The Mid-America All-Indian Center – Wichita, Kansas

Enter the world of the Native Tribes of the Plains Indians and learn not only about them but to respect their culture and the lives they lived prior to the coming of the white man.  This center is a multi purpose facility housing a museum, a Gallery of Nations for special events, and a gift shop.

The immediate predecessors of the tribes whose cultures remain to this day were the short-lived Proto-Historical People: the Dismal River (probably Plains Apache), the Oneota (Kansa or Kaw, Ponca, Omaha, and Osage), the Lower Loup (Pawnee), and the Great Bend (Wichita). Still untouched by the white man’s diseases, alcohol, and more complex technology, these people divided their economic endeavors between gathering, small-scale horticulture (maize and vegetables), and the chase. With the penetration of the central plains by Coronado in 1541 the historic period began, as did the Indians mighty struggle for survival. (informaiton taken from the Mid-American All-Indian Center website.)

The Plains Apacheas a Southern Athabaskan group that traditionally live on the Southern Plains of North America, today being centered in Southwestern Oklahoma and being federally recognized as the Apache Tribe of Oklahoma.  They were also known as the Kiowa Apache, Ni’isha, or Naishan Dene, meaning “our people”.  They worked with other tribes but were actually rather aloft on some matters such as language.  They spoke to other native tribes by sign language rather than to learn other languages.

KAW (KANSA)

Once known as the Kansa (or Konza) tribe, the Kaw are a people of Dhegiha-Siouan linguistic descent who migrated from the lower Ohio Valley to present northeastern Kansas prior to 1750. In nineteenth-century Kansas they fell victim to white land speculators, traders, missionaries, and the federal government’s policy of tribal concentration and dissolution. The result was their forced removal to a small reservation in present Kay County, Oklahoma, in 1873 and the allotment of their land by federal law in 1902.

Under the allotment law of 1902 the Kaws retained 260 acres of trust land of their former reservation. When this tract was inundated by the Kaw Reservoir in the mid-1960s, the Kaw Council House was moved to a smaller tract nearby and the Kaw cemetery to Newkirk, Oklahoma. Thus Newkirk and then Kaw City, the present tribal headquarters some fifteen miles southeast of Newkirk, emerged as the epicenters of the Kaw Nation of Oklahoma.

PONCA
The Ponca tribe separated from the Omaha tribe in the early 18th century. They settled in Nebraska and South Dakota. Smallpox and other introduced Eurasian diseases took a heavy toll of the tribe repeatedly in the 18th and 19th centuries, as they had no immunity. The more powerful Sioux encroached on their land base.

The Ponca never went to war with the United States. They signed their first peace treaty with the US in 1817. In the 1825 they signed a trade agreement. Treaties in 1858 and 1865 ceded lands. The 1860s and 1870s were a difficult time for the Ponca tribe, as the buffalo were disappearing, droughts destroyed crops, and warfare with the Sioux combined to threaten the Ponca with starvation. The US did not uphold their treaty obligations to the Ponca. They gave land reserved for the Ponca to the Sioux in 1868, as part of the Great Sioux Reservation. The government relocated the Ponca to Indian Territory in 1877.

OSAGE
The Osage Nation was originally in the Ohio River valley area (Kentucky) but after years of war with invading Iroquois they migrated west of the Mississippi River to the areas of Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma.  During the 18th century the Osage had become the dominate power in their region, controlling the land between the Missouri and Red Rivers. Today there are tribal members throughout the US.

Wichita has never had a fort that was built to keep out the Indians nor have they ever been at war with the native tribes.  It is thought that the early pioneers had a feeling of humanism ingrained within their hearts that they understood that life would be better for everyone if they worked together rather than warring with each other.

The Center was approved with a $2 million bond by the Wichita City Commission in 1974.  The 44 ft. sculpture of weathering Cor-Ten steel stands as a tribute to the Indian heritage and marks the strength of continuing Indian Culture.  In 1976 the staff of the Center moved into their new building.

Location:
Mid-America All-Indian Center
650 N. Seneca | Wichita, KS 67203
(316) 350-3340
Email: ascott@wichita.gov (April Scott, Executive Director)

Diamond W Chuckwagon – Wichita, Kansas
Come on to the Empire House at Wichita’s historic Old Cowtown Museum and see a show that is well worth your time and money.  Here you will be entertained by the Diamond W Wrangers as you enjoy dinner and a great show.  The Museum sits on the shores of the Arkansas River near downtown Wichita.

The Diamond W is the home to the award-winning Diamond W Wranglers who have performed their unique style of Western music to fans and music lovers all over the United States and abroad. Their talents have been on stages as diverse as Carnegie Hall in New York to the Great Wall of China!

The Wranglers have been seen in the theaters of Beijing and Shanghai as well as headlining four Caribbean cruises. Most recently they thrilled audiences in Munich and Augsburg Germany!  When they aren’t traveling you can find on the stage of the Empire House Theater on the grounds of the living history Old Cowtown Museum, an authentic re-creation of Wichita of the late 1800′s. They serve up (literally!) a tasty all-you can eat meal and then entertain their dinner guests with a live western music performance filled with amazing harmony, top-notch guitar playing and laugh-out-loud comedy. It is evening of entertainment that people of all ages and musical tastes can enjoy!

In the months of November and December the Empire House is decked out for the holidays and the Wranglers present a Christmas-themed Western show not found anywhere else. Truly a holiday experience unlike any other!

The Diamond W Wranglers used to be known as the Prairie Rose Wranglers when they formed in 1999.  With the move to the new Diamond W at Old Cowtown Museum the name of the band changed. 

Jim Farrell, Stu Stuart (lead singer/lead guitarist/fiddler), Steve Crawford (drummer/percussionist, and harmony vocalist), and Chip Worthington (string bass, and harmony vocalist) make up the Diamond W Wranglers.

The doors open at 5:30 and at 6:30 dinner is served then sit back and enjoy the music of the Diamond W. Wranglers. 

The show and dinner last 3 hours.  Open most weekends (Thu., Fri., Sat.) Reservations required
Adults (13 and older) $30.00person; Children (3 to 12) $20.00person (includes tax)
Call toll-free 866-830-8283 for more information and to reserve your seats
Group discount for 20 or more paying adults (not available during Christmas season)

The Diamond W is located at :
1865 W. Museum Blvd
Wichita, KS 67203
Phone: (316) 536-6050
Toll Free: (866) 830-8283
Email:
info@diamondwchuckwagon.com

National Orphan Train Complex – Concordia, KS

The history of the Orphan Train is an interesting attempt at trying to give children a home who were homeless at the time.  This period ran from 1854 to 1929 when it was estimated that 200,000 children were placed out of homes across the forty-seven states and Canada.

With the huge influx of immigrants to the United States from all over the world because of the promotions being touted about how the United States was the “Land of Milk and Honey,” or “The Land of Opportunity”.  The immigrants came thinking they would improve their lives and the lives of their families.  In reality they found that there were few jobs and those that were available didn’t pay much.  Often times the fathers would take jobs that were terribly dangerous to make the money needed for his family, such as at sea or in other working environments.  Safety wasn’t a concern for most of the proprietors of businesses at the time.  This left the women and children to make their own way living as best they could in crowded tenements, often with up to 10 people per room.

With no other family to help out in times of need the families often fell apart.  The stress was just too great or the illnesses that overcame the family due to the unsanitary living conditions caused many children to be abandoned or orphaned.  Orphanages were built to care for as many children as could possibily be taken care of but when the parents could no longer pay the bill for thier care the children became wards of the state.  That’s what lead to the Orpah Train.

The social experiment called “placing out” began and between 1853 and 1929 trainloads of destitute and homeless children were transported from New York City, Boston and other cities on the Eastern seacoast to cities and towns along the rail lines in America’s Middle West and West.  Chicago and other larger Midwest cities also established orphan trains.  It was a way to get rid of the kids that were a burden to the cities.  They probably thought it was better than living on the streets, and perhaps it was, but it was a terrifying experience for the children.  The children were offered to farmers, housewives and businessmen as indentured workers.  Not particualrily a great way to start your life in a new home.  Now some of the kids were lucky and went to families that treated them well and loved them, others didn’t.

The “placing out” program was part of the American story for 75 years.  When the Orphan Trains were stopped in 1929 it was thought that the child welfare system would be able to take care of these children.  It turns out that, although the Orphan Trains no long run the foster care system isn’t a whole lot better today.

When the Oprah Train was coming to town there would be notices posted so that the citizens that were interested in a child could come and examine them and choose which one(s) they wanted.  Today the foster care system works differently but still the kids are placed with families, some good, some not and when they are eligible for adoption the prospective parents get to look the child over, have them in their homes on a trial basis, before deciding if it is a child they want to keep.

The stories of the children of the Orpah Train tell of some of the good families that provided homes and loving environment for them, others tell of the difficulties, the lack of warmth and concern for the kids.  Studying the stories of the Orpan Train certainly is a piece of history that needs to be remembered.

The Museum and Research Center are dedicated to the preservation of the stories and artifacts of those who were part of the Orphan Train Movement.

Location:

National Orphan Train Complex
300 Washington St.
P.O. Box 322
Concordia, KS 66901

Phone: 785-243-4471
Email: orphantraindepot@gmail.com

Camp Concordia WWII POW Camp – Concordia, Kansas

From July of 1943 until November 1945 through the gates of this POW camp there were 4000 German POW’s. There were also 880 soldiers and 179 civilian employees working at the camp. 

In total there were 300,000 German Prisoners of War interred in the United States.  Those that were interred in Kansas often worked on farms but some worked on the railroad or in the ice plant.  They also had their own band and newspaper.

