Kansas wheat's deep-rooted connection to Mennonites and stones

By Scout Nelson

Kansas' wheat industry boasts a diverse history, with its roots deeply connected with Mennonite farmers and their innovative techniques. One notable name, Glenn Ediger, ventured into a historical exploration of these connections, tracing back to the heart of central Kansas. This journey uncovers how the Mennonites, invited by Kansas and the Santa Fe Railroad, helped shape the state's agricultural landscape.

In 1874, a significant wave of Mennonite immigrants from Ukraine arrived in Kansas, seeking religious freedom. They didn't come empty-handed, bringing along Turkey Red winter wheat, which eventually laid the foundation for hard red winter wheat varieties flourishing across the plains.

The state's agricultural ascendancy is largely attributed to the railroad's expansion. Recognizing the Mennonites' renowned farming prowess, the Santa Fe railroad, aided by Carl B. Schmidt, beckoned these talented communities to Kansas. The railroad sweetened the deal by providing initial accommodations and seed supply for the budding crops.

It wasn't just about wheat. The Mennonites introduced effective farming strategies. One standout tool from this era is the threshing stone—a hefty limestone tool designed for grain threshing. Its operation resembles modern combines, emphasizing the threshing process's timelessness.

Though once prevalent, these stones gradually became rare with the advent of advanced machinery. Ediger's quest led him to trace these relics across Kansas, culminating in his detailed account in "Leave No Threshing Stone Unturned." Today, while technology has replaced many old practices, the lasting impact left by the Mennonites on Kansas' wheat industry stands strong.

Though once common, these stones slowly became rare with the arrival of advanced machinery. Ediger's journey led him to search for these old items across Kansas, ending in his detailed account in, "Leave No Threshing Stone Unturned. "Today, while technology has replaced many old practices, the lasting impact left by the Mennonites on Kansas' wheat industry stands strong.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-ygrek