Dim lights Download Return to PrairyErth is a documentary film directed by John OHara on the return of renowned author William Least Heat-Moon to Chase County, Kan., inspiration for his New York Times-bestselling book PrairyErth: A Deep Map. Heat-Moon spent much of the 1980s wandering Chase County (pop. 1300) by foot, exploring its history, meeting its diverse characters and reporting his thoughts in rich, vivid detail. Heat-Moon believed the people of Chase County lived in a time warp and worried that their bygone ways would one day force them to make a harsh transition to the 21st century. But, nine years into the new century, attitudes have progressed and, despite new threats, the environmental outlook for Chase County is promising. In Return to PrairyErth, Heat-Moon guides us through Chase County of today, and learns how life and local culture have changed, making the region a frontrunner in the environmental movement.In Return to PrairyErth, William Least Heat-Moon meets a new generation of Flint Hills residents committed to progress and protecting natural resources, many who are at the forefront of todays green revolution. And, through new attitudes and cooperation, Chase County ranchers are now participating in some of the most innovative conservation projects in the country.

The long awaited feasibility study for Amtrak service from Fort Worth, TX to Kansas City is now available.  Strong City is still in consideration as a potential stop in three of the four options.  A representative from the Northern Flyer Alliance will be visiting Chase County in May.  She's expected to give a presentation at the monthly Chamber meeting.  We'll keep you posted.

If you'd like to send a letter of support for this effort you can download one here.

You can download an MS Word file here.

This is an exciting opportunity for Chase County.

You can download the feasibility study here.

The Rogler family settled at present day Pioneer Bluffs, one mile north of Matfield Green near picturesque Crocker Creek, in the mid-1800s which later became a sprawling 4000 acre ranch in the heart of the beautiful Cottonwood River valley.

Over the years, as family members passed away or moved, the main house was vacated and the buildings fell into disrepair.In 1992 it was designated as a National Register Historic District and, in 2006, Bill and Julia McBride, and the late Strachan Donnelley, purchased the 12 acres of land that includes the house, barns and other buildings, and the Pioneer Bluffs Foundation was formed.

Much work has been done to restore the main house and other structures and, on the first Saturday of each month, a group of dedicated volunteers gather to paint, mow, garden, make repairs and clear brush and trees.T  he large white barn serves as a conference room for interesting “Prairie Talks” that are presented throughout the year, and a granary is being restored which will be used as an education center for tour groups and schools.For an historical glimpse of one of the oldest homesteads in Chase County, stop by Pioneer Bluffs and step back in time.

Chase County Kansas is an E-Community

Financial resources are available for new and expanding businesses in Chase County through Network Kansas E-Community program.  Expert assistance is available to help you qualify.  For more information please contact the This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Becoming a NetWork Kansas E community results in the following:

• Through a tax credit grant, a fund is established for entrepreneurs and small business owners administered at the local level;

• The mapping of assets for local, regional, and state assets available to entrepreneurs and small business owners;

• An assessment of educational and economic needs at the local level;

• A powerful database tracking system to measure business and economic growth;

• A long term partnership with more than 470 resources statewide that assist entrepreneurs and small business to provide a positive impact on the Kansas economy.

Learn more here.

The Chase County Chamber of Commerce supports the efforts of Imagine Chase County.  We invite all to attend this years holiday celebration: Chase County Country Christmas on November 28th, 2009.  Events are scheduled throughout the day and throughout the county.  Click here for more info.

Congratulation to our 2010 Graduates

Our Chase County Community has provided over $44,000 in scholarships to this years graduates, what a great reflection of the ongoing commitment and support of our students.  We wish all of our students continued success in all of their future endeavors.

The Strong City Auditorium/Theatre Building is finally getting a roof, thanks to grant funding.  More grants are being sought to begin on Phase 2 of the restoration.

The City Council would like public input for the vision of use for this building. Please take a moment to let us know what you think using the pole below - or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Thank you for your input.