 The camp consisted of 304 buildings including a 177 bed hospital, fire department, warehouse, cold storage, and officers club, barracks, mess halls & administrative buildings for both the German POW’s and the American soldiers.  There were also officers and nurses quarters, complete with roads, electricity, sewer, water (including a 100,000
gallon water tower), telephone systems, and fencing.

The majority of those at Camp Concordia were captured in Africa but were members of the German Army.  The first POW’s came over from Rommel’s Afrika Korps.

Camp Concordia officially closed on November 8, 1945. Many of the buildings were torn down and others were moved. Some are still serving as homes in Concordia. The only structures remaining at the original location are Guard Post 20, a ware house, some stone walls, the officers club, a few foundations, and the tower which once supported a 100,000 gallon water tank. A two story stone guard tower has been reconstructed. Some of the buildings were torn down and others were moved, some of which can still be seen in town as houses.

The POW Camp Concordia Preservation Society uses the Guard House 20 as a small museum but it isn’t open on a regular schedule.  The Cloud County Museum has a number of exhibits devoted to the camp so not only should you visit the camp itself but also stop in at the Museum and look around. 

During the war there were approximately 9 POW camps in Kansas alone.  Throughout the rest of the country there were many more, each with their own history and stories to tell.

To visit the remains of Camp Concordia and see the museum you can contact the Society at 785-243-1710.

Directions: go north of Concordia on US 81, 2 miles to Union Road. (also known as Fort Kearney Road) Then turn right (East) on Union Road where you will find the reconstructed guard tower on your left. Guard House 20 is a few blocks farther east.

When you are in the Wichita area and headed north you may want to alter your plans to go search out the history of this camp.  Concordia is located 150 miles north of Wichita.  Of course, if you are in Topeka you can go 175 west and be there or 110 miles southwest of Lincoln, Nebraska.  None of these are so far away that you can’t make an educational trip to the area and learn about the life of the POW’s while the history is still there!

The Dalton Gang Hideout – Meade, Kansas

History tells the story of the Dalton Gang who robbed trains for a number of years.  They were joined by others forming a rather formattable gang.  Although the Dalton brothers had all served as law enforcement officers their paths changed when Bob Dalton, who was serving as head of the Osage police, was accused of selling whiskey.  His brother Grat Dalton also got into some trouble and was dismissed as deputy marshal for “conduct unbecoming an officer”.  Then brother Emmett joined in with them in 1890 and all three were accused of stealing horses.  Bob and Emmet took off for California while Grat was arrested but had to be released because of lack of evidence.

The story of the gang goes on with the trains they robbed and the people they joined up with but being a criminal and having the law afer you all the time certainly wasn’t a pleasant way to live.

For awhile they hid out at the home of Eva Dalton Whipple, who was their sister, in Meade, Kansas.  The house that they were staying in still stands at the corner of Pearlette and Green Streets in Meade.  The couple, J.N. Whipple and his wife Eva Dalton Whipple, left the area before the “boys” were killed and one of them caught.  After the Whipples had moved away a discovery was made of a tunnel from the house to a barn built into the hillside below.  Legend has it that the tunnel was used by the gang to come and go undetected by the law.  Although during this time the tunnel was beam and dirt it was restructured by the WPA in the 1940′s with rock retaining walls and NYA crews reconstructed the tunnel and barn.

The tunnel runs for 95 feet.  If you enter in the barn you will end up in the house which is now a museum, decorated with furnishing as it would have been in Eva’s day.  The barn serves as an entrance to the attraction and houses a gift shop on the first floor and museum artifacts in the loft. 

After the gangs last train robbery in 1892 the gang split up being pursued by the law.  The Dalton boys decided to have one last go at getting money illegally, they were going to rob two banks in Coffeyville, Kansas.  As they entered the banks they were recognized by the townspeople who sent out an alarm and the community grabbed their guns and took up positions to defend the town (and their money.)  As the robbers tried to get away there was a gun battle in which four citizens and four bandits were killed.  Emmett, the sole surviving member of the gang, was seriously wounded but recovered enough to stand trial.  Although he did time, he was eventually pardoned by the Governor and spend the rest of his days in California.

If you think that’s the end of the story on the Dalton’s, you would be wrong since another brother, Bill, took the outlaw way of life.  Get all of the story when you visit the Dalton Gang Hideout.

The Hideout is open year round. It is located 4 blocks south of Hwy 54 on Pearlette St. Open Monday – Saturday 9-5, and Sunday 1-5. Admission is $4.00, with a family rate available.

The Stone Pillar Vineyard and Winery Farm
Stone Pillar Vineyard & Winery is a small family owned and operated farm winery. In 1864 Fredrick Hoff purchased the farm, and was the pioneer in Johnson County for lager beer production. Having endured many hard times the family has maintained the farm and commitment to agriculture. The fifth generation of Hoff farmers George, Frank, & Thomas Jr. are proud to offer a quality Kansas product to all wine lovers.

Our Vines
Stone Pillar Vineyard is an awe inspiring sight nestled on our 12 acre hillside. They are committed to growing quality grapes that make a delectable wine. They grow Old World French vines as well as French-American hybrids in our vineyard.

The Wines
They strive to produce excellent wines using Kansas grapes. They are carefully handpicked to insure a high standard of wine. All the wines are vinified on site and carefully managed so that we may offer a top notch selection of wine for all to enjoy. They have Reds: Prairie Star Blush; Concord; and Blackberry with Prairie Fire, St. Vincent, Chambourcin and Cabernet Sauvignon coming out soon. In the Whites they have Villard Blac; Seyval; Cayuga; Hofftoberfest; Vignoles; and Melody coming soon.

Tastings are complimentary, no appointments necessary during regular business hours.

Hours: Open Friday, Saturday,
& Sunday 12:00p.m.- 6:30p.m.
Services: Private Tastings
available for groups of 8 or more.
Please call in advance to make
reservations. Vineyard tours
available in summer months by
appointment.
Directions: Located in
Olathe, KS 1 mile south of K-10
on Woodland Road, or 2 miles
east of K-7 on College Blvd.
(913) 839-2185

For those of us who have lived in the Oklahoma City area for most of our lives, our fine city may not seem like a hot vacation destination. However, there are some locations in OKC that claim to be tourist attractions. Check out the Worst Tourist Attraction nominees and vote after the jump.

Bricktown

I remember that when I was in college, Bricktown was kind of a cool place to hang out. Now, it just seems like it’s full of elderly people riding the boats during the day and drunk kids being annoying as hell at night. With the addition of such gems as Bass Pro, Sonic, Toby Keith’s, and a new McDonald’s, the downslide of Bricktown is now complete.

Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum

The Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum

Worst of OKC: Worst Tourist “Attraction” : The Lost Ogle

Mid-America Air Museum – Liberal, Kansas

So you thought there wasn’t anything great to see or do in Liberal….right?  Well just get in the car and get there because you are in for a wide variety of delightful things to do and see.  The Mid-America Air Museum is among the great sites.  This is the largest aviation museum in Kansas and the fifth largest in the nation. It is home to more than 105 aircraft and serves as an interactive educational resource for all visitors.

Liberal, once home to a major Beech Aircraft manufacturing facility and a B-24 Liberator pilot training base during World War II, established the museum to help preserve a proud local and national aviation heritage. It is a vision started by the late Colonel Tom Thomas, Jr., who donated his personal collection of over 50 planes to the museum.

The museum interprets and preserves the history of flight through its collection of aircraft and related artifacts, its exhibits and its public programs. It strives for recognition as an outstanding air museum with engaging exhibits and a major collection of historically significant aircraft.

Independent visitors to the museum take self-guided tours. However, guided tours are available forschool, church, corporate and other tour groups. Special rates are available for groups of 10 or more. Tours must be booked in advance.

Two electric carts are available at no charge for use by elderly, disabled, or injured visitors.

Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The museum is open regular hours every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Admission:
Contact the museum at
620-624-5263

Contact the Visitors Bureau:
Phone
1-800-542-3725
Email
tourism@cityofliberal.com

Dorothy’s House – Liberal, Kansas

Enter the wonderful world of Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz with a visit to her home.  It’s right here in Liberal, Kansas. This delightful story written by L. Frank Baum was made into a movie in 1939 starting Judy Garland as Dorothy.

There probably isn’t a song that brings back more memories than "Somewhere Over the Rainbow."  The words "Somewhere, over the rainbow, way up high, There’s a land that I heard of once in a lullaby. Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue, and the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true. Someday I’ll wish upon a star and wake up where the clouds are far behind me. Where troubles melt like lemon drops, away above the chimney tops, that’s where you’ll find me. Somewhere, over the rainbow, bluebirds fly. Birds fly over the rainbow, Why then – oh, why can’t I?  If happy little bluebirds fly beyond the rainbow why oh why cant I?" make you see the fabulous possibilities of growing up in the home that Dorothy grew up in.

Now you can visit that house in Liberal, Kansas. The house is a farmhouse built in 1907 and was donated to the Seward County Historical Society and moved to its present location on the grounds of Coronado Museum.

Since Dorothy’s adventures began in Kansas it only makes sense that the house she grew up in would be a place where all fans of "The Wizard of Oz" would want to visit.  Perhaps to get just a touch of the magic that surrounded Dorothy’s life.

Address:
  567 Cedar Street

Summer Hours
  (Memorial Day to Labor Day)
  Monday – Saturday
    9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Winter Hours
  (Labor Day to Memorial Day)
  Tuesday – Saturday
    9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  Closed Monday’s

Admission
  Call 620-624-7624 for current rates.
  Group rates available.

For more information about the house and the tours you can call or email the Visitors Bureau in Liberal.

