Kansas Highway 36 Travel Guide

KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 UNIQUE JOURNEYS THROUGH NORTHERN KANSAS

T R AV E L G U I D E 2 0 2 1- 2 0 2 2 for Kansas Highway 36 counties

Cheyenne

Phillips

Marshall

Rawlins

Smith

Nemaha

Decatur

Jewell

Brown

Norton

Republic

Doniphan

Washington USHWY36.COM

2021-2022 • KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 1

In the fall of 2005 the US Highway 36 Association began its planning for the first Highway 36 Treasure Hunt.

The idea began with three board members and antique dealers from Scandia, Kansas. The premise? To host a weekend of garage sales that stretched through the 13 Kansas Counties that are home to Highway 36, a distance of around 400 miles. 400 miles of garage sales, the idea seemed impossible to some, but after over 15 years the Treasure Hunt is still going on, stronger than ever before.

The first year of Treasure Hunt there were eight towns who participated, creating maps encouraging people to ‘find their treasures’ there. Now there are over 30 towns throughout the 13 counties that host yearly events, each with a map full of items just waiting to be discovered.

The event is hosted every year the third weekend of September – Friday through Sunday.

Each year, starting September 1st, town coordinators create maps and descriptive listings, showing the locations in their town and/or county where sales can be found. These maps are linked to the town

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names on the Association’s website www.ushwy36.com. Travelers can choose to download and print or simply view them on their mobile devices. Map dots or pins are not just garage sales on front lawns. They could be representing sales in parks, community buildings, or empty lots. Even farmers open their Quonsets and barns along the highway.

Treasure Hunt isn't just a bargain hunting experience, it’s a great way to explore and experience the many small towns located on Highway 36. Many people plan group trips or rendezvous along the route, they shop, eat, and laugh as they make new discoveries. Signatures from seller's guest registries and entries on the website's Guest Book reveal 'Treasure Hunters' come from all 50 states and some foreign countries.

Mark your calendar and prepare your trip for the third weekend of September! The Highway US 36 Association is a great resource, the one stop for all the maps, but for also planning your whole trip! Lodging and restaurants for each county can be found on the website, as well as contact people in each of the counties you are interested in visiting.

USHWY36.COM

KANSAS HIGHWAY

36 Our mission is to promote business and tourism along U.S. Highway 36

2 Treasure Hunt Across Kansas 4 On The Road President's Letter 5 How It Began 7 The US 36 Corridor is becoming the place to move 8 Doniphan County 12 Brown County 14 Nemaha County

26 Jewell County 32 Smith County 34 Phillips County 37 Winners of the 2020 Best Burgers on 36 Contest 39 Norton County 42 Decatur County 46 Rawlins County 48 Cheyenne County

20 Washington County

52 Highway 36 Association Members

24 Republic County

55 Pony Express

18 Marshall County

©Copyright 2021 Hiawatha World Online, 607 Utah Street, Hiawatha, Kansas 66434 (News-Press & Gazette Co.). Kansas Highway 36 magazine has made every effort to maintain the accuracy of materials presented in this guide. Cover Photo by Jaime Albers, Midwestern Photography.

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On the Road

PRESIDENT'S LETTER • Bill Phillipi Welcome to Kansas’ US Highway 36. Once known for the Pony Express, the Oregon Trail and the Pike’s Peak Ocean to Ocean Highway, US 36 is today a 400-mile “Main Street” through northern Kansas. Each of the 13 counties along US 36 welcomes you both to Kansas and to each community along the route. With this travel guide, I hope that you will find the Sunflower State has so much to offer.

From the Missouri River to the foothills of the Rockies in Colorado, US 36 offers each visitor a different view of Kansas. Each county, each community and its residents look forward to seeing and sharing with you the best of what the heartland has to offer. The American Dream is still very much alive here, as you can see in these pages! This travel guide across Kansas has a dual mission of welcoming you to explore, while also extending a personal invitation for you to dig deeper and discover a unique quality of life. Please consider joining us and bring your family, your business and your creative talents to our “Main Street” across Kansas.

Highway 36 Association ushwy36.com Cheyenne Community Development Corporation

Cheyenne County Development Corporation 785-332-3508 ccdcks.com

Rawlins County City of Atwood 785- 626-9462 cityofatwoodks.com

Decatur County

Decatur County Area Chamber of Commerce 785-475-3441 oberlinks.com

Norton Chamber / Travel & Tourism 785-877-2501 Norton Chamber of Commerce 785-877-2501 discovernorton.com

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As you look through this guide, note the geographic wonders. From the Arikaree Breaks on the state’s western horizon to the Glacial Hills rolling through eastern Kansas, from the state parks, lakes and myriad of historic sites along the route, there is plenty to get outdoors and see. If you’re intrigued by Native American history, the story of US westward expansion or simply what makes a small town tick, we’ve got plenty to show you.

And with events set nearly every month of the year, you’ve got a road trip waiting to be scheduled. Oh, and don’t forget the great food at locally owned burger stands, time-tested diners and a variety of favorite chain restaurants.

This guide is your starting point. We hope you know that friendly Kansans all along US Highway 36 are just waiting for you to stop in and stay a while.

Happy trails!

Bill Phillipi US 36 Highway Association president

Phillips County

Phillipsburg Chamber & Main Street 785-543-2321 phillipscountyks.org

Smith County

Marshall County

Marysville Chamber & Main Street 785-562-3101 marysvillecms.com

Nemaha County

Smith Center Chamber of Commerce 785-282-3895 smithcenterks.com

Seneca Area Chamber & Downtown Impact 785-336-1313 seneca-kansas.com

Jewell County

Sabetha Chamber of Commerce 785-285-2139 cityofsabetha.com

785-428-3141 Jewell County Community Development Association 785-378-7036 jewellcountykansas.com

Brown County

Republic County

Hiawatha Chamber & Visitors Bureau 785-742-7136 hiawathaks.com

Washington County

Doniphan County Economic Development 785-985-2235 dpcountyks.com

Belleville Chamber & Main Street 785-527-5524 bellevilleks.org Washington County Tourism 785-325-2116 washingtoncountyks.gov

Doniphan County

USHWY36.COM

In 1913 the highway was nothing more than disconnected township roads across Kansas. Departing from the Robidoux Hotel, St. Joseph, MO, the official party designated to log and map out this new highway set out on September 21st, 1913.

From left to right - Governor George H. Hodges, A. Q. Miller (Sec. Rock Island Highway), D. E. Watkins (Sec. Sunflower Auto Club), H. J. Leslie (Driver) and R. J. Edwards ("Blue Book" Representative).

Imagine it, the year is 1913. The automobile is just now becoming more accessible, opening up the country and opportunities to the common person. Travel enthusiasts were born, business tycoons and entrepreneurs became road-boosters and formed auto-clubs. They raised money and helped to organize crews to build infrastructure, they had visions of benefiting commerce and tourism throughout their regions. The open road was calling and everyone wanted to answer the call. On March 21, 1913 in Belleville, KS the Rock Island Highway Association, named for the fact that most of the route paralleled the tracks of the Rock Island Railroad, was formed.

On the morning of September 21, 1913, Kansas Governor, George H. Hodges, D.R. Watkins, W.S. Gearhardt, A.Q. Miller and officials from the Blue Book Corporation left the Robidoux Hotel in St Joseph, MO in a two-car convoy; destination, Denver CO. Their mission: to map the route across Kansas. A.Q. Miller, Editor of the Belleville Telescope, was in charge of publicity and promotion for the trek. Due to his influence in the area publishing, it came as no surprise when many towns along the way held ceremonies and welcoming parties to greet the governor and these pioneering men. Imagine, taking four days to cross Kansas in a borrowed touring car with a soft top! That’s just what the team did, and on September 25 they arrived in Denver at 2:00 AM, hubcaps crusted in mud, sharing stories of their adventure with greeters and reporters!

All the while hundreds of other road-boosters, auto-clubs, and business tycoons also had of roads across America! One group in particular started in 1910 had a grand vision for the building of the first transcontinental highway (New York to San Francisco). Progressively re-organizing, merging and collaborating with existing groups the Pike’s Peak Ocean to Ocean Highway (PPOO) came to life.

On March 18th, 1914, at a meeting in St. Joseph, MO the Rock Island Highway was merged into this larger vision by the federation and alliance of state and interstate associations already in existence. An account of the event appeared in the May 1914 issue of Better Roads & Streets: "The Pike's Peak Ocean to Ocean Highway is the latest development in the transcontinental route situation.” The course of the Pike's Peak Ocean to Ocean Highway traveled through the states of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and California. The affiliating organizations were: USHWY36.COM

How It Began

• The Springfield-Hannibal Highway Association through Illinois • The Hannibal-St. Joseph Cross State Highway Association through Missouri • The Rock Island Highway Association through Kansas • The Lincoln Highway Association through Colorado • The Utah Division of the Pike's Peak Ocean to Ocean Highway Association

When the U.S. Highway System was laid out in 1926, the Rock Island Highway, which had become integrated into the Pikes Peak Ocean to Ocean Highway, was designated as US Highway 36.

In his lifetime, A.Q. Miller served simultaneously on three highway associations: US Highway 81, the north/south Meridian Highway from Winnipeg, Canada to Mexico City, US Highway 36 (formerly known as Rock Island Highway), and The Pikes Peak Ocean-to-Ocean, serving as the Executive Vice President. The crossing of Highways 81 & 36 in Belleville, KS coined the phrase Crossroads of the Nation, the place where these two great roadways met. It is said that A.Q. Miller epitomized the image of a ‘road-booster’ during the 20th century! He is credited for fathering two great national highways, as chronicled in his biography: "Jayhawk Editor: A Biography of A.Q. Miller, Sr." by James D. Callahan (Los Angeles: Sterling press, 1955) Another great point of pride from the current Association is the establishment of the US 36 Museum located in Norcatur, KS. The museum opened in 2017 and serves as the place where the history of these Highway Associations can live on. Displays are changed throughout the year and donations are always welcomed. Some featured displays have included highway signs, old postcards, license plates, the Miss US 36 contest (which ran from 1951-1954), and more. For more information about the museum contact should be made to the museum director, Bob Strevey 785-693-4597.

The US Highway 36 Association, with one name or another, has been going strong for over 107 years, the current Association is pleased to put out this travel guide highlighting the unique finds and treasures one can discover by traveling Highway 36 through the great state of Kansas.

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Doniphan COU N T Y

Landscape by chance and historically defined Anyone familiar with traveling along US Highway 36 in Kansas will tell you that it’s easy to navigate, has many welcoming towns along the way to stop for food, fuel and activities, but also how surprisingly scenic the drive is. Doniphan County, located in the extreme northeast corner of the state of Kansas, fits that description and goes on to dispel the “Kansas is flat, bare and arid” stigma. In fact, the unique combination of its location, climate and history makes it a must-travel landscape along your next Kansas road trip.

During the Pleistocene Era, glaciers moved across a large section of North America and edged just into the northeast corner of Kansas.

Ground up rocks turned into fine material and when the glaciers melted, the fine material, known as loess soil, was left behind. The loess soil is very rich and fertile and ranges 60 to more than 100 feet deep on the river bluffs in Doniphan County. The fertile soil, combined with the county’s usually ample rainfall, makes the land perfect for crop production and fills the landscape with steep hills, trees and river bluffs. Houses sprinkled throughout the county can even be spotted atop the bluffs providing breathtaking views.

Camera worthy panoramas and historical barns await those who drive north from Troy on the aptly named Glacial Hills Scenic Byway to the 4-State Scenic Lookout in White Cloud. From this spot, viewers can gaze out over the meandering Missouri River and see far enough to identify land in the four states of Kansas, Missouri, Iowa and Nebraska, on a clear day. The Missouri river, which borders the county on three sides, gives Doniphan County its unique shape and is casually referred to as the “squiggly line of Kansas.” Take a map and drive along the winding river roads near Wathena to experience the fascinating terrain.

Historically, Lewis and Clark utilized the Missouri River on their discovery expedition and traveled around the eastern and northern 6 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

USHWY36.COM

edge of Doniphan County around 1804 stopping briefly to learn about what was yet to be established as the state of Kansas. Then around the 1840-50s, tens to hundreds of thousands of people crossed through Doniphan County moving west to California in search of gold.

Shortly after in 1860, The Pony Express was established as a way to more quickly deliver mail nearly 2,000 miles to California and back.

Read more about the Pony Express in Kansas on page 55. The Lewis and Clark, the California and the Pony Express are all three National Historical Trails today and all go through Doniphan County.

