Beyond the City Limits

(By Diane Dowell)

"Beyond the City Limits" typically refers to areas outside the defined boundaries of a city (Salina) or urban area. These regions can vary widely in characteristics such as population density, infrastructure, and economic activities compared to urban centers. They often include rural areas, and sometimes wilderness or agricultural zones. Exploring beyond the city limits can provide contrasting perspectives on lifestyle, environment, and community dynamics compared to city life.
LET'S GO on a little road trip around Saline County! 🚗 6th Stop:

SMOLAN, KS

Smolan, located just 11 miles southwest of Salina, was named after the Swedish providence Smaland, the native home of a large share of the early settlers. The town was founded in the 1800s, with the post office opening in 1887, and closing in 1997. April 30, 1962, Smolan had become an incorporated community.

The railroad system that once passed by Smolan, improved the economy thus bolstering the population. The railroad also transported POW prisoners to Camp Phillips, that was located just west of Smolan.

An old elevator is currently being used for a tree cutting business.

In 1910, it had telegraph and express offices, a money order post office with 2 rural routes.

The building on the left once housed the post office and the building on the right was a mercantile building.

This originally was built to serve the community as a church. Currently it is functioning as an apartment complex.

This building once served as the hotel for Smolan. Through the years, it has undergone many changes and is now being remodeled to be a private residence.

An old gas station has been converted into a private residence.

However with the railroad's abandonment in the mid 20th century, the population began to dwindle away.

Recent census findings show that in 2010, the population logged 215 residents. The number has been on a steady decline, with the 2020 census showing the population of 162. During the time of Camp Phillips, the population was around one thousand.

Kathy and Bill Smith, Smolan. Kathy is the longest living resident of Smolan, having been born and raised in the town.

A common finding with the smaller rural towns was the need to unify the schools. Smolan High School bearing the Swedes as their mascot, was also forced to close. Students are now in the Smoky Valley district, located in nearby Lindsborg, Kansas.

After the closing of the school, Hickory Tree Restaurant utilized the building and opened up for business. The restaurant has since closed.

Playground equipment is located directly west of the school. A baseball field is located there as well.

In 1962, the town became incoroprated and elected its first mayor. All the mayors since then have a photograph displayed in the City Building.

In 1962, the town became incorporated and elected its first mayor. All the mayors since then have a photograph displayed in the City Building.

Currently, Tom Hawks is serving as the Mayor of Smolan. He was elected to office in 2003 and has remained the mayor since then.

Tom and Eva Hawks. Tom has served as Mayor of Smolan since 2003.

Veronica Base has served as the City Clerk for 47 years and husband, Jerry Base, has had several job duties. Currently Jerry is serving as the Parks Director.

March 31, 1892 a tornado hit the community, wiping out all buildings except for one home. This home still stands today. The community, in somewhat recent years, had a major storm. On May 6, 2019, a hailstorm hovered over the town for 20-30 minutes dropping baseball-sized hail, causing significant damage to homes throughout the town. Snowplows were used to clear the roadways of the hail stones.

The only building/home that remained after a tornado hit Smolan in 1892.

Smolan is a bedroom community where most resident travel outside of town for work. Smolan has a quiet and relaxed atmosphere compared to urban cities. This is an attractive feature for some families who are seeking a suburban lifestyle. Next time you're out driving around, head to this friendly little town. If you wave at a resident, I bet they wave back!