Miltonvale: 
A Journey Through Time

Founded on December 1, 1881, Miltonvale has a rich history rooted in the development of the American Midwest. From its early days as a burgeoning railroad town to its role in education and agriculture, Miltonvale's story reflects the resilience and spirit of its community.

At the time Kansas was admitted to the Union as a state, a large amount of land in scattered locations was set aside for school purposes and offered for sale at $1.25 an acre. Dudley M. Steele of St. Joseph, MO., acting for a group living in or near St. Joseph, purchased many thousands of acres of this school land. Later a friendly suit was brought in the District Court of Marshall County to divide the land among owners thereof in proportion to the amount invested, giving due consideration to relative value of different tracts.

 

As part of this division, Milton Tootle was granted, with other lands, seven sections in what is now Starr, Oakland, and Colfax Townships. Starr became the site for the city of Miltonvale. The original city, three-fourths mile square, was platted Nov. 21, 1881, by L.T. Smith, an associate of Mr. Tootle, and comprised of 26 block, five streets to run east and west and eight north and south. 

Milton Tootle left much more than his name to the town of Miltonvale. After his death in 1887 his estate continued to take an interest in the town's development, contributing the sites for the Miltonvale Grade School and Miltonvale's Wesleyan College, as well as the grounds for the city park. Born in 1823, Milton Tootle was part of a family that followed the frontier as merchants. At the age of 26 he already had enough experience and skill to become a partner with George Smith, a prosperous Illinois merchant who had established a store in St. Joseph, Mo. Tootle joined him there in 1849, in time to capitalize on the "Forty-niners" who were streaming across the continent in the Gold Rush. Matching ability with opportunity, Milton Tootle became one of the leading financiers of the area as he branched out from merchandising into banking. He was well known for generous support of public enterprises and many worthy causes. 

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Explore the rich legacy of the Tootle family, lovingly researched and presented by our very own Rose Scott. This presentation highlights the roots, stories, and milestones that helped shape Miltonvale’s local history.

Tootle Family History 

Founding and Early Development
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Miltonvale was established in 1881, named after Milton Tootle, a landowner from St. Joseph, Missouri, who owned the original townsite. The town's strategic location attracted settlers and businesses, laying the foundation for a thriving community.

 

In 1887, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway constructed a branch line through Miltonvale, enhancing its connectivity and economic prospects. This development transformed Miltonvale into a vital hub for trade and transportation in the region. 

Growth and Community Life
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By the early 20th century, Miltonvale had grown into a vibrant town with a population of 845. The community boasted various businesses, schools, and churches, reflecting a well-rounded and active populace.

 

In 1909, Miltonvale Wesleyan College was established, serving as an educational cornerstone until its closure in 1972. The college attracted students from across the region, contributing to the town's cultural and intellectual life.

Miltonvale Pottery

The Charter for Miltonvale Potteries, Inc. was received in October 1948; and operation began in 1949. The clay for the pottery came from nearby Cloud County land. At one time, there were 150 dealers in 15 states that handled Miltonvale Pottery.

 

Today, there are several in the area that collect Miltonvale Pottery...some pieces sell for several hundred dollars each, far from the 60 cents to $8.90 of the original price!

Economic and Cultural Highlights
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Miltonvale's economy has traditionally been rooted in agriculture, with surrounding farms producing a variety of crops and livestock. The establishment of local businesses, such as family-owned grocery stores and cafes, further enriched the town's economic landscape.

 

Community events and festivals have long been a staple of Miltonvale's cultural identity, fostering a strong sense of togetherness and pride among residents.

In 1958 a group decided to honor Bud Graham on his 75th birthday with a community celebration. The idea of an annual event caught on, and from 1960 until 1993 it was called the Miltonvale Celebration. In 1994 the Miltonvale Chamber of Commerce changed the celebration’s name to “Tootlefest,” and it became a multiple day event.

Modern-Day Miltonvale
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Today, Miltonvale is a city in Cloud County, Kansas, with a population of 440 as of the 2020 census. While the town has evolved over the years, it continues to honor its rich history through preservation efforts and community initiatives.​ Our railway system is still active today and part of The Santa Fe Railroad's Superior branch line, now part of the Strong City Sub, serving as a key route for BNSF, experiencing heavy grain traffic. Miltonvale is fortunate to still have the railroad run through our small town, since so many tracks have been abandoned and removed throughout rural Kansas.

 

Visitors and residents alike can explore Miltonvale's historical sites, participate in local events, and experience the enduring charm of this Kansas town.

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