 1-800-542-3725

Email:
 tourism@cityofliberal.com
 

Big Brutus – West Mineral, Kansas

Southeast Kansas can brag about having the largest electric shovel in the United States.  Big Brutus was used in the mining industry and brings attention to the history of mining and the industry itself.  The Bucyrus Erie Model 1850B was sold to the Pittsburg and Midway Coal Company (P&M) of Pittsburg, Kan., for $6.5 million in 1962. It took 150 railroad cars to transport Big Brutus to Southeast Kansas where it took 52 men 11 months to assemble Big Brutus 11 miles from his current location.

Big Brutus began working in Mine 19 in May of 1963.  It was responsible for removing tons of overburden (the layers of direct and rock on top of the coal seam.)  This exposed the coal for stripper and the 120 ton trucks to move in and mine for the coal.

When it became too expensive to keep Big Brutus working it was removed from service in April of 1974.

In 1984, P&M donated Big Brutus, 16 acres of surrounding land and $100,000 to restore Big Brutus and create a museum and memorial dedicated to the coal mining history in Southeast Kansas. On July 13, 1985, Big Brutus was dedicated as “a Museum and Memorial Dedicated to the Rich Coal Mining History in Southeast Kansas.”

In September 1987 The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) designated Big Brutus a Regional Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, the 10th since 1971 to be so designated.

Included at the site is the Visitor Center and Museum for your enjoyment.  Included in the Museum is the Little Giant which is the world’s smallest working replica of an early-day electric mining shovel.  It was built by a hobbyist in Kansas over an 11 year period of time between the 1930′s and 1940′s.  Pittsburg & Midway Coal Mining Co. bought it in 1946.

The Little Giant is compete in every detail with approximately 30,000 rivets and 2,000 bolts.  It weighs 700 pounds.  It is definitely something to see along with Big Brutus and the Drag Line.

The Visitor Center is more than just a quick place to stop off.  It offers hot showers to meet the needs of visitors and campers alike.  How neat is that?  There are also camping sites (primitive) and space for self-contained RV’s to park.  There are 10 water/electrical hook-ups and a dump station so you have all your needs met while visiting Big Brutus.

Admission to the Museum and Visitor Center are $8 for Adults, $7.50 for Senior Citizens, Children (6-12) are $5 and Children 5 and younger are free. RV parking is $15 a day.

Located:
6 Miles West of K7 & K102 Jct.
& 1/4 Mile South
Near West Mineral, Kansas

Big Brutus is a museum open year round. Hours vary with the season. Call (620)827-6177 for more information.

——————————
Land of Oz – Liberal, Kansas
Land of Oz – Liberal, Kansas

Just when you thought that the dream of the Land of Oz was out of your reach there appears before you the Land of Oz in Liberal!  This facility consists of 5,000 square feet of animated entertainment.  There are good and bad witches, the Munchkins, talking trees, winged monkeys, and of course, Dorothy, the Scarecrow and Tin Man as well as the loveable Cowardly Lion.  Oh, of course, Toto is there too!

Stroll along the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy, Auntie Em or Uncle Henry as your tour guide.  Ask all the questions you want and learn even more about the wonderful world of Oz.

When you get to the end of the Road you will find Oz memorabilia on display, including the original model of Dorothy’s house used in the 1939 filming of the movie “The Wizard of Oz.”  The Munchkin room is a delight in little dresses and shoes, with many pictorial accounts of the Munchkins and their careers.

Dorothy’s House was originally built in 1907.  It has been carefully restored and furnished to replicate the house shown in the movie.  It shows how Dorothy really came to believe “There’s no place like home.”

When you think of Liberal you really must think of the wonderful memories of the movie and the music that have lived on for years.  The community welcomes everyone that wants to touch that bit of magic created by Dorothy and her friends.

Address:
  567 Cedar Street

Summer Hours
  (Memorial Day to Labor Day)
  Monday – Saturday
    9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Winter Hours
  (Labor Day to Memorial Day)
  Tuesday – Saturday
    9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  Closed Monday’s

Admission
  Call 620-624-7624 for current rates.
  Group rates available.

Contact the Visitors Bureau for more information: 1-800-542-3725

Email:
 tourism@cityofliberal.com

Land of Oz – Liberal, Kansas

Just when you thought that the dream of the Land of Oz was out of your reach there appears before you the Land of Oz in Liberal!  This facility consists of 5,000 square feet of animated entertainment.  There are good and bad witches, the Munchkins, talking trees, winged monkeys, and of course, Dorothy, the Scarecrow and Tin Man as well as the loveable Cowardly Lion.  Oh, of course, Toto is there too!

Stroll along the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy, Auntie Em or Uncle Henry as your tour guide.  Ask all the questions you want and learn even more about the wonderful world of Oz.

When you get to the end of the Road you will find Oz memorabilia on display, including the original model of Dorothy’s house used in the 1939 filming of the movie "The Wizard of Oz."  The Munchkin room is a delight in little dresses and shoes, with many pictorial accounts of the Munchkins and their careers.

Dorothy’s House was originally built in 1907.  It has been carefully restored and furnished to replicate the house shown in the movie.  It shows how Dorothy really came to believe "There’s no place like home."

When you think of Liberal you really must think of the wonderful memories of the movie and the music that have lived on for years.  The community welcomes everyone that wants to touch that bit of magic created by Dorothy and her friends.

Address:
  567 Cedar Street

Summer Hours
  (Memorial Day to Labor Day)
  Monday – Saturday
    9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Winter Hours
  (Labor Day to Memorial Day)
  Tuesday – Saturday
    9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  Closed Monday’s

Admission
  Call 620-624-7624 for current rates.
  Group rates available.

Contact the Visitors Bureau for more information: 1-800-542-3725

Email:
 tourism@cityofliberal.com
 

Fort Scott – Fort Scott, Kansas

Situated on the eastern edge of Kansas is a place of history that impacted the flow of the pioneers from the east to the west in the mid 1800′s.  Fort Scott was established in 1842 as the move to settle the west was getting underway.

This area of the state (which wasn’t a state at the time) experienced what has been named as "Bleeding Kansas" because of the conflicts that ensued because of the differences of opinions between the factions that had moved into the area.  The pro-slavers, free-staters and the abolitionists were all at odds of how the territory should be settled.  This lead to a bloody time in the history of the state as rival territorial governments, election fraud, and squabbles over land claims all were part of the violence of this era.  These conflicts with their bloody results continued until 1861 when Kansas entered the Union as a free state.

In 1856 a group of approximately 30 pro-slavery settlers from South Carolina arrived in Bourbon County who were suspected of being sponsored by the Southern Emigrant Aide Society and were members of the Dark Lantern Societies.  These societies terrorized free-state settlers and attempted to drive them from Kansas. 

During this time in the "Bleeding Kansas" history there was murder, mayhem, destruction and psychological warfare running rampant in Eastern Kansas and Western Missouri. One of these attempts included the massacre in May 1856 at Pottawatomie Creek where John Brown and his sons killed five pro-slavery advocates.

Fort Scott did not escape the tensions and troubles of this time.  The area was divided and clearly visible at the site of the "old fort".  The fort has been abandoned in 1853 and sold at auction two years later creating a nucleus of a rapidly growing town.

Two of the buildings of the fort became hotels.  The former officer’s quarters was opened as the Fort Scott or Free State Hotel.  Directly across the parade ground was the western or Pro-Slavery Hotel.  The residents of Fort Scott were predominately pro-slavers, while free-staters and abolitionists dominated the surrounding countryside.  Due to this division radicals of each side brought terror to the thrown throughout the "Bleeding Kansas" era.

The year 1858 was the most violent year of this era.  The infamous James Montgomery became a leader of free state forces and was involved in many of the violent incidents that encompassed the area. 

In April of 1858, Montgomery and his men fought U. S troops stationed at Fort Scott in the battle of Paint Creek. One soldier was killed in this encounter.
 
In May of 1858, Montgomery and his men drove pro-slavery forces from Linn County. In retaliation, eleven free-staters were pulled out of their homes, taken to a ravine and shot down. This incident, known as the Marais des Cygnes Massacre was rumored to have been plotted in the Western Hotel.
 
On June 5, 1858, Montgomery and his raiders tried to burn down the Western Hotel. Several shots were fired into the hotel and surrounding homes, but the hotel was saved.
 
Violence, such as this, caught the governor’s attention. On June 15, 1858, he held a meeting at the Western Hotel in order to settle political unrest. While this meeting nearly broke out into a riot, it was successful. Peace and quiet reigned for a brief five-month period.
 
Montgomery and his raiders struck again in December of 1858 when he rescued Benjamin Rice, a free-soiler. Rice had been arrested for murder and was imprisoned in the Fort Scott Hotel. Montgomery claimed that he was jailed illegally, so he came to Fort Scott to free him.

All of this violence took place before the Civil War.  It wasn’t just in Kansas that this type of violence occurred; it was part of the political storm that swept the United States before the Civil War started.

During the Civil War Kansas was the first state to officially recruit and train military units of black soldiers.  The 1st and 2nd Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry Regiments were recruited between July 1862 and October 1863.  They were mustered into the Army at Fort Scott.  These brave soldiers compiled a proud campaign record in Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas and the Indian Territory.

In 1865 there were just 71 miles of railroad track in Kansas.  By 1890 there were 8,763 miles.  With this being the case the flurry of railroad construction brought the final phase of military occupation to Fort Scott.

Fort Scott was active with military personnel during the Civil War.  This created growth and economic development to the town and had the community leaders working to find ways to make Fort Scott the dominant trade center of southeast Kansas.

