The Butterfield Overland Dispatch was organized by Col. David Butterfield in early 1865 to carry freight and passengers from Atchison, Kansas to Denver, Colorado by way of the 592 mile long Smoky Hill route. Relay stations were built every twelve miles for the passengers' comfort, and Chapman Creek was one of those stations. The coming of the railroad marked the end of the stagecoach era in America's history. Two wagon ruts carved into the landscape by passing coaches and wagons can still be seen there today.