There is still so much more for visitors to learn and discover in this rural Kansas county. We invite you to discover the year-round beautiful landscape, especially during the spring, summer and fall when some of our most popular annual events like the Wathena Fall Festival, the huge Sparks & White Cloud Flea Markets or the rodeo and tractor pull take place. Find out more about Doniphan County at www.dpcountyks.com.

Eat, Play, Win! 777 Jackpot Drive White Cloud, Kansas 66094 877-652-6115 Call us or visit us on the web! www.casinowhitecloud.org Facebook.com/casinowhitecloud

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SLOTS! VIRTUAL TABLE GAMES! BINGO! DRAWINGS EVERY NIGHT!

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Nature Displays

Where history & nature collide!

7,000 Gallon Aquarium

COUPON

Buy one adult admission,

get one FREE.

Remington Nature Center of St. Joseph 1502 McArthur Drive

Remington Nature Center of St. Joseph 1502 McArthur Drive

(located across from St. Jo Frontier Casino off 229, Exit 7)

www.stjoenaturecenter.info • 816.271.5499

Limit one per family. Cannot be combined with otherr offers. Not redeemable for cash. Expires 3/1/2023.

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DONIPHAN COUNTY

7

THE NORTHEASTERN CORNER OF THE STATE

36 7

36

DONIPHAN COUNTY • 120 E. CHESTNUT ST. • TROY, KS 66087 • 785-985-3513 • DPCOUNTYKS.COM 75142767

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Enjoy Time in Hiawatha Maple Leaf & Heritage Day Festival 4th Saturday in September Halloween Parade & Frolic October 30, 2021 October 31, 2022

Additional Points of Interest Davis Memorial Memorial Auditorium and Museum Ag Museum and Windmill Lane Historic Downtown Hiawatha City Lake 100s of Colorful Maples

Fall in Love with Hiawatha Brown County Historical Society

785-740-4333 @hiawathaed

browncountyhistoricalsociety.com 785-742-3330 @BrownCountyHistorical SocietyMemorialAuditorium

785-742-7136 www.hiawathaks.com @HiawathaChamberandVisitorsBureau @VisitHiawatha @VisitHiawatha

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Brown COU N T Y

The Hiawatha Halloween Frolic was started by Mrs. John Krebs on Oct. 31, 1914.

Founder of the Hiawatha Garden Club, Mrs. Krebs was very fond of flowers and not so fond of the pranksters who liked to wreak havoc in her flower gardens every Halloween. Mrs. Krebs’ solution was what Hiawatha celebrates today: Create a “frolic” for all the town to take part in, keeping them occupied and entertained. She planned a party, or community frolic, for the children. She encouraged them to dress in costume and gave a treat to all who participated.

Her ideas were criticized, but Mrs. Krebs went ahead for plans for her party. This consisted of Halloween-costumed characters with whistles and horns meeting n the downtown area and parading main streets.

There was also a band that provided music for the revelers.

The community was very appreciative that Mrs. Krebs’ idea solved the problem of what to do on the annual “night of destruction.” In years after, adults were also urged to costume themselves, wear masks, dance, and mill around blocks of main street with bands playing.

Soon, the festivities became too much for Mrs. Krebs to handle alone and the town fathers, and later, the Chamber of Commerce, stepped in to assist and help sponsor the events as the frolic grew larger each year. But Mrs. Krebs’ name still lives on as founder of the oldest consecutive Halloween parade in the nation.

In 1919, the crowning of the first Halloween Carnival Queen was added to the parade festivities. The late Mrs. Frank W. Sterns held the title. Over the years, the selection process changed, but the queen still reigned—and continues to do so today.

The frolic has changed as well over the years, with floats and marching bands from all over the area added to the downtown evening parade. The frolic also includes an afternoon parade, a children’s costume contest, a window painting contest, a business costume contest, a photo contest, a pumpkin decorating contest, and a poster contest. The town is decked out for Halloween!

The frolic is held every year on October 31st, unless that date falls on a Sunday, as it does in 2021. When that happens, the frolic is held on Saturday, October 30th.

Come join the fun and excitement of the Hiawatha Halloween Frolic!

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USHWY36.COM

Union State Bank is rich in community.

Did you know Union State Bank has a long history of helping build families, businesses and farms across Kansas? Learn more about our five Union State Bank branch locations across the state at mybankusb. com. As you explore, stop by and say hello at Union State Bank of Atchison, located in the historic downtown area.

785-742-2101

75142552

610 Oregon, Hiawatha, KS 66434 USHWY36.COM

(913) 367-2400 mybankusb.com

www.csbkansas.com 75142897

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Nemaha COU N T Y

St. Mary’s Church in Saint Benedict St. Mary’s Church can be found in rural Nemaha County in the town of Saint Benedict, approximately 3.5 miles north of US Highway 36 on KS-Highway 178. Construction on the late Romanesque style church began in 1891 and was competed on November 13, 1894.

The church’s exterior is made of native limestone which was quarried by local parishioners on their farms located within three miles of St. Benedict.

St. Mary's has become famous for having one of the most beautiful interiors of any church in the state. A principal feature in the awardwinning interior is the symbolic art painted in 1901 by George F. Satory, which includes beautifully colored patterns, bands, and friezes on the walls, ceiling, and columns. Adding to the church's lavish adornment are six large oil murals, exquisite statuary, and leadedglass windows. Open daily dawn to dusk. St. Mary's was voted by the public as one of the top 8 Wonders of Kansas Art. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Sunday Mass is held at 10:15 am.

More information can be found on the church at www.stmarystbenedict.org

Stutz Fire Engine & Fire Department Museum On March 6, 1922 the Seneca Fire Department approached the City Council looking for the approval to purchase a fire truck at the cost of $6,650. From 1916 to 1922 the City of Seneca lost over $45,000 to fires, the department informed the council that had they been equipped with modern firefighting equipment over $30,000 of those losses could have been saved. Despite some opposition that a town the size of Seneca had no need for such an extravagant truck, the Seneca Fire Department was given the authority to purchase the 1922 Stutz Model K Engine designed by Mr. Henry Stutz.

The Stutz was used as the primary fire truck for the Seneca Fire Department until 1947 when a new truck was purchased. Parts for the Stutz were becoming more difficult to find and as the Courier-Tribune so aptly described it was “Getting to [a] point where the ‘old reliable’ 12 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

is just old”. By 1957 the Stutz was only being used for ceremonial duties such as parades, special events, and fundraising efforts by the department.

In 1974 the Seneca Fire Department decided they would like to restore the Stutz fire engine to its former glory, in time to celebrate the bicentennial in 1976. A total of $8,500 was raised locally to restore the fire engine.

Most of the work was done by local volunteers and the Seneca Fire Department – shipping off things like the chrome finishing and the radiator repair. The gold and white leaf designs were hand painted by members of the department – a very tedious and time consuming job.

Through a lot of hard work and time the project was completed in time for the Bicentennial Celebration.

It was discovered by the department that there were only 23 Stutz Model K 350 Baby Pumper Fire Engines manufactured from 1919 to 1926, who knows how many are left in existence today.

Now almost 100 years later the Stutz, in its restored pristine condition, is still used for ceremonial duties such as parades, special events, and fundraising efforts by the department. It also holds a special place in the town of Seneca as the centerpiece of the Seneca Fire Department Museum along with other early 1900s fire department artifacts. The fire department museum is open for tours on special occasions or by appointment – call Seneca City Hall 785-336-2747 to make appointments.

USHWY36.COM

FLOYD’S TRUCK REPAIR, INC. 2496 US HWY 36 SHOP: (785)284-3538 Sabetha, Kansas 66534 FAX: (785)284-3047 Cell (785)548-7963

FLOYD MOONEY, OWNER At the “old” junction of Hwy 36 and Hwy 75

Spring Creek Golf Course Recently voted the top public golf course in Kansas by Golf Advisor, Spring Creek Golf Course located in Seneca allows you to enjoy all the amenities of a professional grade course on this Par 71, 18-hole, public golf course. The course encourages outings and tournaments of all sizes and features 9-hole and 18-hole games, motorized cart rentals, a practice green, driving range, and the 19th Hole Bar & Grill.

The Course was completed in 2006 and is 6,488 yards long, with rolling terrain, a creek running through it, three dams, and three ponds.

The course was designed by Chuck Ermisch Golf Design, LLC of Shawnee, Kansas, and features four holes on the front nine with water hazards and the back nine featuring trees and narrow fairways. Book your tee time today at www.springcreek-seneca.com

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Sabetha

A Great Place To Visit And Raise A Family

Lunch served Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays.

Call ahead or order online

City of Sabetha • Sabetha Chamber of Commerce 805 Mainstreet, Downtown Sabetha cityofsabetha.com sabethachamber.com Find us on Facebook!

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Kansas

Offering Bulk & Specialty Food Products, Kitchenware Items, Seasonal Fresh Produce, and more!

2494 200th Road, Sabetha, KS 66534 • 785-284-0303 (1 mile north of Sabetha on Highway 75)

hearthsidecountrystore.com • contact@hearthsidecountrystore.com

Career Opportunities Available!

Consider Joining Our World Class Team!

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For Competitive Wages plus a Benefits Package that Includes Medical/RX, Dental, Vision Insurance, Life/STD/LTD Insurance, Annual Incentive Bonus, 401K, Vacation Pay, Holiday Pay and Christmas Gift.

EEO: Veterans and Disability

www.landoll.com

1900 North Street | Marysville, KS 66508 | Ph: 785-562-5381 CJ East: Hwy 36 & 11th Rd.

Two convenient locations on Hwy. 36 in Marysville!

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clean restrooms • fresh food • locally-owned

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CJ West: Hwy 36 & 4th St.

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Experience

MARYSVILLE Named one of the

house

Marshall Co. Historic Court

Museum & research library 21 display rooms, open year-round

“Best Small Towns in Kansas”

by KANSAS! Magazine

Historic Downtown Unique Shopping Delicious Dining Comfy B&Bs Clean Motels

Black Squirrels on Parade Blue River Rail Trail LIFETILES Murals Historic Trails Park Theatre & Art Center

Walkable Shopping, Dining & Fun!

Pony Express Home Station Original barn & museum Open April-Oct & by appointment

Koester House Museum Life in 1800s, sculpture gardens Open April-Oct & by appointment

Start Planning Your Visit to

Black Squirrel City

Visit

MARYSVILLE CREATIVIT Y. CULTURE. COMMUNIT Y.

#Nuts4Marysville

marysvillecms.com

visitmarysvilleks.org for events, hours, & COVID info.

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Marsh all COU N T Y

Historical Museums Open in spring, summer and fall, Marysville's museums tell the story of US Westward Expansion. Marysville Pony Express Museum, which draws dozens of international visitors each year, features the actual stables where in 1860 to 1861, horseback riders rested their steeds while carrying US mail from St. Joseph, MO, to Sacramento, Calif. This dramatic part of America’s past is documented through interpretive exhibits. A children’s play area and gift shop are also available. The Koester House Museum & Gardens features the Victorian architecture of downtown Marysville while inviting visitors into the family home of one of the town’s founders.

Original furnishings, sculptures and restored gardens are unique attractions. The Marshall County Historic Courthouse, the town’s Romanesque landmark, is full of local historical exhibits about local life over the past two centuries. The building’s interior and exterior architecture is worth a visit in itself. The exhibits and genealogical research library, too, offer a glimpse at how a prairie town grew into a bustling hub on the Union Pacific Railroad while developing uniquely successful farms, businesses and industry that continue to thrive today.

Ricci Beikman

General Manager

Blue River Rail Trail - Marysville

1155 Pony Express Hwy. Marysville, KS 66508 785-562-5588 Fax 785-562-2763 heritageinnexpress@yahoo.com www.marysvilleheritageinn.com 75142533

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The Blue River Rail Trail extends 13 miles from downtown Marysville north to the Nebraska state line where it connects to the Chief Standing Bear Trail and the extensive Nebraska Trail System. Winding north from Marysville lies a retired railroad bed bordering the Big Blue River on the west and limestone outcroppings, grass covered bluffs, and open farm fields on the east.

Come and enjoy a quiet run, a walk with a friend or family time as you ride down the trail on your bikes and search for wildlife. The crushed limestone on the trail provides a smooth surface for walking, jogging, biking and cross country skiing.

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arsohunatlyl MC

Spend the weekend!

arhall County

M

KS

Plenty to see & do!

Alcove Spring Historic Park - Independence Crossing As you explore, think about the hardships emigrants experienced as they drove their wagons west through unfamiliar territory while searching for a better life. The park was once a bustling campsite filled with wagons and camp life while emigrants waited for the spring floodwaters of the Big Blue River to recede enough to cross safely.