Due to the railroad having to go through Indian land to get to the Gulf of Mexico (through what is now Oklahoma) there were problems, not only with land ownership but also with those that didn’t want the railroad to take the land.  Because of the conflicts that ensued the federal government sent troops to the area to protect the railroad workers.  These troops were headquartered at Fort Scott even though the troops were stationed in camps along the right of way.

The railroad years of 1869-73 marked the end of military involvement at Fort Scott. Thus ended an era that had spanned three decades and had witnessed the transformation of Fort Scott from an isolated frontier outpost to a developing trade center. More important, it was an era in which Fort Scott was involved in several events that brought about the opening, settlement and development of the West.

When you visit Fort Scott you will see things such as the buckets that are hanging on the wall.  These were used to fight fires and were filled with sand or water to extinguish small fires quickly.

There are 20 historic structures on the site of the Fort.  11 of the buildings contain historic fabric and area considered original buildings which have been restored.  You will see these when you visit the Post Hospital, Officers Quarters 1, 2, and 4, the Quartermaster Storehouse, Bake-House, the Old Stone Building, and Stone Outbuildings.  The Carriage Houses were built circa 1855-65 after the fort was first abandoned by the military.  The other buildings on site are reconstructions.

You can also visit the National Cemetery while you are at the Fort.  You will need to go to the south end of town about a mile and a half from the fort.

Fort Scott was garrisoned by Union troops during the Civil War.  It was a training center, supply depot and had a General U.S. Army Hospital and Military Prison.

You will see boxes of sand around the fort; these were used as pit boxes for tobacco and snuff.

In the fort you will be able to find military records of soldiers that were stationed there during the Civil War.  Most of these records are of Kansas regiments and primarily hospital records.

Open:  Fort Scott National Historic Site is open year round from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. April-October and 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. from November-March. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.

The site is open daily for self-guided tours. An audio-visual program orients visitors to the history of the site. Guided tours are offered daily at 1:00 p.m. during the summer. Guided tours at other times of year are available for groups by advance arrangement. During the spring, middle school and elementary education programs are presented. The site also hosts three special events per year and participates in a fourth in conjunction with the community. Occasionally, additional events are added each year.

A minimum of one hour is recommended to view the 12-minute audio-visual program and to walk through the buildings. Three to four hours are required to read all the exhibits and to participate in the interpretive activities offered during the summer. Activities on special event weekends go throughout the day.

Directions: Fort Scott National Historic Site is located in downtown Fort Scott, Kansas. U.S. Highways 69 and 54 intersect here. Fort Scott is about 90 miles south of Kansas City and 60 miles northwest of Joplin, Missouri. It is 4 miles from the Kansas-Missouri border.

Design: Fort Scott uses three styles of architecture: French Colonial, Greek revival, and vernacular. The most dominant is French Colonial; characterized by wide porches, stairways and a broken roofline. Most living quarters are on the second floor to avoid bad air believed to exist at lower levels.

Write to them: Fort Scott NHS
P.O. Box 918
Fort Scott, KS 66701

Call: 620-223-0310

Box Lazy A Ranch Retreat – Axtell, KansasThis opportunity to spend some time on a ranch, where you can actually spend some time relaxing with family or friends in a peaceful area with lots to do, if you want to do them, will be a fabulous break from the normal pace of life.  Here you will be able to choose to go on a hike through the woodlands, listen to the array of birds that sing their greeting to you.  Maybe you want to sit back and fish in Spring Creek Pond where the sun can warm you body and the peace can rest your mind.  Perhaps you want to take the kayak out on the pond and see just how coordinated you really are!A vacation on a ranch wouldn’t be complete without horseback riding on the trails.  There is nothing quite as wonderful as sitting on a horse, walking through the fields and woodlands observing the beauty of nature.  You get a whole new perspective of how peaceful things can really be when you are out in nature on horseback.This delightful small family owned and operated ranch is located in the hills of North East Kansas, a perfect get away in the beautiful rolling hills of the area.  There are 160 acres for you to explore.There are over 3000 acres of prime hunting and fishing lands surrounding the ranch which means that you can not only enjoy the ranch in the spring and summer but can also enjoy the hunting available to you in the fall and winter!  How perfect is that??  You can hunt turkey, whitetail, or predator using archery, muzzle loader or firearm.  So, regardless of the type of hunting you enjoy the ranch can offer you a fabulous experience!Location: Box Lazy A Ranch, 3063 Cherokee RdAxtell, KS 66403Phone: 785-736-2822Cecilia McNeal, owner 

The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens – Overland Park, Kansas

What a fabulous place to take a break from the stresses that accompany everyday life!  Here you can sit on a bench near the Erickson Water Garden and enjoy the sound of the water falling over the stone creations.  The area is filled with butterfly plants, wildflowers and ornamental grasses which all add to the peacefulness of the garden.

If you are more interested in taking a leisurely stroll through the woodland Gardens you will be able to smell the wonderful smells of the forest lands from the dogwoods and redbuds to the other growth as well as the waterfalls all adding to the senses awakening. The grape arbor offers a place to sit back and enjoy the experience before continuing on with your walk.  Don’t rush through, take the time to enjoy this wonderful place.

Flowers are always a welcome sight and the Monet Garden is certainly worth your special attention.  They have taken soft colors and shapes that are the types that Monet used in his paintings to design this beautiful spot.  There are ponds surrounded by willow trees, perennials and annuals which make the whole area perfect for not only the visual senses but the sounds and smells as well.

Have you wanted to have a water garden but didn’t know how to even begin?  Visit the Xeriscape Garden and see how they have combined the different plants to be beautiful and functional in the waters in the area and you may be able to incorporate some of these ideas into your own creation.

Kids love to play in a garden and here the Children’s Discover Garden affords them the opportunity to do that without getting into trouble.  They will be able to spend quite some time here and learn new and exciting things while enjoying the different creations laid out just for them.

The Arboretum is designed to give homeowners an opportunity to see what trees do well in what soil conditions.  Which trees are insect and disease resistance and yet require low maintenance.  A good place to start before you plant trees at your house that you really don’t want later.

There are nearly 5 miles of trails for you to hike during your visit here.  You will even get to cross two 75 foot bridges spanning Wolf Creek on your hike.  These trails are set up so there are areas that are easy to walk and those that are more challenging, like those that go to the rocky ridge along the limestone bluffs.  You will enjoy whichever you choose to follow.

Location: 8909 W. 179th St. (just west of Antioch)
Overland Park, KS 66013

Phone: 913/685-3604

Hours: Open seven days a week
8 a.m.-7:30 p.m., April 10-Sept. 30
8 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 1-April 9
Closed Christmas Day
(May close for inclement weather)
 

Ghost tales of Holton – Holton, Kansas

Have you ever wanted to visit a community that is supposed to have a ghostly presence?  If you have you may want to visit this town not far from Topeka where there are supposedly a number of different sightings that have happened.

Most of the people of the community will tell you that there aren’t ghosts here, but there are others that claim to have seen them, some more than once.  For instance there is the story about the ghost of a plane pilot that has often been seen pulling a cadaver over rocks in Linscott Park at midnight.  Then there is the chilling spirit of a Viking regularly seen heaving stones into Elk Horn Lake before dawn.  Or how about the ghost of a young man wearing a winter jacket that can be seen time and again at Holton City Dam before sunrise as he attempts to grip something.  One of the local folks says that this phantom is the phantom of a vacationer that was murdered while passing though Holton at some time.

Of course there is the ghost of a physician with a bloody uniform that has supposedly been seen on a couple of occasions near Holton.  He is supposedly there to terrify the foolish people that want to disturb the quiet of the community.

So, if you are interested in the ghosts and want to come to Holton and see if you can locate any of them just come on over. The townspeople will welcome you and give you a reason to enjoy your stay (even if you don’t see a ghost.)

Take in History at the Combat Air Museum in Topeka

For almost thirty years, the Combat Air Museum in Topeka, Kansas has been educating and entertaining the public. It is located at Forbes Field, just south of Topeka. The museum makes a nice destination for any tourists staying in the Topeka area.

Here, you will find a treasure trove of aircraft, engines, and artifacts from throughout the aviation history of our military. The Combat Air Museum has plenty to see and do, and you could easily spend an entire afternoon walking among the aircraft and exhibits. Everyone in the family, from the grandparents down to the tots, can appreciate the importance of the museum.

Popular Exhibits

The museum houses a number of different exhibits, including many that portray the WWII era.

One of the most popular to see is the German POW Room, which shows how prisoners of war were kept. The museum even has an actual WWII era ambulance, as well as a Jeep from the 1950s. This style jeep was used during the Korean War.

You will also want to make sure you see one of the newest exhibits on display – the escape capsule of an F-111.

Popular Aircraft

The Sea Stallion, which is a member of the Marine Corps aircraft family, was used primarily as a cargo transporter. As its secondary operational specialty, it carried troops into battle or casualties away from the fight.

The Skynight is certainly a unique aircraft, from the black finish to the folding wings. During the Korean War, this style of aircraft was responsible for shooting down the most enemy aircraft of any Navy or Marine plane.

Around the nation, the Navy flight team known as the Blue Angels is renowned for their aerial skills and daring. You can find one of these jets, called a Tiger, at the museum.

Besides the aircraft and the exhibits, be sure to check out the museum’s collection of aviation artwork. Before leaving, you will want to stop by the gift shop as well to peruse all of the aviation themed items that are for sale. It would be nice to pick something up to commemorate your trip.

The Combat Air Museum is open and welcoming guests year round. Admission for adults over 18 years old is $6, children 6-17 are $4, and kids under 6 years of age are free. Those who are active duty military pay only $4. You might wish to take one of the guided tours around the museum – it is certainly one of the best ways to learn about the aircraft.

