall building used to store grain from local farms. You might also spot the remains of an old stone house. It stands as a reminder of Pearl's past.
Education in Pearl
Children living in Pearl attend public schools. The community is part of the Chapman USD 473 school district. This district provides education for students from kindergarten through high school.
A Notable Person from Pearl
One person with ties to Pearl is Sam R. Heller. He was once the president of the Eisenhower Foundation. This foundation helped to build the Eisenhower Library & Museum. This important museum is located in Abilene. It honors the life and presidency of Dwight D. Eisenhower.