Walking trails, that also allow for mountain biking or jogging, connect historic resources and interpretive signs that provide information along the way. A tall grass overlook site just north of the parking lot allows views of the actual Oregon Trail swales in a field below. Stop for a picnic and behold the breathtaking Blue River Valley under an expansive western sky. The 223-acre park is located on East River Road south of Marysville or north of Blue Rapids.

• Hike the Blue River Rail Trail or the Oregon Trail’s Alcove Spring Historic Park • Shop historic downtown Marysville • Visit the Victorian era Koester House Museum & Gardens, original Pony Express barn, or historic courthouse museum • Relax at the Marysville or Frankfort aquatic centers

Black Squirrels on Parade Black Squirrels on Parade features 34 fivefoot fiberglass squirrels all around Marysville.

Maps are available at local convenience stores and the town’s tourism center. Come view the art project designed and painted by local and regional artists that honors Marysville's official mascot. An interpretive site on the south end of City Park explains the folklore and biology behind our prized black squirrel population. The site features one of the original squirrel statues as well.

• Ride the Central Branch Railway

Contact Contact the the Marysville Marysville tourism tourism center center at at 785-562-3101 785-562-3101 to to learn learn more! more!

marysvilleonline.net • 785-562-2317 75142541

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Was hington COU N T Y

History buffs will find Washington County has some exploring opportunities to find hidden gems along US Highway 36. Visit the 6th Principle Meridian/40th Parallel Marker located 1 mile west and one mile north of Mahaska. The States of Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado and South Dakota were surveyed from this point encompassing 200 million miles.

Washington County Historical Society Museum, 206 Ballard St. is located on the Courthouse Square telling the story of Washington County from prehistoric times to the present. Displays include historic artifacts as well as a one room school and Limestone Jail. Want to find your ancestors? The Genealogy section includes old newspapers and family histories that have been shared with the Museum for research.

Open Tues – Thus 9-12 and 1-4. Wednesday 10-12 and 1-3. Located

at 214 C Street in downtown Washington, the 1933 Art Deco Style Courthouse also welcomes visitors and genealogist to do research.

The Courthouse is open Monday through Friday.

Want to find those hidden WPA projects and Limestone structures still in use? The smallest band shell in Kansas is located in Barnes. The Fairground buildings in Washington are a drive-by or you may walk in to check out the interior, if an activity or event is in progress. Greenleaf has a jail and clubhouse. Haddam has a jail built by an all woman mayor and council in 1901 before women had the right to vote. Barnes has the 1909 Barnes Mercantile 2 story structure. St. John’s Catholic Church in Hanover welcomes visitors, built in 1880. This is the oldest church in Washington County.

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HERRS The World’s First Bulldozer, located in Morrowville, Washington County.

Sunflower Mercantile of Barnes & Sunflower II

Memory Lane 318 W 2nd St. Washington, KS 66968

50+ year collection

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Call for appointment 1-785-541-0650

Mon - Sat 10-5 & Sun 1-5 15 & 23 North Center St.• Barnes, KS www.barnesks.net •785.763.4052 mksedivy@gmail.com or glorias@jbntelco.com

Email caraherrs@ sbcglobal.net 75142778

VISIT WASHINGTON COUNTY, KS aska, KS Marker, Mah ed from n ia id er M le 6th Princip & Nebraska were survey as State of Kans this point.

Washington Cou nty Limestone Jail, Museum’s Native Washington, K S

ion, Pony Express Stat 1860 Hollenberg KS r, , Hanove State Historic Site

WASHINGTON COUNTY TRAVEL & TOURISM Gloria J. Moore, Director Courthouse, Washington KS 66968 | Cell # 785-747-8757 | E-mail: ecdevo@bluevalley.net 75142534

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75142531

The West Wing is an adorable home in Hanover, KS. It is a great spot to rent for a week or weekend! It sleeps up to 6 people and has a kitchen fully stocked with dishes and utensils.

Please contact us with any questions you may have.

candia

Antique Mall

Fourth St., Scandia, KS 66969 785-335-3303 www.scandiaantiquemall.com Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday by appointment

104 W. Washington Hanover, KS 66945 785-713-1714

Jane Ann Carlgren, Owner

The settlement of Scandia was the fall of 1868 by members of the Scandinavian Agriculture Society, of Chicago, Illinois. The town was named new Scandinavia and most of the early settlers were Swedish, Danish, Norwegian.

P K Collections Antiques Collectibles Primitives Furniture

Paul Kallman, Owner US 36 & K Street Belleville, KS 66935 (785) – 955 – 0985

The Museum houses many relics from the early settlers to present.

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Open by Chance or Appointment OPEN EVERY DAY for TREASURE HUNT 3rd week in September

75141317

Scandia, Kansas

Open 1-4pm, Mon – Sat. from Memorial weekend to Labor Day weekend. Otherwise by appt.

Call 785-335-2506 or 335-2384

Best Steaks in Country Smoked Tri-Tips • Certified Hereford Beef Full Menu • Dinner Drinks Private Parties

75142750

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West 36 Hwy Belleville, KS 66935 • 785-527-8111 Tues-Sat. 7 a.m.- 9 p.m. Sun. 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

75142527

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Home of: • US 36 Treasure Hunt Birthplace • Antiques/Shopping Galore!

• World’s fastest half-mile dirt track • Belleville 305 Sprint Nationals • Cuba KS - Featured in National Geographic Magazine • Pawnee Indian Village • The Boyer Museum of Animated Carvings

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2021-2022 • KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 23

Republic COU N T Y

Belleville High Banks

Belleville High Banks: A three-word phrase that rings in the ear of spectators as well as drivers and owners. When one mentions Belleville, KS auto races at almost any race facility coast-to-coast, a standard reply is something like…”you mean that big race track in Kansas?”

The track started as a horse track, flat, and long (at least ½ mile long), in the late 19th century. By 1910, auto racing was promoted on the flat track. There were three race cars in attendance. Thus began the longest continuous streak of auto races in the USA. With the exception of World War II, there have been auto races on the High Banks since 1910.

By 1930, it was obvious that auto racing was the main calling for this “big ol’ place”. With the Great Depression gaining steam, the Works Progress Administration tackled putting the bank on the dirt surface and ended up with an 80-feet wide, 20 degree banked track with virtually no straight away.

The High Banks facility has always been a county-owned facility as were most fairs at the outset. Change has come to that format as a good many tracks have sold or are under management other than the county. Republic County, Kansas still owns the High Banks track although the track management is left to a group of local volunteers with ties to the County Commissioners. The High Banks are the current host of the Belleville 305 Sprint Nationals held during the NCK Free Fair. This race brings racers and fans from all over the United States of America and continues to be a pastime of young and young at heart.

A very abbreviated list of some of the more famous who ran here would include: Johnny Beauchamp-Stock Car

Roger Rager-Sprint Car

Ernie Derr-Stock Car

Pat Cunningham-Sprint Car

Jan Opperman-Sprint Car

Dale Reed-Sprint Car

In addition, the limestone grandstand was also constructed and is in use today. Further, a band shell was built and is still used. Another WPA project was the swimming pool and bath house; both are gone.

Lloyd Beckman-Sprint Car

Parnelli Jones-Sprint Car

Frank Luptow-Sprint Car

Johnnie White-Sprint Car

Joie Chitwood-Sprint Car

Renn Allsman-Stock Car

Traditionally, car races were held on Memorial Day, July 4th, NCK Free Fair, and Labor Day; other dates if possible.

Stan Fox-Midget

Jeff Gordon-NASCAR

Ron “Sleepy” Tripp-Midget

Tony Stewart-NASCAR

Steve Knepper-Midget

Ryan Newman-NASCAR

Kasey Kahne-Midget

Ken Schrader-NASCAR

In the beginning and through the 1920’s, the race participants were primarily local, i.e. Fred Goodrich, Leonard Kerbs, Bert Weaver, and Charlie Blosser to name a few. Early horsepower was provided by OHV Model T’s, specially prepared 4-cylinder Chevys, etc. Then came the Great Depression just at the time the 4-cylinder specialty racing engine, “the Miller”, was emerging, and was forced to sell out to Fred Offenhauser and Leo Goosen; thus began the “Offy” domination of dirt and Indy 500 racing that would last from the mid 1930’s to late 1950’s.

As auto racing gained in popularity, so did the various divisions or “classes” of cars, i.e. tractors, stock cars, hot rods, sprint cars, jalopies, ¾ midgets, midgets, supermodifieds, cruisers, Silver Crown, and late models.

24 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

Bob Grim-Sprint Car In addition, some of the sanctioning bodies would include CSRA (Central States Racing Assoc.), IMCA (International Motor Contest Assoc.), BCRA (Big Car Racing Assoc.), MVRA (Mississippi Valley Racing Assoc.), World of Outlaws, NCRA (National Championship Racing Assoc.) and Merrick Racing Association.

Don McChesney Curator of Belleville High Banks Hall of Fame Museum USHWY36.COM

Cuba Rock-a-Thon

Courtland Fun Day

Shake off the winter blues in Cuba the third week of March each year, where the Cuba Rock-a-Thon has warmed hearts and threatened waistlines for more than 40 years. For seven straight days, 24 hours a day, Cuba residents and friends of the community will man a pair of rocking chairs, determined to set a new record for continuous rocking. Woven around the rocking are noon and evening meals, educational programming, and evening entertainment. For more than four decades the community has used proceeds from the event to help fund community improvements. All events are held in the Cuba Community Hall, a piece of history in its own right. Built as a Czech Sokol (gymnastics) Hall, the upstairs auditorium can be used for a roller skating rink, and the stage is backed by an original, restored painting of Prague Square. Some of the thousands of photos of the community taken by National Geographic photographer Jim Richardson over the last 40 years are featured on the walls. While in Cuba, check out the limestone Blacksmith Shop, which is a National Register of Historic Places site, the Silverthorne School, a one-room school museum, and peek inside Doc McClaskey’s doctor's office.

Courtland Fun Day has been held on the last Saturday of July each year since 1964 in this town of 275 people strong. Don't let the name fool you as the event began as a one day picnic, parade, and baseball game that has evolved into a week full of activities with friends, family or class reunions. The name however was never changed to "Days".

The week begins with the Courtland Arts Center hosting a free arts camp for kids with a performance on Friday night as well as a week long medallion hunt. Many locals call it "Fun Week" due to many people filtering in early while helping locals prepare events and cleaning up the town. Through the weekend, traditional events are held each year such as the fun run, sand volleyball, kids games, corn pile, beer garden, pit chicken, live music, and parades. Recent years have seen the live music offerings grow into Friday night street dance, expanded beer garden live acts during the day, and Saturday night concert that has seen crowds of 3,000 people. Each year the planning committees add something new and creative for the crowds like: ping pong ball drops, hot air balloon rides, rock paper scissors tournament, canal duck races, BBQ contest and more. You can check them out on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/courtlandfunday.

Article by The Belleville Telescope

Article by Luke Mahin

Conger’s

USHWY36.COM

75142532

Czech Cafe

305 Baird Street, Cuba, KS 66940 785-729-3633 Tues-Thurs. 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fri & Sat. till 10 p.m. Sun. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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Jewell

COU N T Y

Coffee & Community - Bouncing back from the 2020 COVID Shutdown Coming out of the March/April 2020 COVID shutdown, Emma Walker was hungry to create a positive space for her community to share.

The 2014 Rock Hills High School grad moved back after graduating from Hastings College with a BA in Marketing in 2017, and has taken on many entrepreneurial pursuits - the latest, turning the gift & flower shop she manages (Possibilities) into a full coffee bar.

Possibilities was originally started by an investor group known as Jewell County Justified LLC, which was simply a group of people interested in community vitality and opening businesses in vacant buildings after the 2012 recession. Upon opening in 2012, Emma started working in the gift/home decor shop as a sales clerk during her sophomore year of high school.

The new coffee bar features specialty lattes named after local highlights - like the “Lovewell Latte” in honor of Lovewell State Park, “Mammoth Magic” in honor of the Kansas Mammoth Art & Music Festival, and the “Kansas Sunrise” in honor of everyone’s favorite photo opportunity when traveling in the area. All of the coffee served comes from The Hideout Coffee House, a rural, woman owned roastery based in Osborne, KS. “I loved going out to get coffee in college and enjoying the unique atmosphere that each different coffee shop had to offer. Being in a positive space puts you in a good mood - and people are always in a good mood when they come into Possibilities,” says Emma. “I love that we can offer a space for different types of people to interact, and welcoming the new faces of young families who have just moved to Jewell County is my FAVORITE part!”

Since opening in late September, Possibilities has become a hub for 26 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

all sorts of community activities - including baby showers, painting classes, and live music. And there are lots of plans for future community events once the COVID-19 pandemic has passed!

