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Our TBEX Experience in Wichita: The Work Behind Travel Blogging

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

It always amazes me how much we remember our first time doing something big. Our TBEX experience in Wichita arrived with a quiet mix of curiosity and resolve. We had attended one Midwest-focused travel blogging conference, which was enough to understand the basics. This one would put us on the international stage. That gap became the reason we showed up with nervous anticipation.

From the first moments, it became clear this was not about collecting tips or chasing trends. It was about discovery. We found ourselves listening more carefully, observing how others moved through the space, and noticing how the industry reveals itself when you stop trying to define it too quickly.

TBEX (Travel Blog Exchange) felt like an invitation to see our work differently.

The Rhythm of Two and a Half Days

The conference unfolded over two and a half tightly packed days of meetings, classes, and shared moments that rarely followed a straight line. Schedules mattered, but flexibility mattered more. We learned early that the real value often appeared between sessions rather than inside them.

We have always loved visiting Wichita, and it proved to be a thoughtful host. The city’s pace offered room to breathe, which softened the intensity of the days. Midwest hospitality showed up not as spectacle but as steadiness, creating a setting that encouraged conversation without pressure.

From the locally-focused menus to the well-organized layout, the conference exuded Midwest charm. Even the handouts from destination partners silently spoke of Kansas heritage. That balance shaped how we absorbed everything else.

An Opening Night That Set the Tone

Opening night ceremonies landed us at Exploration Place. The atmosphere felt less like an event and more like a reunion. Food trucks lined the space, conversations overlapped, and familiar faces appeared when we least expected them.

Reconnecting with Ritz from Visit Kansas City Kansas, reminded us how relationships in this industry become friendships. We’ve had the opportunity to work with so many great tourism partners, and this evening we were able to see them again. It confirmed that consistency matters more than constant visibility.

While mingling, I thought back to each visit we have made in the past. It’s humbling to imagine the trust these partners place in us to share their stories with our audience. The night established a tone of long-term connections.

A Playground That Reflects a City

We were excited to discover that we would be some of the first to see the newest exhibit being constructed at Exploration Place. An outdoor pavilion would feature aviation and plains-themed play equipment. Our tour guide exuded the energetic ambition that is needed to bring this type of dream to reality. We lingered longer than expected, watching how it took shape against the Wichita skyline.

The space mirrored the city itself. Wichita understands where it comes from and builds on its roots without erasing them. As first-time TBEX attendees, we were in awe of the disciplined message that this city displays.

Growth does not require noise to be real, but it does account for all ages. As we prepared to walk back to our hotel, we discussed the need for a return visit to see the finished project.

Hearing Our Value Spoken Aloud

Our TBEX experience kicked into high gear the next morning. The opening conference session offered a perspective that we needed to hear. The speaker articulated the value travel bloggers bring to industry relationships with clarity and respect. It reframed collaboration as a partnership rather than a transaction.

For those navigating a first-time TBEX experience, that message landed with weight. It shifted how we viewed our role in conversations with destinations and brands. We were truly beginning to understand our position in the tourism industry.

Exploring Wichita Between Sessions

Free time in Wichita gave us space to experience the city on its own terms. We wandered into a Mexican restaurant we had not planned to visit and were met with attentive service and dishes that lingered in memory.

These moments reinforced why Wichita continues to resonate with us. The city rewards curiosity without demanding it. You feel welcome without being rushed or marketed to.

That authenticity carries its own authority. Throughout the conference, we heard people remark about the city’s hospitality and Midwest charm.

Learning Curves That Clarified Direction

TBEX classes revealed more about where we stood than where we were headed. Sessions challenged assumptions, exposed learning curves, and clarified expectations that had previously felt abstract. We discovered that we had been using many of the best practices without even realizing it.

Rather than overwhelming us, the content brought focus. We saw how professionalism in travel blogging is less about scale and more about intention. Standards exist not to limit creativity but to protect it.

At times, we have felt like we were moving with less focus than needed. The sessions we attended showed us that we had laid the groundwork for future success. That realization stayed with us long after the sessions ended.

An Evening Built on Shared Experience

Our final night took us to the Sedgwick County Zoo. Here, we discovered an immersive experience rather than a formal gathering. Food, atmosphere, and conversation blended into something that felt unstructured in the best way.

We talked with people at different stages of their journeys and quickly found common ground. The setting removed hierarchy. Everyone was present, engaged, and willing to listen. While we each had different aspirations, this TBEX conference showed us that we were all critical pieces in the tourism industry.

This connection became the key takeaway.

Walking Out With Light and Momentum

As the evening wound down, it was time to head back toward the zoo entrance. We were delighted to find the early glow of the zoo’s Wild Lights display. It provided one last “aha” moment. Not everything was fully illuminated yet, but enough was visible to suggest what was coming.

Our TBEX experience left us with clarity rather than conclusions. We better understood our momentum and recognized how future conferences could help us grow intentionally. Armed with a renewed purpose, we left Wichita on a high note. New plans were already in the works, and we were excited to see where the future would take us.

Curiosity is undoubtedly the most reliable compass.

The post Our TBEX Experience in Wichita: The Work Behind Travel Blogging appeared first on Our Changing Life.

Kansas Capitol Dome Tour: A Climb Through History

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:29:39 +0000

It’s not every day you walk into a state capitol building and discover… It’s wearing a hat under a hat. That’s right—Topeka’s crowning star hides a secret above its stately halls: it has two domes, stacked one inside the other. From the outside, you’d never guess there’s another copper-topped giant nested quietly within. This unexpected architectural sleight-of-hand sets the stage for one of the most unique (and slightly dizzying) tours in the country. Whether you’re a history buff, a stair-stepper, or just someone who loves a good behind-the-scenes story, the Kansas Capitol Dome Tour offers an experience that’s part art gallery, part time machine, and part cardio challenge.

"Ad Astra" and a View from the Top

If you squint just right, you’ll spot a bronze figure perched proudly atop the outer dome—the “Ad Astra” archer, arrow aimed toward the North Star. This symbol of Kansas’ motto, “Ad Astra per Aspera” (To the stars through difficulties), feels especially fitting given the climb awaiting those who dare scale the Capitol’s heights. It’s one thing to see the statue from below, but knowing it stands atop a dome that towers 304 feet over Topeka? That adds a whole new layer of awe. While we didn’t quite reach the topmost platform (more on that later), the archer’s presence lingered over the entire tour like a watchful, weathered sentinel. Fortunately, we were able to see it in greater detail out on the capitol grounds.

Tensions Before Statehood

Before Kansas was tossing up domes and aiming arrows skyward, it was embroiled in a tug-of-war that gripped the nation. The 1850s were a turbulent time, with the Kansas-Nebraska Act stirring the pot over whether new territories would allow slavery. What followed was a rush of settlers, some wanting to tilt the balance in the Free State, others leaning pro-slavery. The nation watched with bated breath as Kansas turned into a political powder keg. This unrest didn’t just shape borders; it shaped the very identity of Kansas, forging a fighting spirit that still echoes through the Capitol’s halls.

Becoming a Free State

By 1861, after years of conflict dubbed “Bleeding Kansas,” the territory emerged bloodied but unbowed and entered the Union as a Free State. That history is baked into the Capitol’s bones. The design of the building itself, which took nearly 40 years to complete, reflects that sense of hard-won pride and perseverance. Wandering its corridors, we couldn’t help but think of those who fought for the right to steer Kansas toward freedom. It wasn’t just on battlefields, but in newspapers, town halls, and homesteads. Every corner of this place whispers reminders of that struggle.

Murals That Speak Volumes

If the walls of the Kansas State Capitol Building could talk, they’d probably point you toward the art. Towering murals and intricate mosaics transform the space into a living canvas. John Steuart Curry’s “Tragic Prelude”, with its swirling storm clouds and a wild-eyed John Brown, stops nearly every visitor in their tracks. But don’t miss “Rebel Women”, a more recent addition that celebrates the often-overlooked female figures in Kansas’ history. These works aren’t just decoration—they’re storytelling tools, turning paint and plaster into powerful reminders of resistance, resilience, and revolution.

An Elevator from Another Era

As we made our way deeper into the Capitol, we found ourselves taking a ride in a 1923 cage elevator that felt like something out of a silent movie. The rattle of its ascent, the brass fixtures, the soft clang of the gate—all of it combined to make us feel like we were riding up into history itself. The elevator dropped us off near the legislative chambers, where rows of wooden desks and stained glass ceilings make it easy to picture the clatter of debates and deals. It’s a working monument—still very much alive with purpose.

Our Dual Dome Adventure

And then came the climb. The Kansas Capitol Dome Tour invites brave souls to ascend 296 steps that thread their way between the building’s inner and outer domes. It’s like crawling through the skeleton of a cathedral. Metal catwalks, narrow staircases, and the sight of signatures from the past all added to the adventure. We made it to the third of four levels before the summer heat did us in—ducking out with sweat on our brows and just enough breath left to say, “Next time, earlier in the day.” Still, what we saw was spectacular—especially the view down into the rotunda through the oculus at the dome’s heart.

Would You Brave the Climb?

Our adventure on the Kansas Capitol Dome Tour left us with sore calves, full hearts, and a newfound respect for the architects and lawmakers who’ve passed through this stunning building. Topeka’s historic core is already full of charm, but this climb—both literal and historical—was the high point of our day. If you find yourself in the area and aren’t afraid of a few (hundred) steps, this tour might be the hidden gem you’re looking for. Now we have to ask: Would you climb all 296 steps to the top… or would the heat send you packing too?

The post Kansas Capitol Dome Tour: A Climb Through History appeared first on Our Changing Life.

One Day In Seneca, Kansas: Big Flavor, Small Town Charm

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000

There’s something about small-town Kansas that feels like flipping open the first page of a favorite book. Seneca, Kansas, isn’t trying to be flashy—but that’s part of the charm. It draws you in slowly: a breeze carrying the scent of lilacs, the creak of a bench along Main Street, and the sound of laughter echoing off brick buildings. On our One Day Stay in Seneca Kansas, we found a community that embraces its past, lives entirely in the present, and welcomes strangers like long-lost friends. It’s the kind of place where even time seems to exhale. We weren’t just passing through—we were stepping into a living postcard, where every corner held a surprise, every stop had a story, and every moment felt like it might just linger a little longer than planned.

We want to thank the Seneca Area Chamber for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are ours.

Coffee-First Priorities

We started our morning at Sweetpea’s Bakery—what’s a small-town visit without a strong latte and flaky pastry to match? The air inside was warm and sweet, and the chalkboard menu read like a list of morning blessings. We shared a scone over lattes while listening to the morning news from the locals. Fueled by caffeine and sugar, we wandered down Main Street where history hides in plain sight. Colorful plaques tell tales of early settlers, businesses born of ambition, and a town that grew one storefront at a time. Crystal loved seeing the images from yesteryear, while I soaked up the stories that accompanied them. There’s a rhythm to these quiet places that only reveals itself when you walk the sidewalks and linger at the corner benches.

A Town with Roots

Seneca wears its history like a well-fitted jacket—tailored, polished, and full of personality. As we explored, we discovered various historical sites and museums scattered throughout the town, each offering a glimpse into different chapters of its past. Whether tucked inside repurposed buildings or preserved just as they were a century ago, these spots told stories of pioneers, railroads, community leaders, and everyday life on the plains. Some exhibits featured old-timey tools and household goods, while others focused on the people who helped shape Nemaha County. No matter where we stopped, we found that history here isn’t just on display—it’s shared with pride and a personal touch. If your Kansas day trip includes a soft spot for storytelling and local lore, Seneca’s got plenty of both, served up in the most charming ways.

Window Displays that Wow

Some displays are just meant to stop you in your tracks. The boutiques in Seneca are bursting with creative flair. Crystal, of course, was in visual heaven. I took the opportunity to chat with a few owners while she soaked in the design details. There’s an artistic eye at work here, turning simple retail spaces into little galleries. Even the seasonal decorations hit the mark—nothing overly flashy, just tasteful touches that nod to the moment. I lingered longer than expected, drawn in by the balance of nostalgia and novelty. Seneca’s boutiques prove that small-town doesn’t mean small-vision. Each storefront tells a story—usually written in twinkling lights, weathered wood, and a splash of Kansas hospitality.

Small Town, Big Finds

Downtown Seneca may be compact, but don’t let the size fool you—it’s packed tighter than a Christmas gift basket. One minute, we were admiring vintage dishware in a cozy antique store, and the next, Crystal was beckoning me into a boutique bursting with colorful treasures. We ducked into places like Fitted and Seneca Variety. At each stop, friendly shopkeepers shared tidbits about the town or pointed us toward their favorite lunch spots. You won’t find cookie-cutter souvenirs here—these shops are filled with curated treasures that feel like they belong in someone’s memory box. If your idea of weekend getaways in Kansas involves shopping with a side of community charm, Seneca delivers it gift-wrapped.

Swinging into the Afternoon

After lunch, we changed gears and headed out to Spring Creek Golf Course, just on the edge of town. Now, I’m no pro golfer—unless you count wildly optimistic tee shots and the occasional celebratory fist-pump—but this place made me feel like I belonged on the green. The course itself was a stunner, with rolling fairways, shimmering ponds, and a quiet that made every swing feel cinematic. We played more for the laughs than the leaderboard. For those craving fresh air and a dash of light-hearted competition during their One Day Stay in Seneca Kansas, Spring Creek is a worthy detour.

A Spiritual Masterpiece

No visit to the area is complete without a short detour to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in nearby St. Benedict. Even if you’re not usually one to seek out churches, trust me—this one is worth the pause. This century-old structure is breathtaking, rising from the countryside like a Romanesque crown. Light filters through stained glass windows, painting the pews in jewel tones. Hand-carved altars, intricate frescoes, and soaring arches create a reverence that even the most restless traveler can appreciate. We stood in silent awe, our camera forgotten. There’s a peace here that doesn’t require explanation. For history lovers and seekers of beauty, this is more than a photo op—it’s a moment to reflect, breathe deep, and be reminded that small towns can hold great wonders.

Comfort Food, Amplified

Seneca knows how to feed a traveler, from huge pancakes to mouth-stretching burgers. Breakfast had started strong, but lunch and dinner only raised the bar. We grabbed juicy burgers piled high with toppings at a local bar & grill filled with welcoming locals. Later that evening, we polished off a pizza piled high enough to qualify as a meat mosaic. The crust was that perfect mix of crisp and chewy—the kind you eat even when you’re full. There’s no shortage of hearty eats in Seneca. What are the portions? Let’s say they don’t believe in dainty servings out here. Whether you’re after stick-to-your-ribs meals or carb-laden joy, this town understands the assignment. For foodies chasing flavor on their Kansas day trips, Seneca hits every note.

Banking on Comfort

For the night, we checked into a downtown loft tucked inside the old First National Bank building—talk about a unique stay. The loft was a cozy blend of old bones and modern style—stained glass, oversized windows, soft bedding, and just enough quirk to feel like a secret you want to keep. The best part? We were mere steps from everything downtown. No car keys needed—just a stroll out the door and you’re back in the heart of it all. If you’re planning a One Day Stay in Seneca Kansas, and want a lodging experience with some real character, this place fits the bill.

Evening Energy

When we thought Seneca might be settling in for the night, Music on Main proved us wrong. We wandered back onto Main Street and were greeted by the sound of guitars, laughter, and laughing children. Folding chairs lined the street, neighbors shared the day’s stories, and kids danced like no one was watching (because no one was judging). There’s a warmth to these gatherings—a reminder that community thrives where joy is shared. We grabbed cold drinks, tapped our feet to the beat, and soaked in the atmosphere. This was no sleepy little town—it was alive, pulsing with rhythm and friendliness. For those lucky enough to time their One Day Stay in Seneca Kansas, with one of these events, it’s a sweet cherry on top of a memorable visit.

The Kind of Day That Sticks

Seneca surprised us—not in grand gestures, but in all the small, meaningful ones. A warm hello from a shopkeeper. A peaceful moment in a sunlit church. The last bite of a perfect pizza slice. This One Day Stay in Seneca Kansas gave us more than a checklist of downtown Seneca attractions—it offered a full, heart-filling experience. As the sun dipped low behind the buildings, I thought about our next visit. If you’re curious about more things to do in Seneca, we’ve got you covered. Head over to the rest of our Seneca stories—because this town deserves more than one chapter.

The post One Day In Seneca, Kansas: Big Flavor, Small Town Charm appeared first on Our Changing Life.

Dining in Seneca Kansas

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Have you ever rolled into a town and instantly felt like you’d stumbled onto a front porch gathering you didn’t know you were invited to? That’s exactly how it felt pulling into Seneca, Kansas. The historic downtown, with its brick-lined streets and quaint shops, set the tone before we even found a parking spot. There’s something about small towns that still take pride in a well-swept sidewalk and hand-painted signs. Crystal and I could feel our pace slowing when we stepped out of the car. We weren’t here long before we realized something special: We felt like locals from the moment we arrived. Maybe it was the friendly waves or the aroma of fresh bread wafting from a nearby bakery, but we were ready for a day filled with dining in Seneca, Kansas.

We want to thank the Seneca Area Chamber for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

Morning Buzz at Sweet Pea’s

The first order of business? Coffee. And Sweet Pea’s Bakery had us covered before we even finished stretching our legs. Sitting squarely on Main Street, this charming café was buzzing with early risers sharing morning laughs and catching up on the weather and grandkids. We snagged a table and watched the town wake up with a scone in one hand and a latte in the other. Locals greeted each other like old friends. It reminded me of the old general stores where news was passed around with the sugar packets. The decor is homey and welcoming, a place that causes you to pause longer than expected. It didn’t take long to feel like we belonged.

Comfort Food at Allie’s Café

When a local tipped us off that “Allie’s makes breakfast like Grandma used to,” we didn’t need a second opinion. Inside, the clatter of plates and scent of sizzling bacon wrapped us in a nostalgic hug. The tables were filled with folks catching up over bottomless coffee. We joined them with hearty plates of homestyle breakfasts and pancakes that could’ve doubled as a welcome mat. There’s an art to making comfort food without a hint of pretense, and Allie’s has mastered it. Between bites, we listened to the friendly banter between tables—half the town seemed to know each other, and somehow we didn’t feel like outsiders. Dining in Seneca, Kansas, isn’t just about the food—it’s about the warmth that comes with it.

Lunchtime Challenge at Spanky’s

Let me say this: you don’t accidentally order the Cowboy Burger at Spanky’s. It’s a tower of flavor that dares you to bring your appetite—and maybe a few napkins. The place had a relaxed, come-as-you-are feel, with pool tables in the back and the hum of classic rock bouncing off the walls. Crystal opted for a more sensible salad while I, guided by curiosity (and a dash of stubbornness), squared off against the 1/2 lb. burger stacked high with bacon, onion strings, and BBQ sauce. Spoiler: I didn’t finish it, but I gave it a heroic effort. Afterward, we shot a casual pool game while being welcomed like old classmates. We felt like locals from the moment we arrived, and that feeling just kept deepening.

Evening at Freddy’s Pizza

By sundown, we’d worked up just enough room for a slice—or three—at Freddy’s Pizza Palace. Walking in felt like stepping into a neighborhood gathering, with kids sharing sodas and adults trading stories around the room. We shared a meaty combo, with the kind of crust that crunches perfectly and begs for another bite. There’s something about a pizza joint that brings people together, and Freddy’s nailed that balance of flavor and familiarity. We lingered longer than planned, caught up in friendly chatter and the comforting hum of an evening well spent. As the sun lowered in the evening sky outside, we realized that Seneca didn’t just feed us—it folded us into the rhythm of its day.

Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Looking back on our day of dining in Seneca, Kansas, it’s hard to separate the meals from the moments. At each stop, we found food that filled our bellies and conversation that filled our hearts. With its Main Street steeped in history and residents who treat strangers like cousins, this town reminded us why we love small-town dining so much. There’s a charm here that can’t be bottled—only shared, one bite and smile at a time. We felt like locals from the moment we arrived, and honestly, we left feeling like old friends heading home. Have you ever found a place where the welcome was as memorable as the meal? Seneca might be that place for you, too.

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5 Historic Stops in Southeast Kansas

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 10:17:14 +0000

Have you ever felt the pull of history tugging you off the beaten path? That’s precisely what will happen when you set out to explore 5 historic stops in Southeast Kansas. This isn’t just a list of places, it’s a journey through time, through stories etched into the very soil of small towns and dusty highways. From the echoing cannons of Fort Scott to the quirky nostalgia of Route 66 in Galena, each stop offers a unique slice of history that’s family-friendly and full of surprises. Along with the Miner’s Hall Museum’s fierce Amazon Army legacy, Baxter Springs’ trove of local tales, and the adventurous spirit captured at the Martin & Osa Johnson Museum, this road trip is a living mosaic of Southeast Kansas. So buckle up—history is waiting around the bend, and Crystal and I can’t wait to share what we’ve discovered.

Fort Scott Historic Site: A Frontier Legacy Preserved

Fort Scott is a place where the past feels alive. Initially built in the 1840s, this military post stood as a sentinel during the turbulent days of westward expansion and the violent clashes of Bleeding Kansas. Walking its grounds, I found myself imagining the soldiers’ boots marching across the parade grounds and the tension hanging thick as neighbors fought over slavery’s future. What’s remarkable today is how well-preserved the site is—authentic buildings and self-guided tours let you step back into the 19th century. Crystal patiently waited as I circled for just the right photo angle of the old barracks, while we soaked up stories of courage and conflict. Fort Scott isn’t just history; it’s a window into a frontier that shaped our nation’s destiny.

Miner's Hall Museum: The Amazon Army’s Bold March

The Miner’s Hall Museum in Franklin tells a story that often slips through history’s cracks. It’s the 1921 march of the Amazon Army. These fearless women, mostly wives and daughters of miners, marched to protest dangerous working conditions and unfair labor practices in the local coal mines. We were struck by how their bold stand echoed through the generations. The museum’s exhibits bring this past to life, with artifacts from the mines and a rich history of Balkan immigrants who powered Southeast Kansas’s mining boom. As Crystal and I wandered through displays, I thought about how much grit those women needed to organize in a male-dominated world. Isn’t it something how a small-town museum can stir up more excitement than a blockbuster film?

Cars on the Road: Route 66 Magic in Galena

Who doesn’t love a little roadside Americana? This road trip of 5 historic stops in Southeast Kansas wouldn’t be complete without the Route 66 charm of Galena. This town proudly displays the real-life tow truck that inspired Pixar’s “Cars,” parked right where families can snap photos and kids can imagine their adventures. Quirky murals and vintage signs line the streets, turning a simple stroll into a nostalgic treasure hunt. We captured the playful spirit in every shot, soaking in the stories of travelers who once passed through on the Mother Road. It’s fun and colorful, and history is served with a smile, proof that sometimes the past isn’t just about dates but the joy of discovery.

Baxter Springs Historical Museum: A Trove of Kansas Stories

The Baxter Springs Historical Museum is a hidden gem packed with stories from the Civil War to the last buffalo hunt in Kansas. We were drawn into the diverse exhibits—rusty battle relics, mining tools, and the famous horns from the final buffalo shot in our home state. The collection is a vivid reminder of how layered and surprising Kansas history can be. We loved seeing how the museum connects local legends to larger historical events. Crystal and I lingered over the artifacts, imagining the people behind each piece. Have you ever stood somewhere and felt the past almost breathe beside you? Baxter Springs is precisely that kind of place, where history feels personal and alive.

Martin & Osa Johnson Museum: Adventurers Remembered

Our final stop was the Martin & Osa Johnson Museum in Chanute. It’s dedicated to two remarkable explorers born right here in Southeast Kansas. Their early 20th-century expeditions to Africa and the South Pacific brought back incredible films and photographs, capturing wild landscapes and indigenous cultures with respect and curiosity. The museum’s African mask collection reveals their deep appreciation for the people they met. Crystal was captivated by the vibrant colors and stories behind each artifact, while I marveled at how these hometown adventurers inspired wanderlust long before Instagram existed. Their legacy reminds us that the spirit of exploration lives in all of us, sometimes waiting just around the corner.

A Road Trip for Curious Travelers

What makes these 5 historic stops in Southeast Kansas such a rewarding road trip? It’s the way each place tells a story of struggle, adventure, resilience, and everyday life in this often-overlooked corner of America. As the sun sets on a day of exploring, you’ll reflect on your family-friendly day filled with moments worth sharing. Was it the quiet reflection at Fort Scott or a laugh over Route 66’s quirky charms that was your favorite? If you’re looking for a journey that blends history with heart and a little roadside fun, this trip fits the bill perfectly. If this little tour sparked your curiosity, we’d love for you to share it with friends, because stories this good deserve company on the road.

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Seneca Kansas Historic Sites: A Day of Hidden Stories and Local Charm

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000

There’s a special joy in uncovering stories in places like Seneca, Kansas. The type of town that quietly holds onto its past, inviting travelers who appreciate history’s softer whispers. On a crisp Spring morning, we set out with curiosity and our camera ready for discovery. Seneca, nestled in Northeast Kansas, offers a treasure trove of historic sites that reflect the grit and grace of small-town Kansas history. It’s where history isn’t locked behind glass but lives in firetrucks, wells, and even secret stories tucked into old buildings. For those who choose to travel like locals, these hidden gems are the reward, and Seneca was about to show us exactly why.

We want to thank the Seneca Area Chamber for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are ours.

Ringing the Bells of Bravery

After visiting the downtown Pony Express Museum, our next stop was the Seneca Fire Department Museum. This modest but captivating space houses firefighting relics that tell stories of bravery and community spirit. Dominating the collection was a gleaming 1922 Stutz firetruck — its polished brass fittings and vintage charm made it clear this wasn’t just a vehicle but a guardian of the town’s past. We imagined the firefighters who once raced through Seneca’s streets, sirens blaring, fighting blazes with nothing but grit and early 20th-century equipment. The museum’s artifacts capture that evolution of safety and service, and for anyone who loves the legacy of small-town Kansas history, it’s a must-see glimpse of everyday heroism.

