The Smoky Hill Trail Association started in 2007 when Leo Oliva proposed the idea to a group of interested fans. Those fans were Donna Malcom, Jody Zeman, Jere DeBacker, Mike Baughn, Sam Chestnut, Jim Gray, and Lemeul Marsh. Taking the initiative, this group laid the groundwork for what the association is today.
Founder of the Butterfield Overland Despatch: David A. Butterfield
David, the oldest son of Daniel and Amanda Butterfield, was born January 17, 1834, in Jay, Franklin County, Maine. He married Mary M Stephens in 1855 and not long afterward moved his family West to fulfill his dream of operating a stage and freight line. By 1864 he was living in Atchison, Kansas and his dream of the Butterfield Overland Despatch became a reality.
Our Mission Statement
The Smoky Hill Trail Association, Inc., will preserve the historical legacy of the Smoky Hill Trail, promote its designation as a National Historic Trail and interpret the events, remnants and locations that represent the historic trail, the Butterfield’s Overland Despatch (B.O.D.), successor freight and stage lines and the railroad and highways that replaced this important overland trail.
Our Officers and Directors - 2024
Bob Andersen, President
Jim Mayhew, Vice President
Mary Andersen, Secretary
Marilyn Copeland, Treasurer
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Marla Matkin, Director
Mary Lattin, Director
Nancy Arendt, Director
Deb Miller, Director
Mike Baughn, Director
Tanner Mayhew, Newsletter Editor
And Facebook Coordinator
Pattie Mayhew, Website Administrator
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