“The most exciting part of the project wasn’t seeing our building change, but sharing the experience with our summer intern.” says Walker. Possibilities participated in the Nex-Gen Internship program during the summer of 2020. The Nex-Gen program is a regional internship program focused on creating opportunities for youth to work in small businesses and explore careers/opportunities in rural communities.

2020 summer intern, Carolina Barrazza, got to learn first hand about writing business plans, coordinating finances and contractors, creating drink recipes, and business systems to make the business sustainable. Not to mention, the regular day-to-day business and advertising operations of a gift & flower shop.

The impact of sharing this experience with a student will create positive ripples for years to come. “I now want to stay in my community, help make jobs, and continue to help the amazing community I grew up in. I want it to thrive and to still be there for others to come back,” said Carolina, in her end of summer Internship Success Story Essay. (https://www.nex-generation.org/internships) “I want people to see that it’s possible and it’s fun. Our community is a viable place to move back to, there are so many opportunities if you are willing to work hard. And everyone wants to see you succeed,” says Emma.

If you’d like to visit Possibilities, you can learn more and find them on Facebook @mankatogifts or online at www.mankatogifts.com.

USHWY36.COM

Mankato, KS - NOT the most boring town in America It was a quiet October day in Mankato - and little did ANYONE know, they were about to be “YouTube Famous.” Video footage of local businesses, citizens, and locations was about to be shared on the world wide web to an audience of over 6.11 MILLION subscribers.

The L.A. based film-makers, known as Yes Theory, rolled into town on late Wednesday night and started meeting the locals on Thursday. If you watch the video, you can clearly see the culture shock as the city dwellers traveled into Mankato from the east on Highway 36.

RESIDENTIAL - LAND - COMMERCIAL

The video, titled “Throwing a Party in the Most Boring Town in America” has 5,934,217 views as of January 2021. Viewers from all over the world have commented about how friendly everyone is, how they wish to live in a community that is tight-knit, and about how good the video made them feel inside. One comment on the video from local high schooler, Jacob Underwood, has over 7.8K likes.

DEBORAH WARNE, BROKER 75143345

785-378-3008

WWW.WARNEREALESTATE.COM

75142852

This kind of exposure for a small town is almost unbelievable. Local citizens were very pleased that Yes Theory chose to shine a warm light on Mankato and set out to prove that it is NOT the “Most Boring Town in America.”

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2021-2022 • KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 27

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invites you to explore the "jewels" of Jewell County Lovewell State Park, Emerson Lake - Jewell, & Jewell State Fishing Lake

Crest-vue Motel 724 E. South St. - 785-378-3515

785-378-3201

119 E Jefferson St. Mankato, KS Now Serving Ice Cream ChowNow Ordering Available

724 E. South St. - 785-378-3515 info@crestvue.com info@crestvue.com

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“A “A Top Top Sand Sand Green Green Golf Golf Destination Destination for for Golfers Golfers Far Far and and Wide” Wide” 1644 644 150 150 Road, Road, Mankato Mankato

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106 106 N. N. Commercial Commercial St. St. Mankato, Mankato, KS KS 785-378-8133 785-378-8133 Hours: Hours: Mon-Fri Mon-Fri 4PM-6PM, 4PM-6PM, Saturday Saturday 9 AM-3PM AM-3PM

travelinnmotel@yahoo.com travelinnmotel@yahoo.com

y Tyler Chiropractic C hi 201 201 N. N. Commercial Commercial Mankato, Mankato, KS KS Mon-Fri Mon-Fri 9:30-6:00, 9:30-6:00, Sat Sat 9:30-1:00 9:30-1:00 785-378-8047 785-378-8047

Mankato Professional Pharmacy 125 N. Commercial Mankato, KS Mon-Fri 9:00AM-5:30PM - Sat 9:00AM-12:00PM 785-378-3183

Paul R. Wilson, CPA LLC 119 N. COMMERCIAL MON-FRI 8 AM-5 PM 378-3006

Visit Mankato City Park! Featuring the Robert Turner Performing Arts Stage, Disc Golf, the City Pool, Play Equipment, and RV Hook-ups!

City Offices: 785-378-3141 www.cityofmankatokansas.com 75143536

28 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

USHWY36.COM

101 N. Commercial St. Mon-Fri, 10:00-6:00 Saturday, 10:00-5:00

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Hidden Treasures Quilt Shop

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124 N. Commercial Street 785-378-3636 or text (785) 428-2236 Email: moonlightworkshop@yahoo.com Hours: Mon-Fri, 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM or by appointment

117 E Jefferson - Ph. 785-378-3212 Hours 8:00 - 5:00 (Monday - Friday) ortmaninsurance@nckcn.com

Computer Repair, Laser Etching & Engraving, Sublimation Custom Apparel & Designs, DJ/Karaoke Services, Custom Printing, Vehicle & Window Vinyl & More...

Free Spirit Massage

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www.mankatoks.com

Find us on Facebook to learn more about community events, including our Highway 36 Treasure Hunt Garage Sale Mall.

Mankato Auto Parts

Miller Law Office and Gail L. Miller Title Company 208 N Commercial St. Mankato, KS 785-378-3128

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Local Station: 785-378-3233 Local Elevator: 785-378-3116 123 W. South St.

75143537

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2021-2022 • KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 29

Small Town Values WORLD CLASS EXTRUSION PROCESSING SYSTEMS

P.O. Box 8 100 Airport Road Sabetha, KS 66534, USA Phone: 785-284-2153 Fax: 785-284-3143 extru-techinc@extru-techinc.com

www.extru-techinc.com

75143216

75143209

Imagine Yourself

ET-339.indd 1

1/18/21 2:39 PM

In Northeast Kansas

WORLD-CLASS COMPANY With Small-Town Values

Natoma Manufacturing, LLC is a centrally located precision CNC contract manufacturer in Norton, Kansas, relied upon by customers across the United States and around the globe. We manufacture build-to-order precision machined components and assemblies from a variety of materials, maintaining ISO 9001 and AS9100 certifications and strictly adhering to their standards. Our personnel have a personal commitment to understand, meet, and even exceed our customer’s requirements through the continuous improvement of our skills, capabilities, quality processes, and management system.

We have been delivering defect-free products on time for over 35 years at the most competitive prices possible.

Sales • Commercial • Farm • Residential Property Management

Positions Available

785-742-3618

Precision Machining

• Max Mill Size – 24” x 24” x 12” • Vertical Milling – 5 axis, 4 axis, and 3+2 axis machines • Pallet Changers • Super-Precision Lathes • Swiss Lathes • Max Turning Size is 6” Dia x 12” Long • 7-axis Mill Turning Centers

• Standard mill tolerances – 0.0002” • Standard lathe tolerances – 0.0001” • Assembly machines – helicoils, pins, bolts etc.

• Precision high-powered fiber laser marking • Nadcap-certified chemical conversion coating to MIL-C-5541 and MIL-DTL-5541F, type I and type II • All citric and limited nitric passivation to SAE AMS2700 and ASTM A967 • 100% inspection data available in digital format natomamanufacturing.com • Surface finish unparalleled in industry – 30-40 16596 U.S. HWY 36 NORTON, KS 67654 Ra standard

30 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

75143224

75143214

720 Oregon, Hiawatha, KS 66434

We offer virtual tours and video options on all new listings! www.heartland-realty.com Sheila Schwalm, Owner/Broker

Quality Differentiators

HOURS

PHONE

FAX

MON - FRI: 7AM - 3:30PM SAT - SUN: CLOSED 785.877.3529 785.877.2637 USHWY36.COM

The US 36 Corridor is becoming the place to move Did you know the majority of rural areas grow in thirty- and fortyyear old’s? Rural Economist, Ben Winchester, from the University of Minnesota calls this the “rural brain gain”. Oftentimes, rural areas advertise jobs by word of mouth and not by traditional means. This leads job seekers to erroneously assume that there are no jobs in rural areas.

This is simply untrue. December 2020 unemployment rates along the US 36 corridor range from 1.7 to 2.9%. Studies show about 3% of the population are never looking for work. So, in those terms we have less than a 0% unemployment rate. That means the US 36 corridor in Kansas needs more skilled people to fill the positions that county businesses currently have vacant. Here are some ideas and examples of how to gain work on the US 36 corridor:

People didn’t initially leave rural areas because it’s not a good place to live. They originally started leaving rural Kansas because farming changed. In 1940, one farmer could feed 19 people and in 2010 that same farmer could feed 155 people (Prax. 2010). Instead of ten people working on a farm, you need one farmer with a modern tractor. Two hundred years ago, 90 percent of the US population lived on farms (animalsmart.org). When you compound this with the farm crisis of the 1980’s and the astronomical increase of technology in agriculture, it’s a lot to figure out. Just like the Industrial Revolution, this “agricultural revolution” changed how and where people worked. It also takes time for a rural area to figure out how to diversify again and fill in the gaps in employment opportunities that the “agricultural revolution” created.

Open a coffee shop. - i.e. Fresh Seven Coffee, from Arizona to Saint Francis, Kansas.

Signs of a comeback in rural areas are largely due to the increased availability of high-speed Internet or the “remote work revolution”.

Right now, our rural areas have better and faster fiber-to-premise Internet than most people in Kansas City with Google Fiber or the East Coast of the United States. As telecommuting opportunities arise from urban employers, remote working becomes more commonplace, and entrepreneurs continue to create new Internet-based businesses so the opportunities for rural Kansas also increase. We are already seeing new people move here and our homegrown people return because of these opportunities.

Make your restaurant dream come true! - Pinky’s, from Denver to Courtland, Kansas. As owner Chris says, “You’re not just a productive member of society, you’re a productive member of a community”.

Take your job with you! – A Scandia resident came back to the area and moved his Federal Government job to work out of his home in his rural Kansas town of 400 people. He was doing that same job in the city, but is now able to enjoy life here doing the exact same thing.

Take over a succession business. - There are many business owners nearing retirement age looking for someone to succeed them. Rural Kansas is especially short on people in trades like plumbing, heating, electrical, and essential services.

Create a destination business. - i.e. Belleville Hometown Lumber, which also happens to be a succession business.

Become a home builder/tradesman - Housing is one of the largest challenges in most of the US 36 corridor. Those that can build new housing and flip existing houses are in high demand.

Industries that are always hiring. - Health Care Centers, Schools and County Offices are often the area’s largest employers and are hiring regularly. Be sure to check with these options in the place you are looking to move to. Computer programming/coding is also gaining in popularity. Check out opportunities in Northwest Kansas through the coding academy at ruralandremote.org.

Take on a career in manufacturing. - Manufacturing often feels the brunt of the areas less than 3% unemployment rate.

Check out indeed.com or search for manufacturers like Natoma Manufacturing, Extru Tech, Koch & Co., Landoll, Reinke, Applequist Manufacturing, and more in the US 36 town that you would like to relocate.

Are you ready for an exciting career change?

75143218

Koch & Co., Inc. is currently looking for skilled craftsmen to join our team.

USHWY36.COM

Finely crafted interior and exterior doors.

Programs like Northwest Kansas’ Rural and Remote program (ruralandremote.org) and a number of Coworking spaces along Highway 36 in places like Sabetha, Belleville, Courtland, and Norton echo this trend. The Internet is changing the way people work and where they can work from. It’s no longer necessary to be in an office building in an urban area.

The US 36 corridor has had some noticeable advantages, glaringly brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many schools along the corridor are small and have continued to be able to safely maintain in-person learning and extra-curricular activities in 2020. For all ages, outdoor recreation opportunities are abundant and State Park attendance along US 36 has reached staggering numbers this past year.

Lovewell State Park in Jewell County, for instance, reported one hundred thousand more visitors in 2020 than the usual two hundred thousand visitors in a normal year. Small locally-owned banks continued to be a champion for rural businesses by supporting hundreds of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) grants and loans. Much more than major corporate banks. Come find out the advantages of living and working on the US Highway 36 Corridor!

About the Author: Jenny Russell is the founder of JenRus Freelance Marketing in Courtland, KS. Russell's husband, Jay, is a farmer and banker. They have two kids, Owen and Alyssa. Russell is proud to be Rural by Choice. For more information on Jenny Russell go to jenrusfreelance.com

Benefits include: •Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance •401K •Short term and long term disability insurance •Vacation •Holiday pay •Monday through Friday work schedule •Flexible spending cafeteria plan

Koch and Co., Inc. has been making high quality doors and cabinets for over 25 years.

We are committed to growing our company and invite you to grow with us as you begin a career in woodworking.

Contact the Human resources department at 800-540-5624 with any questions or to schedule an interview.

www.kochandco.com

Beautiful, finely finished cabinetry that will enhance an room in your home.

EOE

2021-2022 • KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 31

Smith COU N T Y

The Race to the Center Half Marathon begins in Smith Center with the run taking place along the country roads of Smith County, ending just North of Lebanon at the geographic center of the United States.