Honoring Heroes

A block away, the Temple of Honor Military Museum offered a somber yet uplifting pause. Its World War I exhibits felt especially poignant, tying Seneca’s local stories to the broader sweep of history. Uniforms, medals, and other artifacts reminded us of the sacrifices made by small-town soldiers, echoing themes we’ve seen at the Kansas City WWI Museum. Walking through the displays, we felt a personal connection to these distant battles, realizing that towns like Seneca sent sons and daughters off to war, each with their own story. It’s a powerful place to reflect on history’s human side and the shared heritage that links communities across Kansas and beyond.

Nemaha County’s Jail-Turned-Museum

Next, we stepped into the Nemaha County Historical Museum, a Seneca, Kansas historic site housed in a building that once served as a jail. The echoes of locked doors and whispered stories linger in the air. It called to mind our visit to the 1859 Jail — another place where the sheriff’s family and prisoners shared one building. Seneca’s museum brought local history alive through artifacts and photos, but the building was a story. It reminded us that every destination has layers—some darker than others—yet all part of the tapestry that shapes identity. Walking those halls, you feel the weight of time and the resilience of a community that remembers its past with respect and curiosity.

The Curious Case of Myrtle Latimer’s Secret

One of the most astonishing stories we came across was that of Myrtle Latimer, who hid her mother’s death for two and a half years to collect her Civil War pension checks. Myrtle’s secret was as macabre as it was cunning—she kept her mother’s body hidden in an old trunk, even going so far as to attempt cremating it to cover her tracks. The trunk holding this grim secret is now on display at the Nemaha County Historical Museum, a chilling reminder of how history can have unexpected tales of desperation and deception. Myrtle’s story adds a profoundly human, if eerie, layer to Seneca’s history—proof that the past is never far from surprising, even in the quietest of towns.

Digging Deep

Not far from the fire museum, the hand-dug well is a testament to Seneca’s resourcefulness. Known as the second-largest hand-dug well in Kansas, it’s a deep, circular marvel carved out by the sheer determination of early settlers. It’s a quiet reminder of a time before modern plumbing, when water was precious and hard-won. Stepping inside and peering into the dark depths, you can almost hear the steady rhythm of shovels and the hopeful chatter of pioneers. This well isn’t just a hole in the ground — it’s a symbol of ingenuity and the hard work that built this community, a story you won’t find in textbooks but in the stones and soil beneath your feet.

Sacred Spaces

As the sun peaked in the sky, we drove to St. Mary’s Church, just north of town. The church’s impressive architecture and serene presence provided a fitting close to our history lesson. Its stained glass windows and ornate interior hold generations of prayers, weddings, and farewells — a quiet witness to the area’s enduring spirit. Standing there, you feel the peaceful continuity that small towns offer, where history isn’t just preserved but lived, every day, in places of worship and gathering. It’s a reminder that these sites are more than attractions; they’re part of the heartbeat of Seneca.

The Heartbeat of Seneca’s History

As our day in Seneca came to a close, we felt that familiar warmth of having traveled like locals. We had peeled back layers of time and connected with grand and humble stories. With its friendly residents and charming streets, this town reminded us why we seek out small towns like Seneca. They surprise, teach, and inspire. Each of these Seneca, Kansas historic sites was a thread woven into the fabric of our home state’s history, showing that even quiet corners of the map hold histories worth savoring. If you’re looking for getaways in Northeast Kansas, Seneca offers a rich and rewarding journey through time, a place to treasure the past while enjoying the moment.

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Watkins Museum of History: Tracing Lawrence’s Fight for Freedom

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:26:27 +0000

In the heart of downtown Lawrence, Kansas, the Watkins Museum of History is a keeper of stories—some proud, some painful, all essential. The town it chronicles was never content to sit quietly in the margins of American history. It was born of abolitionist ideals and hardened by war and protest. Lawrence bears the scars and triumphs of a people determined to shape their destiny. Each layer of its past reveals a battle: freedom, equality, and identity. The echoes remain while time has softened the prairie wind that once carried the cries of conflict. One finds not just names and dates, but voices inside the museum’s limestone walls. They are etched into exhibits, whispered in letters, and painted across the city’s evolving soul. To understand Lawrence is to sit with its history, knowing fully that its history created its path forward.

Where Ideals Met the Frontier

Long before the shooting started, tensions gathered like storm clouds on the edge of the Kansas Territory. As the nation wrestled with the expansion of slavery, Lawrence became a destination for those seeking more than land. They sought liberty. Settled by Free-Staters from New England, many came with high hopes and hardened resolve. They built homesteads alongside newly freed Black families and other migrants searching for a better life. But hope was not enough to shield them from the realities of a divided country. Pro-slavery militias from Missouri crossed the border, clashing with Lawrence’s citizens in violent episodes that foretold a much greater war. Many locals remembered those early years as filled with constant fear, as if the whole town lived with one eye on the horizon. In this cauldron of conflict, a fierce identity was born—one that would be tested in ways few could imagine.

The Day the Sky Fell

At dawn on August 21, 1863, Lawrence awoke to hell. William Quantrill and his band of Confederate guerrillas rode into town with fury in their hearts and torches in their hands. What followed was a massacre—over 150 men and boys killed, homes set ablaze, and the town left in ruins. Survivors spoke of the smoke that hung over the streets like mourning cloth, and of the sound of gunfire that seemed to last forever. It wasn’t just an attack on buildings; it was an attempt to snuff out the spirit of a free town. The raid carved a deep wound into Lawrence’s identity, a trauma that shaped generations. Some say you can feel that morning’s weight in the city’s quiet corners. But Lawrence did not fold. From the ashes of that day rose a fierce determination to endure, rebuild, and remember.

Ashes into Memory

Reconstruction in Lawrence was more than brick and mortar—it was defiance turned into action. Families rebuilt homes on burned foundations, stitched together livelihoods from tattered dreams. The Watkins Museum tells this chapter with artifacts that speak without words: melted glass warped by flame, charred wood once part of a local shop. Each relic captures the fragile courage of a community that chose to stay, to restore what had been lost. Civic institutions rose from the wreckage, echoing the belief that democracy must be defended with arms, archives, and education. The stories told inside the museum today are not just about destruction but rebirth. In Lawrence, memory was not buried under rubble but preserved, curated, and passed forward. This resilience would become the thread woven through every chapter to come.

Abolition’s Shadow and a Nation at War

Before the Civil War consumed the nation, the prairie had already been burning. Lawrence knew John Brown not as a myth, but as a man with fire in his eyes and revolution in his step. His raid on Missouri to free enslaved people and the violent stand at Pottawatomie Creek sent tremors through the town. While his methods divided opinion, few in Lawrence doubted his conviction or the urgency of his cause. As the war officially broke out, many of Lawrence’s young men took up arms for the Union, shaped by the skirmishes they had seen in their streets. The town became both a beacon and a battleground, its fate tied to the larger struggle to define America. The echoes of Brown’s defiance and the town’s sacrifices would continue to haunt and inspire long after the final shots were fired.

Barriers and Boundaries in the Aftermath

Victory in war didn’t guarantee freedom in practice. After the cannons quieted, Lawrence entered the long, uneven road of Reconstruction. The city’s Black citizens built churches, schools, and businesses, determined to claim a space they had helped preserve. But segregation crept in with quiet cruelty. By the 1920s and ’30s, Black students in Lawrence attended separate schools, and many neighborhoods drew invisible lines enforced by prejudice. Oral histories recall the double lives lived—of resilience at home and resistance in public. The Watkins Museum highlights these overlooked decades, tracing stories of Black excellence alongside the ever-present barriers. Doing so reminds visitors that the fight for justice did not end with emancipation, nor was it confined to courtrooms. It was, and is, lived daily in the hearts of citizens demanding their place in the promise of equality.

Marches, Megaphones, and a Movement

By the 1950s and ’60s, Lawrence had become a new kind of battleground—this time with protest signs and sit-ins instead of rifles. Students at the University of Kansas joined with local activists to demand civil rights, often facing backlash that echoed the past. Demonstrators filled Massachusetts Street, their chants rising like hymns for change. School desegregation, fair housing, and police accountability became rallying cries. “There was a fire in the youth,” one witness recalled, “but this time it burned for justice, not revenge.” The Watkins Museum of History preserves these voices and radiates that urgency. This era of activism reshaped both KU and Lawrence, bringing policies and perspectives that are still debated today. The civil rights era wasn’t a passing storm—it was a shift in the winds of conscience, and Lawrence stood squarely in its path, with open eyes and raised fists.

From Protest to Progress

The activism of the 1960s and ’70s didn’t fade—it evolved. Antiwar demonstrations and feminist rallies poured into the streets, making Lawrence a hub of progressive thought on the prairie. These movements challenged KU and city leaders, forcing uncomfortable questions and courageous conversations. Through it all, the town grew—not just in size, but in self-awareness. Today, Lawrence wrestles with its past while daring to dream forward. The Watkins Museum of History stands at the crossroads of remembrance and reflection, guiding new generations through the stories that shaped them. In its quiet galleries and dynamic exhibits, visitors are invited to see what happened and why it still matters. Because history, especially here, is not something we leave behind. In Lawrence, they carry, question, and continue to grow together.

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Seneca Pony Express Museum: Carrying the Flame

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 30 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000

The glow of an oil lamp casts long shadows over a worn wooden desk, where a letter waits patiently beside a pair of steel-rimmed spectacles. This quiet moment, frozen in time, greeted us as we stepped into the Pony Express Museum in Seneca, Kansas. It’s a small museum with a big story—one that rekindles the grit, speed, and spirit of a communications revolution. Our visit was guided by passionate staff who added layers of insight to every room we explored. They weren’t just telling history—they were reviving it. And as we soaked in the ambiance, we imagined the flurry of movement in this same room, just before a courier dashed into the night.

We want to thank the Seneca Area Chamber for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

First Stop from St. Joe

Seneca proudly claims its role as the first Home Station along the Pony Express route after leaving St. Joseph, Missouri. Riders would thunder across the plains, their horses lathered and legs aching, only to find a fresh mount and a moment of rest in this northeast Kansas town. Our guide explained how Seneca served as a relay point where riders handed off precious mail, much like the baton in a cross-country race. The town’s strategic location turned it into a hub of urgent energy during the Pony Express’s brief but blazing run.

Wagons and a Changing West

Inside the main exhibit hall, we paused beside an old freight wagon. Nearby, a sepia-toned photo shows Seneca in the early 1900s, when the Pony Express had long since ended but the town remained a lively hub of commerce and connection. Our guide noted that the need for reliable transport didn’t vanish after the Express folded; it simply shifted gears. Wagons like this one kept goods and mail moving until railroads claimed the land. It’s a quiet, powerful reminder that while history often celebrates the flash of innovation, the steady hands of transition deserve equal admiration. Seneca grew up around these changes, from wild frontier to rooted community.

Supper and Shelter

Around the corner, a scene that felt worlds apart from the high-speed drama outside unfolded. A simple wooden table, complete with crockery and a stove in the corner, was set for a meal. This was the kitchen, where hot meals offered a brief touch of humanity to weary young men. The museum’s recreation of this dining space was done with such care that we could almost smell the biscuits baking. Our guide smiled as she pointed out the timeless details—“These boys didn’t just need speed. They needed calories.” Riders might only have a few minutes to wolf down a meal, but it was enough to fuel another hundred miles.

Bathwater and Bedrolls

Not far from the kitchen, another room showed what passed for comfort back then: a tin bathtub and a humble bed topped with period linens. After hours in the saddle, it must’ve felt heavenly. We paused by the bath and imagined the steam rising after a rider soaked off the trail dust. Our guide noted that rest wasn’t just luxury—it was survival. Riders might be back on the trail within hours, but even short stints of rest kept men and horses from breaking down entirely. These details turned abstract history into something tangible.

The Devil Man Rides Again

One tale, in particular, lingered with us long after the tour: the story of Melville Baughn. Once a proud Pony Express rider, Baughn later earned the “Devil Man” moniker for his descent into outlaw territory. As the Express folded and times changed, some riders struggled to find their way. Baughn’s tale is displayed with a stark honesty that doesn’t glamorize the violence but reveals the vulnerability behind these frontier legends. It’s a haunting reminder that while the mail rode fast, life in the Old West had no guarantees of glory.

The Last Ride and the Spirit That Remains

The Pony Express lasted barely 18 months, but its impact still echoes. It was a marvel of speed and determination—eventually outpaced by the telegraph but never forgotten. One of our guides is a modern-day reenactor who carries mail bags across the old route each year in tribute to those brave young riders. The photos show proud descendants riding through the plains, honoring a service that shaped the American story. The Seneca Pony Express Museum not only preserves history but inspires it.

Ride On, History Buffs

As we wrapped up our visit, we felt the tug of history still alive in these quiet rooms. The desk, the dishes, even the outlaw’s tale—each piece invites you into the story. If you’re passing through northeast Kansas, don’t let this stop slip by. Whether you’re a history buff, a road tripper, or someone who loves a good story well told, the Seneca Pony Express Museum has a letter it’s been saving just for you. Are you ready to pick it up?

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8 Reasons Pittsburg, Kansas Will Steal Your Heart

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 23 May 2025 11:20:32 +0000

There’s a particular kind of magic to a town that still waves at strangers. That was our first impression of Pittsburg, Kansas—a community rich with heart, history, and a hint of sweet nostalgia. Nestled in the southeastern corner of the Sunflower State, Pittsburg isn’t flashy or fast-paced. Instead, it invites you to slow down and soak in its blend of small-town warmth and historic grit. With its roots in coal mining and a spirit kept alive by generations of hardworking folks, Pittsburg surprised us at every turn. We came for a weekend getaway, but left feeling like we’d visited old friends.

We want to thank Explore Crawford County for their assistance. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

A Festival Full of Small-Town Flavor

Our timing couldn’t have been better, as Pittsburg was in celebration mode with the Cow Creek Festival in full swing. There’s something special about joining a community at their backyard party. From the smell of hot coffee drifting through the air to the rhythmic motion of a cowboy trick-roper, it felt like being wrapped in a quilt made of tradition. We chatted with local artisans and stumbled into a history lesson or two. Events like this are why we love traveling like locals—it’s where the soul of a town truly shows itself.

Exploring the Crawford County Historical Museum

The festival is held on the grounds of the Crawford County Historical Museum. While the museum hosts a collection of intriguing artifacts, the mine diorama inside really drew me in. This detailed model brings to life the world that once thrived beneath the surface, where miners toiled in narrow tunnels lit only by the dim glow of carbide lamps. Equally captivating was the bootlegging exhibit, which shed light on the area’s Prohibition-era past. The region’s network of hidden stills and covert operations added a layer of drama to its already rich history.

Big Bites and Sweet Surprises

All that exploring tends to stir an appetite, and The Pitt was ready to answer the call. I went full tilt with the Cowboy burger—a towering beast stacked with two beef patties, American cheese, and a chicken filet. Crystal eyed it with amusement as she helped herself to one of my tots. I enjoyed each bite but held back to keep room for dessert. At The Blue Spoon, we were surrounded by a pie case that whispered sweet nothings. Let’s say self-control didn’t make the trip with us. After polishing off our slices, it was time to burn some energy.

Strolling Broadway’s Unique Boutiques

Refueled and ready, we explored Broadway Street, the town’s main drag and a treasure trove of boutiques. There’s something invigorating about strolling past display windows filled with handmade jewelry, Kansas-themed gifts, and quirky home goods. We ducked into a handful of shops, each with a personality and friendly owner ready to share a story. Whether you’re a serious shopper or just along for the stroll, Broadway offers a delightful mix of browsing and banter. It’s where you find things you didn’t know you needed until you see them.

A Bookstore With Furry Friends

When we thought Pittsburg couldn’t surprise us again, we discovered The Literary Cat. We’ve visited our fair share of bookstores, but this one takes the cake—or the catnip. The moment Crystal spotted a tabby lounging in the window, she was all in. Inside, the smell of books mixed with the soft purrs of resident felines wandering between shelves. It felt more like a cozy reading nook than a store. We spent a chunk of time thumbing through titles and making furry new friends. Honestly, it was the place you wish you lived next door to.

Honoring Coal Country’s Legacy

Our curiosity about Pittsburg’s mining roots took us just a short drive to the Miner’s Hall Museum in Franklin. It’s one of those places that tells a story larger than its square footage. The exhibits highlighted the role of Balkan immigrants in shaping this region. They told the powerful story of the Amazon Army—a group of women who boldly stood up for workers’ rights. It’s a must-see for anyone who wants to understand what fuels this town’s resilient spirit. The stories may be local, but their lessons echo far beyond Kansas.

A Flavorful Farewell at Gebhardt’s

As the sun began to dip, we capped off our visit with dinner at Gebhardt’s. From the moment we walked in, the scent of fried chicken told us we’d made the right choice. The dining room was filled with locals called by name by the staff. We savored the crispy onion rings before digging into our meals, which felt like they came from Grandma’s kitchen. Each bite felt like a final love letter from Pittsburg. Here’s the spoiler: we left full, happy, and already plotting our return.

Why Pittsburg, Kansas Belongs on Your Travel List

Pittsburg, Kansas may not have neon lights or tourist-packed attractions, but that’s precisely its charm. Instead, it offers a hearty serving of authenticity, wrapped in friendly smiles and stories waiting to be shared. From the energy of the Cow Creek Festival to the peaceful corners of its bookstores and museums, there’s a quiet magic that lingers long after you leave. If you’re looking for things to do in Pittsburg Kansas, that offer a deeper kind of reward—connection, discovery, and maybe a delicious burger—consider this your invitation. Just don’t be surprised if it steals your heart like it did ours.

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From Coal Dust to Corn Liquor: Bootlegging in Southeast Kansas

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 16 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000

There’s a quiet poetry to small-town museums, the kind you only hear if you lean in close enough. We found that on a damp morning walk through the Crawford County Historical Museum in Pittsburg, Kansas. It’s a place that whispers stories from the rafters and breathes life into dusty corners of America’s past. One such story, bubbling just beneath the surface, is that of bootlegging in Southeast Kansas. It’s a saga stitched into the fabric of working-class lives that bent the rules and reshaped a region. Here, history isn’t locked in glass cases; it sits with you on the porch and tells you what happened when the law came knocking.

Voices Around the Fire

We had the good fortune to visit during the Cow Creek Festival, an annual celebration as sweet and sticky as sorghum molasses. It’s the kind of gathering where strangers are just folks you haven’t met yet. As we wandered the booths, we fell into easy conversation with locals who spoke not only about mining and museums but also about family lore. Stories of hidden stills and shotgun warnings, of neighbors who drank together in secret and prayed together in public. Their words brought Kansas Prohibition history alive in ways no textbook ever could. Each tale was another layer in a deep-rooted culture of resistance, resilience, and resourcefulness.

Gunpowder on the Prairie

Cow Creek has a more extended memory than just the Prohibition era. Long before the liquor flowed underground, there was blood spilled above it. The Cow Creek Skirmish, one of the westernmost engagements of the Civil War, unfolded nearby. It reminds us that even these peaceful plains have known the rumble of conflict. A few old-timers at the festival still recall stories passed down, tales of frightened farmers watching blue and gray coats pass through fields of ripening wheat. It’s hard to imagine war in a place this gentle, but history rarely asks permission to intrude.

Black Diamonds and Broken Backs

From those Civil War days, Southeast Kansas turned its eyes to the earth. The coal beneath the prairie drew men from every corner of the globe, and with them came the boomtowns. Coal mining towns with names like Frontenac and Arma were built on grit and sweat. Pittsburg was the beating heart of it all, where the mine whistle was a daily bell and dinner came late, after blackened faces were washed clean in tin basins. Coal shaped the bones of the region, hardening it and creating communities that would weather far more than just the perils of cave-ins.

Dry Laws and Damp Spirits

The 20th century brought a new kind of conflict, not with rifles but with reformers. Kansas’s Prohibition history stretches farther than most states, with laws dry as toast even before the national ban arrived. The temperance movement may have marched under banners of morality, but the reality was different in homes where work was hard and pay was lean. The line between law and life blurred, and in towns like Pittsburg, folks learned to walk it with quiet determination.

Bootstraps and Barrels

It was tough on the Balkan immigrants in Kansas, many of whom had left behind one set of troubles in Europe only to find fresh ones in America. As the mines began to close and jobs dried up, these newcomers turned to what they knew or what they could learn quickly. Bootlegging in Southeast Kansas wasn’t just rebellion; it was survival. In basements and barns, they brewed their hope, one batch at a time. They knew how to keep a secret and spread warmth in the dead of a Kansas winter.

Moonshine and Model Ts

These days, there’s something almost romantic about the days of hidden flasks and password-only parlors. The legacy of bootlegging in Southeast Kansas can still be traced through stories of tunnels beneath taverns, of Model Ts loaded with hooch racing down gravel backroads. Some even say these midnight mechanics laid the groundwork for something faster and flashier: the earliest days of NASCAR. It’s a tale as American as apple pie—only this pie came with a kick.

Small Places, Big Stories

By the time we left the Crawford County Historical Museum, I felt as if I’d spent a morning with relics and the people themselves. These aren’t just exhibits, they’re echoes. Bootlegging in Southeast Kansas may not have the star power of Chicago’s gangland tales, but its human scale makes it all the more compelling. If you cherish the little places that history forgot, steer off the interstate. A story awaits you in a county museum, where America speaks softer tones but no less truthfully.

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Miner’s Hall Museum: The March of the Amazon Army

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 09 May 2025 10:30:47 +0000

Some stories are hidden just beneath the surface, waiting to be dug up and dusted off. In the rolling fields of Southeast Kansas, we found one such story, rooted in grit, sweat, and the stubborn resolve of everyday people. My introduction to it came during long, humid summers spent at my grandparents’ house in West Mineral. Big Brutus, the largest electric shovel still standing, loomed like a steel giant across the prairie. While other kids built sandcastles, I watched coal torn from the earth, unaware of the generations who had lived, and sometimes died, pulling energy from the ground. At the Miner’s Hall Museum in Franklin, Kansas, those lives are remembered in exhibits and spirit. If you know how to listen, it’s a place where the past still speaks.

A Legacy Forged in Coal

Coal mining in Southeast Kansas began in earnest after 1866, when the state’s first underground shaft was sunk near Pittsburg. What followed was a boom of backbreaking labor and booming towns. Rail lines stretched like arteries across the land, feeding the hunger of an industrializing nation. Thousands poured in to dig, drill, and dynamite. The coal was plentiful, thick seams buried just beneath the surface, and soon, Kansas became a hub for deep shaft and strip mining. It wasn’t glamorous work, but it was work, and for many newly arrived immigrants, it meant hope.

Towns Built on Black Dust

With the coal came the towns: places like Mineral, Arma, and Franklin, pinned to the land by the needs of the mines. Rows of houses lined dirt roads, often just a stone’s throw from the shafts. Each town had its rhythm: the clatter of miners’ boots in the morning, the creak of union hall doors at night. The halls were more than meeting places—they were the heartbeat of these communities, where decisions were made, stories shared, and solidarity formed. Unity was often the only way to survive in towns built on black dust.

Danger in the Darkness

The deeper you went, the more dangerous it became. The mines employed timbermen, trappers, loaders, pickers, shot firers, and mule drivers. Each job had its risks, from cave-ins to gas explosions, from black lung to crushed limbs. The workday started before sunrise and often ended with soot caked in every body crevice. Accidents were tragically common, and every family had its own story, an uncle, a brother, a father, who never came home. To walk through the Miner’s Hall Museum is to walk in their footsteps, with solemn respect for the price paid by so many.

Blue Jeans and Innovation

Yet even in such a harsh world, ingenuity found a foothold. One miner, Louis Baima, saw a need for more durable workwear and designed what became known as “coal mining jeans.” Reinforced with extra stitching and made for the tight, dirty spaces underground, they were a practical solution born from experience. Today, they’re just a footnote in fashion history. Still, in Kansas, Baima’s jeans are a reminder that miners didn’t just endure, they adapted, innovated, and shaped the world around them, even if few outside the region ever noticed.

Owing My Soul

Coal companies often paid in scrip, redeemable only at company-owned stores. The prices were high, the goods usually meager, and the debt nearly inescapable. No wonder the song “Sixteen Tons” resonated with so many; “You load sixteen tons, and what do you get? Another day older and deeper in debt.” This wasn’t just music, it was life. For many families in Southeast Kansas, economic freedom was as far underground as coal. The company stores ensured that the bosses were always paid, no matter the cost to the men and women digging.

The Amazon Army Marches

And then there was a day the women said, “Enough.” In December 1921, thousands of women, many of them immigrants from the Balkans, rose in protest. They became known as the Amazon Army, marching to prevent strikebreakers from entering the mines during a tense labor dispute. Armed with cooking pots, rolling pins, and fierce determination, they shut down mining operations in a way no man could have predicted. It wasn’t violence they used, it was volume, unity, and sheer will. Their bravery, often overlooked in history books, is honored at the Miner’s Hall Museum.

Digging Into the Past

These stories of danger and dignity, families and futures forged underground, aren’t just relics of a forgotten past. They’re the backbone of a region still shaped by coal and courage. If you find yourself near Franklin, Kansas, take the time to visit the Miner’s Hall Museum. Walk the halls, read the names, hear the echoes. This is American history, but more than that, it’s human history. And who knows? Like I did as a boy staring up at Big Brutus, you might find that the biggest stories are sometimes the ones buried beneath our feet.

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Gebhardt’s Chicken Dinners: A Nostalgic Bite of Crawford County’s Famous Chicken Wars

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 02 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Back in the days when folks dressed up for Sunday dinner and fried chicken was king, Crawford County, Kansas, had its own version of the Wild West. But instead of gunslingers and cattle rustlers, fried chicken joints waged battle—each claiming the crown for the crispiest, juiciest plate in town. One of the front-runners in this delicious feud was Gebhardt’s Chicken Dinners, a humble place near the tracks in Mulberry. The air around it carried the mouthwatering perfume of golden-brown chicken, drawing in travelers like bees to clover.