Prairie Museum of Art and History – Colby, Kansas

The museum is just off I-70 in Kansas and offers a wide array of the private collection of the Kuska collection.  The Kuska’s were collectors of interesting items from around the world for over 50 years.  Upon the death of the couple the family decided to move their collection to Colby.

The museum has over 40,000 items and 24,000 are from the Kuska collection.

The Kuska Collection includes glass, furniture, ceramics, toys dolls, stamps, clocks, coins, silver, jewelry and other antiques.  The impressive exhibit of over 1,000 pieces of glass is accentuated by the beautiful Bohemian and Venetian art glass and pieces by Steuben, Galle’ and Tiffany.   The exhibit showcases 18th century Meissen, plus over 1,200 pieces of outstanding ceramics from Europe, Asia and the United States.   A Victorian dollhouse highlights the gallery with an exceptional exhibit of bisque dolls. Over 1,000 dolls from all over the world make this a charming exhibit.  There are other displays so be sure to take your time and visit the museum.

Contact them :
      1905 S. Franklin, Colby, KS 67701
      Ph. (785) 460-4590
      Email: prairiem@st-tel.net
Museum Hours (Central Time Zone):
   Regular Hours:
        M-F, 9-5; Sat. & Sun., 1-5
   Winter Hours (Nov. 1 – March 31):
        Same as "Regular Hours" except closed on Monday.
Admission:
    • Adults $5
    • Children (6-16) $2
    • Senior Discount
    • Members Free

Cedar Bluff State Park – Ogallah, Kansas

This state park in Ogallah is has two separate areas to enjoy which combined equal 1,100 acres plus the fabulous Cedar Bluffw Wildlife area.    The Reservoir was completed in 1951 as a method of providing flood control for the area.  Since the reservoir is surrounded by public lands it offers a fantastic opportunity for people to come and enjoy the different outdoor recreational opportunities. 

Cedar Bluff State Park has two sections along the Reservoir, the Bluffton Area on the north shore and the Page Creek Area on the south.  The Bluffton Area has nearly 350 acres and is the more developed than Page Creek.  Page Creek is larger with 500 acres but lacks some of the amenities that are available at Bluffton.

If you are looking for a place to camp then you may want to check out Cedar Bluff State Park.  The campground is wonderful, surrounded by beautiful scenery along with things like fishing, boating and just relaxing, so whether you’re an outdoorsman, a stockbroker or an online casino pro, you can kick back and soak up the atmosphere for a while .  Temperatures in the area range from 90 during the day to 60 at night during the summer months.  In the winter it’s usually in the 30′s during the day and 10 at night so probably not a time you want to camp out.

The park is known for fishing for wipers, white bass, and catfish, and rainbow trout that are stocked in the spring in the basin below the dam.   There are 5  boating ramps, swimming, hunting, volleyball, basketball, hiking, a BMX track, and both 121 camp sites with utilities and primitive camping. Cabins are available for rent on the north side of the reservoir.  There are both primitive and modern cabins for rent.  Five of them offer a variety of styles and amenities.  It is a great place to make a base camp for hunters and fisherman alike.  The area is good for hunting whitetail deer, pheasant, turkey, dove, Canada geese and duck was well as watching the eagles in the winter.l

There are 150 foot tall, cedar covered limestone bluffs which provide you with a scenic opportunity for photos and to just sit back and admire.  Hike up and enjoy the fresh air, the wonderful smells and the exercise you will get in the wonderland of nature.

Threshing Machine Canyon is near the park.  This is the site of a Native American attack, in 1850, on a wagon train bearing a threshing machine.  It is actually located in the wildlife area.

Pets are allowed at the park, accessible parking is available. There is a covered, handicap accessible fishing dock at the park.

 There is admission charged for the park.

The park is located in Trego County.  It is 21 miles southeast of WaKeeney and 23 miles southwest of Ellis.

Cedar Bluffs State Park
south of Ogallah, Kansas

Phone:
(785)726-3212    (785) 628-8614

Fort Hays -  Hays, Kansas

The history of Fort Hays began with it being built in 1865 to protect the stage and freight wagons of the Butterfield Overland Dispatch (BOD) traveling along the Smoky Hill Trail to Denver. Despite the presence of the soldiers, Southern Cheyenne and Southern Arapaho Indians continued to confront traffic along the trail. Since the BOD went bankrupt and the line was closed there was no longer any need for the fort in May of 1866.  At this time the fort was known as Ft. Fletcher after the governor of Missouri.

In October of 1866 was reopened about a fourth of a mile down the road.  The Union Pacific was being built and needed the protection of the Army.  The fort was then renamed Fort Hays after a general that had died in the Civil War.

Some of the famous figures associated with the fort included Wild Bill Hickok, Buffalo Bill Cody, General Nelson Miles, General Philip Sheridan, and Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer. It was also the home of several well-known Indian wars regiments such as the Seventh U.S. Cavalry, the Fifth U.S. Infantry, and the Tenth U.S. Cavalry, whose black troopers were better known as buffalo soldiers. After twenty-five years of service, Fort Hays was abandoned on November 8, 1889.

Location:

1472 Highway 183 Alternate
Hays, KS 67601

Hours:

Wed – Sat 9 am – 5 pm
Sunday 1 – 5 PM

Admission:
$5 Adults, Students $1

STERNBERG MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY – HAYS, KANSAS
This is a museum that you will enjoy since the displays rotate giving you the opportunity to view the collections on display.  Although the University has over 3,750,000 items they only show a small portion of them at a time.   The permanent exhibits on the main floor of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History include fossils collected from across Kansas and (mostly) around the western US. There are also mineral exhibits and videos explaining the history of the museum and story of the collecting of the museum’s famous "Fish within a fish."
You will encounter life size displays recreating the seas of Kansas from 70 million years ago and leading up to displays of what might have been found near the shore. Some of the recreated life size prehistoric animals move or make noises.  That really adds to the experience!
Location:
Fort Hays State University
3000 Sternberg Drive
Hays, KS 67601
Phone:
(877) 332-1165
Hours:

Tuesday – Saturday 9 AM – 7 PM Sunday 1 – 7 PM
Adults: $6 4-12 & over 60: $4
 

Boot Hill Museum – Dodge City, Kansas

Dodge City, founded in 1872, was the world’s largest shipping point for Longhorn cattle.  With the cowboys coming into town after being on the roundup and trail for so long they often had lots of pent up energy and other things that they wanted to release.  Therefore, Dodge City was one of the wildest of the early frontier towns.  Enter such men as Bat Masterson, Wyatt Earp and Bill Tilghman and law and order was brought to the community.

In Dodge City the Front Street buildings are reconstructions, exhibiting hundreds of original artifacts.  They represent the town as it was in 1876. 

The various exhibits throughout the museum depict life as it was.  There are over 200 original guns on display, a working print shop, an extensive collection of drug store items, an entire building that was just completely renovated and many other special exhibits.  There are approximately 20,000 artifacts displayed throughout the complex.

Step Back in History at the Boot Hill Museum

Dodge City is renowned for being one of the roughest, toughest towns in the West, and many famous gunfighters and lawmen, such as Bat Masterson, Bill Tilghman, and Wyatt Earp spent time in town. The town, founded in 1872, was known as the "Wickedest City in the West" for a time.

The Boot Hill Museum and Front Street replicate what life was like back in 1876. The fronts on all of the buildings are historically accurate, and you can see a collection of more than 200 guns from the era as well as 20,000 other artifacts.

You will also find many other great exhibits here, and this is an incredible place to spend the day.

The People of the Plains exhibit tells the story of the nomadic Indians that lived on the plains in the area. Boot Hill Cemetery houses the remains of many buffalo hunters, gunfighters, and drifters who had no money to be properly buried or returned to their home.

The Long Branch Saloon is an exact recreation of how saloons in the area looked during the latter part of the 1800s. Also, be sure to check out the working print shop.

In addition to all of the exhibits, you can see the Boot Hill Gunfighters, who recreate an Old West style gun battle in the street, or check out the Long Branch Variety Show. There you can see singers, comedians, and can-can dancers. The variety show makes for a fine evening and only costs only $7.95 per person.

If you get the chance, make sure you take the stagecoach ride, which costs $6 per person, and takes you through downtown Dodge City.

If you are visiting the historic Dodge City, there is no way that you should miss a trip to the Boot Hill Museum and Front Street. Everyone who has even a passing interest in American history or the Wild West will love this museum. It is historical, educational, and fun.

The Museum is open throughout the year. Admission during the summer is $8 for adults, $7.50 for seniors and students, and children are free. If you have a large family, you may wish to take advantage of their family rate, which is $30. During the offseason, admission prices are a bit lower: $7 for adults, $6.50 for seniors and students, kids still free, and the family rate drops to $25.

Admission: Summer – Adults $8, Seniors $7.50, Students $7.50, Children Free and Family pass $25

Off-season – Adults $7, Seniors and students $6.50 and Children are still free and a Family pass is $20.00

Hours: Memorial Day through Labor Day Open Daily 8 – 8

Off-season Monday – Saturday 9 – 5 and Sunday 1 – 5

Closed New Years Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

To complete your trip to Dodge City, consider staying there.  HotelsCombined.com provides excellent rates for all Dodge City hotels.

Fort Dodge Kansas State Soldiers Home – Fort Dodge, Kansas

Built in 1859 of sod and adobe Fort Dodge was the last US Army fort located before the Civil War and in 1865 was the first fort opened after the Civil War.  Fort Dodge was to guard travelers on the Santa Fe Trail to keep them safe from the Indians.

In 1882 the military abandoned the fort and the citizens of Dodge City purchased the old garrison and the state converted it to an Old Soldiers Home, accepting its first resident on January 1, 1890.