The race takes place the morning of the annual Lebanon Bash, held in Lebanon, hosting classes, a parade, a car show, food trucks, various family activities and a concert at the end of the day. Each year the race and the bash grows, last year (2020) with safety precautions in place there were 98 competitors with three course records broken.

There is a nice Facebook Page 'Race to the Center Half Marathon' that provides information and links to sign up.

The Lebanon Bash is held each year in September.

Years ago Lebanon was known for its amazing gathering in town known as the Lebanon Celebration, while the Bash is in no way trying to recreate that glory of the past, they do give a nod to the memories and joy. While visiting Lebanon, we recommend stopping into the restored gas station, which is now an unmanned visitor center, open most days, there you will find area information and travel guides, a picnic area and restroom. Lebanon is a busy place in September, as of course they 'celebrate' the Highway 36 Treasure Hunt in town as well with several places offering buys and bargains each year.

32 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

No visit to Lebanon would be complete without a trip a few miles north to the geographic center of the United States. Established in 1898, a government geodetic survey determined that the geographical center of the 48 continental states was located at the 39 degrees latitude and 98 degrees longitude (taken from Lebanon Hub Club brochure.)

There, in the center, sits a peaceful area with a little chapel, open space, picnic area and wonderful sights of rural Kansas. Just like the half marathon, many activities begin or end at the center.

Smackdab Motorcycle ride from Lebanon Center to Rugby, ND Center in one day - summer solstice. You can find more information on web site smackdab281.org Other sights in Smith County along Highway 36 include, the Old Dutch Mill in Smith Center, where you can enjoy a playground and picnic area. The Lady Liberty Statue outside of Gaylord, KS offers a wonderful view of the valley of the rural area. The peace and quiet reminds you of all we have to be thankful for in the Lady of Liberty.

The Home on the Range Cabin can be found west and north of Smith Center off of Highway 8. Here you can walk into the cabin where the State Song, Home on the Range was established.

USHWY36.COM

Group seeking national designation within eight highway 36 counties The Kansas Nebraska Heritage Area Partnership (KNHAP) is a grassroots organization connecting communities and attractions between 49 North Central Kansas and South Central Nebraska counties while acting as a catalyst for economic development through cultural heritage tourism The goals is to establish a National Heritage Area (NHA) identifying six nationally important themes to be considered include the historical stories of: Settlement and Migration, Homesteading, Land, Native Americans, Rural, and Nature. A nearby example would be the Freedom’s Frontier NHA located in eastern Kansas and western Missouri focusing on these themes: Shaping the Frontier, Missouri/ Kansas Border War, and Enduring Struggles for Freedom.

What is a National Heritage Area?

NHA’s are designated by Congress recognizing the national importance of the region’s sites and history administered by the National Parks Service (NPS) with matching federal funds available.

The benefits of a NHA is they are a catalyst for economic development within the region/state to: create jobs, generate revenue for local governments, and sustain local communities through revitalization and heritage tourism. NHA’s leverage an average of $5.50 in public-private partnership funding for every $1.00 of federal investment. NHA’s are authorized to receive up to $1 million annually in Congressional appropriations. However, all funds have to be matched 1:1. They connect all regional assets including existing museums, sites, parks, businesses, and communities to resources to celebrate their NHA themes.

What National Heritage Areas are NOT:

NHA’s are NOT National Park Service Units. The designations do NOT affect any private property rights. Designations do not assume any ownership of land inside the heritage area or impose any land use controls.

Timeline of Work to Date

The KNHAP group’s work began when the Willa Cather Foundation partnered with the University of Lincoln - Nebraska to explore regional heritage tourism strategies in 2016. Since then, broader input was gathered from stakeholders in both states and a board was formed in 2017. In 2020, the KNHAP applied for non-profit designation and is currently fundraising to cover the cost of a NHA Feasibility Study to be submitted to the National Parks Service for NHA consideration.

Next Steps

In 2021, KNHAP started the Rural Tourism Series which hosts online webinars twice a month. The topics are related to economic development through heritage tourism featuring board members and resource providers from both states. KNHAP is continuing to develop partnerships is all communities across the region as well fundraise for the feasibility study. If you would like to help with a letter of support or to assist in promoting future feasibility meetings in your area, please reach out to Kim Wilson, KNHAP executive director, kwilson@unl.edu.

Follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KNHeritage.

Sale Barn Marketplace Antiques & More!

Northglen Antiques And SouthSide MiniMall Sue McRae Bickle

75142594

2010 Vine St • Hays, Kansas 67601 (785) 623-4005 • (888) 785-4005 • (785) 623-0908 Sue@NorthglenAntiques.com • NorthglenAntiques.com

WITMER DRUG STORE PHARMACISTS

Regular Season April to October Tuesday-Friday 1pm-6pm Saturdays 10am-6pm Opened Holiday Weekends

Memorial - 4th of July - Labor Day

NOVEMBER to MARCH

By Chance / Appointment Call Ahead!

Bldg. Not Insulated - Wear your Coat!

Closed Thanksgiving week Closed Dec. 23rd to Jan. 15th 1733 Highway 183 Phillipsburg, KS 67661 Half way between Denver & Kansas City!

Eric Witmer • Steve Schick • Bailey Imm

75142535

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785-543-2032 • 1-800-378-2031

(785) 540-4248

www.salebarnmarketplace.com salebarnmarketplace@gmail.com 75142529

2021-2022 • KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 33

Phill ips COU N T Y

Phillipsburg City Park is a unique destination along Highway 36.

The outdoor oasis has attracted locals and travelers since the 1930s, making it one of the oldest city parks along Highway 36. Throughout the year, families stroll and play under the same historic cottonwoods that served as shade and protection for generations. Phillipsburg City Park offers something for everyone. Stop and see the historic and photogenic WPA stone bridges that were built across Plotner Creek in 1936. Enjoy a horse show in the outdoor Bissell arena. Stroll through the sprawling green space or get active on the park’s walking/jogging path. Practice your serve on our pickle ball court or hit the links on the 18-hole disc golf course or practice your free throw shot on the basketball court. Phillipsburg City Park also features 10 camp sites in addition to its recreational opportunities in the fully shaded park. Guests will enjoy the rustic sites, as well as picnic tables, restrooms, and an on-site dump station.

The park also hosts the location of Fort Bissell Museum that includes an 1873 schoolhouse, a Civil War Uniform on display along with a Bible, a union soldier carried through the War; an original sodhouse; the Kingery Gun Collection which holds many unique firearms and much more. The museum has been a tourist favorite for over 50 years.

Discover one of the best free things to do in Phillipsburg at the C&R Railroad Museum, a beloved 0-scale model railroad museum housed inside the Huck Boyd Community Building. It is an amazing 57 foot mountain range, with 0-scale trains chugging across 1,200 foot of track, through the village to arrive at Union Station. Please 34 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

be sure to call to schedule a tour. Huck Boyd Community Center is Phillipsburg’s premier event facility, with the versatility to host intimate weddings, seminars, large corporate meetings, and live arts performances.

Where prairie and wing touch the Kansas sky, Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to see prairie wildlife. Recreational activities such as photography, kayaking, fishing, and hunting may be enjoyed at KNWR. Driving or hiking through various habitats of the refuge, will provide opportunities for viewing and photographing wildlife. Bicyclists may ride on any roads open to vehicle travel. A visitor center is located in the refuge headquarters, including an interpretive exhibit that focuses on the wildlife and habitats of the refuge.

Agra Lake is located just west of the town of Agra. It once was a small creek that became a part of the 1930’s WPA (Works Progress Administration) program and grew to be a charming almost 8 acre lake when in full capacity.

Outdoor sports are plentiful, such as fishing, swimming, and kayaking and can be enjoyed in the summer months.

Picnic tables, shelter and restrooms are available to the public.

Many factors have come together to make Kansas’ Biggest Rodeo successful, and over 75 years of rodeos hold lots of memories and traditions for attendees. Join us as we celebrate our Western heritage by cheering the cowboys and cowgirls as they ride, rope, wrestle and race, the first weekend of August.

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_ Here

YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS

IN OUR SUNRISE.

Huck Boyd Community Center

KANSAS

PConvention HILLIPS COUNTY & Visitors Bureau www.PhillipsCountyKS.org

Kirwin Wildlife Refuge

Kansas’ Biggest Rodeo

Dane G. Hansen Museum

Fort Bissell Museum

17 RESTAURANTS OVER 100 HOTEL ROOMS CAMPGROUNDS•LODGES•AIRBNB www.PhillipsCountyKS.org 205 F St. • Phillipsburg, KS • 785.543.2321

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Rodeway Inn & Suites “Let Our Oven Warm Your Heart”

785-540-4391 844-867-1026 785-540-4392 fax

Kitchen and Housewares Baked Goods Brick Oven Pizza Fresh Salad Bar and Gourmet Sandwiches

75142108

130 E US Highway 36 Phillipsburg, KS 67661

SERVING: 11-2 DAILY

115 W. Main, Norton, KS • Phone 785-877-2911 destinationkitchenks.com

“We also do picture framing!”

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Logan

Phillipsburg

SAWYER ACE HARDWARE 341 F. Street, Phillipsburg, KS. Open Mon. – Sat. 8:00-5:30 • (785) 543-5017

75142903

Hours: Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Satruday: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Long Island goAgBank Mobile Banking App www.agbank.com

Solomon Valley Bank Beloit

75142768

Smith County Bank Smith Center

Member FDIC

First National Bank and Trust

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WINNERS OF THE 2020 BEST BURGERS ON 36 CONTEST SMITH: JIFFY BURGER 815 US-36, SMITH CENTER, KS 66967 (785) 282-6435

DECATUR: THE RELOAD 133 S PENN AVE, OBERLIN, KS 67749 (785) 475-2421

DONIPHAN: KIRKWOOD & CO 401 W MAIN ST, HIGHLAND, KS 66035 (785) 444-3663 PHILLIPS: THIRD STREET BAKERY 729 3RD ST, PHILLIPSBURG, KS 67661 (785) 543-6340

BROWN: FIRST STREET BAR AND GRILL 602 1ST ST, HIAWATHA, KS 66434 (785) 742-3692

RAWLINS: MOJO ESPRESSO & BISTRO 113 S 4TH ST, ATWOOD, KS 67730 (785) 626-9011

NORTON: 110 BAR & GRILL 110 S STATE ST, NORTON, KS 67654 (785) 874-4110

CHEYENNE: DIAMOND R. BAR & GRILL 118 W WASHINGTON ST, ST. FRANCIS, KS 67756 (785) 332-3936

NEMAHA: SPANKY'S BAR & GRILL 405 MAIN ST, SENECA, KS 66538 (785) 336-6031 MARSHALL: LITTLE HAPS 211 2ND ST, HOME, KS 66438 (785) 799-9920

WASHINGTON: LINN AMERICAN LEGION 100 5TH ST, LINN, KS 66953 (785) 348-5370

110 WEST MAIN STREET P.O. BOX 187 LOGAN, KANSAS 67646 (785) 689-4846

REPUBLIC: PINKY’S BAR & GRILL 428 MAIN ST, COURTLAND, KS 66939 (785) 374-4200

M-F 9-Noon & 1-4 Sat. 9-Noon & 1-5 Sun. & Holiday 1-5 Free Admission Handicapped Accessible

JEWELL: SWEDEN CREME 610 E SOUTH ST, MANKATO, KS 66956 (785) 378-8600

EMAIL: director@hansenmuseum.org WEBSITE: hansenmuseum.org FACEBOOK: @hansenmuseum 75143183

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Norton COU N T Y

STATION 15: Historical Treasure of Norton, Kansas 15th Stop Along the Leavenworth Pike’s Peak Express Stage Line 1859 The Stage Line began operating in the spring of 1859. William H. Russell and John S. Jones established the Leavenworth and Pike’s Peak Express to carry passengers and freight from the Missouri River to the Colorado gold fields. It followed the military road to Fort Riley, Kansas, and then angled Northwest and West to the Republican. The Line had twenty-five stations, located about twenty-five miles apart (one day’s travel), with six men and extra livestock at each station.

The line was short lived and only existed 8 months before being reorganized and called the Central Overland California and Pikes Peak. The COC & PP was purchased by Ben Holladay in 1862 and was renamed the Overland Trail Stage Line.

The idea…

The original structure of the stagecoach stop had disappeared long ago. A local citizen knew of a log cabin that was found inside a house southwest of Norton. This house had been built as a fort for protection from Indian attacks. The original cabin had been hidden behind plastered walls of subsequent owners until the farm house was set for razing. The log cabin was then discovered in the 1960’s, disassembled, and reconstructed in Norton. Appropriate furniture, clothing, and mannequins were donated to furnish the proper 1859 setting. Over time, the mannequins were replaced with handcrafted paper-mâché characters created by a local artist.