We want to thank Explore Crawford County and Gebhardt’s Chicken Dinners for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all opinions are our own.

A Railroad Town With a Flavorful Past

Mulberry wasn’t always a sleepy speck on the map. In the early 20th century, it was a bustling mining town with a train line that stitched it into the fabric of the country. When the miners weren’t underground, they were looking for hearty fare—and the Gebhardt family delivered. Quite literally, at first, from their modest kitchen. But what started as a home-cooked operation grew into a roadside attraction, especially once hungry railroad workers spread the word. And in a place where time seemed to slow, the chicken dinners sure made life a little more flavorful.

A Family Affair That Spanned Generations

It’s hard to say what made Gebhardt’s Chicken Dinners so special. Maybe it was the family recipes passed down with care, or perhaps it was just that they cooked like they meant it. For me, the magic started in the back seat of my grandparents’ car, one of those long summer evenings when the sun lingered just a little longer in the Kansas sky. We’d drive the backroads of Crawford County, windows down, the smell of pasture grass mixing with the anticipation of fried chicken. Gebhardt’s was one of our favorites. We’d sit in a padded booth while iced tea beads trickled down tall glasses and the server called everyone “hon” like they meant it. Looking back, it wasn’t just dinner—it was family, laughter, and a taste of tradition served hot from the fryer.

The Great Chicken Wars of Southeast Kansas

Now, folks around Pittsburg, Kansas, will tell you there wasn’t a single winner in the Chicken Wars. Gebhardt’s had rivals: Chicken Annie’s, Chicken Mary’s, and a few others that lined the roads like culinary landmarks. These weren’t battles fought with anger, but with cast-iron skillets and secret spice blends. Loyalty ran deep, but didn’t prevent variety. I remember my grandma had her system of choosing. It was all about the side dishes. When she had a taste for the best creamy slaw and German potato salad in the county, well, that meant we were heading straight to Gebhardt’s Chicken Dinners. For us, the sides were just as serious as the main event, and grandma always had the final say.

More Than a Meal—A Memory

Eating at Gebhardt’s was more than satisfying your hunger—it was a slice of Americana, deep-fried and seasoned to perfection. People drove in from across the state and beyond to relive a childhood meal or introduce the next generation to a rite of passage. For me, the memory stretches past the last bite. I still remember the ride home—windows cracked to let in the summer breeze, the car filled with fried chicken’s warm, lingering scent. Grandma would hum softly along with the radio, Grandpa would tap the steering wheel in rhythm, and I’d sit in the backseat, full and content, already dreaming about our next visit. It wasn’t just a meal but a moment, preserved in gravy and time.

A New Generation at the Helm

As the years rolled on and the world outside grew a little faster and noisier, the heart of Gebhardt’s stayed rooted in family. When it came time to pass the apron, the legacy didn’t go far—it simply shifted to the next generation. Meg, daughter of the Gebhardt family, took up the spatula with the same care and pride as those who came before her. She learned the rhythms of the kitchen like a second language—when to flip the chicken, how to greet a regular by name, and just how long to let the gravy simmer. Meg didn’t reinvent Gebhardt’s; she preserved it, with a gentle touch that proves some traditions don’t need updating. These days, her hands carry the family legacy forward, one dinner plate at a time.

A Legacy That Still Sizzles

While many roadside favorites have faded into memory, Gebhardt’s has held on, still serving up crispy comfort and Kansas hospitality like they did years ago. The world may have changed, but the heart of this place hasn’t missed a beat—or a sprinkle of salt. These days, visiting Gebhardt’s Chicken Dinners is like stepping back into a simpler time, where the pace is slower, the portions are generous, and the chicken? Well, it still steals the show. Pull up a chair if you’re rolling through Crawford County with an empty belly and an appetite for nostalgia. There’s a hot plate waiting for you.

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The Hidden Wonders of Rolling Hills Zoo

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 04:40:00 +0000

Nestled in the heart of Kansas, Rolling Hills Zoo offers a delightful mix of adventure and education. During our visit, we discovered that this Salina gem holds more than just animals; it’s packed with hidden wonders waiting to be explored. From the immersive wildlife museum to up-close animal encounters, every turn revealed something unexpected. This zoo is more than just a pit stop—it’s a destination that invites visitors to connect with nature and learn its secrets. Join us as we uncover the surprises that make Rolling Hills Zoo a must-see attraction in the Sunflower State.

We want to thank Rolling Hills Zoo for hosting our visit. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Elusive Views

As we wandered through the zoo, we couldn’t help but hope for a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard. These majestic creatures are known for their stealth and tendency to lounge in hard-to-spot areas. Imagine our surprise when we found one on the move! With its thick, silvery coat and piercing eyes, it gracefully navigated its enclosure, offering us a rare chance to see it in action. We stood captivated, snapping photos and marveling at its beauty. Moments like this remind us why visiting zoos can be such an incredible experience.

Animal Diversity at Rolling Hills Zoo

Our journey through Rolling Hills Zoo introduced us to a wide array of fascinating animals. We watched as giraffes gracefully strolled by, their heads reaching the treetops. A proud lion surveyed the landscape from a perch high above the crowds. We passed grazing zebras, their striking stripes creating a mesmerizing pattern in the sunlight. From the bounding wallabies to the uniquely colored Highland cow, every exhibit offered a chance to connect with wildlife. Each stop was a reminder of the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom.

Family Destination

The Kids Country exhibit, at Rolling Hills Zoo, adds an extra layer of fun to visits. This family-friendly area is designed to let little ones get up close with a variety of barnyard animals. We spotted goats looking for new friends. On this cool day, the chickens were spending time indoors. That left plenty of room for the sheep to roam. It was easy to see why this exhibit is such a hit with families—it’s an interactive experience that creates lasting memories. After exploring the outdoor exhibits, we were ready to uncover more hidden wonders in The Wildlife Museum.

Life's Hard Lessons

Inside The Wildlife Museum at Rolling Hills Zoo, the lion displays brought the king of the jungle to life in a stunning way. The exhibits showcased life-sized dioramas of lions in their natural habitat, capturing the drama and beauty of the African savannah. Detailed scenes depicted a pride on the hunt, their powerful forms frozen mid-action. Informative panels shared fascinating facts about their social structure, hunting tactics, and conservation challenges. The realism of the displays made it feel as if we had stepped into their world, offering a closer understanding of these majestic predators.

Watch for Details

The 64,000-square-foot Wildlife Museum, at Rolling Hills Zoo, is a treasure trove of meticulously crafted animal displays. Each exhibit transports visitors to a different corner of the globe, showcasing creatures in lifelike settings. We marveled at hyenas stalking the savannah, polar bears braving icy landscapes, and jaguars hidden in dense jungles. The attention to detail is astonishing—every scene tells a story if you look closely. In the Arctic display, we spotted two hunters camouflaged in the snow, a clever nod to the human connection with wildlife. With its diverse array of animals and immersive storytelling, this museum offers a world-class experience in the heart of Kansas.

Listen to Their Stories

The Wildlife Museum at Rolling Hills Zoo goes beyond animals to highlight the human connection to nature with state-of-the-art animatronic robots. These lifelike figures are scattered throughout the exhibits, sharing captivating stories and intriguing facts about their environments. From a street snake charmer playing for coins to a Maasai tribesman explaining his community’s coexistence with lions, each robot brings a unique cultural perspective. The movements and voices are realistic, which makes this experience extraordinary. These animatronics add an educational and interactive element that truly elevates the museum experience.

Discover the Hidden Wonders

Our visit to Rolling Hills Zoo was filled with unforgettable moments, from the lively outdoor exhibits to the immersive Wildlife Museum. This central Kansas destination offers a blend of animal encounters and educational experiences for all ages. With reasonable admission prices—$16.95 for adults, $15.95 for seniors, and $8.95 for kids—it’s an affordable adventure for families and travelers alike. Whether you’re seeking a fun day trip or a deeper connection with wildlife, Rolling Hills Zoo delivers. We left with a newfound appreciation for nature and a desire to return in the future.

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Exploring the Hidden Gems of Southwest Kansas: A FAM Trip Full of Surprises

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

From windswept prairies to small towns brimming with character, Southwest Kansas is a destination that exceeded our expectations. As locals, we thought we knew the state well, but our first FAM (familiarization) trip had us discovering new facets of Kansas life that we’d never experienced before. From the quirky roadside attractions to the rich history that shaped these plains, each stop along the way was a reminder that there’s always something new to explore in your own backyard. Join us as we dive into the hidden gems and local favorites that make Southwest Kansas a truly unforgettable experience!

Our First FAM Trip

Stepping into our first FAM trip, we found ourselves surrounded by a lively group of fellow explorers—all women (except for me). They each brought unique insights and energy to the table. As first-timers, we weren’t sure what to expect, but the group’s warm camaraderie quickly set the tone. Our host, Kansas Tourism, was represented by Colby, who would serve many roles during the trip. We are sure that it often felt like herding cats, especially when we all needed that “one special photo” before moving on. Between the laughs, shared stories, and tips exchanged, we developed a connection. Traveling alongside a diverse, tight-knit crew made the experience even more memorable. We were prepared to explore new sights and share in the joy of discovery with people who truly understood the thrill of the road. Now lets go see what SW Kansas has to offer!

An Iconic Character

M.T. Liggett was a self-taught, bold artist whose unconventional works have left a lasting mark on Mullinville, Kansas. Known for his fiercely independent spirit, Liggett spent decades crafting sculptures that reflect his unapologetic views on politics, culture, and society. Born in Kansas, he returned to Mullinville after a stint in the Air Force, bringing with him a vision to turn his corner of the prairie into something both provocative and unforgettable. Liggett’s life was as colorful as his art; he thrived on stirring conversation and challenging mainstream beliefs, which he accomplished through each piece of welded art he created.

Unapologetic Artwork

The M.T. Liggett Art Environment is a sprawling outdoor gallery filled with towering metal sculptures, spinning pieces, and vibrantly painted figures. Each work carries a statement that reflects Liggett’s strong opinions on government, society, and local happenings. His art is raw and striking, with imagery that is humorous, controversial, and thought-provoking. Walking through his field of art is like stepping into the mind of someone who dared to say the things many have only thought. His creations made us see life from a fresh perspective, showing that art isn’t always about beauty; sometimes, it’s about sparking dialogue or making a statement.

Now, That's a Big Hole!

Our stop at the Big Well Museum in Greensburg, Kansas, was a unique experience that gave us a glimpse into one of the world’s largest hand-dug wells and the resilience of the town around it. We were drawn to the massive, stone-lined structure stretching 109 feet into the earth as we entered. Crystal took the lead, stepping onto the spiral staircase that descends alongside the well’s walls. She demonstrated just how deep this Kansas marvel truly is. As she continued, she felt the air grow cooler and the sense of awe deepened. We could only imagine the grit and determination it took to carve out this massive structure by hand back in 1887. The museum around it offers insight into both the well’s history and Greensburg’s recovery after a devastating tornado, making it a powerful symbol of strength and community spirit.

Winding Up Day 1

Our final Day 1 stop was a visit to Horse Thief Reservoir near Jetmore, Kansas. Pulling in, we discovered a peaceful destination, with scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere. As the sun sank low in the sky, we enjoyed a catered meal, while hearing about the area. After dinner, we were invited to check out one of the cozy, rustic yurts. These are available for stays and provide a unique and comfortable dwelling close to the water’s edge. As we finished our tour, we discovered that the evening sky had transformed into a brilliant palette of yellows, oranges, and pinks. This would make the perfect backdrop for an evening spent outdoors.

Day 2 Begins with History

Our second day found us piling back into the van and hitting the road. The group had developed into a “think tank” where unique perspectives were shared, as well as some interesting stories. We arrived at the Historic Adobe Museum in Ulysses, to delve into the region’s gritty past. While Crystal remained with the group, I wandered off to pursue photos. Walking through the museum, I found myself drawn to the exhibit on Carbon Black Production. It played a pivotal role in the area’s early industry and transformed Ulysses into a bustling center for this unique resource. An exhibit on the Dust Bowl reminded me of the challenges faced by Kansas farmers and families during the early 1930s.

From Brazen to Bizarre

We traveled to Garden City, where we made a stop at the Finney County Museum. This proved to be an eclectic journey through local history, which left us intrigued and entertained. One of the standout exhibits featured the notorious Fleagle Gang, a group of criminals whose antics captured the headlines throughout the nation. Truman Capote visited the area while researching for his book about the crime. The blend of local lore, literary connections, and quirky attractions made the Finney County Museum a highlight of our trip. We couldn’t help but chuckle at the bizarre exhibit showcasing the world’s largest hairball, a quirky testament to the town’s unique charm and sense of humor.

Getting the Heck into Dodge City

It had been a few years since we stepped foot in Dodge City. One of the places we missed on our first visit was the House of Stone. This FAM trip would give us another chance. This unique adobe structure was built in the late 19th century. It showcases the extraordinary skill of local artisans who used native materials to create a home that has withstood the test of time. As we explored its rooms, we marveled at the intricate stonework and original furnishings, each telling a story of the pioneers who once called it home. The guided tour brings the past to life, highlighting fascinating anecdotes about the house’s construction and its significance in the community.

A Refreshing Stop

Our visit to Dodge City would have been incomplete without a stop at Boot Hill Distillery. Our group was greeted by the warm, inviting atmosphere that echoed the spirit of the Old West. We indulged in a delicious craft cocktail made with the distillery’s signature spirits. The owner led us on a tour, where he wove local lore into the distillery’s history. Sipping on the expertly crafted cocktail, I was reminded of the unique flavors that reflected the essence of Dodge City. It’s a vibrant blend of Wild West history, cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of community that invites visitors to explore its rich past and lively present.

Hidden Gems in Southwest Kansas

As we wrapped up our FAM trip through Southwest Kansas, it was clear that this region is a treasure trove of history, art, and natural beauty. The stories we collected, the friendships we forged, and the experiences we shared painted a vivid picture of Kansas. From the vibrant art scene to the rich historical narratives, Southwest Kansas is a destination that deserves to be explored, and we were left with a newfound appreciation for the heart and soul of this incredible area. We encourage you to consider a familiarization escape to this unique section of our home state.

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Greensburg, Kansas – A Tale Of Rebirth

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 04:30:00 +0000

Living in Tornado Alley, an area stretching from Texas to Nebraska, means grappling with both the thrill and the challenge of nature’s raw power. For decades, Greensburg, Kansas was known for being the home of the largest hand-dug well in the world. On the evening of May 7, 2007, their history would be forever changed. Residents here are accustomed to the unpredictable weather, with storm seasons bringing heightened vigilance and preparedness. That fateful evening brought an experience no one could have imagined.

We want to thank Kansas Tourism and Visit Greensburg for hosting our visit. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Destruction in the Dark

In early May 2007, a significant tornado outbreak struck the Central United States. At 9:45 pm, on May 7, an EF5 twister tore into Greensburg. It was estimated that the funnel was 1.7 miles wide, bigger than the city. The twister carved a path of destruction nearly 22 miles long. The storm, with winds exceeding 200 miles per hour, devastated almost every structure, leaving a scene of utter desolation. Homes were obliterated, businesses flattened, and the town’s infrastructure was reduced to rubble. For the residents of Greensburg, the tornado was a harrowing ordeal that tested their spirit and resilience in unimaginable ways.

Ranking a Tornado's Power

The Fujita Scale, developed by Dr. Tetsuya Fujita in 1971, is a system used to classify the intensity of tornadoes, based on the damage they cause. This scale was later revised into the Enhanced Fujita Scale in 2007 to improve damage assessment accuracy. It ranges from EF0 to EF5, with EF0 representing the weakest tornadoes and EF5 the most extreme. The scale assesses the damage to buildings, vegetation, and infrastructure to estimate wind speeds. For instance, an F0 tornado might cause minimal damage, while an F5 tornado can result in devastating destruction, as seen in Greensburg.

Total Devastation

The EF5 tornado brought the pinnacle of destructive power, causing unparalleled devastation. With estimated wind speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour, the twister obliterated entire neighborhoods, reducing sturdy buildings to debris and stripping homes down to their foundations. The tornado’s ferocious winds flattened well-built structures, flung vehicles through the air, and scattered debris over vast distances. The impact on the environment was equally severe, as trees were uprooted and large areas of vegetation were shredded. The aftermath of the tornado left Greensburg in ruins.

Hope Rises in Greensburg

In the aftermath, the people of Greensburg faced the monumental task of rebuilding from scratch. Determined to rise from the ruins, they decided to transform their disaster into an opportunity for renewal. Embracing the principles of sustainability and environmental consciousness, the town embarked on a bold plan to reconstruct using green technologies and eco-friendly practices. This vision was about physical reconstruction and fostering a renewed sense of community and purpose.

Greensburg Goes Green

As the new town was reshaped, Greensburg’s recovery attracted national attention. The town’s efforts were showcased as a successful example of how disaster recovery could be coupled with environmental responsibility. Media coverage highlighted the community’s innovative approach, inspiring other towns and cities to consider similar sustainable practices. Greensburg has become a symbol of hope, demonstrating that positive changes are possible, even in the face of adversity.

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Buckle Up For An Abilene, Kansas Day Trip

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 31 May 2024 04:30:00 +0000

We are on a mission to show people that interesting stories are found all across North America. One of our favorite historic destinations is Abilene, Kansas. This northern stop along the Chisholm Trail has plenty of Wild West history, but the stories don’t end there. Our news feed is often filled with new things to see and do in this Midwestern city. Recently, we discovered that they are home to the World’s Largest Belt Buckle, which we had to see for ourselves. Let’s look at our fun experiences from a recent Abilene day trip.

Filling Our Bellies First

We arrived in Abilene as lunchtime was approaching. After a quick stop at the local Visitors Center, we headed to Midwest Creamery & Q. This relative newcomer has taken up residence in one of the beautiful homes that line Buckeye Avenue. Since it was a little early for ice cream, we decided to sample some of their barbecue. Service was quick and we couldn’t wait to try their chopped brisket and pulled pork. With our hunger satisfied, it was time to head out exploring.

Dog Days

It had been years since I last visited the Greyhound Hall of Fame and Crystal had never been. This FREE attraction tells the story of the Sport of Queens. We found plenty of information that explained how racing these speedy canines evolved into a game of chance. To make our visit extra special, we had an opportunity to meet a couple of the greyhounds. These graceful beasts are lovingly gentle, and Crystal made a fast friend.

Familiar Sights

Our Abilene day trip occurred on an overcast day, so we decided to take some selfies. It’s easy to find the unique murals dotting the downtown area. After capturing a few images, we headed to the Eisenhower Presidential Library. Here we practiced our “V for Victory” stance with Ike keeping a watchful eye. On our way to our next stop, we were paused at the train tracks. The Abilene & Smoky Valley excursion was heading out of town. As the historic cars rolled along the tracks, we recollected our ride.

Walk Through History

Once the train passed, we quickly found ourselves at the Dickinson County Heritage Center. Here we found a wide range of historical artifacts. Abilene is the northern end of the Chisholm Trail, so there are plenty of Wild West exhibits. A large display of telephones covers generations of advancements. Stepping out back, we discovered their 1901 C.W. Parker carousel. Amazingly, it is still in operation.

Completing Our Abilene Day Trip

All of this fun had helped work up large appetites. We knew they would be needed if we were dining at Legacy Kansas. Long known as the Brookville Hotel, it was purchased by the Munson family. This ranching clan is bringing beef to a menu that has traditionally been only fried chicken. One thing that hasn’t changed is the massive amount of side dishes that decorate the dining table. Our ravenous appetites were no match for the mountains of food that come with dinner. Thank goodness that our home is only a couple of hours away. Bring on the doggie bags!

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Wichita, Kansas – A Nutty Adventure

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 10 May 2024 04:30:00 +0000

Being flatlanders doesn’t mean we have no resources for fun. With Kansas City as our starting point, we have a multitude of potential destinations within a 3-4 hour drive. On a beautiful Spring day, we hightailed it down the road for a Wichita adventure. The largest city in Kansas was calling our name and we were anxious to add Doo-Dah city to our One Day Stays. This trip would include sights we hadn’t seen in a few years, as well as some new locations. With about 24 hours to see it all, we wasted no time getting started.

We want to thank Visit Wichita for hosting our stay. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Getting Our Playtime In

Our first stop landed us at Exploration Place. This family-friendly attraction is designed to engage visitors with a wide range of exhibits. When people remind us that it is a kid’s science center, we remind them that all of us are someone’s kid, and we are still growing up. Crystal enjoyed the challenge of an oversized game of Operation, even if her surgery skills weren’t always the best. I found the Design Build Fly exhibit fascinating. With a bustling airline industry in Wichita, this section lets guests see the ins and outs of what goes in to creating an airplane.

Taking A Step Back

Old Cowtown was a site we had visited in the past, but this weekend held the promise of new fascinations. With 54 structures set out on 23 acres, it is truly like stepping into the past. The dirt roads are much like you’d find during the days of the Chisolm Trail. This particular visit coincided with their annual Civil War event. As we explored the town, we were delighted to witness an assortment of costumed characters going about their daily duties. It certainly provided plenty of photo opportunities.

Feeding Our Wichita Adventure

In the past, we’ve spent the majority of our time in the central section of town. For this Wichita adventure, our lodging was in the Bradley Fair neighborhood. This open-air shopping district is filled with boutiques, dining opportunities, and plenty of retail to even keep us busy. Dinner was at First Mile Kitchen, which specializes in cooking from a live-fire hearth. Their plate presentation set the mood for a delectable meal. For dessert, we strolled over to Bakesale Treat Parlor to share a cookie.

Busy Morning

After filling our bellies, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the park setting outside of our hotel. Our lodging at the Hilton Garden Inn, was just steps away from the shopping experience of Bradley Fair. A restful night’s sleep recharged our batteries for a morning filled with activities. With coffee in hand, we made our way back downtown for one last Wichita adventure. The Wichita Art Museum was another attraction we had overlooked in the past. This time we would not leave before exploring its galleries. Afterwards, we stopped to take in the amazing riverfront views of The Keeper of the Plains.

Road Ready

Our One Day Stay was drawing to an end, but we couldn’t leave town without doing something nutty. Since 1937, the Nifty Nut House has been selling a variety of snacks to locals and visitors alike. This family-owned business has more snack options than just about any place we’ve seen. Our quick stop soon turned into an extended shopping trip and we exited with an armful of tasty treats for the ride home. This One Day Stay is easily recreated, but you can exctend your stay with some of the other Wichita sites we’ve visited over the years. (You can find all of our Wichita articles HERE.)

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Legacy Kansas – Writing The Next Page

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 03 May 2024 04:30:00 +0000

Abilene, Kansas held a few surprises for us. Some of you may have heard of the Brookville Hotel, which originated in Brookville, Kansas in the late 1800s. When it moved closer to the interstate, the story moved to a new page. Another generation of fried chicken lovers began discovering this iconic classic. The story doesn’t end there, as another ownership change happened in 2022. A long-tenured Kansas ranching family took the reins and has changed the menu to include prime beef. The name has changed to include Legacy Kansas, which is a fitting description for this marriage of flavors.

We want to thank Visit Abilene Kansas and Legacy Kansas for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

History Abounds

In the early days, cowboys were driving Texas longhorns north on the Chisholm Trail. The town of Brookville sprang up along the route and quickly grew in population with the aspiration of attracting a railroad center. When Union Pacific settled on nearby Junction City, it was a crippling blow for the town of Brookville. Even though the population dwindled, the Brookville Hotel continued with business as usual. At the end of the century, the Magnuson’s purchased the hotel and would set it on a path to foodie fame. Mae Magnuson was a renowned cook and her food drew customers from all around. Her daughter, Helen, came up with the idea of serving “family style” dinners, which is still the hallmark of the Brookville Hotel today.

A Big Move

The hotel/restaurant continued to flourish throughout World War II, as soldiers from nearby bases became frequent guests. In 2000, a decision was made to relocate the Brookville Hotel to Abilene, Kansas. The new location puts it within sight of travelers heading along Interstate 70. The original building would not survive the move, so a new replica was constructed. We felt like we were passing back in time, as we entered the dining room. It was easy to imagine diners from various eras stopping in for a meal.

New Addition

While the story of Brookville Hotel has turned through a lot of pages, the book isn’t finished. The Munson family has added a bar area, where guests can choose from a menu that allows for casual dining. We didn’t try a burger but the beefsteak we ordered proved that their beef is grade A. Their full-service bar is a great place to relax when the lines necessitate a wait.

Mountains of Food

Back in the dining room, I discovered our server had begun loading our table with a variety of sides. Pennsylvania-style Cole slaw (sweet & sour), creamed corn, cottage cheese, mashed potatoes with gravy, pickle slices, and a plate of biscuits soon adorned our table. They returned with a plate of their signature fried chicken, and the beefsteak covered in grilled onions and mushrooms. The next thing we knew, they asked if we needed anything else. Really? Maybe a little help eating all of this food. We were reminded that ice cream is served after dinner. I scanned the area for a wheelbarrow to haul away leftovers.

Different Mindsets

An Extended Visit?

Clearly we were going to need to do a lot more walking after this visit. Not wanting to shirk from our duties as travel bloggers, we dove in and gave it our best. As we dined, we found ourselves striking up conversations with the staff. They shared some stories from recent visitors. The common theme was the abundant amount of food served to guests. Legacy Kansas has continued the Brookville Hotel tradition of making sure their guests leave satisfied. From the size of our spread, we don’t think anyone should leave hungry. Well, now it’s time for some ice cream.

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Old Cowtown – A Step Back In Time

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 04:30:00 +0000

Being Midwesterners, we were looking forward to our visit to Old Cowtown. Wichita has a lot of similarities to our hometown of Kansas City. Both cities were frontier towns, that grew famous for their cattle trade. They also have the confluence of two rivers in the heart of their city. It was near this junction that a replica of an 1860s frontier town came to be. Since living history sites are a favorite of both of us, this place was destined to become one of our favorite stops.

