Railroads played big role. Trains needed more water or coal to run the engine. So every 15 to 20 miles or so, depending on terrain, a water depot was erected, and there a new town popped up. Some survived. Some didnt. Few are thriving. Just pull up a map and follow a rail line in the great plains region of the usa. Then just measure it out. Its impossible to miss once you notice it.
Thats just hindsight though. Same as now. Its either a catalyst or it isnt. history will write it. My response will be an acknowledgement of fact or a forgotten record.