The Scene is May 31, 1859. Horace Greeley, publisher of the New York Tribune, and "Old White Coat," wore the famous garment on this trip. Albert Richardson, correspondent on Greeley's Staff, accompanied him on this trip. Richardson, later became an author and Civil War Reporter. His and Greeley's various writings tell our Station 15 story. (Photo 1) Station keepers are Mr. and Mrs. William Bonney, Sr. By winter, a son, "Billy the Kid," is born. An Ex-Cincinnati lawyer, Bonney is small and frail.

His station duties are exhausting. He will die soon after Billy's birth and the widow, a former Bowery actress, will leave Kansas with her small son. “Billy the Kid”, is a killer at 12, and is killed at 21. (Photo 2) A young squaw, mourning an Arapahoe brave accidentally killed while hunting buffalo, has remained with the Bonney’s who befriended her. Her people are encamped to the west near Station 16, having departed leaving a teepee for her and her child. Tents are the sleeping quarters for other guests in this spring of 1859. (Photo 3) The Greeley coach is manned by William Butler Hickok and Pat Dolan. "Wild Bill," fastidious and with shoulder length hair, began a career of killing two years later, while still a stage line employee. "Red" Dolan, Irish immigrant, won distinction later as a Texas Ranger. (Photo 4) Pat Garrett, eastbound driver, wears buckskin and a red bandanna. As a New Mexico sheriff some years later, he is forced to shoot and kill Billy the Kid. His assistant, Tiburcio Vasquez, is a California outlaw who took this job to scout gold shipments. (Photo 5) Eastbound "Go Back," a female runaway, has been working as a man in Denver mines. In custody of Pinkerton detective, Roy Bean, who later became famous as the "Law West of the Pecos," she is being returned to her Indiana parents. (6) USHWY36.COM

Located at Water Tower Park, Station 15 is a self-guided tour with a narrative box located on the north side of the cabin. The story is told by Mel Rice.

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Let Us Take Care of You Prescriptions Home Medical Equipment Diabetic Supplies Children’s Vitamin Program Toiletries, Beauty Products Gift & Retail Locally owned 102 S. State St. Norton, KS 67654

785-877-2721 moffetdrug.com

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Sinclair Station

Underwood Conoco Station

In Downtown Norton The Underwood Conoco Station, is located at the corner of Main and First Streets. Built in 1928, it was owned and operated by Jim Underwood. Larry Enfield Sr. purchased it many years ago because it brought back memories of his youth. Enfield was a strong supporter of historic renovation and hired contractors to bring new life to the station.

The current owner is Larry Urban, a classic car enthusiast.

The Norton Business and Visitor Station emerged when the vacant 1934 Kent Filling Station was donated to Norton County to be used for a community purpose. FHL Bank Topeka, Norton County Community Foundation and the Bill Sharp Memorial Fund were major contributors.

The Norton Lions Club and many community volunteers donated time and energy to complete the project. This station is on Highway 283, just

Norton Business and Visitor Center

south of downtown and houses the offices of Norton Area Chamber of Commerce / Travel and Tourism and Norton City/County Economic Development.

The Sinclair Station, located on the corner of Washington and First Streets, was renovated by owners Mick and Colette Miller. It is home to the Norton County Title Company, LLC and the garage bay displays a vintage car in for service. This station was built in 1925 by Thomas Heaton and operated by Francis Sutton until it closed in the 1970s.

Prairie Dog State Park & Sebelius Reservoir Located four miles west of Norton on US Highway 36 and one mile south on highway 261, you will find a trio of great outdoor recreation locations. Those are, from north to south, the Prairie Dog State Park, Sebelius Reservoir, and the Norton Wildlife Area.

each year. Starting in September, hunters can find doves concentrated around specially planed food plots. Ducks and geese use the lake both as a resting stop and a wintering location, depending on the species of waterfowl.

Prairie Dog State Park

Norton Wildlife Area-Approximately 7,000 acres of public hunting make up the Norton Wildlife Area. The area is on the south and southwest shore of the reservoir, and east of the dam. Included in the species of birds and animals that can be found: quail, pheasant, Canadian and Snow geese, turkey, ducks, badger, white-tail and mule deer, and doves. There are vault toilets and free designated camping areas in the Wildlife Area for hunters, fishermen, and campers to use.

The park is named for the creek that feeds the reservoir, Prairie Dog Creek. The park is about 1000 acres in size. Facilities include: camping and picnic sites, utilities available are electricity, water and sewer, with some camping sites having all three. There are two dump stations, two shower houses, and many vault toilets. Picnic facilities include ‘mushroom’ shelters with picnic tables and fire rings with grates. Boat ramps, a fish cleaning station, and public fishing dock are also located in the park. Other facilities available include an archery range, playground, horseshoe pits, sand volleyball court, basketball court, and the open-air and public-use LakeView Pavilion which is available to reserve for events such as weddings, receptions, family gatherings, etc.

Hiking is permitted throughout the area.

There is a 1.4-mile hiking trail called the Steve Mathes Nature Trail, which includes a story-walk for kids that shows giant pages of a children’s book as you walk. A new book is posted each month in the spring, summer, and fall.

Points of interest while visiting the Park include: The Hillmon School House, the Adobe House, and a prairie dog colony.

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State Park facilities are available year-round, with two cabins having water year-round with a full kitchen, bathroom and shower (modern cabins) and two cabins having water from a ground faucet outside the cabin (primitive cabins). All cabins are very nice on the inside and have heat, air conditioning, refrigerator/freezer, microwave, and ceiling fans.

Contact Information: The office is (785) 877-2953 or email kdpt. prairiedognp@ks.gov Website: https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks Facebook page is: www.Facebook.com/PrairieDogStatePark/ Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks & Tourism Office (785) 296-2009 www.TravelKS.com USHWY36.COM

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Decatur COU N T Y

From the Indian Raid of 1878 and other battles and skirmishes, to buffalo hunters, homesteaders, connections to people like Wild Bill (James Butler) Hickok, the Western Cattle Trail, the Museum is dedicated to preserving history.

dating from 1885-1952. Our historic Sod House was built on site in 1958 and the other authentic building were relocated to the museum grounds from surrounding location in Decatur county to create a village setting.

The museum has fifteen structures with thirteen authentic buildings

Enjoy self-guided tours using our Walking tour guide Brochure.

Jennings Czech Museum Jennings was founded in May 1888 in southeast Decatur Co with a mostly Czechoslovakian populous who brought their customs with them. In 1970 the Czech Memorial Museum was organized as the Heritage Associates of Jennings, Inc. with the donation of the former Methodist Church from the Hays Conference. It was moved by volunteer labor to its present location at 114 S. KS Avenue as restoration began. Multiple additions have been added through the 42 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

years. Inside are 1000’s of items including extensive Jennings School memorabilia, old Jennings newspapers collection, cemetery records, antiques and genealogy files. To honor those who have served in the military, a portion of the museum has been dedicated to our veterans.

The museum is handicap accessible and free admission.

“We may not have a time machine, but we can take you back” .....

Czech Us Out! Open by appointment (785-678-2652) USHWY36.COM

Wahlmeier Farms Vineyard Wahlmeier Farms Vineyard is a small family owned Vineyard and Winery located South East of Jennings, Ks. We are 5 miles South of 383 or 3 miles North of No. 9 highway on 2600th Rd (aka county road 509). Our address is 401 2600th Rd., Jennings, Ks 67643 (785) 639-2715.

We are currently only opened on Saturdays noon to 9:00 pm, however as our vineyards mature and our production increases, so will our hours.

The Winery and Tasting room is located in a Western style Barn Home with two acres of grape vines behind the Barn.

We grow Petite Pearl, Marquette, LaCresent, Brianna, Concord, Catawba, Delaware, Marque, Jupiter, and Somerset grapes. We produce sweet and dry wines and meads as well as Jellies and Jams.

Visitors are welcome to explore the vineyard and come in to try our wines and meads with a cheese plate and stock your pantry with some Jellies and Jams.

At the Oberlin Cobblestone Inn & Suites, we strive to provide Service Excellence with Quality Accommodations

• Hot Breakfast • Wireless Internet • Onsite Convenience Store • Bar and Bar Menu TITLE INSURANCE ESCROW & CLOSINGS

ABSTRACTS FARMERS MUTUAL HAIL INSURANCE

507 West Elm, Oberlin, KS • 785-475-1100 www.staycobblestone.com/kansas/oberlin

VICKIE BAILEY 163 S. PENN OBERLIN, KS 785-475-2381 785-475-3556 FAX vbailey@decaturcountytitle.com 751428 75142810

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“BIG CITY QUALITY.. SMALL TOWN VALUES” CHECK OUT OUR EXCELLENT REVIEWS 2021-2022 • KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 43

The Landmark Inn

Imagine a Victorian world set in a bustling frontier town, home to the US Land Office. Hundred’s come each day to claim their 160 acres of Kansas prairie and visit the new “Bank of Oberlin”. Of the Bank of Oberlin’s completion the Oberlin Eye (sept. 23, 1886) said “…It is the prettiest building in the city and elicits words of praise from the many who see the city…”

The charm experienced in 1886 can once again be captured in the new Landmark Inn at the Historic Bank of Oberlin in downtown Oberlin, Kansas. Listed on the National Register of Historic places the Landmark is the place for a quiet getaway, reunion, or business retreat.

The Landmark Inn offers travelers an opportunity to experience the

Victorian West of the late 1800’s without sacrificing any of today’s comforts. Each suite has a private bath, an extra telephone jack for computers, and TV’s are available on request.

The Landmark also houses the renowned Teller Room Restaurant and the Oberlin Mercantile Co gift shop, which carries an extensive line of Victorian gift items, collectibles, toys and Kansas food products.

The Teller Room Restaurant has been restored to its turn of the century splendor. Cherry woodwork, vintage wallpaper, and reproduction gas lights give the Teller Room the feel of an early bank.

The Teller Room menu changes daily and features an extensive dessert line. Please call ahead to confirm serving times and make reservations. 189 S. Penn, Oberlin, Kansas 67749. 785-475-2340

Hawkeye Bits and Spurs Located in Norcatur, Kansas. For more information, contact Scott Harman at 785-470-1244 or scottyhawkeye@gmail.com. Check out more of Scott's work at www.facebook.com/hawkeyebitsandspurs

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NLY THE BEST

OBERLIN, KS

Experience Americana on the brick streets of Oberlin.

If you �nd yourself at the intersection of U.S. Highway 36 & U.S. Highway 83.

Oberlin is a town nestled in the Sappa Valley, Oberlin is �lled with, gourmet and country comfort food, amazing antique shops, downtown stores under canopies and beautiful walking trails at Sappa Park. Home to, the Last Indian Raid Museum. The museum takes you back in time when our country was �rst being settled. Walk through the original buildings the pioneers built from the Bohemian Dance Hall to a Doctor’s of�ce and more.

Hunters especially like Oberlin as home base do to healthy wildlife populations, from pheasant, deer, and walk in hunting.

Oberlin has wonderful hotel accommodations from Modern Hotels to Victorian style bed and breakfast.

We will be looking for you on the brick streets of Oberlin.

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Rawlins COU N T Y

“The Rod Run” Car show features a poker run, hog roast, dance, drag races, kids games, raffle, prizes, and awards. The Rod Run Car Show is hosted each year on the third weekend of May. Ol Depot has amazing antiques. If you love antiques it’s a must stop in Atwood, KS. Local coffee shop, MOJO Espresso & Bistro Coffee Shop, serves coffee, smoothies and breakfast & brunch. Features daily lunch specials.

Visit Atwood Lake and camp overnight. Atwood Lake has electric for your RV’s/Fifth Wheels. There is a nice walking path plus a fantastic park with a lot of different features on the playground. You can walk along the path and read the book for kids. If you would rather just sit and enjoy the view of the lake, there is a covered picnic table area that was donated by the local Atwood KS Rotary club.

Established in 1967, the Rawlins County Museum in Atwood, Kansas is the headquarters for the Rawlins County Historical Society. The Rawlins County Museum and Historical Church depicts rural Kansas history. Exhibits include Native American artifacts showcasing arrowheads, pottery, and Kachina dolls, a Mural by Rudolph Wendelin, creator of Smokey the Bear, and recreated rooms. Some of the rooms include Grandma's parlor, a post office, the dentist and doctor's office, or the old school room. The beautiful historical church next door, was built in 1904 by Bohemian immigrants from Czechoslovakia and remains intact.

