MERRIAM HIGHLIGHTS Published for Merriam Residents & Businesses
Spring - Summer 2014
City celebrates 150 years of community in 2014 It took many decades for Merriam to become the city it is today. The history of our region can be traced back to the days when the Kanza Indian Tribe inhabited the land. However, the community that would become Merriam didn’t take root until a Tennessean named David Gee Campbell bought acreage from an Indian, Mary Parks, and decided to settled on the site. In 1864, Campbell moved his family home to the south side of Johnson drive near Turkey Creek. This valley reminded him of his Tennessee home and his Scottish roots. Through his vision, the area flourished, and soon over 20 homes and many businesses made up the early town, aptly named Campbellton. By 1880 after the local railroad had been built Merriam Park, the name of the town was changed to Merriam.
The City of Merriam became an incorporated city in 1950 and just a few years later in 1957, Merriam become a city of the second class. Today, Merriam is a vibrant community and our area continues to grow and develop within the region. It’s been an amazing 150 years since our community’s inception. We invite you to join us as we celebrate our community’s sesquicentennial. A special exhibit, “Campbellton to Merriam -- Celebrating 150 Years of Community,” will be on display May 15th - June 5th at the Tim Murphy Art Gallery, located on the 3rd floor of the Irene B French Community Center. An opening night reception will take place on Thursday, May 15th from 7:00 - 8:30 PM, featuring historic exhibits, reenactors, live music and refreshments. We invite you to explore a collection of artifacts and historic photos
Our Community Foun der, David Gee Campbell
dating back to our earliest days. To enhance the experience, you can choose to start the evening with a unique trolley tour of Merriam’s most historic points of interest, departing from the Community Center at 5:45 PM. Residents and guests are welcome to attend. The gallery exhibit and opening reception are FREE, however, there is a $10/person charge for the trolley tour. Seating is limited! Reserve your seat by calling 913.322.5550. Interested in learning more about our City’s history? Pick up a copy of, Historic Merriam: The History of Merriam Kansas, by Myra Jenks and Irene B. French. The book is on sale for $15 at the Irene B. French Community Center (cash or check only please).
CITY OF MERRIAM, KANSAS 9001 W 62ND STREET MERRIAM, KS 66202-2815
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