Salina is a city located in central Kansas, United States. The area where Salina is located was originally inhabited by the Kansa, Osage, and Pawnee Native American tribes. In the early 19th century, European-American settlers began to move into the area.

The town of Salina was founded in 1858 when William A. Phillips and other investors established a trading post and ferry service on the Smoky Hill River. The name “Salina” was chosen because it means “salt marsh” in Spanish, a reference to the salt deposits in the area.

During the Civil War, Salina served as a supply center for Union troops. In the late 19th century, the arrival of the railroad helped spur the town’s growth as a transportation hub and center for agricultural trade.

In 1942, the Smoky Hill Army Airfield was built near Salina to train pilots during World War II. After the war, the airfield was converted into the Salina Municipal Airport.

Today, Salina is a thriving city with a population of over 45,000. It is home to several institutions of higher education, including Kansas Wesleyan University and the Salina Area Technical College. The city is also known for its arts and culture scene, including the Smoky Hill Museum, the Salina Symphony, and the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts.