Junction City and Fort Riley have been tied together since the 19th century.

That was the focus of a report to the Military Affairs Council audience by Dr. Ferrell Miller Thursday morning at the Courtyard By Marriott Convention Center.

Junction CIty was incorporated on February 9, 1859 while Fort Riley was established in 1952. Miller explained local businesses developed to meet the needs of people who came to the city and Fort Riley. Some of those early businesses included dry good / grocery business operated by Civil War veteran Bertrand Rockwell, Slide of Sargent’s Drug Store owned by James Sargent, and the Horseshoe Saloon.

Ferry transportation across the Republican River, places of worship, the early public schools, entertainment in the community, and photos taken by J.J. Pennell in early Junction City and Fort Riley were all covered. And there was commentary about General George S. Patton, who spent time at Fort Riley during his military career.