Today (Friday, March 13, 2026) marks 75 years since the Articles of Incorporation for United Telephone Association, Inc., were filed with the State of Kansas.
In 1951, when the large provider at the time showed no interest in bringing telephone service to the rural areas surrounding Dodge City, a group of local farmers and community leaders decided to take matters into their own hands. By associating together and forming a not-for-profit cooperative, they built the foundation for what would become United.
What began with early party lines and dial service has grown into the United Family of Companies, delivering fiber, voice, wireless, video, and broadband networks across Southwest Kansas—always rooted in the neighbors and communities we serve.
Through changing technologies and generations of neighbors serving neighbors, one thing has remained constant: our commitment to investing in the communities we call home.
The impact United has made over the past 75 years exists because of the people who came before us and those carrying on the tradition today—local leaders, member-owners, and employees who believe rural communities deserve to be connected and who show up every day to make that vision a reality.
As we celebrate this milestone, we are incredibly proud of the legacy entrusted to us—and grateful to everyone who has been part of the United story over the past 75 years. We’re proud of where we’ve been—and even more excited about where we’re going.
Local Roots. Lasting Impact.
#SWKSProud #United75Years