We want to thank Visit Wichita and Old Cowtown for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Getting a Lay of the Land

Old Cowtown is home to 54 unique buildings. Half of these are original and have been relocated to this site to preserve them. Visitors have an opportunity to walk the streets of a town stuck in the era of the Civil War. Getting a chance to immerse ourselves in a replica town from that era sounded very educational. This museum has an array of costumed interpreters who are happy to interact with guests. Just be sure to keep a close watch on any flim-flam artists that may invite you to an entertaining game of chance.

Exploring Old Cowtown

In the Business area, each building represented a certain type of shop that would be found in a frontier city. Inside we found examples of the products, tools, and devices that were commonly used. Informational cards and placards noted interesting facts about years gone by. Some of the shops we visited were occupied by the shopkeepers. Whether it was the delicate work of creating a new hat or the hot job of a blacksmith, each worker was diligent in recreating accurate period pieces.

Belly Up To The Bar

We decided to whet our whistles with a stop at the local saloon. Inside we found a barkeeper who serves up refreshments to guests. There was still a chill in the air, so we ordered some coffee and sat down to enjoy a show. Before long, others had joined us and it signaled time for the dancehall girls to make their appearance. We enjoyed the revelry and the show ended with a roaring round of applause.

Themed Weekend

Our visit was timed to allow us to partake in the annual Civil War event. This takes place one weekend in April and offers a unique look into the past. Throughout the park, we found soldiers in various activities. This gives visitors a chance to see the different parts of daily life during the 1860s. While they are also open for conversations, it is important to remember that they have specific duties that must be performed in a timely fashion.

Leading to Lincoln

Around midday, we heard the sound of drums heading toward the middle of town. Soon we found a regiment of soldiers marching toward the main area, which included the saloon and hotel. Other soldiers were assembling, as well as the townsfolk, so we knew something big was about to take place. Sure enough, before long a reenactor dressed as Abraham Lincoln stepped out on the hotel balcony. He proceeded to deliver an uplifting speech that inspired that assembly.

Weary Soldiers

Afterwards, the assembly dispersed and we returned to exploring the town. We worked our way toward the back of Old Cowtown. This is where you will find a farmstead much like what was seen in rural Kansas. Along the way, we spotted a variety of soldiers engaged in leisure activities. It appears that the majority of their duties had been fulfilled and now they had time to visit. This provided some nice photo opportunities.

Wrapping Up The Day

After exploring the farm site, we decided that the rest of Wichita was calling our name. As we began our walk back toward the entrance, I paused to take one look back at the park. This allowed me a chance to capture this image of a mother and daughter scurrying back to their home. It was a fitting wrap on a fun experience.

Visit Old Cowtown

Old Cowtown Museum is nestled on 23 acres in Wichita’s River District. General admission is $10.00 per person with kids getting in for $8.00. They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 5:00. We suggest setting aside a minimum of 1.5 hours to see all of the exhibits, but you may want to extend that for special events. Nearby you can also visit the Mid-America All-Indian Museum, Wichita Art Museum, and Exploration Place. All of these fun activities in one area make Wichita a great place to explore.

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Wichita’s East Side

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 09:27:54 +0000

Over the years, we have made many trips to the largest city in Kansas. While we usually focus on the downtown region, we recently took time to check out Wichita’s east side. This suburban region is filled with the residents who keep this city running, so we were anxious to sample some new finds. What began as Bradley Farm, has grown into a vibrant community. Come with us as we explore this centerpiece of modern convenience.

First Tastes

While we have enjoyed numerous delectable meals in Wichita, we were looking forward to seeing what we would find at Bradley Fair. The best way to do that is to jump head-first into dinner. Our arrival in town had us on the east side by late afternoon. With time to kill before our reservation, we did a little shopping. There are plenty of boutiques to keep us occupied and in the end, we were almost late to dinner. Fortunately, First Mile Kitchen was in the same shopping center, so that helped. Stepping through the door, we found ourselves in a casually upscale setting. The hostess seated us and we set ourselves to the task of choosing the perfect meals.

Hearty Dishes

Hunger had overtaken me, so I didn’t hold back with my order. I began with a Wedge Salad and included a Cucumber Gin Gimlet to wash it down. The huge slab of bacon complimented the Blue Cheese and this dish disappeared quickly. For my main course, I selected the Pork Chop, which is butterflied. At 18 oz., this is a mountain of protein. They serve it resting on a bed of mashed sweet potatoes and accompanied by grilled greens. I suppose my eyes must have been bigger than my stomach because I was unable to finish the meal.

A Prime Meal

Crystal decided to go with the Wood Fired Filet, which looked just as delicious. Cooked to perfection, it was served on a bed of horseradish mashed potatoes. Resting nearby were some grilled carrots. The red wine demi-glace and herbed butter brought additional layers of flavor to the dish. I watched in amazement as she methodically destroyed her meal. Clearly, she was enjoying the taste.

Peaceful Setting

With dinner a recent memory, it was time to check into our hotel. The Hilton Garden Inn is conveniently located right behind the shopping center. A short drive and we were there. After checking into our room, we decided to explore the small lake that we spotted behind the hotel. A paved path leads walkers around the water and offers views from all angles. What a nice perk to discover on Wichita’s east side.

Enjoying Wichita's East Side

After a good night’s rest, we were ready to explore. A day filled with midtown attractions reminded us why we enjoy this city. Sitting just a 3-hour drive from home, we always have this option for a quick escape. The previous evening we had spotted a dessert shop named Bakesale Treat Parlor. Our window shopping had us eyeballing their delectable cookies, so we made sure to swing by before our drive home. I couldn’t wait to sample it, much to Crystal’s surprise. Fortunately, she forgave me for being so impatient. What can I say? I love a good cookie.

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Act Like Kids At Exploration Place

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 09:24:15 +0000

We find Wichita to be a great destination for an easy getaway. When a chance to return to the largest city in Kansas came up, we weren’t about to let it pass. During our last visit, we ran out of time before we made it to Exploration Place. Missing out on this hands-on science center had left us feeling like our visit was incomplete. This time we put it as our first stop, so there was no chance of missing it again. As we approached the museum, our hearts sped up in anticipation of the fun held within those walls. Time for us to act like kids, again.

Did I Do That?

Let’s face it, learning about the body comes with surprises. While we all have one, how much do we really know about its functions? Health Inside Out is a section dedicated to teaching about something near and dear to us all. The area has a selection of exhibits that deal with serious issues, like tinnitus. It also has some fun displays, like the Fart Chair. I just couldn’t pass up that opportunity.

Blast From The Past

Before leaving this section, Crystal wanted to try her hand at an oldie. Exploration Place has a huge version of Operation that works just like the ones we had as kids. She went to work fixing all of the big guy’s ailments and pretty soon I could tell she was feeling like a pro. A buzzer and lit nose reminded her that being a successful surgeon requires attention and a steady hand.

Familiar Sites

Being lifelong flatlanders, we had to check out the Kansas in Miniature exhibit. The display is designed to replicate 1950s Kansas. Well, they may have taken a few liberties. I’m pretty sure there weren’t many dinosaurs roaming the plains a decade after World War II. The exhibit has so many hidden gems that we spent quite a bit of time examining it. We enjoyed spotting places we have visited, as well as finding sights we still have on our “to-do” list.

Wichita Opportunities

Stepping into Design Build Fly brought us to the core of Wichita. This Midwestern city has its roots deep in the aviation industry. This exhibit has a group of stations that lets visitors take the designing and building of an aircraft into their own hands. We had a chance to design everything from our airplanes seats to its paint job. At the end, we even kicked back in a luxury jet as we pretended to be traversing the globe in style.

Act Like Kids

Our last stop landed us in medieval times. Where Kids Rule is designed like a castle and courtyard. The hands-on activities included fishing, building a bridge, and even riding a steed. Crystal couldn’t wait to climb up to the higher levels for a view. I stayed on the ground, where I explored the blcksmith shop. With so much to see and do, it was a sad moment when we realized we needed to wrap up our visit. Now that we’ve seen Exploration Place in person, we can’t wait for our next Wichita visit to act like kids again.

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Decking The Halls – Carroll Mansion

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

We find Christmas time to be a magical season. Everywhere we wander our views are filled with twinkling lights and brightly colored decorations. A day trip to Leavenworth, Kansas provided us with a special bonus. We missed the Carroll Mansion on our past visits, but fortunately this time we had time. They had recently finished decking the halls for the holidays, so it was the perfect time to tour this historic home.

We want to thank Visit Leavenworth and the Carroll Mansion for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

House on the Hill

To insure we got to see the home, we made it one of our first stops. The weather on this particular Saturday was chilly but bright. Our first views, of this stately home, belied the truth of it’s construction. The original construction was a four-room farmhouse. Over the years, multiple additions boosted the space to a total of 16 rooms. A beautiful wrap around porch was an inviting sight.

Historic Pride

As the front door swung pen, we found ourselves being transported to a different time. The entryway offered views of the intricate wood molding that is found throughout the home. Our guide welcomed us in and began our journey through time. The first floor includes six room and the grand hallway. Our first stop was the parlor which was illuminated with the soft glow of Christmas lights. We could imagine the fun staff had while decking the halls. Everywhere we looked, we were reminded of the season.

History Lesson

As we toured the Carroll Mansion, we also received a history lesson. The home was built by John McCollough in 1867. In 1882, he sold the property to Lucien Scott. The Scotts spent $50,000 adding on to the house. This included the parquet floors and lots of stained glass. Seven years later, they sold the home to Edward Carroll. The Carroll family would rmain in the home until 1964. As we explored the drawing room, I could imagine the owner enjoying a cigar at the end of a long day.

Moving Upstairs

Our guide led us up the staircase to the second floor. Here we found eight more rooms, which were likely used primarily as bedrooms. At the top of the staircase was a small sitting room that had a a pair of stained glass windows. These opened up to the hallway. Our guide told us that this room was used by the lady of the house to entertain visitors. If the windows were closed, it meant that she was in the middle of a conversation and not to be disturbed. Peeking in, we saw that the room décor was accurate to the time period that the family would have been raising their children.

Decking the Halls at the Carroll Mansion

Back downstairs, we took one more look at the decorations. A rush of Christmas spirit swept over us, as we took in the small details. It made us wonder how the family would have decorated back in the day. It must have been quite the event, when they broke out the decorations and began decking the halls. It’s hard to imagine that anything could add to the beauty of the home, but the holiday décor certainly kicked it up a notch. Have you ever seen the Carroll Mansion decked out for the holidays? If not, perhaps it’s time to plan your escape to Leavenworth. You can check out more articles from our visits to this Kansas town.

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The Cozy Inn – Burgers By The Bagful

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 09:30:59 +0000

100 years and 16 presidents ago, The Cozy Inn opened in Salina, Kansas. Bob Kinkel, the original owner, used his tiny space to whip up palm-sized bites of beef. He got the idea from White Castle, who had began operations one year earlier in Wichita. Churning out dozens of mini-burgers at a time, he would slide them down the counter atop sheets of waxed paper. It’s likely that this was where the term “sliders” began. We stopped in to check out their burgers by the bagful and find out what has kept this business in the forefront for over a century.

100 Years and Counting

Staying small has helped The Cozy Inn survive hard times. During the Depression, many large scale restaurants shuttered their doors due to rising costs. This inexpensive meal option, limited menu, and small staff allowed this burger joint to remain nimble. In the 1940s, two new military bases opened nearby. The Cozy Inn began receiving visits from enlisted men and their families, which provided a boost to sales. The 1980s saw a revitalization of downtown Salina, which threatened the future of the restaurant. Public outcry would help save the business and provided the spark for an exterior renovation.

Keeping with Tradition

Over time, the original owners passed away and the business changed hands. In 2007, Steve Howard became sole owner of The Cozy Inn. Growing up in Salina, he knew the value of retaining the traditions that made the business famous. The six-stool design has remained, as well as the original grill top. The grill will hold up to 55 burgers at a time and Steve has often found himself at full capacity. Even with a flurry of customers, his infection smile greets you as you pass through the doorway.

Six-Stool Diner

In 1922, the six-stool diner was becoming popular, although it’s a fad that would disappear with time. Stepping through the door, we were greeted with the aroma of grilled beef and onions. It’s the kind of smell that permeates your clothes and reminds you of your visit for the entire day. The stools were occupied and it was standing-room only. For a second we considered using the walk-up window, but decided we wanted the whole experience. We stood there admiring the constant buzz of activity behind the counter. They have certainly perfected the assembly-line style of building burgers by the bagful.

Simple Pleasures

The capacity to produce dozens of burgers at a time means that the wait wasn’t too long for our meal. We watched as those in front of us received their orders and dived into their sliders. The menu is about as basic as you will find. Cozy burgers come as singles or doubles and topped with onions and pickle. If you are feeding a crowd (or just really hungry) you can get them by the bagful. We ordered a half-dozen, but they also offer up to 48 burger quantities. Our order included; a half-dozen Cozy burgers, one bag of chips, and a root beer. Since the six stools were all occupied, we opted to enjoy our meal at one of their retro outdoor tables.

Burgers by the Bagful

When other customers discovered it was our first visit, they happily shared their earliest memories of the Cozy Inn. It was apparent that this place has created a following that borders on becoming a cult classic. With each story, we became increasingly eager to sample the sliders for ourselves. Opening our bagful of burgers, we were greeted by the delightful smell that we had found inside. My mouth was already watering by the time I had everything laid out before us. Diving in without hesitation, we we quickly engrossed in our meal.

The Cozy Inn

Our visit to Salina, Kansas was made to visit the Smoky Hill Museum, so adding this lunch stop was a bonus. As we made our way back to our car, the conversation focused on the devouring that we had just completed. We knew the flavor of our burgers by the bagful would stay with us far down the road. This is exactly the kind of meal that fits perfectly into a road trip. After all, it was quick, unique, and delicious. What more could anyone ask for from a 100-year-old establishment?

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Smoky Hill Museum – The Crossroads Of The Heartland

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 09:30:55 +0000

We are going to let you in on a little secret. There is gold in the Smoky Hills. It’s not be nuggets of the shiny substance that has been the reason for mass migrations. The precious treasure we are talking about is found in the local attractions found in a variety of towns and cities. The fertile rolling hills have attracted visitors for thousands of years. Many came to make a home, while others were merely passing through the Crossroads of the Heartland. With all of this activity, we were glad to see that the Smoky Hill Museum has recorded some of these excursions. This FREE Salina, Kansas museum is a great place to gain some new perspectives.

Early Explorers

The search for gold in the Smoky Hills has been going on for over 1500 years. Way back in 1541, Francisco de Coronado first laid eyes on the Smoky Hill River. His quest was to discover the fabled city of ‘Quivira’. While he failed to find gold, he did happen upon the thatched villages of the Wichita tribe. In a letter to the King of Spain, he suggested these lands were the best he had seen for producing all of the products of Spain. Many of the native nuts and fruits were similar to those from his native lands. Subsequent explorations would be made by famous explorers like John Fremont and Zebulon Pike.

Life on the Plains

The Smoky Hill Museum is compact but filled with treasures. They have designed the spaces to be interactive and educational. This family-friendly attraction allows visitors to pass through time as they learn the direct connection between the land and the people who reside there. A model of a one-room pioneer house reminded us of the value of modern conveniences. Can you imagine what life was like facing the changing seasons in Kansas?

Kid Friendly

Like most museums, Smoky Hill has rotating exhibits. Let’s Play is one that will run through November 26, 2022. We enjoy seeing these types of displays, as it makes each visit a little different. This particular exhibit focused on toys and the kids who played with them. We felt that this approach brought a personal touch that helps visitors connect with the story. Stepping into the timeline, we found ourselves transported back to the late 1890s. It is interesting to see how some of those early games, like Tic-Tac-Toe, are still played around the world.

Getting Local

Back in the pre-television days, people got their entertainment from the radio. We’ve all seen the movies or shows that have families sitting around listening to their favorite programs. The Smoky Hill Museum explains the usage of radio in terms that are easy to understand. That is a big deal when you are visiting with a group that has a wide age range. Seeing other museum visitors confirmed the importance of this approach.

True Life

Taking a deeper dive into the exhibit, we found ourselves intrigued by the life and times of Dick & Devere. These junior sleuths became embroiled in a wide range of adventures. While the names are fictitious, they were based on real children from Salina. On top of these rascals escapades, visitors can also listen to excerpts from popular radio shows of the 30s and 40s. Having grown up in the television era, it was intriguing to hear how descriptive the programs were, as they played out the exciting exploits.

Smoky Hill Museum

These little nuggets of fun make our travels more interesting. Each stop offers some stories that help us connect with the locals. Learning about life in the Crossroads of the Heartland reminded us why we love our home state. We are planning to make more visits to this region in the future. There is still a lot to explore and share with all of you. If you are familiar with this area, we’d love to hear your suggestions for places to visit. Thanks!

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Seelye Mansion – A Living Time Capsule

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 09:30:34 +0000

Who’s up for a little time traveling? A visit to Abilene, Kansas can take you back to the early 1900s just by touring the Seelye Mansion. This turn-of-the-century home has 25 rooms and more than a few fascinating features. One fact that surprised us was that the furnishings cost more than the home, which was built in 1905. In 2022, it’s unusual to find a place that still has the original appliances and electrical components. As we toured this massive house, we felt like we were in a living time capsule.

We want to thank Travel Kansas and Visit Abilene for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Family Life

Dr. Alfred Seelye made his fortunes through patent medicine. This was during the days of the “snake oil” salesman when cure-alls were commonplace. Seeyle attempted to bring a business angle to the business by focusing on production, marketing, and distribution. In 1890, Alfred moved from Illinois to Abilene, where he set up his laboratory. Within a few years, he had at least 100 products on the market. With ever-increasing success, his company grew to have over 300 employees. To boost sales, he offered a free “health guide”, which contained, recipes, weather predictions, and plenty of ads for his various products. In 1893, Alfred married Jeanette Taylor and the couple would raise two daughters, Helen Ruth and Mary Eleanor.

It’s All In the Details

With money being no concern, he spared no expense when it was time to build the family home. The 11,000-square-foot structure contains 25 rooms. It is filled with Edison light fixtures, a ballroom, a music room, and a Tiffany-designed fireplace. How would you choose to furnish such a grand structure? Albert purchased the majority of the pieces at the 1904 World’s Fair, in St. Louis. By the time it was completely decorated, the family had spent more on the accessories than on the house. Abilene is also home to Dwight Eisenhower, who lived on the “wrong side of the tracks” that run through the middle of the city. As a youth, Dwight delivered ice to the home, but the daughters still saw him as lower on the social ladder.

Travel Back Over 100 Years

All of the special touches were already in place by the time the family moved into their new home. How amazing that must have been to the daughters. We can imagine the joy of exploring a fully furnished home on such an immense scale. Throughout the home, we found reminders of the family that has been kept by the current owner. In the 1920s, Frank Lloyd Wright helped with a few interior renovations. After Dr. Seelye and his wife had passed, the daughters remained in the house. The current owner, Terry Tietjens, purchased the Seelye Mansion in 1981, which he shared with the sisters. He told us stories about how the home had fallen into disrepair and his desire to bring it back to its original condition. Along the way, he had to balance his desire with getting the sisters to buy into his vision.

Amazing Architecture

The work of returning the home to its previous glory was not easy. The sisters had slowly been selling off furniture and fixtures to cover costs. Terry had to run down these items and bring them back. After agreeing to purchase the home, a fire in the elevator shaft caused considerable damage. Even with this setback, he went through with the purchase. Living with the sisters wasn’t all tea and crumpets. Often he would have to convince them to all the renovations to take place. Even something as simple as television was looked upon suspiciously by the sisters. When they were all together in the home, he made fast friends with the ladies.

Hidden Secrets

After touring the upper floors, we didn’t see how there could be any additional surprises, but we were mistaken. A small spiral staircase is set in a corner and leads down to the basement. We assumed we’d find a storm/root cellar combination, which would have been used for storage and inclement weather. There was no way we would have expected to discover a bowling alley. The version found downstairs was constructed by the American Box Ball Co. from Indianapolis. It includes an automatic ball return, as well as a lever that resets the pins. We were told that the Seelye Mansion was basically built around this special feature.

Seelye Mansion

We love exploring these hidden gems that dot the land. Abilene, Kansas has a solid reputation for being one of the best small towns for tourists. The Seelye Mansion is just one of many attractions to be found in this city that can trace its roots to the Wild West. It’s interesting to find a destination that has such a wide range of subjects, so everyone in the family will find something of interest. If you are looking for a great weekend getaway, Abilene has got you covered. Happy travels!

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War and Peace – Eisenhower Presidential Library

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 09:30:15 +0000

Our trip to Abilene, Kansas would not be complete without a visit to the site that honors one of the most famous Kansans. The Eisenhower Presidential Library and Boyhood Home is a top destination for travelers from all over the country and the world. They come to Abilene to pay homage and learn more about the man who served as the 34th President of the United States. Our first visit occurred during renovations, so we were excited to get the opportunity to see the space after its facelift. This time, we were able to view the exhibits and discover how Ike handled issues he faced during war and peace.

We want to thank the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Abilene Visitors Bureau for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Ike’s Early Days

The Eisenhower family moved into their six-room house in 1898, and here David and Ida raised their six sons. Abilene, Kansas offered a good place to raise a rambunctious family. We could almost picture Ida shooing the boys outside so that she could get the house straightened up. We would later find out that Ida lived here until the time of her death in 1946. While Dwight’s parents belonged to the International Bible Students Association (later it became Jehovah’s Witnesses), he would remain unaffiliated with a church until later in life. His decision to attend West Point was unpopular with his mother, who felt warfare was wicked.

Meeting Mamie

While stationed in Texas, Eisenhower met Mamie Doud. The two were instantly infatuated with each other. He proposed on Valentine’s Day in 1916 and they married in July of that year. The wedding had to be moved up due to his deployment in WWI. At the start of the war, he was assigned to a post at Fort Leavenworth. This would begin the process of the couple jumping from place to place around the world. During their lifetime together, the couple would end up moving over 30 times.

Strenuous Start

In 1918, Eisenhower moved on to Camp Colt, which was the site of “Pickett’s Charge”, during the Battle of Gettysburg. When his unit received orders to deploy to France, he saw it as an opportunity to excel. Much to his chagrin, the armistice was signed one week before his deployment date. While his tank group would not see combat, the lessons he learned would strengthen his organizational skills. He proved himself to be capable of developing full combat training and supply chains for thousands of troops.

Going To War

Dwight Eisenhower lived during a period that saw two world wars and he served in both. Between the wars, he would spend his career time working with the tank divisions. His ideas for revolutionizing tank warfare were met with great reluctance from his superiors. During a transcontinental Army convoy, in 1919, Eisenhower saw the need for improved roads across America. This was a major issue he would tackle during his presidency. As the world marched into WWII, Eisenhower’s role would greatly expand. Assigned to General Staff in Washington, Dwight created war plans to defeat the Axis forces.

Taking Charge

Due to his lack of battlefield experience during WWI, rival military leaders tried to disparage Eisenhower. While disparaging, this did not stop him from advancing in his leadership role. Eisenhower organized the defeat of German forces in Africa, as well as the taking of Italy. With these victories under his belt, he was promoted to Supreme Allied Commander. The plans for Operation Overlord would require unprecedented cooperation and secrecy. Even Churchill acquiesced control of England’s strategic air forces to Ike’s command. The Normandy Invasion would be the single largest beach assault ever undertaken. His plans would carry the Allied forces through the liberation of Europe. Before the war ended, Eisenhower would be promoted to General of the Army.

War and Peace

Eisenhower was not as interested in running for the presidential office, as some of those around him. He received pressure from many, but it was the urging of a fellow Midwesterner that finally convinced him. President Harry S. Truman had requested Ike run earlier and he jumped into the fray wholeheartedly in June of 1952. Much to the chagrin of the Democrats, Ike switched parties and ran as a Republican. Eisenhower would go on to serve two terms as the last president to have been born in the 19th century. His political career was unusual, in that he had never served in an elected office before the presidency. While many would remember his various achievements, in the words of Ike, “The proudest thing I can claim is that I am from Abilene.”

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The Pennant – Where Fun And Food Collide

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 20 May 2022 09:30:04 +0000

These days there are lots of restaurants vying for your attention. Wherever we roam, we have noticed that more eateries are finding unique ways to draw in a crowd. The Pennant, in downtown Topeka, has discovered a pleasing mix where food and fun collide. Our day of exploring was chugging along, but our need to refuel was obvious from the growing feelings of hunger. There are plenty of options, around downtown, to satisfy any urge. After hearing about a special treat being offered by The Pennant, we knew it was the right choice for this particular excursion.

Catching Our Attention

On a previous visit, we explored some of the art that is found scattered through downtown Topeka. This piece, which gives a nod to our military past and present, was one of our favorites. In fact, we discovered it after dining at Brew Bank, which sits just a block away. It was happening upon this sculpture that offered our first glimpse of The Pennant. Since we had already satisfied our hunger, on that day, I just made a mental note of this location for future reference.

Rolling Thunder

Now that we had a chance to explore it, we wanted to make sure we saw everything The Pennant has to offer. The interesting name for the restaurant is actually a historic nod to a previous eatery. On the second floor of this downtown building, the Pennant Cafeteria dished out meals from 1950 until 1967. The food was made from scratch and was frequented by guests from the capital and surrounding businesses. It seemed like everyone, in those days, loved the dishes being served by Miss Beezley. When the new owners decided to revitalize this space, they felt it appropriate to pay homage to this history in name and style.

Familiar and Fun

To help foster that old-time feel, the owners incorporated the philosophy of using local ingredients. We love it when this happens, as it will usually result in more flavor. On this visit, we wanted to sample a nice lunchtime selection, so we started with a batch of their Twisted Poutine. While we have yet to find a match for the version we discovered in Quebec City, The Pennant has certainly added its own flair to the dish. It starts with the crispy fries, which are topped with Cheddar cheese curds and a mushroom Bordelaise sauce, and then sprinkled with crispy onion strings. Toss in one of their Dino-shakes, and we had a fabulous start to our meal.

