Pages from the Past – From the 139-year history of the Kiowa County Press – March 15, 2026

Key Takeaways:

• A 2011 crash underscored challenging driving conditions during winter weather.
• High school achievements include an undefeated 1986 Eads basketball season and a 2001 wrestling accolade.
• Haswell’s local government engaged in active elections in 1976, revealing strong civic participation.
• Infrastructure improvements, such as new wells and filling stations, have permitted continued growth.
• Community gatherings like a chicken fried steak dinner showcase the tight-knit spirit of Kiowa County.

A Look Through the Decades

Kiowa County Press, celebrating 139 years of publication, has documented pivotal moments in local history. From municipal happenings to high school sports triumphs, each decade offers a glimpse into the enduring character of Eads, Haswell, Sheridan Lake, and beyond.

A Rough Ride in 2011

In March 2011, a semi traveling along Wansted Street (Highway 287) lost control on icy roads. The vehicle struck a power pole and jackknifed, ultimately resting on the east side of the roadway. On a lighter note the same year, the Eads Junior Class hosted a chicken fried steak dinner paired with Bingo—a fundraiser priced at $8.00, reflecting a classic small-town spirit of community support.

Wrestlers and Paychecks in 2001

A decade earlier, in March 2001, Dustin Uhland received high praise after Rocky Mountain Preps named him Outstanding Wrestler in the 1A-2A Colorado High School Activity Association. During that same period, Kiowa County School District RE-2 considered modifying its payday schedule to a more predictable day each month.

The 1986 Season to Remember

Stepping back another 15 years to March 1986, Eads firefighters responded to a local haystack fire at the Lida Fischer home. Although the cause itself merited concern, it was overshadowed by a far more celebratory event: The Eads boys basketball team completed an undefeated regular season, a standout feat in school sports history.

Election Buzz and Presidential Support in 1976

By March 1976, all six members of the Haswell Board of Trustees, as well as the mayor, openly declared plans to run for reelection. Three fresh contenders joined the race, showing the township’s robust civic engagement. Meanwhile, Donna Dunlap took on the role of Kiowa County “Reagan for President” Chair, illustrating the intersection of local and national politics.

A Deeper Well in 1951

Rolling back the clock to March 1951, a major infrastructure milestone occurred when Eads completed a new town water well. This addition brought the total to five wells in the area, ensuring a stronger foundation for the community’s future growth.

Building for the Future in 1926

Finally, in March 1926, A.L. Mansker proposed constructing a new filling station at the southeast corner of 14th and Main Street in Eads. While local residents wondered about the practicality of road maintenance when high winds threatened to scatter dirt, their resolve to improve public roads highlighted the forward-looking spirit of Kiowa County—ever ready to meet challenges head-on.