Today several buildings are open for tours, and visitors are welcome to walk or drive through the grounds.

Location:  714 Sheridan, Fort Dodge, Kansas 67843

Phone: 316-227-2121

Admission: Free

Open: Year round 

Lee Richardson Zoo – Garden City, Kansas

One of the largest zoos in Kansas with over 300 animals of 100 species you will have the opportunity to see some outstanding animals up close.  Although the layout of the zoo leaves something to be desired it’s worth the effort to go.

Are you interested in the animals of the USA?  At the zoo you can study the river otters as they swim and play, check out the Swift fox exhibit for something really neat.  The animals that once had free roam of the Kansas plains are here such as the majestic elk, the bison and the fleet-footed pronghorn.

Maybe you have more of an interest in South American animals, if you so you will enjoy the South American Pampas Exhibit which have llamas, alpacas and rhea while further on you will see the Baird’s tapir, this unusual animals inhabits rain forests from Southern Mexico just into South America.  Despite its pig-like appearance, the tapir is not related to pigs, but to rhinos and horses.  All tapirs are endangered due to the widespread destruction of their national habitat. 

The Wild Asia Exhibit shows you the Red panda exhibit.  These adorable animals seem to be a cross between a raccoon and a Teddy bear., they live in the frigid temperature of the Himalayan mounts to the thick coat and coloring help keep them warm and protected.

The siamangs, a tropical primate that advertises its claim to territory by hooting duets between pairs.  Their long, narrow exhibit gives them plenty of room to get up speed while brachiating from one end of the yard to the other.

Who can resist the beauty of the Snow Leopard?  The low profile of their forehead allows them to peer over rocks without giving away their position.  The smoky gray color of their spotted fur blends in perfectly with the rocky Himalayan mountainsides of their native home, whether bare or blanketed with snow and ice.

Some of the other animals are the nocturnal tokay gecko, the gigantic gaur and the Asiatic Black Bears, Malayan sun bears, Pere David’s deer, Bactrain camels and several reptiles and the Goral antelope.

In the exhibit on Africa you will see the zebra, African pygmy goats, and the Addax antelope.

Down Under you will see a breeding herd of the unusual red kangaroo.  You will also see the large, flightless emu which stands 5 feet tall which makes them too large and heavy to get off the ground, so they rely on speed and a kicking defense to foil predators.

Hours: The zoo is open 7 days a week from 8 to 6:30 April 1st through Labor Day and 8 – 4:30 after Labor Day to March 31.  The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Admission: Free if you walk through.  There is a $3 per vehicle charge if you drive through.  The drive through fee is not charged before 10 or during the months of Dec., Jan or Feb.

Directions:

From Northeast/Great Bend take State hwy 156 southwest to Garden City and junction of US 50/400/83; turn left onto US Hwy 83 (just past overpass).  Travel 1.2 miles south to Garden City/Dodge City/US Hwy 50 Business exit.  At the bottom of the ramp turn right/west onto hwy 50 Business/Fulton St.  Travel 1.5 miles to 4th St., turn left/south onto 4th St.  Zoo/Finnup Park is 3 blocks south.

From East/Dodge City travel west on US Hwy 50/400 to Garden City.  Pick up US Hwy 50 Business/Fulton St. at US Hwy 83 junction.  Travel 1.5 miles on Fulton St./US Hwy 50 Business to 4th St..  Turn left/south onto 4th St. and go 3 blocks to the zoo.

From South/Liberal take US Hwy 83 north to Garden City.  Turn left onto Hwy 83 business and travel 2 miles north to Finnup Drive.  Turn right/east onto Finnup Drive at Zoo entrance sign.

From West/Pueblo/LaJunta

Take US Hwy 50/400 to junction of US Hwy 83, turn right/south onto US Hwy 83 business then travel 1.9 miles to second stoplight (McDonalds is on the left).  At light follow US 50/83 Business by making a hard left onto Kansas Ave.  Travel .5 miles to second stoplight (Main St.) and turn right/south onto Main.  Travel 1 mile (through business district, across railroad tracks, then 3 blocks) to Finnup Drive.  Turn left/east of Finnup Dr. at Zoo entrance.

From North/Oakley/Scott City take US Hwy 83 south to Garden City and US 50/400 junction, proceed straight onto Hwy 83 Business (Taylor Ave.) travel 1.9 miles to second Stoplight (McDonalds on left).  Follow 83/50 by making hard left onto Kansas Ave. Travel .5 miles to Main St and turn right, travel 1 mile to Finnup Dr. turn left to the zoo.

Geographic Center to the United States – Lebanon, Kansas

When you look at the United States (the 48 contiguous states) and go to the center you end up at Lebanon, Kansas!  Actually, the true site is approximately 2 miles northwest of Lebanon.

Although there really isn’t much to see, there is a stone monument with a place on it that tells you that you are at the center of the USA.  There is also a little bitty Chapel titled US Center Chapel that you can visit, maybe say a prayer for the safety of our country and then probably you have seen all there is to see.

Directions: Take US Hwy 281 North 1 mile, turn west one mile on K-191 to the marker that has been placed at the end of the paved road, the actual center is about a half mile away in the center of a former hog farm so you probably don’t want to walk out there, but hey, it’s up to you!

Mount Muncie Cemetery – Lancing, Kansas

Just take a trip through this cemetery and you will have the opportunity to delve into the history of a wide range of those that have impacted history and those that are the forgotten masses.  But along with that you will learn about the hardships of life in the 1800′s and the political stories that formed the structure of Kansas.

You will be able to see the graves of the notorious murders from the Capote story of In Cold Blood, Richard Eugene Hickock and Perry Edward Smith. These two murders had planned the murders of the family from Kansas (Clutter) to steal their money.  The murder took place and then the murders found there wasn’t a safe or lots of money, they ended up taking just a radio and other more or less worthless items.  All that horror and they thought it was great fun.  They were captured in January of 1960 and later hanged at the prison and buried at Mount Muncie Cemetery.

Also buried at the cemetery is the brother of Susan B. Anthony.  Daniel Read Anthony and his son are buried at the cemetery.  He was a well known, influential person in the state.

The Baby Mounds (think of the mounds of Indian burials) are also something of interest.  There are two different areas that are there with the central stone and the little stones in circles around the main one.  There are hundreds of these babies buried here since it was in the 1800′s and medical care was not what it is today, lots of babies died in their young life and were buried together at the cemetery.

As you can see, this cemetery will afford you the opportunity to learn a great deal of the founding history of this area of the state.  Visiting a cemetery may seem like a strange thing to do on a trip, but if you are a history buff or interested in the formation of an area of the country you can learn a great deal by visiting the past…therefore…the cemetery.

Location: 1500 N 8th St., Lansing, Kansas

Open Daily from 7AM to Sunset

Farm – City Days and the Buster Keaton Celebration – Iola, Kansas

Come to Iola for these celebrations and you will certainly not be disappointed.  The Farm – City Days is held on the square the third weekend of October. A carnival runs throughout the celebration with a parade, arts & crafts show, car show, entertainment and other special events the day.  The community links the agricultural and industrial lives of the area with a parade, re-enactments, a carnival, art show, demonstrations and tours and demonstrations by the fire and police departments, fish casting contests, Bowlus Fine Arts Center performances, horse and carriage rides, and hard boiled egg eating contest.

The celebration was begun in 1971 by the farming community to get the townfolks to better understand the farming community, then the city decided to join in and bring in the industry.  This has grown to be a celebration enjoyed by everyone.

Address : 2 W Madison Ave, Downtown square

Phone : 620-365-5252   (Always call and confirm events.)

The community also has the Buster Keaton Celebration the third weekend in September at the Bowlus Fine Arts Center.

His parents had stopped in Piqua, Kansas in early October, 1895 while performing with a traveling medicine show. Myra Keaton missed playing the saxophone at the October 4th performance when Buster arrived,
delivered in a boarding house just across the street from the site of the evening performance. Young Keaton began appearing on stage with his parents at a tender age, became a child vaudeville star on Broadway, and earned a reputation as a comic genius in the world at large with a body of classic silent film comedy.

Keaton got into movies at 22 when he signed to co-star with Fatty Arbuckle. He went on to create a body of comic silent-film masterpieces. With the arrival of sound, Keaton’s career waned, but it revived in the 1950′s, and he made many film, stage and television appearances until his death in 1966.

Film comedian and director Buster Keaton was born in Piqua (Pick-way), Kansas, in 1895 while his parents were performing in a traveling medicine show. Each year Iola, KS, — ten miles east of Piqua — hosts a two-day celebration in Keaton’s honor.

People come from all over the world for this celebration.  The movies shown and the music to accompany them are well worth the trip as well as enjoying the hospitality of this community.

The two day Buster Keaton Celebration runs all day and evening on a Friday and Saturday at the end of September. They make a point that it is not a film festival, but a "humanities" event. Although the evening presentation is almost all film (accompanied by piano or the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra), the morning and afternoon sessions are mostly presentations, interviews and panels. Although they make several humorous requests for donations, all of the events are free.

The Buster Keaton Museum in Piqua, Kansas is also a place yo will want to visit.  It is located at 302 South Hill Street in Piqua, Kansas.  The museum is open from 8 AM – 1 PM Monday thru Friday, other hours by appointment.

The collection for the museum is located in one room in the Water Department houses the collection since there isn’t enough activity to support a seperate facility and staff it.  It would still be worth going to see if you are a Keaton fan.