The Three B’s

Now that we had the appetizer out of the way, it was time to get to the main courses. Crystal decided that the Bourbon, Black, and Bleu Burger sounded intriguing. When I saw that it starts with Black Angus beef, I was anxious to sample it, as well. The juicy patty comes dressed with blue cheese sauce, bourbon-glazed caramelized onions, and bacon. That’s a whole lot of flavor going on and a side of Onion Rings added interesting accents.

Getting My Cuban On

While she was on her side of the table sorting through the burgers, I discovered a dish I hate to miss. If you have seen some of our previous dining articles, you might realize that I have an affinity for Cuban sandwiches. The Pennant plays up their version with the fun name, Cuban Pickle Crisis. This one comes with all of the base ingredients of ham, pulled pork, Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and mustard. They also toss in a squirt of the house aioli and serve it up on a toasted Telera bun. It was a nice blend of flavors that captures the essence of this popular dish.

2nd Story Fun Zone

Once we finished eating, even though we were unable to clean our plates, it was time to let the fun collide with our food stop. The bowling lanes were currently occupied, so we decided to head upstairs to check out the rest of their space. What we discovered, was a bar area that has a commanding view of the main thoroughfare in front of the restaurant. This would be a great spot to meet some friends or just recharge at the end of a long day. On the other end of the space is a collection of retro arcade games, including Skeeball. While Crystal and I enjoy pinball, we get more competitive when it comes time to roll some Skeeballs. The upstairs kept us occupied for quite some time.

The Pennant

Eventually, we knew it was time to get back to our explorations. We had come to town to see some museums but found that Dino Days had invaded Topeka. A side stop at The Great Overland Station landed us face to face with a T-Rex named Sue. Since it was already occupied with its own lunch, we felt safe enough to turn our backs on it. It seems like fun and food collide in more than one location in downtown Topeka. Eat up Sue, we understand the need to satisfy the hunger for food and exploring.

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Leveling The Field – Brown Vs Board Of Education

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 09:00:28 +0000

American history is filled with events large and small, but some created a reverberation felt throughout the country. While the Civil War had legally brought an end to slavery, it did not prohibit the inequality of segregation. Black people were told they were free, but real life didn’t represent this change. Jim Crow laws had created barriers that precluded black Americans from enjoying the same opportunities as whites, especially in the southern half of the country. Leveling the field would require a fight that led to the Supreme Court.

Brown v. Board Museum

We’ve visited Topeka many times, but have somehow missed the Brown v. Board of Education Museum. This national historic site is located at the Monroe Elementary School. The school was built on the land of one of Topeka’s founding fathers, Jacob Chase. A parcel of Chase’s land was purchased by John Ritchie and his wife, Mary. The couple was abolitionists who helped aid the Underground Railroad. In 1868, three lots of Ritchie’s land were purchased by the Topeka Board of Education. Here they constructed a school for black children. This building would eventually be razed and a new school was built with the addition of 10 more lots. The elementary school took its name from the street that borders the property, where it would operate until 1975.

Learning From the Past

While there are differing viewpoints on the reasons for the Civil War, the issue of slavery played a central role. On farms and plantations throughout the southern half of the nation, enslaved people were prohibited from their rights. Of course, slavery wasn’t limited to these large agricultural estates. Households were also commonplace settings to find forced labor. Our excursions, to cities in the south, have opened our eyes to the expansive use of enslaved people in many parts of our country. Their stories speak volumes about how the mainstream population treated black people as property.

Not Equal Rights

It is estimated that less than 2% of US citizens owned slaves. While this number seems small, it represents about 630,000 people. An 1860 census showed almost 4,000,000 slaves were held in 15 states and territories. Many would automatically picture the deep south, but there were also slaves held as far north as Delaware. At the same time, nearly 400,000 free black people lived in the southern states. While many were successful business owners, they were not treated as equals. The task of freeing the enslaved people was an enormous undertaking that divided a nation.

What Now?

In 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation announced freedom for African Americans in the rebel states. The country was nearing the third year of the Civil War and President Lincoln was looking to renew their passion for the fight. While this move was an important step, it did not impact slavery in the Union States. For it to be effective, the enslaved would have to escape the control of their owner. As the end of the war drew near, many were concerned that the proclamation would be seen as simply a war measure. Lincoln pressed Congress to pass the 13th Amendment, which would ban slavery in all U.S. states and territories. While the law could grant freedom, social cultures would be harder to change.

The Long Road Forward

The task of leveling the field had only begun and Black Americans were finding new barriers. Peonage, which shackled black workers with debt through oppressive loans, was outlawed in 1867, so new ways had to be found to keep blacks segregated. The establishment, in most southern states, found replacements with Jim Crow laws. These local and state laws mandated racial segregation in all public facilities, including schools. In 1896, the Supreme Court ruled that this form of racial segregation was not a violation of the Constitution. Their stipulation was that each race would have facilities that were equal in quality. This approach became known as separate but equal.

The Lawsuits

Fast-forward to the 1950s, and black people were still facing racial segregation six decades later. The NAACP was working to make changes to these laws, by showing how they were not being applied in an atmosphere of equality. Public facilities, schools, and other sites were far from equal in quality. It was time to integrate the American school system, but not without a fight. In 1951, a black Topeka family, named Brown, attempted to enroll their daughter into the elementary school that was closest to their home. The request was denied and she was forced to ride a bus to the segregated black school, which was farther away. Joining with a dozen other families, they filed a class-action lawsuit against the Topeka Board of Education. The District of Kansas U.S. District Court came back with a verdict against the families.

Leveling the Field

The Brown family was not to be dismayed. Represented by the chief counsel for the NAACP, Thurgood Marshall, they pushed the case forward to the Supreme Court. The question posed to the court was whether any separated educational facilities could really be equal. The justices determined, in a 9-0 ruling, that it was not possible. Therefore, racial segregation could not be part of the education system. While it was a huge win toward equality, it did not lay out a path to resolve the issue. We had learned about some of the difficulties in implementing this new decision during a visit to Central High School, in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Facing Discrimination

While many Americans cheered the landmark decision, it was not well accepted in much of the South. The integration of schools moved slowly when it moved at all. The border states did accept the change and moved toward integration, but this was not the case in the Deep South. Resistance was stiff and in many cases, no movement was made. A Massive Resistance strategy was implemented to block desegregation by any means. The removal of black educators and staff was used to limit the ability to gain insight into how far-reaching the fight had seeped into the southern education system. When other attempts failed, entire school systems were shut down to block integration.

The Fight’s Not Over

The fight for leveling the field in education was only one facet of the inequality faced by Black Americans. Even after the decisive victory of Brown v. Board, there remained a large gap between the races. Employment and housing opportunities were filled with unfair practices. As black people migrated to the north, many new housing projects were designed to be racially restrictive. Equal but separate was continuing, but hidden by the use of restrictive clauses and legal jargon. From this atmosphere, heroes arose. While the name Rosa Parks is easily recognizable, too few know that only months prior Claudette Colvin had been arrested for refusing to give up her bus seat in Montgomery, Alabama.

Looking Toward the Future

The Civil Rights Movement, while met with stiff resistance, put a chain of events into action that could not be undone. Each victory brought new freedom, while each defeat renewed the drive for change. The media provided documentation of the violence and discrimination faced by Black Americans on a daily basis. In 1964, the Civil Rights Act would outlaw discrimination on the basis of color, race, religion, or sex. The fight for true equality continues today. It is important to support the sites, like Brown vs. Board of Education, that remind us of the importance of learning from our past.

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Hunting History – Oakley, Kansas

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 04:00:48 +0000

Crossing through western Kansas, we can imagine herds of buffalo charging across the plains. Large numbers were roaming the territory when white settlers first arrived. The end of the Civil War brought expanded interest and development to Kansas. The “Border War” was fought on the eastern edge of the state, and seemed like a distant memory. As settlers flooded into the region, the room was needed for farming and cattle herds. While buffalo hunters came to the Oakley, Kansas area for potential profit, we came out hunting history.

Gearing Up for the Hunt

Not everyone looked at the buffalo the same way. Native Indians were familiar with the importance of this creature and relied on it for food, clothing, and even housing supplies. The railroads saw it as a nuisance that held up progress. Others saw these huge creatures as an opportunity for sport. Hunting trips for celebrities and dignitaries were commonplace by the late 1870s. In 1872, George Armstrong Custer arranged an outing for a Grand Duke from Russia. A visit to the Fick Fossil Museum, in Oakley, allowed us to learn more about some of the celebrities that have graced this area. While hunting history, we even got to see how we compared to Annie Oakley and Buffalo Bill Cody.

Life on the Plains

New settlers to the region found that life was no picnic. Many were resigned to living life in a sod house, much like the one we found at the museum in Oakley, Kansas. We would not want to imagine the number of bugs that resided in the walls and roofs of one of these homes. Plenty of varmints, like field mice, would also call the dwelling home. Of course, where you find mice you will also find snakes. Rainstorms would bring at the least a muddy floor and even a potential roof collapse from the weight. Dry spells brought their own issues, as it meant dirt pieces would rain down on the inhabitants of the home with each gust of wind.

Extreme Weather

Extreme weather is something the residents of Oakley, Kansas have learned to deal with. Heavy winter snows race down out of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to bury the western plains. The howling winds will add to the issues by drifting the piles into deep banks. Most people are aware of the Dust Bowl that engulfed the Central Plains in the 1930s. Oakley was in the area that had some of the hardest-hit lands. Many times the dust clouds were so dense that daylight would become near-total darkness. Travel was impossible and the choking dirt would find its way into every home.

Monument Rocks

Our quest to hunt history took us back to prehistoric times. Eons ago, the western side of the Kansas region was a huge inland sea. As creatures came and went, layer upon layer of silt was deposited on the seabed. As the land rose up, the seas were drained from the area. More time passed and erosion did its work slowly carving the chalky soil into amazing structures. South of Oakley, Kansas we found Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark. These fossil-filled silent sentinels rise above the rolling plains. While they are impressive to see from a distance they are even more so up close.

Kansas Badlands

As much as Monument Rocks grabs the attention from a distance, the exact opposite can be said for the Kansas Badlands. One of the state’s newest parks, Little Jerusalem State Park is a collection of chalk outcroppings that have remained fairly hidden for ages. The approach to the site brings visitors in from the southeast, so this canyon of natural wonders lies below the horizon. It wasn’t until we began hiking the park trails that we finally caught sight of the formations. It is a reminder that the wonders of nature aren’t always easily visible and require a little effort.

Hunting History in Oakley, Kansas

We have often heard people remark that there is nothing in western Kansas except miles of flat terrain. Those who explore this region know just how far that is from reality. The western plains are filled with history, natural wonders, rolling hills, and friendly people. Throngs of settlers passed through these lands, as they made their journeys toward the west. The hardiest of those decided to call this place home. We invite you to see all of these wonders for yourself by planning your own exploration trip to hunt some history in Oakley, Kansas.

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The Kansas Badlands – Little Jerusalem State Park

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 01 Jan 2021 10:00:00 +0000

The more we explore the Midwest, the more we discover that it is filled with surprises. For instance, how often do you hear people say that Kansas is flat and devoid of any significant landscape features? To many, you must travel to the coast or the Rockies to find amazing sights. Reality shows that this is far from the truth, and there are plenty of unusual spots scattered around the state. One prime example would be the Kansas Badlands, which hides from the sight of those passing by.

Welcome to Little Jerusalem

Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park is located about 60 miles east of the Colorado border. We used Oakley as a home base for exploring the geological formations that are commonplace in this region. An earlier visit to Monument Rocks had whetted our appetite for more, and we knew this place had to been seen to be believed. The drive from town takes about a half-hour, and the closer we got the more outcroppings we saw. Once at the park, we found clear signage for the two trails designed for exploring.

Level Ground

Long ago, this area was part of a huge inland sea. (You can learn more about that in this article from Hays.) That means that the ground is relatively level, which makes the hike fairly easy. The Kansas Badlands are actually somewhat below ground level, so we walked right up on them before they revealed themselves. Once we got closer, the magic of their formations began to unfold in front of us.

Chalk Towers

Our first sights were the chalk peaks that jutted out of the landscape. The layers of sediment were apparent on the sides of each formation. Cracked and worn with time, they stand as silent sentinels overlooking the grasslands. A nearby farmhouse reminded us that we were still in Kansas. As we hiked, we discussed how the early pioneers must have been surprised when they happened upon these formations. We wondered if they took the time to explore them for their natural beauty.

Nature at Work

It has taken many centuries of erosion to form the Kansas Badlands. As we took in the various effects created by nature, it reminded us of a smaller version of a canyon we visited near Amarillo, Texas. We decided to start our hike with the 1.2-mile overlook trail. It winds along the southern rim of the formations, before striking north into the heart of the park. Along the way, we spotted an assortment of signs that gave us insider information about the history of the formations.

Photographers Dream

During our visit, we met another couple from Kansas. They were also exploring the area for the first time and had the same awe feeling as we did. At this point, it would be a timely reminder to bring a camera or phone with plenty of storage space. You are going to find yourself taking a slew of photographs. It seemed like every step opened up a new angle or view. The formations are so unique and looking at them from different perspectives highlights a variety of characteristics.

Back to Nature

While the changing times have certainly affected the wildlife, it hasn’t left the area devoid of animals. During our visit it was extremely hot, so we imagine most of them were tucked away for comfort. The signage hinted at many of the interesting creatures that call Kansas Badlands home. This particular sign reminds visitors to take in the majesty of the space around them. As we stood silently observing, we could hear the calls of birds in the distance. Even an unseasonably warm day doesn’t prevent life from going on.

Hidden Wonders

The idea that such a fantastic natural feature can remain nearly hidden from view still amazes us. Part of the mystery most likely revolves around the fact that this park is actually one of the newer ones for the state of Kansas. For generations, this was private farmland owned by a local family. It was only recently that they turned the space over to The Nature Conservancy. This allows visitors to commune with nature in a way that the family did for years. We are hopeful that we will get a chance for a return visit. Perhaps it will include a closer look with a prearranged tour by a park ranger.

Visit the Kansas Badlands

After taking in this natural wonder, we were left in awe of the power of nature. We consider a visit to the Kansas Badlands one of those trips that help people reconnect with the world around them. The admission for the park is $5.00 per vehicle and they have a self-pay station set up in the parking lot. If you are in possession of an annual Kansas State Park vehicle pass then you get to skip the admission. The trails are gravel-packed, so they are pretty easy to navigate. While the signage mentioned the wide array of wildlife that call this place home, they weren’t out much on the day we visited. We hope you have a chance to visit this unique Kansas sight. Travel safely!

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Going On Safari – Topeka Zoo

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 10:00:43 +0000

Spending time with our grandkids has opened up opportunities to visit some fun destinations. Being able to share our love for zoos with them helps us build a stronger bond while learning more about the world we live in. A recent excursion had us going on safari to the Topeka Zoo for a morning filled with exploration. An overcast late summer day was the perfect time for us to observe and interact with other species.

We want to thank the Topeka Zoo for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

How You Doing?

The Topeka Zoo is located in the heart of Gage Park, which is also home to a miniature train, an aquatic park, and the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Being just an hour away from the Kansas City metro makes Topeka a great day trip destination. On this particular day, we arrived after a late summer thunderstorm. The overcast skies helped cool the temperature enough to make the animals a little more lively. It also seemed to bring out their inquisitive side, and we would find them checking us out as much as we were watching them.

Bear Watching

The zoo has a considerably smaller footprint than the Kansas City Zoo, which makes it much more manageable for a single visit. We started our explorations with a visit to Black Bear Woods. This exhibit is designed like a ranger’s station which offers views from an elevated walkway. A variety of North American species can be found in this part of the park.

Getting a Better View

The star of the show on that day was the black bear. After watching him sniffing around the exhibit, he made his way to a large tree. In no time he was scaling it for a bird’s eye view of the surroundings. This put us eye-to-eye with one of Crystal’s favorite animals. I still remember her reaction to seeing these in the wild, during a visit to Smoky Mountain National Park. We pondered what this bear could see from his perch, before finally moving along to more of the zoo.

Saving Sharks

It had been a while since our last visit, so we were excited to see some of the changes that have happened. One of the newer spaces is Saving Sharks. This highly-touted exhibit helps showcase the danger that the world’s shark population is facing from overfishing. The Topeka Zoo has created a mix of static displays, interactive mechanical devices, and a touch tank.

Getting a Feel for the Space

The highlight of this exhibit has to be the touch tank. Here guests can get up close and personal with some sea creatures. Our granddaughter was more than happy to demonstrate this by checking out a starfish that was making its way up the side of the tank. After departing the exhibit, we walked along the exterior which is decorated to replicate a beachfront area. The Topeka Zoo has increased its additions of public art that give guests more to see between the animal sightings.

Squawking Good Time

Continuing along the Adventure Trail, we came to the Lorikeet enclosure. It was pretty obvious, as the squawking grew louder during our approach. After passing through the twin doors, which help keep the birds inside, we found ourselves facing these colorful feathered creatures. A handler was staffed inside to tell guests about the Lorikeet’s habits. It was obvious that they were used to her presence and even took delight in her footwear. We watched this flock of squawkers for a bit and then decided to move on.

The Little Extras

Something that became apparent during our visit was the addition of public art. In past years, the Topeka Zoo was mostly decorated with visual plantings. While these were pleasing to the eye, adding these art pieces helps take it to another level. This zoo is becoming one of our favorite smaller parks to visit. When you combine its manageable size with all of the visual appeals, it’s hard to beat.

Camp Cowabunga

We continued on toward the African section of the zoo. In the past, the pathway would have led us to the Lion’s Pride exhibit. This has been changed to Camp Cowabunga, which brings in more flavor of the Dark Continent. Visitors are transported to a jungle world complete with an overhead crosswalk for the resident Patas monkeys. This section of the zoo was renovated in 2018. It is exciting to see that they continue to update the Topeka Zoo.

Patient Patas

The Topeka Zoo is including some interesting display characteristics to their exhibits, as well. As we watched the Patas monkeys enjoying a meal, we noticed the use of an old trail Jeep in the design of a glass wall. Visitors can hop up in the driver’s seat to get a view of the animals. It feels like you are going on safari in the heart of the jungle. Information panels give some additional insight into the background of the animals we are observing.

Watchful Eyes

Just a little way around the bend we spotted the African Painted Dogs. These colorful canines are social creatures that travel in packs. Unlike some predators, these animals tend to let their young feed first. Their unique coat coloring helps them blend into the grasses of the savannah, where they hunt for antelope.

Trekking into Asia

During the renovation that brought Camp Cowabunga to life, the zoo also revamped the Discovering Apes exhibit. Since the mid-1980s we have enjoyed watching the great apes lounge and play. The facelift brought a new space that houses orangutans. The exhibit has been designed to replicate the treetops of Borneo. Visitors can watch all the action during a stop at a station mimicked after Camp Leakey.

Feeding Time

Our next stop was at the Jungle Cats exhibit. We happened along as feeding time was wrapping up. This gave us a chance to watch a Sumatran Tiger gnaw on a bone. While it was very attentive to its treat, it still kept a watchful eye on those passing by.

Standing Tall

By now, we were approaching the Noon hour, and our hunger was begging for attention. We didn’t want to leave without a visit to see the giraffes. There is something calming about watching these graceful creatures in motion. As with most of our other stops, they were also engaged in eating. It looks like all of the creatures were satisfying their hunger, which reminded us to do likewise.

Going On Safari

It is safe to say that the grandkids enjoyed going on safari as much as us. It was nice to see all of the revisions and updates that have been made at the Topeka Zoo. This smaller venue is perfect for a day trip, as it can be seen in a relatively short amount of time. Of course, you can also slow your pace and just take in the entire space. There is plenty of shady spots that make a great place to observe nature in action. Whatever your pace, this zoo is sure to please.

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Self-Serve Banking – Brew Bank

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 04 Dec 2020 10:00:40 +0000

How many of us remember that special friend we had when we were growing up? Wouldn’t it be great to have the opportunity to meet back up and join forces later in life? This is exactly what happened to a pair of kids who grew up in the middle of the Heartland. After going their own ways in life, these two Topeka boys reunited to bring a new kind of self-serve banking to their hometown. The changing liquor law in Kansas opened an avenue for Ryan Cavanaugh and Dusty Snethen to breathe life into Brew Bank, a concept bar that offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience.

No Place Like Home

It’s hard to miss the nod that Brew bank gives to the state of Kansas. Playing off of the familiar themes that our home state is known for, we found plenty of references throughout the space. The majority of one wall is lined with iconic characters from The Wizard of Oz. It was a nice surprise, and so timely since we had recently visited the Oz Museum in Wamego, Kansas. The dining area at Brew bank is an open, airy space with a nod toward modern. We enjoyed their use of color, as it added a touch of whimsy to the overall upscale vibe.

All Things Kansas

Our choice for lunch at Brew Bank put us in close proximity to our main event. As we looked around their space, we noticed that they paid homage to Evel Knievel, which is what had brought us to Topeka that day. Of course, there were plenty of other easily recognizable images on the walls. Most were native Kansans who have risen to stardom, while there were also nods given to iconic moments that tie to our home state.

Self-Serve Banking

The star of the show, at Brew Bank, is the self-serve banking of beers that every customer can experience. The process is fairly straightforward. You can purchase a prepaid card that allows a specific amount of ounces to be dispensed at the various beer taps. Once you swipe your card, you release the golden elixir of your choice. Brew Bank keeps a couple of dozen choices on tap, so there is sure to be a few that you will want to sample. For those not in the mood for a lager-based product, they also have a full bar. On the far end of the dining room, we spotted a housemade root beer dispenser. Our server informed us that it is also a self-serve dispenser, and the taste was fantastic.

Brew Boards

The menu at Brew bank includes a nice variety of options. While it was only the two of us, we wanted to sample a couple of their most popular choices. At home, we enjoy making our own charcuterie boards. We find it a great way to mix together a bunch of our favorite finger foods. When we discovered they have several to choose from at Brew bank, we knew it was the perfect appetizer. We decided on the European Brew Board, which features a cranberry-encrusted goat cheese ball. Crackers and Crostini chips make a good base for dipping. A variety of meats, cheeses, veggies, and olives help round out the board. It was like an indoor picnic and we gobbled it up with zest.

Brew Bread

When it comes to dining, you won’t have to rely on self-serve banking. The staff was efficient and our food was delivered with a keen eye on presentation. For the main course, we decided to try the Asian Brew Bread. We have noticed that more restaurants have added flatbreads to their menus, and it makes a great finger food. This version is served up with international flair. The standard bread base is covered with a delightful Thai peanut sauce. The toppings on this dish include Mozzarella, sliced duck, pickled ginger, black sesame seeds, and green onions. A drizzle of hot chili cream adds a pop of color and a splash of flavor. This one had us coming back for more.

Innovation Intrigue

Our visit to Brew Bank ended up being a delightful diversion from the standard fare at many restaurants. Having the self-serve banking of draught beers was definitely unique, as well as their on-tap root beer. The variety of finger foods made their menu adventurous with an international flair. We look forward to visiting again on future excursions to the capital city. We expect that this home-grown eatery will have ongoing success. Isn’t this a novel business plan?

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Always The Showman – Evel Knievel Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 10:00:12 +0000

It is fair to say that Evel Knievel is one of the most recognizable names in daredevil history. While there have been many before and after him, he set the bar for showmanship. With over 75 ramp-to-ramp jumps to his fame, he spent the bulk of his life creating the legend that many of us grew up seeing. Always the showman, his days were filled with highs and lows that most of us will never experience. He wrapped up his philosophy on life when he said, “A man can fall many times in life, but he’s never a failure until he refuses to get back up.”

We want to thank the Evel Knievel Museum for hosting our visit. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Life in Butte

Robert Craig Knievel started life in Butte, Montana. The oldest of two boys, Bobby’s parents left their children to be raised by their paternal grandparents. It was at the early age of eight that Bobby witnessed his first daredevil show. It was shortly after World War II ended that the Joie Chitwood Thrill Show came to town. Chitwood had assembled five units of drivers that toured the nation putting on performances. The highlight of the shows was the ramp-to-ramp jumps. Later in life, Knievel would credit this show as being his inspiration into the world of daredevils.

Early Careers

Knievel dropped out of school after his sophomore year and started work in the copper mines. He would lose this job when he performed a wheelie with an earth-mover and took out the town’s main power line. In search of more thrills, Bobby participated in ski jumping and rodeo events. By the late 1950s, he would join the US Army. When he returned to Butte, he met his first wife and started a semi-pro hockey team. Always the showman, he continued to look for thrills on the motocross circuit. A fellow motocross rider taught Knievel how to stand on the seat of a bike while doing a wheelie.

Getting a Taste

With the memory of that early daredevil show still in his mind, Bobby Knievel was ready to strike out on his own. The thrill of ramp-to-ramp jumps appeared to be the perfect avenue to greatness, but he would do it on two wheels. He devised a plan for a show that would set him on his way. To accomplish it, he had to perform the roles of promoter, ticket sales, coordinator, and even master of ceremonies. After performing a few wheelies for the small crowd, he proceeded to jump a 20-foot box filled with rattlesnakes and two mountain lions.

Creating a Legend

After getting this taste of fame, he never looked back. Realizing that he needed to concentrate on the stunts, he went searching for a sponsor. Bob Blair was a west coast motorcycle distributor, who saw the potential in Bobby Knievel. He offered to provide motorcycles and backing but wanted to see a name change to the show. He suggested Evil Knievel, but Bobby was afraid that would elicit an image of the Hell’s Angels type of motorcyclist. It was decided to name the show Evel Knievel and His Motorcycle Daredevils. After suffering a serious injury, during a show in Barstow, Knievel’s daredevil show disbanded. Now he was clear to strike out on his own. His return to jumping brought increased attention. To set himself apart from other motorcycle daredevils, Knievel decided to focus on jumping over automobiles.