There is also an event called “Smokin on the Beaver” BBQ contest featuring beer, concerts, kids activities, and fun for all the family, usually held the last weekend in September.

Rawlins County Historical Museum

308 State St, Atwood, KS 67730 Hours: 10-12, 1-4 Tues.-Fri. Open Sat. 1-4 during Summer

(785) 626-3885

❈ • Mural of the history of Rawlins County painted by Rudolph Wendelin (artist of Smokey Bear) • Kachina Dolls made by Pueblo Indians • Dioramas of past Atwood and Ludell • And much more!

Admission is FREE! 75143042

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Cheyenne COU N T Y

Arikaree Breaks The Arikaree Breaks (the Breaks) are located on the extreme northern edge of Cheyenne County. This area of extremely rough terrain, with its deep ravines and gullies is a marked contrast to the plains generally associated with the area. The Breaks were formed by wind deposited sand, silt and clay particles, called loess. After deposition, the loess has undergone spectacular processes of head cutting and side-wall cutting the advancing tributaries of the Arikaree River and the South Fork of the Republican River.

The Breaks are 36 miles long and approximately two to three miles wide. They extend into Rawlins County and several miles into Colorado.

There are few trees in the rough terrain. However, the pasture land has many yucca or soap weed as they are called by the natives. There are also two species of sage that grow in the Breaks that grow no other place in Kansas and 16 native plants that are listed as “rare” in Kansas.

The hills are covered with native grasses, excellent for cattle and wildlife.

There are several public roads through the Breaks, giving visitors some outstanding viewing sites of this rugged wonder. Visitors are asked to please respect the land owners by remaining on the public roads.

A Self-Guided Driving Tour Of The Arikaree Breaks is available at the Community Information Kiosk on US Highway 36 in St. Francis, near 48 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

the Cheyenne County Museum. For more information, please call 785332-3508.

St. Francis Motorcycle Museum The St. Francis Motorcycle Museum is located at 110 East Washington in beautiful downtown St. Francis, Kansas. The 10,000 square foot museum houses more than 135 vintage motorcycles from various manufacturers. The big names in early motorcycles, Indian and Harley Davidson, are highly represented, but so are motorcycles from lesser known manufacturers such as Flanders, Excelsior, Cleveland, Pope, Iver Johnson, Feilbach Limited, Ace, Henderson, Marsh-Metz and many others.

The idea of building the museum had its roots in 2013. A small group of local motorcycle enthusiasts and two avid motorcycle collectors worked diligently to make the museum a reality. The museum now displays motorcycles from several collections as well as other motorcycle-related memorabilia.

As of January, 2021, the museum has welcomed visitors from 49 different states and 44 foreign countries. Open 7 days a week; 10 a.m to 5 p.m. (except Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas). Also by appointment. 785-332-2400. Adult supervision requested for children under 12. Entry fee/(suggested donation): $7 USHWY36.COM

Land and Sky Scenic Byway The Land and Sky Scenic Byway is the newest and 12th Byway in Kansas, with 50% of the Byway being in Cheyenne County. Agriculture along the Land and Sky Scenic Byway showcases Farmers and Ranchers cultivating the soil, producing crops, and raising livestock. When Kansas was opened for settlement in 1854, farmers from eastern parts of America and European countries brought seeds to the new territory to provide for their families. Today, approximately 90 percent of Kansas is devoted to agriculture production.

As the Traveler begins the journey along the Land and Sky Scenic Byway, you may notice oil and gas wells in the fields among the various crops. Stop at the byway Interpretative panels that explain the history of agriculture and its importance to Kansas and the United States as our food source, the tragedy of the Dust Bowl and an explanation of dryland farming in the area.

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The Land and Sky Scenic Byway is the only agricultural themed Byway in the Nation. Kansas is known as the “breadbasket” for the world. With driving the Byway, taking in the sites, the interpretive signage and local tours, told is this history and importance of agriculture in the daily lives of both our American and foreign food markets.

SONDRA S. BRACELIN Broker

CORNERSTONE REAL ESTATE, LLC www.cornerstonerealestatellc.com (785) 332-3041 (W) (785) 332-2325 (H) (785) 332-4257 sondrab@eaglecom.net

109 W. WASHINGTON POST OFFICE BOX 665 ST. FRANCIS, KS 67756 75142536

Continue on and stop at the Cheyenne County Feed Yard. If you are lucky, the cowboys will be working cattle on horseback. At the Wheeler cemetery is the final resting place for hometown, Korean War Medal of Honor recipient, Jack Weinstein. East of the junction of K-27/US-36, tours are available at the McCarty Dairy and Wright’s Sunflower Oil. Head West and notice the circle irrigation in the field. A tour of Sunny Crest Farm might get you a ride on a tractor or combine. As you drive into St. Francis on K-27, the Cattle Sale Barn, open on Friday (sale day), is on the left. Head downtown and stop at the St. Francis Motorcycle

Museum. Take a trip North to the Arikaree Breaks (the Grand Canyon of Kansas), where the beauty of wind and water were driven to create a rugged and unique landscape. As you continue West, take a detour to the St. Francis Wildlife Area. North on K-27, stop by the Cherry Creek Encampment, a tribute to the Cheyenne Indians that lived in Northwest Kansas before the Western settlement. From there you will see as you travel to the Nebraska State Line, the views of wide-open spaces, various crops, different species of cattle grazing on native mixed prairie grasses and century-old farmsteads. As you near the end of the Byway, stop by the Byway Kiosk for additional information. Travelers will encounter a variety of rural Kansas experiences including agricultural enterprises and wide-open vistas.

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Country Cottages

Short-term/Nightly Rental Homes in Rural Kansas St. Francis, KS

St. Francis

• Tree Claim Cottage • Ginger’s Cottage • Joyce’s Cottage

Troy & Kary Jo Meyer • 785-332-5371 Call or book a stay at: airbnb.com www.facebook.com/treeclaimcottage 75142543

ESTD

2016

MUSEUM

COME SEE US! 110 East Washington Street St. Francis, KS 67756

Over 130 bikes representing over 40 manufacturers Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time except Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas

An Old Fashioned Family Ran Station 510 US Hwy 36, St. Francis, KS 785-332-2905 www.majestictruckstop.com Open 7 Days a Week

Entry fee/(suggested donation): $7

www.stfrancismotorcyclemuseum.org

Independent Gas Station Convenience Store Full Menu Restaurant C Co Cooked-to-Order Breakfast st Hunting Licenses, nses,, Supp Supplies, pplies pp es,, Sn Sna Snacks, Ice, Beer

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H I G H WAY 3 6 A S S O C I AT I O N M E M B E R S Doniphan County

Phillips County

Pony Express Veterinary

Duffy's 36 Service - Conoco

Sink, Gordon & Assoc.

Feathered Nest

Slup's Automotive Repair

Jenrus Freelance

As de Oros Mexican Restaurant

Seneca Wholesale Co., Inc.

Slup's Heating & Air Conditioning

Jim Erickson

B I H Plumbing & Electric

Smart Truck Line, Inc.

Charles I. (Cy) & Gladys Moyer

City of Wathena

Stallbaumer Lumber & Hardware, Inc.

Kallman Insurance Main Street Vision Center

City of Phillipsburg

Dairy Barn

Starlite Motel

Cottonwood Inn

Doniphan County

Suther Building Supply, Inc.

State Farm Insurance Marysville

New Century Bank Osage Hedge Balls

Don's TV

El Canelo

Water Conditioning of Seneca, Inc.

Steven Kraushaar, Attorney

P-K Collections

Econo Lodge

Rusty Wheel

Farm Bureau Financial Services

Marshall County

Temps Disposal Service, Inc.

Scandia Antique Mall

Farmers National Bank

T.A.G.S Bar & Grill

Farmers State Bank

The Citizens National Bank

First National Bank & Trust

Vinyl Graphics Creations

Golden Plains Credit Union

Jewell County

H & R Block

Bernie's Service & Repairs, Inc. Berwick Coop Oil – Davies Bob Jenkins City of Troy

Euler Law Office, LLP Exchange National Bank Farmers State Bank Feed Store Café First Option Bank Grant's Repair, LLC The Kansas Chief Newspaper

Brown County

Seneca Area Chamber & Downtown Impact Seneca Implement Company Seneca Veterinary Clinic, PA

Sonic

Super Wash of Marysville

12th Street Liquor

Tension Envelope Corporation

A Cut Above

The Advocate Publishing Co., Inc.

Ackerman Lock & Key Ar-Ex Drug Astro 3 Theatre Blue River EyeCare

The Wagon Wheel Thunderbird Motel United Bank & Trust Valley Vet Supply

Buffalo Roam Steakhouse Central National Bank City of Mankato

Best Western Plus

Blue Valley Insurance

Brown County Historical Society

Blue Valley Technologies

Washington County

Bruna Implement Company

Blue Valley Telemarketingm Inc.

B & B 36 LIX

Hidden Treasures Quilt Shop

Citizens State Bank & Trust

Bobbi's Barber Shop

B & W Electric, Inc.

Jewell County Record

City of Hiawatha

Bolton & McNish

Bruna Implement

Ken's Body Works

Country Cabins

Bruce's Body Shop

City of Washington

Lloyd's Sinclair Service

Hiawatha Chamber of Commerce

CES Group, Inc.

Country Antiques

Mankato Auto Parts-NAPA

Citizens State Bank

Eaton Body Shop & Radiator

Ortman Insurance

Hiawatha Foundation for Econ Development

City of Marysville

FNB - Washington

State Exchange Bank

Cornerstone Granite Industries

Frey Motors

Susan Abel

Dave's Body Shop

Hanover Electric, Inc.

Sweden Crème

Ehnen Automotive

Hanover Insurance Agency

Tyler Chiropractor

El Ranchero Mexican

Herr's Machine

Empty Cup Café & Bistro

K Motel

Smith County

Farm Bureau Insurance

Kansas Territory Brewery Co.

First Commerce Bank

KSDS,Inc

Sunflower Motel

Friedrichs Tax Service

Midwest Products, LLC

Tice Health Mart

Galloway, Weigers & Brinegar

OK Service, Inc.

Wilde Tool Company

Hall Bros. Const. Co., Inc.

Ricky's Cafe

Nemaha County

Heritage Express Motel Farmer's Dream

The West Wing Guest House

Ag Partners Cooperative

Hometown Lumber, Inc.

Altenhofen Inn & Suites

Kickhaefer & Associates, PA

Wash. Co. News/ Backroads News

Bennett Trucking Company

KNDY AM-FM

Washington County Tourism

Berwick Coop Oil

Kramer Oil Co., Inc.

Bruna Brothers Implement, LLC

Landmark Implement

City of Sabetha - Chamber

Landoll Corporation

Community National Bank

Marshall County - P4G Partneship 4 Growth

Los Jarochos Pizza Hut Rainbow Communications Shockley Implement, Inc. Stallbaumer Chiropractic Clinic State Farm Insurance Meininger

Courier-Tribune - Nemaha Publishing Floyd's Truck Repair, Inc. Garrett Country Mart- Gene's Thriftway Hardware Hank-Sabetha Hardware Haug Communications, Inc.

Better Water Buckshot Inn Motel & Lodge

Heritage Insurance Group, Inc. J & R HVAC/R Landmark Implement, Inc. Mapes & Miller LLP, CPAs Matteson Motors, Inc. PO B 502 Mid America Real Estate Midwest Family health Olliff-Boeve Furniture, Inc. Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Oriental & American Restaurant PCCF - Community Foundation Phillips County Conv. & Tourism Phillips County Hospital Phillipsburg Inn & Suite/ Roadway Inn Phillipsburg Kansas Biggest Rodeo

Center Fire Pizza

Phillipsburg Liquor & Wine Cellar

Central Plains Co-op

Pizza Hut

Farmer's Union Insurance

Sale Barn Marketplace

Gene's Heartland Foods

Sand Trap Bar & Grill

Graphics Central

Sawyer's Ace Hardware

Guaranty State Bank & Trust

Shelly Ann's Cafe

Hoss's Antiques

Sullivan Law Office

Huffman Floor Covering

The Advocate of Phillips County

Washington Motel

Ingleboro Mansion B & B

Third Street Bakery

Republic County

Jiffy Burger Kendalyn's on Main

Thompson Family Chiropractic, Inc.

Warren Clinic

America's Best Value Inn Anteaques Gifts & Antiques

Kensington Lockers

Weinman Firestone

Landmark Implement, Inc.

White's Foodliner Witmer Drug Store, Inc.

Marysville Dental Care

APP 1 Media

Marysville Chamber & Main Street

Newton L. & Bonnivie Youngquist

Willer's Casual Dining

Astra Bank Astra Bank

Paul's Cafe

Marysville Ready Mix, Inc.