Phone: 620-468-2385

Biblesta – Humboldt, Kansas

This celebration is held the first Saturday in October on an annual basis.  The celebration is focused on the Bible with a parade, live Christian music.  The celebration begins at 10 AM.  The parade has floats depicting Bible stories.  This celebration is the only one like it in the country so if you want to enjoy a day of Christian based entertainment be sure to visit the community.

You will also be welcome to enjoy the free ham and bean feed at 5 PM served in the park (bring your own bowl and spoon), or try some of the other foods that are available in the booths around the park.

The celebration was established in 1957 and has been held every year since.  There is adequate parking, restrooms are available, accomodations in the community are available. 

Travel to the area and enjoy a relaxing time in this community of just under 2,000 people.  They will make you feel welcome and show you a truly wonderful time in their community.

Location: 115 S. 9th St., Humboldt, Kansas 66748

Phone: (620) 473-2526

The Greyhound Hall of Fame – Abilene, Kansas

The museum is free and across from the street from the Eisenhower complex.

Location
407 S Buckeye, Abilene, KS   67410

Phone: (785) 263-3000
Fax: (785) 263-2604
Toll Free: (800) 932-7881

The museum is devoted to greyhound breeding, racing, and the history of the sport. You will even be greeted by a retired Greyhoud as you enter the Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame includes a theater, meeting rooms, museum and the Greyhound Hall of Fame display where the dogs and industry pioneers are immortalized. There are also retired greyhounds present to greet visitors. A large portion of the building is devoted to the "hall of fame" displays of inductees – displays that probably only interest people that are devoted to greyhound racing.

Although the tour is not time consuming you will truly enjoy it, plan for approximately 20 minutes in the Hall of Fame.

The Fashion Museum – Abilene, Kansas

Enjoy a trip through time by looking at the clothing that people have worn over the past 100 years.  The clothing that men and women have worn has been directly influenced by the social and cultural changes of each era. Since early settlement in Kansas in the 1850s, fashion has undergone numerous and radical changes – each one reflecting our changing social structure and changes in the world in which we live. Just think of the radical changes that have transpired from the long dresses with corsets of the 1800′s to the bell bottom pants of the 1960′s to the mini skirt.

"The garments featured in each decade of the permanent exhibit are changed regularly, so there is always something new to see," says museum director, Jill Crist. "The changing gallery gives us the opportunity to highlight special collections or to put new exhibits together by picking and choosing from the extensive collection that is in storage."

Location:  212 N. Broadway in historic downtown Abilene

Hours of Operation

10-4 Tuesday – Saturday
(after hours by appointment)
Office: (785)263-7997
Fax: (785)263-1704

Admission

$3 Adults
Children under 12 free
Discount rates available
for groups of 10 and more

Chisholm Trail Historical Marker – Abilene, Kansas

The rides were sometimes in the winter where the battle against cold, snow and rain was a constant companion.  Trying to find someplace dry to sleep was almost impossible for the cowboy.  They would often move the fire over after it had burned for awhile because the ground under would be warm and dry, at least for a little while.

The cowboys were often required to pay a "toll" to the Indians of the area to avoid problems on the drive.  They would cut out some cattle, give them to the Indians and then be allowed to go forward with no problems.  Then there were the Nesters (settlers that moved into the area) that didn’t want the drives to cross their lands because they were afraid the cattle would destroy the grass.  This caused the herds to be narrowed down to a smaller trail.  The Nesters were more of a problem, according to the stories told by those that drove the cattle, then the Indians.  The Nesters would group together, armed and not allow the herds to pass on their land.

 The stories that cowboys sang to the herd at night were true one cowboy said, "Yes, we sung, whistled, and hummed to the cattle so they would know where we were, also that the other guards might know our location. The constant sound prevented fright from any sudden sound, such as a horse stumbling, etc."

There was a legendary longhorn on the Chisholm Trail that led the cattle drive which was owned by Charles Goodnight, co-founder of the Goodnight-Loving Trail in west Texas, who had a favorite lead steer known as Old Blue. The steer reportedly led about 10,000 longhorns north along the trail over eight seasons, before finally retiring from the trail.

In the five years from 1867 to 1872, more than three million head of cattle were driven up the Chisholm Trail from Texas to Abilene.

By 1870 thousands of Texas longhorn cattle were being driven over the Chisholm Trail to the Union Pacific (later the Kansas Pacific) Railroad shipping center at Abilene. By 1871 as many as 5,000 cowboys were often paid off during a single day. Abilene became known as a rough town in the Old West.

The Chisholm Trail Historical Marker which marks the end of the Chisholm Trail is located in Abilene at: 3rd & N Buckeye, Abilene, KS   67410

Phone: (785) 263-2681 (the post office where the marker is located)

Kauffman Museum – North Newton, Kansas

Affiliated with Bethel College this museum focuses on the Mennonite life and times of the 1800′s.

There is also a tallgrass prairie reconstruction with over 15 species of grasses and more than 100 wildflower species the award-winning permanent exhibit Of Land and People which tells the story of the coming of the Mennonites from Europe to the central plains in the 1870s and their encounters with the prairie environment and its people an historic farmstead with heritage flower and vegetable gardens around the 1875 Voth-Unruh-Fast House and the 1886 Ratzlaff Barn

There is a new permanent exhibition featuring Kauffman Museum’s collections of Mennonite immigrant furniture

Constantly changing exhibits along with traveling exhibits which have been installed in museums across the country and are available for bookings.

Educational programs for the whole family or school groups

Hours:
Tues – Fri 9:30 – 4:30
Sat – Sun 1:30 – 4:30
Closed on Mondays and major holidays.

Admission:
Children 6 – 16, $1.50
Adults, $3.00
Association members free

Location: 27th and North Main, Bethel College, North Newton, Kansas 67117

Phone: 316-283-1612  

Abilene & Smoky Valley Excursion Train – Abilene, Kansas

There are many steam engine trains that run across the United States for the enjoyment of tourists and history buffs.  This train consists of a vintage diesel-electric locomotive, a century-old wooden sided passenger/diner, open air observation cars and a caboose, the excursion train travels through the Smoky Hill River Valley between historic Abilene and Enterprise, a ten mile round trip.

The train travels at a leisurely 10-15 miles an hour, so there is plenty of time for passengers to take pictures, and visit with the other passengers or train crew. Special charter trains available. Dinner trains in the spring and fall, by reservation only. Now departing from the Rock Island Depot in Old Abilene Town. Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Location: 200 SE 5th, south of the Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum, Abilene, KS   67410

Phone: (785) 263-1077
Fax: (785) 263-1077
Toll Free: (888) 426-6687

Dickinson County Heritage Center – Abilene, Kansas

Visit the two in-door museums depicting life on the Plains during the American pioneer movement and westward expansion periods.  The exhibits include Indians, pioneers, railroad, agriculture, Victorian and cow-town eras.  See how life was for those brave settlers that crossed the land to make their homes in uncharted land in the 1800′s. Not only are there displays inside there are more outside including a 1901 Packard Carousel.

 Museum of Independent Telephony is the other museum at this site.  You can follow the development of the telephone industry.  Guided tours are offered to take you through the history of the telephone development in Abilene where United Telephone got it’s start and Sprint has a headquarters.

Location: 412 South Campbell,  Abilene, Kansas 67410 – directly east of the Eisenhower Center

Hours: Open all year:
Winter hours: Monday – Friday 9 – 3
Saturday: 10 – 5 and Sunday 1 – 5
During the summer there are extended hours with Monday – Friday being 9-5 and until 8 on Saturdays.

Admission: $4 for those 16 and older, Seniors 62 and over $3, Carousel rides are extra.  Children 2-15 $2 each which includes the carousel.  Carousel rides are $2 per person.

Telephone: 785-263-2681

Freedom Memorial – El Dorado, Kansas

The Celebration of Freedom Memorial is dedicated to the men and women of the Butler County, Kansas community who have served to further the freedom of our great nation. Located on the front lawn of the historic Butler County Courthouse 205 W Central, El Dorado, Kansas, the memorial is made up of a center half circle walkway and a walkway on the East and West sides.

The entrance to the memorial walkway is marked by a Signers Panel located beneath the flag pole. The panel contains the names of the 56 Americans who signed the Declaration of Independence, and in addition – George Washington, the Father of our country; Patrick Henry, the Voice of Freedom; and George Mason, the Pen of Freedom.

Flanking the flag pole on the East is what is often referred to as the Eagle Side. The centerpiece is a six and one-half foot bald eagle cast bronze sculpture entitled "Sovereign Wings", designed by Sandy Scott , a widely acclaimed sculptor. The more than life size eagle is poised majestically for flight on top of brick and limestone base. Scott’s design of this piece won the Gold Medal in Colorado’s Bronze Statue Art Contest.

The Eagle Side memorial wall is a six and one-half foot high brick semi-circle. Six pieces of black granite are inset in the wall and feature the Great Seal of the United States of America and individual emblems of the United States Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Navy. On the west side of the Eagle side, an extended wall that slopes to the ground provides additional aesthetic value.

The walkway is made up of 33 mahogany granite panels. The first panel contains the POW and MIA emblem. Each of the remaining panels is divided into brick-shaped sections and engraved with over 900 names of veterans, those currently serving, and non-veterans. Additional panels can be added in the future. Twelve black granite benches are situated along the memorial walk.

The west section of the Celebration of Freedom Memorial is often referred to as the Liberty side. The centerpiece to this section is the Miss Liberty statue that was originally presented to the Butler County community by local troops of the Boy Scouts of America on June 14, 1950. The statue is one of approximately two hundred replicas of the Statue of Liberty which were purchased and dedicated by Boy Scout troops all over the United States. Miss Liberty stands atop a limestone pedestal that is surrounded by a star-shaped wall that was once a flower bed, but has since been filled with concrete.