The Crash Seen Round the World

Always the showman, each performance seemed to have him adding one more vehicle to the growing line. While injuries would temporarily sideline him, he found that they also added to his name recognition. During a visit to Las Vegas, Evel saw the fountains at Caesars Palace and knew he had to jump them. He formed a fictitious corporation to lend credence to his appeal to the casino for permission. It was decided the jump would take place on December 31, 1967. Evel contacted Wide World of Sports to gain coverage, but they would only be interested in video footage, “if the jump were spectacular.” This jump has become the story of what can go wrong, but the footage yielded Evel more money than he had asked for originally.

Always the Showman

After recovering from the Caesars jump, Evel would walk with the aid of his signature cane. Wanting to keep his name in the forefront, Evel proposed a jump over the Grand Canyon. It would take the better part of three years before he realized the government would never allow this stunt. In the meantime, Evel had returned to jumping cars and was raking in around $25,000 per performance. He had also bumped up his schedule to the point that he was jumping nearly every week.

Danger Off of the Ramps

While most of his jumps were successful, Knievel still experienced the infrequent crash. Over time, the growing number of injuries took its toll. Not all of these happened on the back of a motorcycle. During the late 1960s, Evel had spoken out against the “bad element’ in motorcycling, which most took to mean the Hell’s Angels. A jump performed at the Cow Palace, near San Francisco, drew a number of this bike gang’s members. One of the gang threw something at Knievel’s motorcycle and Evel returned to confront them. When the gang piled on the stuntman, a large section of the crowd joined in to rescue their American hero. Several of the gang members would end up being sent to the hospital.

Touring the World

His setbacks would not prevent him from moving forward. Injuries were keeping him out of the spotlight that he eagerly desired. Always the showman, Evel Knievel would eventually rack up over twenty crashes. He would tally up a record-high 433 broken bones by the end of 1975, and he was still five years away from retirement. He suffered multiple concussions and broke 35 different bones throughout his career. It is easy to understand why he was nicknamed “The Last Gladiator”.

American Icon

Through all of his victories and defeats, Evel Knievel maintained his core values. He had a firm belief that if he gave his word, then he must live up to it. It didn’t matter if he felt that the stunt had a high probability of failure. To him, it was all about keeping his word. This was never more apparent than when he pursued his attempt to jump the Snake River Canyon. Even though he was having huge success on the jumping circuit, it was the idea of tackling a canyon that gnawed at him.

Not Your Average Bike

As part of the jump team’s preparations, they designed a steam-engine powered bike. After a test launch, it was decided the second version would be changed to a rocket-style vehicle. On September 8, 1974, Evel Knievel took to the sky, as the sky-rocket soared from its launch ramp. A drag parachute deployed prematurely, and he drifted down into the canyon. Ironically, Evel had made it to the opposite rim, before the wind pushed him back to the other side.

Traveling in Style

Making our way past the impressive timeline of Evel’s performances, we found ourselves outside of the rig used to move his equipment. We were able to peek inside and see how Knievel traveled from city to city. Always the showman, his iconic red, white, and blue were prevalent on the inside, as well as the exterior. After his failure at Snake canyon, he returned to ramp-to-ramp jumps. We remember watching many of these on Wide World of Sports. In fact, 7 of the 10 highest-rated episodes of that show were performances by Bobby Knievel.

He’s Everywhere

If you are like us, you probably remember the marketplace being flooded with Evel Knievel collectibles and merchandise. I spent many hours winding up my stunt cycle in preparation for a death-defying jump. As we examined the cases of artifacts, we were surprised at just how thoroughly this daredevil saturated the marketplace. How many of you had an Evel Knievel toy?

A Different Kind of Hero

Exploring the life of this American showman, we are sure that the stunts he saw as a child remained with him through life. Many of the things that he did reflect a child-like demeanor. Growing up in the Evel Knievel era meant backyard stunts and long conversations about his most recent exploits. Evel was adamant about the use of helmets and encouraged his fans to do likewise. He even supported the mandatory helmet law in California.

An Unfortunate End

After a run-in with the law, Evel Knievel lost the bulk of his sponsorship deals. With no revenue coming in from jumping, he soon found himself bankrupt. Even with these financial difficulties, Evel still performed public service. His last public motorcycle ride was a benefit to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina. In later life, Evel suffered from a series of medical issues. Bobby Knievel passed away on November 30, 2007, at the age of 69. While it has been years since he had performed, the world still remembers this amazing showman.

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A Date With History – Hays, Kansas

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 10:00:14 +0000

Picture a vast inland sea teeming with an abundance of prehistoric creatures. Along the edge of the water laid a vast swamp filled with an assortment of dinosaurs. Overhead, Pteranodons floated on the warm air currents, as they scanned the horizon for an easy meal. This is the scene that would have played out in western Kansas, even though it may be hard to imagine these days. Our visit to Hays opened up an opportunity to have a date with history, as we explored the background of this city of the plains.

We want to thank Visit Hays and all of their local partners for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Before Man

While it may not be necessary to go this far back in time, we found our visit to the Sternberg Museum very enlightening. Exploring the formation of our state helped us gain a better understanding of things we have seen at many other destinations. The layer upon layer of silt, that formed during the days of the sea, are evident when visiting nearby Monument Rocks. It also makes for perfect fossil hunting, which is apparent in the numerous displays at the museum. As we explored the various exhibits, we found ourselves being drawn back to the earliest days. This place is a great family-friendly attraction to add to your itinerary.

On the Edge

Moving forward in time, our date with history took us to the frontier days. As settlers were migrating west, it was imperative that new cities sprang up to offer safety and rest stops. A visit to Fort Hays Historic Site gave us a peek into life for the soldiers and families that were stationed here. The town had a rough and tumble reputation that came with being on the edge of the frontier. The early citizens included buffalo hunters, speculators, gunmen, and even outlaws. Hays, Kansas would be home to the original “Boot Hill”, which would later be overshadowed by the one in Dodge City. Soldier life was a juxtaposition between hard labor and unstructured free time. Often, a soldier would find himself in the guardhouse for breaking one of the post rules.

Making a Life on the Plains

As time marched on, the lawlessness would subside. Now came the period for new emigrants to build a city that would prosper and flourish on the open plains. At the Ellis County Historical Museum we saw a replica of an early German residence. The influx of new residents brought important trades and skills that allowed businesses to develop. Saloons and brothels were replaced with livery stables, blacksmiths, and harness shops. Progress was marching forward in Hays, Kansas. During our date with history, we had learned how this prairie town moved into the modern age.

Easy Eats

Now you can’t expect us to do all of this research without a few food stops. One of our favorite activities in new destinations is scoping out the local restaurant scene. During our visit to Hays, we had enough time to sample a few options. For those looking for a quick meal, we stopped into two good choices that offer plenty of choices for the whole family. Taco Shop has been serving the local community for decades. They offer up affordable meals that draw in the university crowd. A relative newcomer to the restaurant scene is Tiger Burgers. Housed in an old gas station, this burger joint has some interesting flavor combinations. Be sure to check out their Burger of the Month.

Local Life

Sometimes we enjoy lingering over a meal, so we added a couple of places that really made us feel at home. The morning that would find us on our date with history began with breakfast at Pheasant Run Pancake House. Hanging with some locals was a great way to start our day of exploring. We also had a nice meal with one of our hosts. Janet joined us for dinner at Gella’s Diner and filled us in on what was happening in Hays. While the food was exceptional, it was the evening of conversation that made it extra special.

Retail Therapy

What we learned from Janet was Hays has seen a ton of redevelopment in their downtown corridor. This is a scenario that we have found repeated in many of the cities that we visit. That meant we needed to check out the retail scene for ourselves with a couple hours of shopping. We loved how many of the local businesses had repurposed existing historic buildings, instead of razing them to build something new. It adds another level of charm to a boutique when we can feel the age of the city in its bones. Of course, I think Crystal was more focused on the cute clothes and accessories she was finding in the boutique shops.

Don’t Forget the Guys

Many times, this portion of the visit leaves me meandering around a little, but Hays had a couple of surprises. There are always a couple of things for men, but usually they are mostly minimal, as us men are used to finding. In Hays, not only did I find a nice selection at one of the larger boutiques, but there is an entire clothing shop dedicated to us. It was one of those rare times that the roles were reversed and Crystal was the one watching me shop.

Sweet Endings

Here is when we need to gush a little about our hosts at the Hays CVB. (Convention & Visitors Bureau) When we dropped by their offices to meet the staff, they surprised us with a bouquet of beautiful hand-decorated cookies. These were produced at Augustine’s Bakery, which prides itself in fresh made pastries. These treats made a perfect accompaniment for our morning coffee at our hotel. We were so impressed with the cookies that we had to drop by their shop to thank them in person.

A Date with History

Too often we hear people lament about the long drive across the state of Kansas. Our time in Hays proved out the belief that there are great things all around us, we just have to look. Our hope is that you will enjoy our articles about this city of the plains and it sparks you to make your own visit. We are confident that you will find plenty of family-friendly activities to help fuel your own date with history. Just make sure you stop in and get some of those cookies!

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50 Years And Counting – Taco Shop

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 09:00:23 +0000

It was an unexpectedly cold and wet day in the middle of Kansas. We arrived at Taco Shop for an early lunch with our new friend Janet Kuhn. Our visit to Hays was winding down to the last few hours, so this would be our last get together. It was fitting that our last meal was in this long-running eatery. What had started out 50 years ago has grown into a local haunt that draws in crowds from all around. Now it was our turn to sample the menu.

We want to thank Hays CVB and Taco Shop for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Beating the Crowd

When we stepped through the door, we found that we had the place almost to ourselves. There were a couple of students from the nearby university who were picking up lunch to go. The clean lines and basic seating arrangement spoke volumes of a business that passes through their doors every day. You just don’t make it in the restaurant business for 50 years and counting without growing a huge cult following. This requires attention to detail and the ability to deliver consistency.

Make it Easy

Another key to longevity is making life as easy as possible for your customers. One way that Taco Shop does this is by providing visual assistance to its menu. We loved that we could see examples of each of the dishes. It is a well-known fact that we eat first with our eyes. Seeing all of the choices laid out in front of us actually made it more difficult for me. After all, I wanted so bad to sample a variety of them but knew that I had to remember to keep my eyes in check with my stomach. Displaying photos of menu items can be a very bold move. This means that you have to replicate the look time after time, so as not to face the ire of an unsatisfied customer.

A Dab of This

After spending some time staring at the options, I decided to go with a classic, the Taco Salad. My last version of this dish had come from a Mexican restaurant in KCK. Taco Shop serves theirs up in a crispy tortilla bowl that is just as delicious as the fillings. Crystal selected Combo Dinner #2. It combines a trio of classics that gives an excellent cross-section of Tex-Mex dishes. They start with a crispy hard-shelled taco that rivaled my salad. They toss in an enchilada and burrito to boot. Diners get to choose the protein for the filling, and as expected, Crystal picked chicken.

A Pinch of That

Janet is a veteran of Taco Shop dining, so she definitely helped guide our selections. She went straight for the Nacho Supreme, which combines a plethora of flavors. The base is a bed of Mexicali Rice, which they cover with a hearty helping of corn chips. Now it gets interesting. Shredded grilled chicken, shredded Monterrey jack and cheddar cheeses, olives, tomatoes, jalapenos, sour cream, and chili con queso are piled on top. Then they cap it off with another helping of the rice. That’s a lot of great flavors all rolled into one dish.

50 Years and Counting

To be a mainstay business for 50 years and counting is not something that happens by accident. Taco Shop prepares its fresh ingredients daily so that they are offering their customers top-quality dishes. Even with this attention to detail, they manage to keep their prices down, so as to be affordable for the local student population. Something we have discovered in our years of traveling is that college towns have some of the best restaurants. This place is a solid reminder of that principle.

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Taming The Plains – Fort Hays

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 09:00:42 +0000

The year is 1865 and the Civil War has just ended. While westward expansion had significantly slowed during the war, it did not take long for it to resume. As settlers pushed for new territories to be opened, it would spark a resurgence of the American Indian War. Out on the westerns front, in Kansas, soldiers were tasked with taming the plains for the influx of new arrivals. Our visit to Fort Hays State Historic Site offered a glimpse at life in this outpost during those tumultuous times.

We want to thank Visit Hays and Kansas Historical Society for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Life on the Plains

When it was built, the fort had been originally named Fort Fletcher. This outpost was designed to help protect wagon trains and stagecoaches from attacks by Native Indian tribes. Even with the military presence, raids would still be made by the Cheyenne and Arapaho. In late 1866, the name was changed to Fort Hays t honor General Alexander Hays, who served on the side of the Union, during the Civil War. After the railroad was built five miles to the north, the fort had to be relocated in 1867. With the grouping of the railroad, nearby Big Creek, and the fort, it was just a matter of time before new communities sprung up.

Family Life

After stopping at the visitor’s center, we soon found ourselves in the midst of a tour. While the original fort contained around 45 structures, we found far fewer remain. Our guide led us to a row of houses that would have been home to officers and their families. Inside we found the rooms set up much like they would have been during the times that the Army was taming the plains. While we saw similar accommodations during a visit to Fort Scott, the addition of the mannequins made this really look like a home.

Meal Preparation

Stepping into the kitchen, we could almost smell the freshly baked meal that was displayed on the dining table. In the pantry, we could see a collection of basic ingredients that would have been required for everyday sustenance. Having to make everything from scratch would have certainly occupied a large portion of the day. Having to do it in a house that had no running water, and working with a wood-fired stove would have made the task even more challenging.

Steady Supplies

In one of the other buildings, we found this exhibit showcasing a general store. It was a reminder of the sparse amount of options people faced when supplying the homes. It’s a far cry from the vast amount of variety that we face whenever we head into a store. Even today’s simplest convenience stores hold a far superior amount of goods than one would have found in the late 1800s.

Winter Preview

The scheduled tour section of our visit was wrapping up, and from this point, it is a search and see style of exploring. Just a couple of days prior the temperatures had been in the low 90s, but now we faced 40s and drizzles. It was a harsh reminder of the severe weather changes that the soldiers and settlers would have faced on the plains. This is one of those times we are thankful for the modern conveniences that make handling the unexpected swings a little easier.

The Guardhouse

Fort Hays State Historic Site still retains four of its original buildings. Besides the two officer’s homes, it also has the 1867 blockhouse, as well as the 1872 guardhouse. We made our way along the path to the guardhouse, which holds the largest collection of exhibits. The structure is 100 feet long and 24 feet deep. We can only imagine the flow of disorderly soldiers who occupied the guardhouse. Being assigned to the task of taming the plains left plenty of free time for mischievousness.

Keeping the Peace

There was a wide range of reasons for punishment among the ranks. Gambling, drunkenness, theft, fighting, insubordination, and desertion were some of the more common. The levels of discipline were usually prescribed by the commanding officer. With room and board is supplied by the Army, the soldier was free to use his pay for how he saw fit. Too many filled the empty hours with liquor. Touring sites, such as Fort Hays, provides a stark shot of reality to the life faced by soldiers on the western front.

Cramped Confines

Duties of the soldiers at the fort included things besides regular patrols. Constructing buildings, chopping wood, caring for the animals, and tending vegetable gardens would have kept some busy. The expanding frontier would require the construction of telegraph lines or guarding railroad crews. Even so, there were still those who ended up in the guardhouse. The cells used to house punished soldiers were small, to say the least. With no space to move and bereft of any distractions, the soldier had plenty of opportunities to consider his actions.

Sharing Space

On the western frontier, you would think that space wouldn’t be an issue. While there was plenty of it in the great outdoors, inside the barracks would be quite different. In the early days of Fort Hays, the soldiers were required to share bunks. It was quite a shock to us to see that each set would hold four men. The task of taming the plains brought some familiar names to Fort Hays. Wild Bill Hickok and Buffalo Bill Cody both served as scouts during campaigns against the Cheyenne and Kiowa.

Buffalo Soldiers

Portions of the 10th Cavalry Regiment, often referred to as the “Buffalo Soldiers”, called Fort Hays home temporarily. This group was originally formed at Fort Leavenworth, in 1866. Their nickname was given to them by the Native Indians that they fought in the American Indian Wars. Racial prejudice was just as prevalent in the frontier ranks as it was in civilian life, during the late 1800s. While Buffalo Soldiers made up 20% of the Calvary, they were given less than 4% of the Medals of Honor awarded.

Taming the Plains

The list of infamous names that were stationed at Fort Hays would not be complete without including George Custer. After some dubious activities, which led to a nearly one-year suspension, Custer would lead the 7th Calvary during the Battle of Washita River. Following a lead that this particular band had recently raided white settlers, they attacked Black Kettle’s party of Cheyenne at their winter camp near Cheyenne, Oklahoma. Wintering parties included Arapaho, Kiowa, and Comanche, all combined around 6,000 Native Indians who were camped along portions of the river. Black Kettle’s group of Cheyenne was situated farthest west on the Washita River.

Hard Decisions

Black Kettle was no stranger to the growing push to remove native Indians from desirable lands. His tribe had been one of those that the 3rd Colorado Calvary had almost completely slaughtered during the Sand Creek Massacre. Most of the victims of this raid were women and children. Even after this assault, Black Kettle continued to counsel for peace. He knew that the Native Indian tribes did not have the numbers to present a significant military resistance. This Cheyenne chief moved the remaining members of his tribe to the newly formed Indian Territory in Oklahoma. Unfortunately for him, some of the younger members refused to accept his pacifist route and struck out on raids and ambushes into the surrounding territory.

Fight for Freedom?

On November 27, 1868, Custer led the 7th Calvary on an attack against Chief Black Kettle. The troops killed around 100 Native Americans, including Black Kettle and his wife, who were shot in the back. The military hailed the raid as a victory that pushed the Native Indians back to the reservation lands set aside for them. As we examined the exhibits at Fort Hays, it made us wonder how we would have fared in the same scenario. This is one of those difficult visits that call for us to lay aside any prejudices we have learned in life and concentrate on the morality of the situation. Would we have been able to maintain a passive approach in the face of so much aggression?

History Unfolds

We have said many times, that travel is our form of continued education. Visiting sites such as Fort Hays help us develop a better understanding not only of the past but how the actions of our forefathers played into the development of the current world in which we live. By the time we completed our tour of the fort, we had a better understanding of what took place during the period of taming the plains. As a wise man once said, “You have to know the past to be able to learn from it.” These historical experiences help us stitch together a picture of what took place out on the western frontier.

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Familiar Phrases – Oz Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 09:00:41 +0000

It is no surprise that the pieces and parts of The Wizard of Oz have saturated our daily lives. Based on the children’s novel, written by L. Frank Baum, it has been declared as “America’s greatest and best-loved homegrown fairytale”. How many times have each of us uttered one of the familiar phrases that are associated with this classic? For those looking to really immerse themselves in the story, we suggest a stop at the Oz Museum in Wamego, Kansas. Being from the great state of Kansas, we dropped by to check out this attraction for ourselves. We discovered a cast of characters who reminded us that “there’s no place like home”.

Tornado Tragedy

The 1939 movie was adapted from Baum’s story titled, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. While there are many clear departures from the original, the movie does stay true to the overall theme. After being caught up in a Kansas cyclone, Dorothy and her dog Toto are deposited into Munchkin Land. As soon as she exits the house, she utters one of those familiar phrases, “Toto, I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore”. Truer words have not been spoken, as this begins her magical journey through the Land of Oz.

Notable Sidekicks

Along the way, she meets some interesting characters who each has their own problem to face. They also bring more familiar phrases to the forefront. Who could forget the scarecrow lamenting about what he would do “If I only had a brain”? The dynamic foursome even joins together to utter one of the most iconic sayings of all. “Lions, and tigers, and bears, Oh my!” Of course, not all of the familiar phrases are spoken as sayings. Many come from the songs associated with the film. “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard” are probably running through your mind already.

Sinister Villains

Most every great children’s story requires overcoming some hardship or facing stifling foes. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz has plenty of both. When the Wicked Witch of the West finds out that Dorothy killed her sister with a house, she vows to get revenge. Armed with plenty of witchy powers, as well as a host of frightening henchmen, she sets off to do in the Kansas girl. After all, she just wants the power of the magical shoes for herself. And Dorothy should steer clear, as the witch has stated “I’ll get you my pretty, and your little dog, too!”

Big Screen Adaption

As we made our way through the Oz Museum, we discovered plenty of artifacts and memorabilia from the movie and Baum’s writings. For those who have read the book, you know that the original slippers were silver, not ruby-red. Apparently, red slippers made a more appealing presence on the big screen. It worked since we are all very familiar with the film’s version, which stood out vividly from the Yellow Brick Road.

Special Effects

While these days we look back at the special effects as simplified, they were cutting edge in 1935. The tornado was created with 35 feet of muslin that was hung from a huge gantry. By moving it across the stage they were able to reproduce the illusion of a circling cyclone. The lion and scarecrow’s makeup included the use of latex foam, which was fairly new for that time period. We can all remember the scenes that involved oiling the rusted tinman. Did you realize that they used chocolate syrup to replicate the oil? Even after the crew made it to Oz, the special effects continued. Remember the “horse of a different color”? It was created using a white horse coated with assorted Jell-O powders.

A Series of Successes

Frank Baum started his career as a newspaper journalist, and it wasn’t until his forties that he began writing children’s books. Just before the turn of the century he had published a couple of hugely popular nursery rhyme books. Playing off of these early successes, he released The Wonderful Wizard of Oz in 1900. It became the best-selling children’s book for two years running. This would spark him to write thirteen more editions that would expand the Land of Oz universe. While he did gain the acclaim that he desired in younger years, time taught him that there are rewards with more value than money or possessions.

Have a Heart

Frank Baum was not just interested in telling kid’s stories. He also used his influence to help move issues forward. Baum was a supporter of women’s rights and worked to forward the women’s suffrage movement. In fact, many believe that his works with that movement helped fuel the storyline behind his second book in the Oz series, The Marvelous Land of Oz. In that story, the women of Oz rise up in revolt and succeed in making the men take over the household chores.

Hearing Familiar Phrases

As we toured the Oz Museum, the familiar phrases from the movie kept running through our heads. The museum includes a small theater where the movie plays on a continuous loop. We popped in for a moment, but having seen it year-after-year, we were already quite familiar with it. Still, seeing all of the memorabilia gathered throughout the space showed us just how much the Wizard of Oz has permeated our culture. For us Kansans, Dorothy wrapped it up when she said, “If I go looking for my heart’s desire again, I won’t look any farther than my backyard.”

Share this with a Wizard of Oz Fan!

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Eat, Drink, and Enjoy – Gella’s Diner

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 09:00:51 +0000

We love finding cities that have recaptured the magic of their downtown corridor. For decades this nation has seen the urban flight, which has left the inner cores of our cities empty. With all of the existing infrastructure still in place, these areas are ripe for redevelopment, like what we found in Hays, Kansas. During our first day of exploring, we had an opportunity to sit down to dinner with Janet Kuhn, one of our friends from the local tourism bureau. It was a great time to eat, drink, and enjoy at Gella’s Diner and Lb. Brewing Co.

We want to thank Hays CVB and Gella’s Diner for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Impressive Resume

If you travel back to the start of this century, you will find that many cities were starting to see the potential of redevelopment. While the suburban sprawl was still in full swing, many saw the dire need to recapture what was missing from their city’s core. For generations, locals had shopped, dined, and fellowshipped in the downtown areas. The big question for many was “What can be done to spark an interest in our downtown?”. What many cities discovered was that if you build it, they will come. In Hays, it took a small group of investors that put a serious effort into revitalization. The formation of the Liberty Group offered a vehicle that would drive this change.

Local Style

After a few years, there had already accomplished the renovations on a couple of dozen buildings. Stepping back to look at their work, they realized that there needed to be a flagship restaurant that would anchor the Chestnut Street District. Drawing people into the downtown would require places for shoppers to eat, drink, and enjoy themselves. It was decided that this new eatery would give a nod to the city’s German heritage. The name Gella’s is German for “yes”, and the Lb. in the brewery’s name is short for “liquid bread”. To add an extra layer of historical charm, the interior is decorated with vintage murals painted by Fort Hays State University students.

Eat, Drink, and Enjoy

Being surrounded by all of this history definitely adds an extra level of special to a meal. While Crystal and I are not big beer drinkers, we did find some cold drafts that we wanted to sample. Gella’s is well-known for its hand-crafted root beer and crème soda. We weren’t about to pass up these frosty beverages. Sure enough, both were delicious and had a nice depth of flavor. My root beer paired well with the Frontier Burger, which starts with a juicy 1/2 lb. patty. Throw on some crispy bacon, crunchy onion rings, and a drizzling of BBQ sauce to make it better than a backyard barbecue. Their crispy Sweet Potato Fries were a great match for this hearty entrée.

Colorful Cuisine

Crystal had to go and pick a chicken dish, which I knew she would. When I’m reviewing a menu and see a dish with avocado or pesto, I can bet she will order it. Sure enough, the Grilled Pesto Chicken Breast was right at the top of the entrée list. They start with a boneless breast that has been grilled to smoky perfection. Then they slather it with a generous helping of homemade pesto. The dish comes with sides of roasted new red potatoes and sautéed vegetables. She ensured me that the entire meal was delectable.

Beefy Entrees

Janet, who had been filling us in on the behind the scenes in Hays, had her own favorite dishes at Gella’s. As our server was taking our order, I heard her choose the Beef Stroganoff. It is rare that my mind is swayed, once I have chosen my dish. This was one of those rare occasions, and I could picture the silky sauce drizzled over the egg noodles. Oh well, I would stand by my decision and just relish in the opportunity to have more dishes in this article. Once we began eating, it was obvious that Janet had the inside scoop. Her dish was constructed with loads of beef and mushrooms, which are braised with an Oatmeal Stout made in-house. I cataloged this dish for the next time we are in Hays. Kansas.

