Katy Trail State Park was created in large measure through the foresight, energy, and generosity of Edward D. (Ted) Jones. He recognized in the proposed abandonment of two hundred miles of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas railroad line between Sedalia and Machens, Missouri, a rare opportunity to create an extraordinary recreational trail winding through the lower Missouri River Valley, a place rich in history and natural beauty. His generosity made possible the acquisition of the railroad corridor and provided the materials to construct the entire trail surface. His tireless efforts went far to gain public support for the trail. From inception to construction, Ted Jones guided Katy Trail State Park into existence.