The walkway leading from the entrance to Miss Liberty is much like that which leads to the eagle. Mahogany granite panels bear the names of those who have served in the armed forces and others that have contributed to the preservation of freedom in one way or another. There are approximately 500 names on the walkway of the Miss Liberty side of the memorial with room for expansion. The pathway is lined with black granite benches.

Flint Hills Rodeo Grounds – Strong City, Kansas

This is the oldest rodeo grounds in use in Kansas.  It began in 1937 as a way to show off the talents of the local cowboys. It is now a 3 day event on an annual basis.  Evening performances are held Thursday, which is kids night where they get in free if they are 12 and under, Friday and Saturday nights at 8 p.m.  Following the evening performances, there is a cowboy dance. On Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m., the annual rodeo parade from Cottonwood Falls through Strong City is held, an occasion when nearly every horse in Chase County comes to town to strut their stuff!

The first weekend in June kicks off the rodeo season at the Flint Hills Rodeo Arena in Strong City, Kansas.  There are thousands of spectators watching as top rodeo contestants, such as Will Lowe, Trevor Brazile, Fred Whitfield, compete for thousands of dollars in six traditional rodeo events.  Included in the three-day rodeo performances are special acts, cowboy dances, a rodeo parade and more.

The traditional activities of the quality rodeo are all included in the three days.

Bareback RidingSteer Wrestling
Saddle Bronc Riding
Calf Roping
Women’s Barrel Race
Bull Riding
Team Roping

Telephone: 620-273-6480

E-Mail: info@flinthillsrodeo.com

Flint Hills Overland Wagon Train is no longer in business as of March 2011.

Flint Hills Overland Wagon Train – El Dorado, Kansas

Are you interested in taking a true wagon train experience?  If you are here is an opportunity for you.  The journey will consisit of the following:  All weekend trips begin with prospective weekend pioneers meeting at 10:00 a.m. at the tennis courts-athletic field in the 300 block of South Neosho Street in Council Grove, Kansas, which is a block north of Custer Oak Park.

After an introductory briefing, personal vehicles will join in an escorted caravan to the embarkation point. Vehicles will be parked at the ranch overnight. Camping gear and luggage will be transported to the overnight campsite independent of the wagon train. More detailed instructions and map will be sent with your confirmation after they receive back your application and deposit.

All weekend trips begin with a “tenderfeet” meeting Saturday morning. Evening campfire entertainment begins around 8:30 to 9 p.m. After an overnight rest, the wagon train sets out again Sunday morning, returning “old hands” to their vehicles around noon Sunday.

Scheduled trips will proceed in all but severe weather. To verify that an excursion remains on schedule, call 316-321-6300.* Dates are subject to availability of equipment and weather conditions.* They reserve the right to change dates of trips without notice. * For more information about Continuing Education Trips through Emporia State University for anyone interested in earning credit on the plant life, survival, history and folklore of the Kansas Flint Hills, contact Emporia State University at 620-341-5385.

El Dorado Bike Trail – El Dorado, Kansas

Enjoy a day riding your bike on the El Dorado trail where you will start at East Park and continuing to North Main Park, looping around Prairie Trails Golf and Country Club and stretching to El Dorado Lake and State Park, the bike trail provides safe and enjoyable recreation for biking or walking. Parking is available at both ends of the trail.

Location: 201 E. Central, El Dorado, KS 67042

Clements Stone Arch Bridge – Clements, Kansas

This piece of history was built in 1887 of native limestone.  The two-span bridge with a main span of 57.1 feet and a length of 126.9 feet is now open only to pedestrians. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on Dec. 12, 1976. Clements is located west of Strong City just south of Highway 50. Watch for the brown KDOT sign indicating where to turn to find the bridge.

This unique bridge is being supported by the grandson of the people that used to own a hotel in Clements.  Because he grew up in the community he has taken on the challenge of preserving and upgrading this piece of history.  His name is Gary Evans, of Seattle, Washington.

Chase County Historical Society Museum – Cottonwood Falls, Kansas

This museum features local historical artifacts, displays of the crash of the airplane carrying Knute Rockne. It also features memorabilia of the E. C. Roberts family of Strong City, founders of the famous Flint Hills Rodeo. The building housing the museum was entered on the National Register of Historic Places on Nov. 9, 1977. the two-story building, constructed of native limestone, was built in 1882.

   The building was originally used as the Chase County National Bank which continued in business until 1928. The building was used by several businesses in the years following. In 1976 it was purchased by the Chase County Historical Society for use as a museum, library and office. There are two floors of exhibits.

On March 31, 1931, the plane carrying famous football coach Knute Rockne and H.A. Christen, J.H. Happer, W.B. Miller, Charles A. Robrecht, Spencer G. Goldthwaite, Robert Frye and Jess Mathias, crashed near Bazaar in Chase County. losing all lives. There is a display of artifacts and original pictures from the crash site.

The Historical Society Library contains a copier, a reader, a reader-printer, and has microfilm of all newspapers that have been published in Chase County. These are for your use. Volumes 1, 11 , III, IV of Chase County Historical Sketches contain history of Chase County families and the account of some of the events that took place in the formation of the county. These volumes are available for study or to purchase. We also have listings of all the cemeteries in the county, and marriage licenses dating back to 1860, for your use, obituaries, genealogy and research materials, many photos, etc.

Location: 301 Broadway, Cottonwood Falls, KS 66845

Phone: (620)273-8500

Donations appreciated.

Chase County Courthouse – Cottonwood Falls, Kansas

This courthouse is the oldest courthouse in operation in Kansas.  Built 1872-1873, this French Renaissance building constructed of native limestone  this beautiful building is someting that you will want to visit while in Kansas.

Native limestone, used in the building, has been shipped to every state in the country. It may be found in many public structures, including the Capitol building in Washington D.C. and the Kansas capitol building. Each year visitors from every state and from many countries visit the courthouse, marveling at its architectural design, the stonework and spiral staircase. In 1971 the Courthouse was entered in the National Registry of Historic Places and the Kansas Historical Site register. Unmatched in durability and design, the courthouse remains a living tribute to its builders and the Flint Hills pioneers who dreamed of a Courthouse which would stand a century.

Location: 300 Pearl, Cottonwood Falls, KS 66845

Phone: (620) 273-8469  or (800) 431-6344

Chaplin Nature Center – Arkansas City, Kansas

The Chaplin Nature Center is located on the inner edge of a bend in the Arkansas River  There are more than five miles of walking trails provide easy access to bottomland timber & prairies, upland prairies, a spring-fed creek, and the Arkansas River.

 The visitor center features wildlife displays, a nature library, a gift shop, and a bird observation area located on a second-floor open deck bordered by tree canopy and serviced with bird feeders. It provides an ideal spot for bird photography or bird watching from the comfort of the library.

 The trailhead for exploring the area lies just behind the visitor center.  Since the building is located on the edge of a steep bluff, this boardwalk stairway provides a handy means of descent. 

 Wildlife Homes Trail (0.3 mile loop); Spring Creek Trail (0.5 mile loop); Lost Prairie Trail (0.7 mile loop), Bluff Trail (0.6 mile loop); Prairie Trail (0.8 mile loop); River Trail (1.9 mile loop)

 Directions: From the intersection of U.S. 77 and U.S. 166 in Arkansas City (50 miles south of Wichita), travel 3 miles west on U.S. 166, then north 2 miles on 31st Road, which turns west to become 272nd Road.  Signs are provided for assistance.

Chaplin Nature Center is owned and operated by the Wichita Audubon Society. The trails are open AT NO CHARGE to the public from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.

The Visitor’s Center is open on Saturdays 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sundays 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. year round. It is closed Mondays and holidays.

September 1 – November 15, Tuesday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

November 16 – March 15 – closed weekdays

March 16 – June 30, Tuesday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

July 1 – August 30, Tuesday- Friday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

 Location: 27814 27th Dr., Arkansas City, KS 67005

Phone: 620 442-4133

C.W. Parker Carousel – Abilene, Kansas

This 24 horse carousel and 4 chariots of this 104 year old piece of history is available for rides to bring back the wonderful memories of the dreams of riding the carousel.  This totally hand-carved working carousel manufactured in Abilene at the turn of century by C. W. Parker Amusement Company has been completely restored.

C.W. Parker called his machines "Carry-Us-Alls" as he felt that the plain term "Merry-Go-Round" was too tame for such a flashy contrivance. It carried all ages and sizes and thus to him was a "Carry-Us-All". The Museum has chosen to use the generic name "Carousel" to refer to this machine as that is how it has been called most of its life.

Location: 412 S Campbell St, Heritage Center, Abilene, KS 67410
 

Phone: (785) 263-2681
 

Botanica, The Wichita Gardens – Wichita, Kansas

Come and enjoy themed gardens such as the Shakespeare Garden, Rose and Wildflower Garden, and the new Sensory Garden. Visit Botanica’s Butterfly House and stroll among hundreds of free-flight butterflies. Come to Botanica throughout the summer and fall to learn more about these intriguing and beautiful creatures.

The botanical paradise on the plains is comprised of over nine acres of stunning gardenscaping that features more than 3600 species of plants both native and new to the region. Twenty-four themed display gardens such as the Butterfly Garden, Shakespearean Garden, Sensory Garden and Wildflower Meadow combine with 20 sculptures and multiple flowing fountains to create a visually stunning atmosphere.

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Open extended hours from April-October.

Admission Rates: Adult- $6.50, Senior (62+)- $5.50, Youth (5-21)- $3.00, Children under 5 admitted free.

Discounted rates available for groups of 10 or more.

Location: 701 Amidon, Wichita, KS 67203
 

Ph: 316.264.0448
Fax: 316.264.0587