Sweet Endings

As though we hadn’t eaten enough food already, our server came by to remind us of the desserts at Gella’s. I am never one to stand in the way of sampling more flavors from a menu, so I twisted my tablemates’ arms to grab a couple of dishes to sample. Between the three of us, we figured we could polish off two selections. One of them had to be the German Chocolate Cheesecake, which is a sinfully decadent dessert. The German chocolate frosting is packed full of pecans and coconut. The second pick was French Toast Brûlée, which is soaked in vanilla custard and flash-fried to perfection. A sweet syrup and caramel sauce takes this dish over the top. Yes, we were able to finish them.

Gella’s does Hays Right

This is one of those times that we are thankful we took our selfies before dining. By the time we finished our evening, it was nearly closing time. Our conversation with Janet had covered so many topics in and out of Hays. These are some of our favorite times when we visit a new destination. This chance to eat, drink, and enjoy the company of another gives us lots of insight into the community we are visiting. We learned about the ups and downs that the city has experienced and how the progress of moving it forward is working. This common thread is shared in cities and towns all across the nation, as each strives to provide its citizens with the best that they can do. It makes us realize that no matter where you travel, it is all about the people who call the city home.

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The Early Days Of Hays – Ellis County Historical Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 09:00:31 +0000

When we visit a new destination, one of our goals is to learn about its unique past. Every city and town has its own stories to tell, it just requires finding the right storyteller. To learn about the early days of hays, we tapped into the knowledge of Katie Annett, from the Ellis County Historical Society Museum. Unfortunately, due to COVID, the museum was closed to the public, but Katie was more than happy to walk us through the other buildings.

We want to thank Visit Hays and Katie Annett for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

The Early Days of Hays

The original Hays City was built along the path of the railroad. In June of 1867, the Army had moved Fort Hays 15 miles to be closer to the spot that the railroad crossed a tributary of the Smoky Hill River. While just a mile down the road sat the booming town of Rome, the railroad’s decision to build a depot in Hays City gave them a nod to succeed. When a cholera epidemic struck Rome, most of the citizens and businesses relocated to the neighboring town. As a supply point for travelers heading west, Hays City quickly grew into a frontier town of questionable reputation. The early days of Hays saw some notable residents including Buffalo Bill Cody, Calamity Jane, and Wild Bill Hickok. Hays City was even home to the first Boot Hill, which was in service five years before Dodge City.

Supplying the Citizenry

Stepping into the Younger Harness Shop, we had a chance to see some of the tools of the trade. Next to the blacksmith, the harness shop was high on the “must-have” list for any growing pioneer town. Whether you were needing harnesses, yokes, saddles, or shoes, this is where you went. We are sure that this place was swamped with business when the cowboys rode into town for supplies. The Ellis County Historical Museum has a nice collection of the items that would have been commonplace in the late 1800s through the early 1900s. We were surprised to see an example of a fringed harness, which is sometimes called a “fly net”. These were used to help keep insects from pestering horses, yet you will rarely find them on display.

Early Emigrants

During the early days of Hays City, it became the county seat, and soon the rough and tumble character calmed down. By the late 1870s, a new crop of emigrants began arriving. Volga Germans, from Russia, found the land suitable for the types of crops they had grown in their homeland. The museum has a replica home that would have been the style used by German Russian families. Being from a wheat-growing belt, it was an obvious choice to raise crops of their winter wheat. By the late 1880s, Bukovina Germans also began arriving in Hays City. The growing town became a cultural center for German culture and was renamed Hays in 1895.

Life in One Room

Many of our historical visits take us to museums and not actual homesteads. Seeing the inside of the German house made us realize how much times have changed. The one-room structure would have held a growing pioneer family and certainly become cramped over time. I guess a newlywed couple would have found it to be more than enough, but given the larger families of that period, it would certainly have been more of a challenge in later life. Even though this was a recreation, the Ellis County Historical Society had done a good job of filling it with artifacts that were appropriate to the time period.

Close Quarters

Looking around the room, I started thinking about how it must have been to live in the early days of Hays. Some of the stark realities began sinking in that I had not thought of before this visit. In my youth, I had visited my grandparent’s farm, where the use of an outhouse was expected. The thought of how you handle this situation during a bitterly cold winter day had never crossed my mind. Seeing the chamber pot in the corner of the room definitely was enlightening. This must have been quite a shock, especially in the case of newlyweds.

Moving Hays Forward

Now that we had a solid understanding of the early days of Hays, Katie had one more surprise for us. The Ellis County Historical Society teamed up with the Hays Firemen’s Relief Association to create the Fire Department Museum. Inside this structure, we spotted a variety of firefighting tools and assorted apparatus. They also have a pair of classic fire engines including this 1936 Ford. This was a nice addition to our tour and a great way to wrap it all up. We thanked Katie for taking the time to show us around and headed off with a better understanding of how Hays got its start.

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Family Friendly Feasting – Pheasant Run Pancake House

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 09:00:46 +0000

Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day, especially when traveling. It sets the tone for the entire day and provides the start needed to fuel a morning of exploration. While many newer restaurants are focusing on Instagram worthy plates, there is still much to be said for good old-fashioned breakfasts. On an unexpectedly cool September morning, we stopped by Pheasant Run Pancake House for some family-friendly feasting.

We want to thank Visit Hays and Pheasant Run for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Family is Key

Have you ever visited a restaurant that made you feel like one of the locals? Pheasant Run Pancake House is one of those types of places. From the moment we walked through the door, we were treated like family. Of course, that is probably because family comes first at this restaurant. After all, the staff is one big family that has been satisfying the hunger of locals and travelers alike for many years. Being close to the interstate brings them a wide range of diners, but they try to treat them all like long-time customers.

Local Life

Even though the pandemic has created the need for buffering space between guests, that hasn’t isolated the locals. During our visit, the conversations still occurred between tables, even if it did require a little extra volume to cover the distances. We enjoyed hearing the back-and-forth banter that comes with comradery. It was obvious that these diners were regulars, but even though we were travelers, they included us in the conversations. We were truly feeling like locals.

Family Friendly Feasting

The menu at Pheasant Run is filled with hearty dishes designed to fuel a day of work or play. For us, there is a fuzzy line that separates the two. It’s hard to call this work when we are having so much fun. We still needed the fuel and of course some hot coffee. I chose to go with The Uplander, which features two eggs, crispy bacon, hash browns, and a choice of toast or pancakes. The menu mentioned The Dixie Special, which is their homemade biscuits and gravy, so I asked for a half version just to check it out. This meal really hit the spot, especially on this chilly morning.

Sweetening the Deal

Crystal decided to follow suit and also ordered The Uplander. Of course, she had to put her own twist on it, so she chose sausage patties and pancakes. The pancakes can be made with a variety of flavors packed inside, so she picked blueberries. Having the ability to make these kinds of choices adds to the family-friendly feasting options at Pheasant Run. With all of our plates laid out before us and the photos completed, it was time to dig in. Since we had so much variety on the table, we were both sharing our bounty and sampling a bit of everything.

Chasing the Chill

Our visit to Pheasant Run was a great start to what could have been a gloomy day. The hot coffee, delicious meals, and lively conversations had perked us up. Now we were ready to head out and conquer the world or at least explore more of Hays, Kansas. These are the types of dining experiences that remind us it’s not about the frills, as much as it is the dedicated restaurant workers, that make it more than a meal. We hope that you will add the Pheasant Run Pancake House to your explorer list.

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Life In Dinosaur Days – Sternberg Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 06 Oct 2020 09:00:55 +0000

It may be hard to believe, but millions of years ago Kansas was part of a huge inland sea. Traveling across the western half of the state, it is not an ocean that comes to mind. It takes excursions off of the interstate to expose the true history of the region. We made a visit to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, in Hays, to get a look at life in dinosaur days. Time to break out our explorer gear and do a deep dive into our state’s watery side of history.

We want to thank Visit Hays and the Sternberg Museum for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Famous Fishes

We picked the Sternberg Museum since it is known worldwide for its collection of fossils. With over 23,000 cataloged artifacts, it would take a lot of time to explore it all. Knowing the liquified history of Kansas, we expected to find a lot of fish fossils. We learned that over the eons, the water level would rise and fall, which allowed the inhabitants to vary. During the wetter periods, the inland sea would average around 600 feet deep. You can imagine the abundance of fish that would have been present. In fact, one of the most popular fossils at the museum is the “Fish-Within-A-Fish”.

Multi-Faceted Exhibits

After checking out the world-famous fossil, it was time to look into their traveling exhibit. When doing my research, I somehow had missed that Sternberg has rotating exhibits. We have found that many museums include this feature. It’s a great way to expand our education about a subject we were not expecting. Another example was finding sunken Egyptian artifacts during a stop at the St. Louis Art Museum. It goes to show that you never know what you will find when you enter a museum.

Temporary Visitors

Having panes of glass between us and these vipers allowed for some up-close inspections. The Sternberg Museum not only showcased a lot of snakes, but they included a plethora of educational information. Various placards explained how these cold-blooded creatures play their part in the ecosystem. A billboard showed us how we measured up to the king of the crop. Clearly, there are some monsters out there in the world.

Welcome to Base Camp

With that interesting addition tucked away in our memories, it was time for the main feature. The big draw for us was diving into life in dinosaur days in what would become Kansas. The entrance to this portion of the exhibits begins at the base camp. Here we would find artifacts that hint at how researchers live while in the field. A diorama of a scientist uncovering a fish fossil leads the way into the underwater adventure.

Diving Into the Kansas Sea

The tunnel entrance propelled us back in time to the Cretaceous Period. We found ourselves immersed in the underwater world that occupied the region 100 million years ago. Huge sea creatures swim by with ferocious teeth and obvious predator features. The seabed is covered with giant clams, ammonites, and crinoids. Mosasaurs, sharks, and plesiosaurs are the kings of these waters and spend their days in pursuit of fish.

Hitting the Kansas Beaches

Not all of the land is covered and along the eastern edge, the land rises above the water. Rocky beaches offer temporary relief from the ever-present threats of swimming predators. Of course, there were also threats from above. Huge Pterosaurs glided across the skies looking for food below. Plant eating dinosaurs with bony armor grazed along the swampy grounds that bordered the inland sea. Some plant-eaters, like the duck-billed Claosaurus, were as comfortable on land as they were in the water.

Toothy Residents

In the fossil gallery, we had seen evidence of these “toothy” creatures that prowled the waters. It was easy to imagine the peril that awaited the unwary fishes swimming along in schools. The Plesiosaur was certainly high on the list of predators. Its long neck and broad body made it a formidable opponent underwater. I can picture it darting through a school of fish, waving its toothy jaws side-to-side, as it captured unexpecting prey. It certainly makes you glad that these creatures are extinct.

Life in Dinosaur Days

We had moved beyond the underwater exhibit and back onto dry land. As we made our way into the heart of the dome, we met our old friend, Claosaurus. Here was a young one grazing on plants, under the watchful eye of his parent. We stayed on the path, as Pterosaurs cruised overhead. While the various fossils had given us a glimpse into life in dinosaur days, these full-scale models offered another perspective. Seeing the creatures like this helped us picture the amount of vegetation needed to keep them all fed.

Keeping a Low Profile

On the other side of the treeline, danger lurked in the form of a T-Rex. We could be sure that this little dinosaur would have been the perfect snack size for such an imposing predator. It was likely that these plant-eaters stayed close to the shoreline, so a quick escape could be made into the water. Of course, then they would have been potential victims of the underwater flesh-eaters. We made our way around the path to get a closer look at the T-Rex on the hunt. Knowing that the Sternberg Museum works to keep the models in scale helped us imagine the amazing arsenal of teeth that this creature brought to bear on its victims.

Taking It All In

In the end, we decided that the process of the hunter and hunted was one that has been repeated for millions of years. It was just reassuring to know that we would not be the next in line to wind up in a T-rex stomach. We returned to our explorations and turned our attention back to the wide range of fossils that are on display. While I could spend days examining all of the artifacts, our time had run out for this visit. More of Hays, Kansas was waiting to be discovered. We thanked the staff for their hospitality and left knowing more about the Kansas sea than we had ever expected to learn.

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The Chalk Pyramids – Monument Rocks National Landmark

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 09:00:42 +0000

You have probably heard people refer to Kansas as “flat as a pancake”. To many along the coasts, our fly-over state is bereft of any tourism value. Fortunately, we know better. Scattered across our home state is a slew of unique oddities and interesting stories. The drive along I-70 opens up a lot of possibilities for short sidetracks and excursions. Sitting about an hour from the Colorado border, travelers can visit the first site chosen as a National Natural Landmark. The Chalk Pyramids, known as Monument Rocks, rise nearly seven stories above the Kansas prairie and inspire visitors with their natural beauty.

First Blush

These days social media has become a lifeline between people. We use it to connect, stay up to date, and even to do research. We love to use our Instagram account to scope out places others have visited, in hopes of locating our next destinations. With the pandemic forcing people to rethink vacations and travel, the idea of visiting natural landmarks is becoming more intriguing. A few of our social connections were showcasing photos from Monument Rocks, near Oakley, Kansas. We decided to find a way to add this to one of our excursions so that we could see it for ourselves.

Silent Sentinels

To gain a better understanding of the Chalk Pyramids, we have to travel back 80 million years. At that time, the entire area was a vast seabed. Over eons, the bed dried as the land lifted. This left the limestone exposed to erosion from natural forces. The work of millions of years has left us with this impressive stand of sculpted natural stone structures. It also exposed an amazing variety of fossilized marine creatures.

It’s All About Layers

Reaching Monument Rocks from Oakley is fairly direct, although a little dusty. Heading south out of town on Highway 83, we found a relatively flat landscape. Farmlands and ranges dominate the eye’s view. Trees are sparse out here in the post-rock country. After traveling about 20 miles, we turned east onto Jayhawk Road. This rocky trail led us through private lands, where crops and cattle are kings. This stretch ended up being 7.4 miles along dusty gravel roads. For those unfamiliar with country roads, keep your eyes peeled for cattle crossings and washboarding. Both of these can be detrimental to your vehicle.

Eye on the Sky

As we approached the site, little sightings captured our interest. A jutting formation here and there hinted at the find to come. Rounding a bend in the road, suddenly the Chalk Pyramids sprung into view. The gravel road leads between two main outcroppings. Seeing these towering natural masterpieces was certainly awe-inspiring. It got us to wondering how the Native Indian tribes would have felt finding these monoliths. After all, this region of the continent was often occupied by Cheyenne, Sioux, Kiowa, and Apache Indians.

Framing a Moment

The impressive structures are situated on the east and west sides of the gravel road. We began our visit on the west side, which holds the Keyhole Arch. This unique opening is a magnet for visitors looking to capture an image. As we waited for others to finish, we looked around the area. Since this is private property, certain protocols are expected to be followed. No climbing on the structures, as it may cause damage. Forego the collecting of fossils or rocks, even if they are lying on the ground. No littering, that should always be a given. The idea is that these fragile ruins are to be viewed with our eyes and left to weather naturally.

Changing Silhouettes

Once we had satisfied ourselves with tons of photos on the west side, we drove a couple of hundred yards to the parking area by the eastern formations. It was easy to imagine that at one point the entire area was awash with these formations. The often harsh weather of western Kansas has certainly played a large part in their continued erosion. Late afternoon was turning to early evening, and we noted the changing patterns of the shadows. This particular park is open from 6:00 am until 8:00 pm, so we would not be able to enjoy the sunset during our visit.

Beauty from All Angles

The eastern side seemed to draw less of a crowd, but we still found it to be just as amazing. As I wandered around looking for good angles, I noted how the western portion stood majestically over a small ridge. I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to catch the photo above. I would say it ended up being one of my favorites. There is just something breathtaking about the layers of colors that work their way down the sides of the chalk pyramids.

See the Chalk Pyramids for Yourself

Photos can tell a story, but some things are better seen in person. While our social friends had intrigued us with their posts, seeing Monument Rocks in person was unbelievable. To think, there are so many people out there who think that the Midwest is bereft of any beauty. We say that there is beauty all around, we just have to slow down and open our eyes to it. We hope you enjoyed this tour of the Chalk Pyramids, and perhaps you will journey out to Oakley, Kansas to see them for yourself.

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Fall In Love With Marysville, Kansas

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 09:00:19 +0000

If you Google Marysville, Kansas you will find that it is listed as a city in Marshall County with about 3300 residents. While these statistics seem commonplace, they do little to tell the city’s story. To truly understand the dynamics of this historic town you have to experience it firsthand. Our short jaunt from Kansas City started early so that we would be able to make the most of our time. With only a day and a half to explore, we knew we would be busy. By the end of the second day, we found it easy to fall in love with the warmth and charm of the “Black Squirrel Capital of Kansas”.

We want to thank Visit Marysville and all of the local businesses for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

History Lesson

For us, there is no better way to start a new visit than to get some background on the destination. This meant a visit to the Marshall County Museum, which is located in the historic courthouse building. The beautiful structure makes the perfect home for the museum and they have even preserved the courtroom just like yesteryear. At this stop, we met Dixie, who would be a shining example of the kind spirits that permeate the town. As she led us through a tour of the museum, she shared a collection of stories that showcased why Marysville is so special. Sitting along a major trade and migration route means that the city would play host to travelers for generations.

Back to the Basics

In the mid-1800s, pioneers and prospectors were looking for routes to the west. One of the biggest hurdles that these travelers faced was crossing the rivers that barred their way. One of these is the Big Blue River, which runs to the west of present-day Marysville. Seeing that providing a solution could be a lucrative enterprise, Frank Marshall established a ferry. This crossing was called “Independence Ford”, as a nod to the trail which had its start in Independence, Missouri. We dropped by Historic Trails Park to see the monuments for all of the trails that passed through this region. It also gave us a photo opp at the full-sized replica ferry.

Riding into History

The Pony Express, while short-lived, embodied the wildness of the frontier. Young riders would be charged with riding about 100 miles, while only stopping to quickly change mounts. Once their long stretch was complete, they would arrive at a Home Station, where they would hand off the mail pouch to the next rider. In downtown Marysville, you can still visit one of these stations, that now holds the Pony Express Barn Museum. While it has closed for the balance of the 2020 season, we are hopeful that it will be ready for visitors in 2021.

History on the Move

As you may have noticed, Marysville is tied to transportation of all types. To commemorate this they have added an art installation in downtown. Seeing the Living History Tiles firsthand was definitely high on our list of things to do. Created with an interesting technique, these art installations simulated movement when the viewer passes along them. We tried to capture the essence of it on video, but you really need to see them for yourself.

Life on the Plains

During the research phase of our Marysville visit, we found a site that has been called “the Most Beautiful House in Kansas”. Now, this certainly piqued our interest, and we had to see it for ourselves. A stop at the Koester House Museum would satisfy our curiosity and prove to be an amazing sight. Not only is this 1875 home in immaculate condition, but it is still furnished with the original owner’s belongings. It almost felt like we had dropped by while the family was out for the day. We hope you get John as a tour guide, as he imparts his own twists on the story of this landmark.

Fueling Our Passion

We couldn’t go far without stopping to refuel. Marysville has plenty of good dining options and a lot of them are within easy walking distance of the downtown corridor. This makes a visit to town convenient, as well as delicious. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are readily available and we found some really nice choices. Perhaps you will want to select one of the spots we sampled (You can see them all here.) or head out on your own to explore one of the other options. No matter your preference, you are sure to find some tasty bites and a welcoming spirit all around town.

Furry Friends

Does your town have its own mascot? Marysville does and it was one of the things that grabbed our attention. During our research, we noted that the town is nicknamed “The Black Squirrel Capital of Kansas”. Now we have seen lots of gray squirrels and even quite a few of the red variety. On occasion we have even spotted a white tree-hugger, but we had never seen a black one. While it was not the driving force for a visit to Marysville, the idea of spotting one of these elusive creatures was on our “to do” list once we arrived. You can bet that we made sure we had some black squirrel sightings during our visit. Speaking with locals, it was obvious that it is easy to fall in love with black squirrel watching.

Destination Downtown

The invention of big-box stores has made a huge impact on the Mom & Pop boutiques across America. While the ability to get everything in one place is tempting, we still enjoy meandering through locally owned stores. In many of the smaller cities these types of businesses have really been hit hard. We were happy to see that the downtown heart of Marysville has a nice variety of these stores available. You can bet that we took home some fabulous finds from the local shops. After all, each time we use one of the pieces we found it will remind us of our visit to Marysville, Kansas.

Fall in Love Lodging

The kind of visit we do can wear us out. Once we hit the town, it feels like we are moving non-stop. Fortunately, there are some great options to rest up in Marysville. Our connection at the tourism bureau hooked us up with this charming choice just a block from the city park. Trailhead Suites is a newer option that pays homage to the local history. Located in a quiet neighborhood, it proved to be just what we needed to refresh before another day of exploring.

Fall in Love with Marysville

As you have probably noticed, we had a “fall in love” time in Marysville, Kansas. It always seems to amaze us at how fun and friendly our visits are in these smaller sized cities. The residents are always eager to welcome guests into their town and truly enjoy showcasing their hometown’s features. This makes for a win-win scenario, as the city gets the added tourism and the traveler gets a wonderful experience. We are betting that if you try a few of these types of destinations, you will also become an advocate for them. What are some of your favorite small cities?

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Feeling At Home In Marysville – Trailhead Suites

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 09:00:34 +0000

Our style of travel can certainly make a body weary. Since many of our trips are designed to gather as much research as possible, we can find ourselves worn out by the end of each day. Fortunately, there is always a place nearby to lay our heads. In Marysville, Kansas we had planned an action-packed day of exploring. Working with Visit Marysville, we had secured a stay at the Trailhead Suites. Our itinerary had us busy until after sundown, but we just had to slip off and check this place out before dinner. Once we passed through the threshold, we found ourselves feeling at home.

We would like to thank Visit Marysville and Trailhead Suites for hosting our stay. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Home Away From Home

Before our Marysville visit, we had been in email contact with our hosts. Nic and Sarah have a love for their community, which became apparent in their desire to incorporate the city’s history in their lodging. With it being just a few blocks from downtown, we had no trouble locating our lodging. In fact, it sits just about one block from the Marysville City Park. This was a perfect home base for spotting some of the town’s elusive black squirrels. Pulling up in front of the lodge, we could tell we would be feeling at home in Marysville.

A Tie That Binds

Trailhead Suites is made up of three separate room combinations. We had been assigned to the Railroad Suite, which gives a nod to the city’s tie with Union Pacific Railroad. Marysville’s success was aided by the railroad as it sat squarely on the main freight line between Hastings, Nebraska, and our hometown of Kansas City, Kansas. At one point, it was even home to the largest covered railroad stockyards in the world. These days there is still a huge amount of rail traffic, but the local bridges help keep traffic flowing.

Nature Is Near

Nic and Sarah have tried to make staying at their lodging as easy as possible. On the day of our arrival, they emailed me an access code for the front door lock. I punched in a few numbers, and voila, we were in our home away from home. Our first impressions were that the suite had an open and inviting appeal. The high ceilings and rich color choices give off a warm feeling. This didn’t feel like a hotel room, but more like walking into a new home. The use of real wood added to the natural feel and complimented the huge deck off the back of the house. We could imagine sitting out there with a cup of coffee watching the deer and squirrels play.

Unexpected Treasures

As we looked around our temporary home, we stumbled upon a couple of unexpected surprises. Just inside the front door hangs a dry erase board, which had a message from our hosts. This special touch really added to us feeling at home. We took an opportunity to leave them a thank you before we left the next day. Another surprise awaited us in the kitchen. A basket filled with Marysville goodies had been assembled by Michelle Whitesell, the Director of Visit Marysville. You can imagine the smiles that crossed our faces as we examined each of the treats inside. We loved all of the black squirrel references and you can bet the coffee mugs went directly to our collection at home.

Feeling at Home in Marysville

This type of treatment can quickly spoil even the most seasoned travel writers, but we were able to stay on point. In many cities we visit, the lodging is arranged at a hotel chain, but every once in a while we have this type of experience. Unfortunately, with our schedule being jam-packed with fun activities, we never have enough time to really enjoy our lodging. Trailhead Suites is certainly the kind of place where we could see spending a weekend getaway. The peaceful setting and inviting vibe offers a nice respite from the daily grind. We hope to return in the future to find ourselves once again feeling at home in Marysville.

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Pony Express Barn Museum – Rest For The Weary

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 09:00:48 +0000

With a trail of dust in their wake, Pony Express riders sped across the prairie on their journey toward California. After leaving St. Joseph, they would find a fresh horse waiting for them about every ten miles. A quick stop allowed them to trade mounts and in a flash, they were back on the route. They would repeat this process eight more times, at other stations, until they arrived at a Pony Express Barn. Wanting to get a better understanding of this unique mail delivery service, we made a stop at the Pony Express Barn Museum, in Marysville, Kansas.

We want to thank Visit Marysville and the Pony Express Barn Museum for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

A Timely Visit

We were anxious to visit the Pony Express Barn Museum since we had already learned a little about this mail service business. During a visit to St. Joseph, Missouri we learned how this enterprise was formed. We began this visit with a short film that gave a quick overview of the Pony Express. As we watched, we heard the familiar names of Russell, Majors, and Waddell. These three men would be the working capital behind the enterprise, as they gambled on the future of mail delivery. We also heard the names of some of the famous riders who spurred on their horses into history.

A New Idea

Many of you are probably quite aware of the Pony express. While only in existence for 18 months, it has left an indelible mark on the pages of history. Mail service to the west had been lackluster, prior to the discovery of gold in California. With the population booming, the demand was growing exponentially. The three founders of the Pony Express saw an opportunity to cash in on this trend. The idea of securing government contracts for mail service seemed like a lucrative business plan. Building the network required to accomplish this would take a lot of capital.

Inside the Pony Express Barn Museum

Their proposal was to create a route that would allow for mail delivery in ten days. This was a concept that caught the attention of the nation. In two months, the three men assembled a network of 184 stations, 400 horses, and 120 riders. Add to this, hundreds of employees needed to make this project work. Riders were required to weigh less than 125 lbs., so as to maximize the speed and distance that each horse could travel. Every ten miles the riders would change horses and speed off toward the next way station. Dotting the route at roughly 100-mile intervals were Pony Express barns.