Bachelor-Faulkner-Dart & Surber

Pro-Ag & Rusty Tractor Rest.

Norton County

Bel Villa Family Dining

Smith Center Pioneer newspaper

Marysville Surf Motel Mason Tax & Accounting

Heinen True Value Farm Supply

Nemaha-Marshall Electric Cooperative

Koch & Co., Inc.

Nordhus Motor Company

National Farmers Union Insurance

Oak Tree Inn/ Travel Lodge

Nemaha Valley Motors, Inc.

Farmway Credit Union

Ahhh Some Treasure

Oliver Transmission Pepsi Cola Bottling Co. of Marysville

52 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

Belleville Chamber & Main Street Buffalo Gallery/Pigeonhole Studio C & W Farm Supply Cuba Antiques D Q Grill & Chill

Smith Center City / Chamber

Ag Valley Co-op Becky's Thrift & Gift Boxler Insurance Agency, Inc.

Smith County Econ.

Development

Brooks Motel

Stortz Auction Company

Curt Wahlmeier Agency

The Peoples Bank

Deanna Braun Insurance

U. S. Center Motel & Apartments

Destination Kitchen

Carolyn Applegate

Donna Liddle - Board member USHWY36.COM

Don's Floor Covering, Inc.

Old Czech Country Paradise

Downtown Car Wash LLC

Pizza Hut of Oberlin, LLC

Eastman Fine Art Studio

R & M Service Center

Endzone Sports & Office Supplies, Inc.

Raye's Grocery, Inc.

Engel's Sales & Service Center, Inc.

Ron's Tire Service

Farm Bureau Financial Services Garrett Plumbing & Heating Hillcrest Motel J & R Liquor Kowpoke Supply KQNK Radio Moffet Drug / Rice P.A. Natoma Corporation New Age Industrial Northwest Diesel Repair Norton Chamber of Commerce Norton City/County Economic Development Pizza Hut of Norton, LLC Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Inc. Roy's Sales Service Russ' Jewelry & Repair Ruth's Antiques Sleep Inn Stitch Up a Storm Studio 111 The Bank The First State Bank The Norton Telegram Thread Junkies Town & Country Kitchen United Northwest Credit Union Valley Hope Association Western Pest Control Antique shop

Decatur County Bob Strevey C W's Welding Cabin Antiques City of Norcatur City of Oberlin

Ray's Jewelry S & T Enterprises The Bank - Main Office

McDougal-Sager & Snodgrass Grain, Inc.

Designs by Dawn

St. Francis Equity & Snack Shop

Michael & Roxanne Braxmeyer

Diamond R Bar & Grill

St. Francis Sand & Redi Mix

Donna’s Gift Palace

St. Francis Supers

Dorothy Kellner

St. Francis Tire & Service

Dr. Melvin Dunn, DDS

Stuart Johnson

Dr. Tim Poling, DDS

The Hotbrush

Elmer N. Kellner

The Lighthouse

Farm Bureau Financial Services

The Sewing Corner & Fabric Shop

Mike Braxmeyer Millie's Art Studio & Gallery MOJO Espresso & Bristo Mulligan's on Main My Place

The Oberlin Herald, Norton Telegram, St.

Park Hill Restaurant

Francis Herald

Philpott Oil & Gas Co., Inc.

Two Mikes Custom Bike Shop

Pine Branch Real Estate

Rawlins County

Pizza Hut of Atwood, LLC

Active Balance Chiropractic Adams Brown Beran & Ball CPAs Atwood Cable System & Dunker Radio & TV

Peoples State Bank

Rawlins County Dental Clinic Rawlins County Health Center

First National Bank Frewen Insurance Agency

Vision Source

Greater NW Kansas Community Foundation

Western Auction & Real Estate Western Kansas Farm Credit

Heritage Lumber Inc

Western State Bank

Rawlins County Square Deal

High Plains Moto & Fresh Seven Coffee

Wheeler Equity Yost Farm Supply

Hilltop Diner

Yost Ford Mercury

Atwood Country Club

Reflections of Your Time

Atwood Floral & Gifts

River Bottom Restaurant, Bar & Bowl Spresser Insurance Agency, Inc.

Homesteader Motel & Trailer Park

Stitch In Time

Hometown Market

Sunflower Aero, Inc.

J Lou’s Salon

Members located outside of the Kansas US 36 Corridor

Surefire Ag Systems, Inc.

Jackson Suites

AT&T

The Bank - Atwood branch

Jaqua Abstract Company

Baalmann Mortuary

Ben Lee Processing

The Ol' Depot

Jean’s Accounting

Bike Across Kansas

Brown, Creighton and Peckham

TLC General Store

Jensen Construction

Bremen Farmers Mutual Ins Co.

Brown's True Value

Tri-State Veterinary Service & Supply

Johnson Body Shop

Casey's General Store

Vap Construction

Keller Ranch, Inc.

Citizens State Bank & Trust

Kenneth & Jean Richers

Farm Credit of Western Kansas

Knodel Funeral Home

Grassroots Foundation

Krien Pharmacy

Gully Truck Leasing

Lampe Motor Sports

Herzog Contracting Corporation Horner's Machine & Const.

Supply

Atwood Lion's Club RV Park Atwood Liquor Atwood Travel & Tourism Baalmann Mortuary Beaver Valley Supply & Great Outdoors

C S Gas C.A.R. Specialists Casey's General Store City of Atwood

Vision Source Walker Garden Center

Cottonwood Drive RV

Cheyenne County

Creative Designs

American Implement

Laurie Leonard CPA

Currier Drug, Inc.

Andrist Ag & Auto Inc

Leach Insurance Agency

Decision Weather, Inc.

B & R Bierocks, Inc.

Lonestar Storage LLC

Don Holliman Insurance Agency

Bankwest of Kansas

Majestic Service Subway

E. C. Mellick Agency

Bartlett Grain Co.

Farm Bureau Financial Services

Best Bargains

McCarty Dairy / Bird City Dairy LLC

Farmers Bank & Trust

Big Ed’s

Farmers State Bank

Bird City Century II Development Found.

Final Finish Auto Body & Repair

Bird City Community Club

Crossroads - Phillips Station

Gary Fisher Massage

Brunk’s Machine Shop

D & M Services

Gordon & Shirley Crowdis

Callicrate Metal Recycling

Decatur Co. Econ Development

Great Outdoors Gun Shop

Caddy Shack at Riverside

Decatur Co. Title & Abstract

It'll Do Motel - August Company

Decatur Coop Assoc.

J. D. Skiles Co., Inc.

Cheyenne Community Development Corp.

Decatur County Museum

K Y V Z Radio LLC

Equipment Locator RV & Camper Park

Kirk's Auto Supply

Brock McAtee Construction

Cheyenne County Historical Society

Kugler Company Midwest Energy, Inc. Missouri Highway 36 Alliance Nex-Tech Corporate Office

Milliken & Reyelts, PA

North Glen Antiques

Morris Off Road & Auto

Pizza Hut Management

No Bull Enterprises, LLC / Callicrate Banders Nu-Look Salon Owens True Value Hardware, LLC Park Hill Restaurant & Lounge Pizza Hut of St. Francis, LLC Poling Chiropractic Republican Valley Veterinary Clinic

Lankas Labs

Landmark Inn

Legends of the North Bar & Grill

Cheyenne County Village

Rod’s Locksmith Shop

Lincoln Repair

Linda Skipworth

Cheyenne Feeders, LLC

Ross Manufacturing

Norcatur Storage

Loker Retail Liquor

City of St. Francis

Sainty Liquor

Oberlin Chamber

McDonald Area Development Committee

Classic Rose- Rustic Garden

Shay Realty, Inc.

Cliff’s Custom Cabinets

St Francis Auction Market

Cowgirl Creations & Design

St. Francis Auto Parts

McDonald Grocery

Kansas Contractors Association, Inc.

Midwest Energy, Inc.

Cheyenne County Hospital & Clinic

USHWY36.COM

United Methodist Thrift Store

Grace Flying Service

Hendricks Farms

Cobblestone Inn & Suites

Oberlin Inn

Unger Chiropractic Clinic

Frontier Ag Inc

Rawlins County Historical Society

Finley Construction & Ready Mix, Inc.

Gateway Center

The Spencer House Bed & Breakfast

Flash! Fireworks of Kansas

Riverside Recreation Special thanks to Kylee Bergstrom, Association Vice President, for compiling and organizing the content for this travel guide.

2021-2022 • KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 53

Welcome to Bird City! www.birdcity.com

A great community with all of the small town amenities, and then some!

Cheyenne County

VanDoren Park

Cheylin USD 103

Bird City Senior Estates

WPA Buildings 60

75142530

54 KANSAS HIGHWAY 36 • 2021-2022

Follow us on Facebook: “City of Bird City” and “Get Bird City” www.getruralkansas.org “Get Rural…GetDONATE BirdATCity” USHWY36.COM USHWY36.COM

PONY EXPRESS

In the era before electronic communication, the Pony Express was the thread that tied East to West. Around this time, the United States had gone through a great migration with the opening of the Oregon Territory for settlement and the discovery of gold in California. Messages sent to California took too long to be delivered and there was a need to prove the feasibility of a yearround central route to California.

the “Felt Block Building” and contains many historical items about the Pony Express as well as the history of Seneca from that time period. One display includes furnishings from The Smith Hotel which served as a one of the first Pony Express Home Stations west of St. Joseph. A commemorative marker, similar to the one found in Troy, is located catty corner from the Museum in front of the original location of The Smith Hotel.

The Pony Express was a private mail service which began in April, 1860 and operated for 18 months between St. Joseph, Missouri and Sacramento, California until the connection of the transcontinental telegraph on October 24, 1861. The Central Overland California & Pikes Peak Express Company provided a 10-day delivery between the terminal points more than 1,800 miles apart.

Continuing along the route in Marshall County, travelers will find the Marysville Pony Express Barn & Museum, the only Pony Express Home Station still on its original site. The Barn, built in 1859, was leased to the Pony Express in 1960; a livery stable offering a blacksmith shop and stalls for Pony Express horses.

The barn is still standing and now serves as a museum located at 106 S. 8th Street, Marysville, KS 66508. The museum consists of the original stable, now the oldest building in Marshall County, and an annex added in 1991, which houses exhibits, artifacts, stagecoaches and other transportation pieces, and an interactive children's area.

There were forty riders in the saddle in each direction, and 190 stations and 400 station keepers kept the operation working smoothly. Riders were paid $25 a week and rode 10 to 15 miles before changing horses and 75 miles before being relieved. In an advertisement for riders, the requirements stated they must be young, skinny, wiry fellows not over eighteen, expert riders willing to risk death daily, orphans preferred.

Riders started in St. Joseph, MO, crossed the Missouri river and stopped at the first stations in Doniphan County, KS at the cities of Elwood and Troy. The bridge connecting the two states at Elwood, KS and St. Joseph, MO, today is appropriately named the Pony Express/US-36 bridge. A commemorative marker can be viewed in Troy on the northwest corner of the Doniphan County Courthouse lawn located at 120 E. Chestnut St. The route continues west and basically follows the current path of US Highway 36 for four more counties, Brown, Nemaha, Marshall and Washington, in Kansas before trailing northwest into Nebraska. Along the route, keep an eye out as you may spot the silhouette of a Pony Express rider in the distance.

As the Pony Express entered into Brown County, it dips down into the Kickapoo Tribe Reservation where a prominent relay station was once located near present day Horton. Signs along the US 36 Highway name the route as the Pony Express Historic Highway.

In Nemaha County, make sure to stop by the Pony Express Museum on Main Street in Seneca. The Museum is housed in USHWY36.COM

The Hollenberg Pony Express Station ranch house was built in 1857 to capitalize on the Oregon-California emigrant trade that passed its door. In addition to living quarters for the Hollenberg family, the building served as a neighborhood grocery store, a tavern, and an unofficial post-office. Three years later, it became a Pony Express home station and later a stage station. A visitor center with interpretive exhibits is located near the historic building at 2889 23rd Rd, Hanover, KS 66945 in Washington County.

From here the route trails northwest into Nebraska and continues winding west until it reaches its destination in Sacramento and San Francisco, CA. Legislation authorizing the addition of the Trail to the National Trails System was signed by President George H. W. Bush on August 3, 1992. It is administered by the Department of Interior/ National Park Service and the PENHT is now a route rather than a continuous trail. It can be followed by horse, foot or car for most of its length. Large expanses of the territory through which it crosses are still very scenic and many museums and historical sites offer interpretation and preservation. Check local listings for museum hours or find out more about the Pony Express National Heritage Trail on the National Park Service website at www.nps.gov/poex.

2021-2022• KANSAS • KansasHIGHWAY Highway 36 55 2021-2022

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