Heading Overland

With quick horses and favorable weather conditions, a rider could cover the stretch between barns in about ten hours. At that point, the next rider would take on the task. This process was repeated day and night until the end of the route was reached. Traveling light was key to success, so the riders were allowed a water pouch and revolver. The mail was carried in a leather pouch called a mochila. Weighing twenty lbs. when empty, the weight doubled when filled with mail. Combining all of the materials brought the total burden for the horse to 165 lbs.

Friends and Enemies

Riding the 1900-mile route across the untamed west would seem like a dangerous proposal. The reality is that the route was ridden with little impact from the Native Indians. Only during the Paiute War was there a significant impact on this mail delivery business. The Paiute War did include the destruction of eight Pony Express stations, as well as the loss of lives and horses. During this time of strife, only one mail shipment was halted. It would eventually reach its destination almost two years later.

The Final Straw

One of the fastest trips along the Pony Express route occurred after the election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860. A rider departed from Kearney, Nebraska with the news, and reached the telegraph station in Fort Churchill, Nevada in less than eight days. From here the message was transmitted by wire to California. Just as the Pony Express was celebrating this accomplishment, it was also seeing the end that was quickly approaching. The government would eventually award the overland mail contract to a competitor. After the delivery of nearly 35,000 letters, the Pony Express became a casualty of the transcontinental telegraph.

Touring the Pony Express Barn Museum

While the lifespan of this unique delivery system was limited, there are plenty of places to learn about its storied past. The Pony Express Barn Museum is open most days of the year. Admission is only costing $5 per adult and $2 for kids. It’s another great stop along the Pony Express route and located in a black squirrel city. Be sure to spend some time exploring the rest of the town, while you are there.

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Koester House Museum – Capturing A Moment In Time

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 09:00:11 +0000

Imagine life 100 years after the United States had won its independence. The year is 1876 and things are changing rapidly in America. Alexander Graham Bell has just invented the telephone. Heinz Ketchup and Budweiser beer make their debut. Here in Kansas, Wyatt Earp is hired to work in Dodge City. The Pony Express had not yet begun its operation. Far to the north, work is completed on the Charles Koester House, in Marysville. Capturing a moment in time is usually done with a camera, but sometimes fortune shines on all of us. Our visit to the Koester House Museum would offer us a chance to take a look back in history.

We want to thank Visit Marysville and Koester House Museum for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

A Grand Tour

Over the years, we have had the pleasure of touring many historic homes. Many have been restocked with period pieces that are a reflection of a specific time in history. The Koester House has an added surprise that when the house was closed up by the family, it still contained original furnishings. When we arrived at the Koester House Museum, we were met by John Howard who would guide us. We had to wrap our minds around the time period that we were visiting, so we could fully appreciate the experience.

It’s All in the Details

As we moved between rooms, we tried to spy the small details that make up a home. Mr. Koester had immigrated to America in the mid-1800s. He arrived in Marysville in 1857. At that time, the town was one of the farthest west points worth noting, in Kansas. The town had just started as a ferry crossing over the Big Blue River. We had learned about the ferry operation during a visit to the Marshall County Museum. While his early days were certainly bereft of luxury, this would change in later times. In the dining room, we noticed the fine china set out for an evening meal. Everything was prim and proper all the way down to the individual salt cellars.

Early Luxuries

When Charles Koester made his way to the region there were only about 20 homes in the town. All of these were quite modest prairie-style buildings. We can just imagine the stares that must have accompanied the construction of this large home. The home was filled with what would have been upscale luxuries in those days. An indoor pump allowed for the residents of the home to access the rainwater collected in an underground cistern. You didn’t have to go outside to collect water for daily needs.

Amazing Collection

John led us to the staircase that allowed access to the second floor. Here we found the bedrooms, which were still filled with furnishings and clothing from the family. This peek inside life during the formative years of the state was very educational. While we have seen many similar pieces, to have them displayed in their original setting increased our understanding of family life in the late 1800s. Mr. Koester rose in prominence as he would become elected as the mayor of Marysville. He served in this role for numerous terms.

Capturing a Moment in Time

His role as president of the Exchange Bank of Schmidt & Koester fueled the salary that allowed his rise in social stature. This position allowed him to shower this on others in the growing community. The same year the Koester House was constructed, Charles married his wife Sylvia. Together they had three children, but Sylvia passed at an early age of 35.

An Unexpected Surprise

After completing our tour of the Koester House interior, it was time to move outdoors. The home has a summer kitchen, gardens, and ice house included on the grounds. The ice house was made with thick walls and a dirt floor. This was designed to store ice from the nearby river, which would hopefully last the family through the summer. Hanging on one of the walls we saw a variety of metal forms used for making topiaries. This was a rare sighting for us and a reminder of the self-sufficiency needed during these early days in Marysville.

On The Outside

The Koester House has been a visual inspiration for many generations. In 1894, Laura Ingalls Wilder passed the house on the way to Missouri. In her journal, she describes the guarded gates that shelter the entrance to the gardens. Her notes recall the dog and lion statues that protect the stepped gates. Once you pass through the gates, you find yourself in the Koester House gardens. The guardians of the gates are some of the dozen statues that Mr. Koester procured at the World’s Fair.

Koester House Gardens

During our tour, John had told us many stories about the Koester House and gardens. Our time here had offered a tranquil visit where we could imagine life in this simpler time. Hidden behind the guarded gates, the hands of time seem to slow and allow guests to experience life at the turn-of-the-century. Our time here had given us a better appreciation of how manual life was during that period. Even with all of the luxuries, there were still so many menial tasks that were required for daily life. It makes us truly appreciate the modern conveniences that we have in every aspect of our lives. How would you have liked to live in that time period?

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Marysville Dining – Fuel For Exploring

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 09:00:47 +0000

One of our favorite parts of exploring new destinations is sampling the local cuisine options. When we roll into a new city, we like to keep our eyes open to dining choices that are loved by the locals. Marysville, Kansas has plenty of those, but with just over 24 hours to explore, we realized we could only test a few. This would still allow us to sample a decent cross-section of restaurants, and we were betting they would hit the spot. After all, we would need plenty of fuel for exploring this central Kansas city. Let’s check out some of the Marysville dining choices you will find when you visit.

We want to thank Visit Marysville and the local businesses for hosting our visits. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Bite Me Barbecue

There is something about a catchy name that draws us in for a visit. Bite Me Barbecue certainly fits that category, and we love sampling the local ‘Cue when traveling. This local eatery began with a food truck, which they lovingly call their BBQ Shack. As demand for their products grew, they felt the need to move into a brick & mortar business. Located prominently, along the Pony Express Highway, this place draws in the locals with their smoky dishes and friendly service. Even with their day-to-day business running strong, they still break out the BBQ Shack for special occasions. This would be our first taste of Marysville dining, and we fit it in right after our black squirrel “hunt”.

Sampling the Goods

At most restaurants, Crystal and I each order our own plates. These we can share so that the flavors are experienced equally. When we hit up a barbecue joint, our standard practice changes. Here we like to get a Sampler Platter so that we can test a variety of the dishes that are being served up each day. Every BBQ restaurant adds its unique personality to the menu, so we sample to see which meats are our favorites. Bite Me Barbecue brings a nice smoky depth to their meats and doesn’t go overboard on the sauce. Their side dishes add a touch of zing, with specialties like the Cucumber Salad. An unexpected bonus was their German Summer Sausage that is made right here in town. That is something you don’t find at many barbecues.

Photo courtesy of Visit Marysville

El Ranchero

After a day of exploring, we felt as though we had walked for miles. What we needed was a hearty meal to refill our tanks. On the western side of the downtown strip, we found our evening destination. El Ranchero Mexican Restaurant has been a Marysville dining staple for years. On the evening that we visited, the place was filled with a mix of locals and travelers. The staff is primarily made up of family members, so they all know the importance of customer satisfaction. The owner’s daughter went above and beyond to make sure we had a great experience.

That Was Unexpected!

When picking my dinner choice, I decided to try something completely foreign to me. The Molcajete not only comes packed with flavor, but it is also presented in an interesting container. The name comes from the lava rock that is carved in the shape of a pig, which added some extra fun to my dinner. The dish contains a hearty helping of chicken, steak, shrimp, and chorizo, as well as peppers and onion. It was so good, that I continued munching on it even after my stomach said Stop! It was just that delicious. Crystal decided to sample one of their combination platters that included some familiar dishes, which satisfied her Mexican food craving. We knew as we left the restaurant that an evening walk would be needed to help burn off some of the day’s calories.

Empty Cup Coffee Bar

By now you probably know that we like our coffee in the morning. In the heart of downtown, we found Empty Cup Coffee Bar. Being early risers, we popped in first thing in the morning. The owner was already hard at it, prepping for the morning rush. Here was a great opportunity to start the day with some sweet and savory dishes. Crystal chose one of their Breakfast Sandwiches, which included egg, sausage, and cheese on a ciabatta roll. I selected the Grilled Bacon PB&J, which made for the first time I have had bacon on my favorite sandwich. You can bet it won’t be the last! Each plate also included some delicious chips, that included a cinnamon sugar taste. We also tested one of their “Dossants”. This fluffy treat is a cross between a donut and croissant and is an example of creative Marysville dining.

The Wagon Wheel

When you hear that a place has been around for decades, you know you have to check it out. The Wagon Wheel has been serving customers for nearly 70 years. That is a testament to their ability to satisfy their customer’s needs over the changing generations. Being willing to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner is a commitment that not many restaurants offer these days. It isn’t hard to imagine that there is a good reason they have been given plenty of accolades. They have been recognized as one of the Top 10 steakhouses in Kansas, and labeled as one of the “Best Local Eats”. We knew that when we walked through the door, we would find an eatery filled with locals.

Cow Country

Sure enough, this place was hopping with business, and we are betting the whole social distancing thing was making the need to have reservations a must at times. Since this meal would be carrying us home, we felt as though we had saved one of the top spots for last. To give a nod to being in the heart of the beef region, we decided to sample a couple of their burgers. Crystal selected the Whiskey Burger that has melted Swiss and American cheeses, crispy bacon, and some of their onion tanglers. This is all sandwiched between slices of grilled sourdough, which helps capture the smoky, sweet whiskey sauce.

I chose the Smoked Belly Burger and substituted Sweet Potato Fries for my side. The patty is made from a combination of ground beef and pork belly. This makes it extremely moist and flavorful. They top it with Swiss and Cheddar cheeses. Grilled onions and a sweet chili aioli sauce bring a little kick to the bite. These burgers were everything we had hoped for and made for a perfect ending to our Marysville dining experiences.

Marysville Dining

As you can see, we certainly found some great dining options in Marysville, Kansas. With so many locally-owned choices, it’s not hard to find about any cuisine you are craving. Keep in mind that much like other small to mid-sized cities, Marysville has a handful of top spots that can be pretty busy on the weekend. It was nice to find that there are plenty of alternates that offer good food and friendly service. Oh, and one of the most important things to us, is that they have plenty of coffee! Have you sampled any of the Marysville dining options we showed in this article? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below.

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Background Stories – Marshall County Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 09:00:30 +0000

Exploring new destinations is always an eye-opening experience. One of our first stops is usually the local history museum. This helps us learn the background stories that are found in every community. That is how we landed at the Marshall County Museum in Marysville, Kansas. Pulling up in front of the 1891 courthouse had our eyes popping. Not all of the museums we visit are found in such amazing architectural spaces. We were excited to learn how this Kansas city grew from it’s simple start as a ferry crossing.

We want to thank Visit Marysville the Marshall County Museum for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Meeting Dixie

We made our way into the museum and met Dixie, who would be our tour guide. She was more than happy to show us around and fill us in on the the background stories that we were eager to hear. She started us with a simple history lesson that focused on Marysville. In the mid-1800s, Frank Marshall made his way to the region and set up shop operating a ferry crossing and trading post. This story was very familiar to us, since it somewhat replicates how our hometown got its start. Business was good, as a steady stream of Oregon Trail travelers were making their way west, and needed to cross the Big Blue River.

Coming Into Focus

The original name of the town was Marshall’s Ferry, but Frank saw to it that it was renamed after his wife. The crossing was vital for transportation and would help provide the fuel to build a growing community. Marysville laid on the path of the Pony Express and served as the first “home station” along the route. The town was being developed in one of the most volatile periods for Kansas. The Civil War was less than a decade away and both slavery supporters and abolitionists were vying for control of the state. In fact, for a short period of time a second city, named Palmetto, was established by southerners, but it was short-lived.

Family Life

The ferry operated with steady business until a bridge was constructed in 1864. By then, the town of Marysville was progressing well. One of the first schools was built in 1859, but was already outgrown by the end of the war. To draw citizens to the town, businesses were needed. A saw mill was constructed along the banks of the Big Blue River, and used the waterway for transporting goods. The fertile lands around the city were ripe for the production of tobacco. Marshall County would become the home of four cigar factories, with three located in Marysville.

Community Quilting

The families that settled in Marysville were primarily of German descent. They brought with them the skills and traditions they had learned in the Old World. As Dixie was leading us through the Marshall County Museum, we noticed her excitement increased when we entered the Quilt Room. Inside, they have a variety of artifacts, including an old loom. A second room is filled with examples of the styles of quilts that have been produced over the many generations in the city’s history. There are some beautiful pieces in their collection, so we can see why Dixie was so excited.

Here Comes the Judge

The main portion of the second floor is dedicated to the courthouse. It served the community of Marysville for nearly 90 years. They have retained this space in its original form, which includes hat holders on the underside of the chairs. These certainly hearken back to a different era. Crystal noted the intricate details on the edges of the chair backs and castings for the legs. It definitley spoke of a different time, when craftsmanship was taken to a different level.

Heavy Layers

We had completed two floors of the museum, but still had the basement to explore. We were led down the stairs to a series of smaller rooms, which each hold a gallery based on a specific type of business. Farming is obviously an integral part of many Kansas regions and the same goes for Marshall County. As we studied the exhibits, Dixie asked if I had ever worn a horse-hair coat. That is something I had never experienced, but now I have. By the way, that thing weighed almost 15 pounds and would definitely shelter a person from the blowing winter winds.

A Marysville First

One final room to explore, which focused on some of the stores that have occupied spaces in Marysville. As we were driving through the downtown section of the city, we noticed they have an abundance of shops. Of course, the olden days would have looked much different. It was while we were reviewing photographs from the past that Dixie pointed out an interesting factoid. Marysville was home to the very first brick-and-mortar Montgomery Ward store. She has to assume that there have been a lot of mail orders coming from this town to draw this kind of attention from the company. The building that housed the store still stands today.

Background Stories

Armed with all of the background stories, we were ready to hit the streets for some up close exploring. With a beautiful day and plenty to see, we knew that Marysville would be a great visit. While travel in 2020 is filled with a lot of uncertainties, we find it comforting to visit towns where the people truly care about their neighbors. It helps lend a feeling of safety to those around, as well as for us visitors. It also gives us a chance to learn about another community in our home state of Kansas. What interesting stories have you discovered during your travels?

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Black Squirrel Sightings In Marysville, Kansas

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 09:00:46 +0000

Have you ever seen a black squirrel? When we started planning our visit to Marysville, we discovered that this Kansas town has an unexpected mascot. It seems that sometime in the past, black squirrels were introduced to this environment. Now they have proliferated throughout the community and have achieved somewhat of celebrity status. While our trip to this north-central Kansas town was primarily based on learning the local history, we couldn’t pass up adding spotting these cute creatures to our “to do” list.

We want to thank Visit Marysville for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Oh Look, a Squirrel!

When we first arrive at a new destination it is time for our introductory video. These are usually a short segment that lets everyone know where we are in the world. When we hit the town in Marysville, our destination was the City Park. This green space is home to the city’s swimming pool and tennis courts. It also has a few touristy items, like a sod house and train engine. We made our way to a space that can be used for RV campers. Michelle, our connection at the local tourism bureau, had clued us in that black squirrels are often spotted in the city park. We kept our eyes peeled for one of these elusive creatures, but only caught the standard red squirrels.

Our First Sighting

With our video complete, it was time for our first tour. Off to the Courthouse Museum for an in-depth look at the history of Marysville. While we were there, our tour guide Dixie asked us if we had seen a black squirrel. Our answer must have shown our disappointment, but she reassured us that they are plentiful. After our tour, we were hanging around outside of the museum, while updating our social media. (Yeah, the behind the scenes work can be pretty time-consuming.) Dixie came out of the museum on her way to lunch. She headed back in and returned with a handful of dried corn cobs, which she placed in a nearby feeder. “Two hours” was what she told us it would take before the corn would be all gobbled up.

Tree Huggers

Our next stop was lunch at a nearby BBQ joint. (You know we had to sample the local ‘cue.) After we finished, we made our way back by the museum to see if the corn had worked any magic. Lo and behold, we spotted our target cautiously munching away. I guess it was lunchtime for black squirrels, as well. I rushed to the car for my telephoto lens, since we had quickly learned that these creatures are skittish. Our new friend watched with trepidation as I clicked away. Finally, our first black squirrel sighting.

They Do Exist!

This little fellow finally got used to our presence and went back to munching on the corn that Dixie had provided. This allowed me to sneak a little closer to grab a video opportunity. Our observations of the local squirrel population did lead us to some conclusions. Most of the black squirrels that we saw were smaller than their red or gray neighbors. Perhaps this was the reason that the black squirrels seemed a little timider. They definitely seemed to let the other types take the lead on being visible.

Black Squirrels on Parade

Ever since our arrival, we had been spotting these large fiberglass black squirrels. These five-foot statues are part of the “Black Squirrels on Parade” display put on by this city of around 3000 residents. Various businesses sponsored the 34 sculptures that are found all around town. A map is provided that points out the location of each one. Searching them out is a fun activity and a good way to get a lay of the land in Marysville. Each black squirrel is named and decorated in a way that represents the sponsoring business, which adds a deeper level of connection with the community. One of our favorites was “St. Teresa”, which sits outside of a local Catholic school. A group of smaller “student” squirrels is situated around the base of the statue.

A Squirrel of a Different Color

With all of this hubbub around the black squirrels, we started wondering where they came from. After all, we have never seen them in any other Kansas city or town. It seems that the origin is a little shrouded in mystery. Their presumed introduction came in 1912. A traveling carnival was visiting Marysville and had brought with them some of the black squirrels more familiar to the Great Lakes. A young boy, helped the caged creatures escape to a nearby park, where they flourished.

Black Squirrel Bonanza

Today, black squirrels account for about 20% of the population in Marysville. By doing a little research, we discovered that the town’s mascot is actually protected by law. A local ordinance states that black squirrels are granted “the freedom to trespass on all city property, immunity from traffic regulations, and the right of first choice to all black walnuts growing within the city.” The city has even adapted a social media hashtag designed to showcase their local celebrities. #Nuts4Marysville hints at the local love for these elusive beings.

Black Squirrel Spotters

When we announced our plan to visit Marysville, we heard black squirrel stories from some of you. Missing out on spotting one of the creatures was not going to be acceptable. The plan was to record and show that they do exist. If you had told us a year ago that we would be so excited to spot a squirrel, we would have looked sideways at you. Little did we realize that we would actually be scanning the trees for signs of these cute animals. It may have taken a little persuasion from Dixie to make our first sighting, but that just opened the floodgates. Now we pass the torch to all of you to tell us some of your black squirrel stories. We’d love to read about them in the comments section below!

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Calling Kansas Explorers – Check Out Little Sweden USA

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 09:45:37 +0000

Too many travelers find Kansas to be just another “fly-over” state. To us, that term also refers to those that just cruise along I-70 on their way to some other place. What many of them do not realize is that by getting off of the interstate, they have an opportunity to enjoy a truly cultural experience. A great example of this is the city of Lindsborg, which sits less than 3 hours from Kansas City. Nicknamed “Little Sweden USA”, this immigrant established city just begs to be explored.

We want to thank Visit Lindsborg and all of the local businesses for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Our First Taste of Lindsborg

With Lindsborg being so close to our hometown, we decided to start our visit on a Friday evening. Crystal had the car all packed for a hasty departure after work. After a pleasant drive through the Flint Hills, we arrived just in time for dinner. Located in the heart of downtown, we stopped in Farley’s Bar & Grill. As soon as we walked through the door, we knew we were in a local hot spot. The place was packed with people socializing over dinner and drinks. Even with a wait, there was no way we were going to pass this place up. It ended up being a perfect “first taste’ of Lindsborg.

A Real Home Away From Home

With our bellies full, we were ready to unwind for the night. Our lodging was arranged at a local AirBnB called Lavendel House. Our host, Mark Galloway, happened to be there when we arrived. He showed us around our “home away from home”, which is a four-bedroom farm-style house. It certainly was much larger than we would need, but we appreciated the hospitality. This place even has a tree-house loft, which Mark was in the process of completing. When finished, it will make for a cute little couple’s escape destination on the edge of Little Sweden USA.

Decisions, Decisions!

With a full day of exploring on the horizon, it was time to crash for the night. The Lavendel House had plenty of sleeping options and would be perfect for a big family. With a full kitchen and even a large family room to watch TV, it made for a good home base. By the way, we opted not to sleep in the bunk beds. After a refreshing night’s sleep, it was time to get our Saturday started. Our itinerary was packed with sights all through the town. Lindsborg is home to around 3500 residents, but the number swells significantly during the school season, with the arrival of Bethany College students.

Re-purposed Restaurant

During the summer, you may find the numbers larger from an influx of tourists. When we arrived downtown, we found a car show set up on the main drag. We took a quick peek at a few, before heading into Blacksmith Coffee for breakfast. We love exploring spaces that have had a new breath of life brought to them. This building once served as one of the town’s blacksmith shops. To this day, you can still find signs of the previous use scattered around the space. With our coffee fix taken care of, it was time to move along. (Read more about Blacksmith Coffee here.)

Swedish Tradition

What would a visit to Little Sweden be without a stop at Hemlöjd? This cute shop has been a staple of Main Street since 1984. Once inside, we found it filled with colorful items that can be immediately associated with the Scandinavian culture. Their name means handicraft, which is appropriate when you see all of the interesting pieces. The ones that caught our eye were the Dala horses. It is a well-known Swedish souvenir, and we just couldn’t leave the store without picking one up for our home office. (Read more about Hemslöjd here.)

Take a Walk

Lindsborg is a perfect place for pedestrian visitors. The landscape is relatively flat, so it’s also popular with bicyclists. Our friends at the Visitors Bureau clued us in on the Välkommen Trail. (The word means welcome.) This 3.25-mile trail was developed from an abandoned railway path. It cuts right through the middle of town and has a collection of informational boards scattered along the way. It gave us a chance to learn more about the history and culture of the people of Little Sweden USA.

Milling Around

After a delightful stroll on the trail, we ended up near the southern end. From here, we could see our next stop, at the Old Mill Museum. Wherever we travel, we love immersing ourselves in the history of the destination. At the Old Mill Museum complex, we were able to see a broad spectrum of historical artifacts. The namesake mill is open to visitors but only runs for special events. There is also a historical museum, as well as a grouping of buildings across the street. This portion of the complex is called Heritage Square and includes the Swedish Pavilion built for the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. So much to see here, that you will want to set aside plenty of time for exploring. (Read more about the Museum Complex here.)

Russian Connection

Another pleasant walk led us back into the downtown portion of Little Sweden USA. Since we were visiting in late July, we were ready to quench our thirsts, as well as our growing hunger. What better place than Ol Stuga, which translates to the alehouse. Stepping through the door, we were greeted by a gathering of locals. This bar and grill are not just known for their ice-cold drinks, they also serve up a historic dish. While we waited for our meals, I did a little exploring around the space. You can imagine my surprise when I found out that Mikhail Gorbachev had visited this place.(Read more about Ol’ Stuga here.)

A Little Retail Therapy

With our late lunch complete, we were ready to check out some more of the downtown shops. Little Sweden USA draws quite a few visitors from around the world. While we were there, we saw a busload of tourists wandering around the downtown. This has helped maintain a good variety of boutique-style shops in Lindsborg. We wandered through stores that offer apparel, handbags, toys, and home furnishings. We even dropped by a fair trade shop that features items made by artisans from around the world.

A Stitch in Time

Stepping through the door of The Ivory Thimble, we found an interesting mix of apparel and accessories. We also discovered that this is the shop of the lady who produces many of the costumes for the local theater productions. As we looked around, we saw hints of what was to come during our evening entertainment. We knew the name of the show, but really very little else. For now, we were getting clues of what it may involve.

An Evening Under the Stars

Dinnertime was drawing nigh, so we ran over to The Brickhouse Grill for one of their delectable pizza pies. The visitor’s bureau had arranged for us a wonderful “date night”, which included dinner and live performance. As we were leaving our dinner destination, we noticed a local grocer next door. Inside, we found some Swedish sweet treats to share later in the evening. Now it was time to head to the park. Lindsborg has an active theater troupe, which puts on a live performance each year. We joined our host, and her daughters, for an evening of frivolity. (Read more about our date night here.)

Coffee for the Road

Our evening’s show had kept us out late, but it was well worth it. The next morning, we packed up our car in preparation for more travel. Before we departed Little Sweden USA, there was still one more stop. Breakfast and coffee are imperative for a good start, so we stopped in The White Peacock. This coffee shop serves some interesting dishes for breakfast and lunch. I sampled their Swedish Pancakes, which include lingonberries. This tangy Swedish berry adds a layer of flavor to the crepe-like cakes.

Little Sweden USA

Our time in Lindsborg was short, but we packed it full of entertaining attractions. This central Kansas city is a great destination for Kansas explorers and is perfect for a weekend excursion. You will want to visit their tourism site for more places to check out. (Find it here.) You may also want to consider visiting one of their many annual events. You will find something for just about everybody in the culturally rich destination. Who knows, you might just come home with your own Dala horse. (You can read our Travel Kansas article about this trip here.)

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