Tour A Village From The 1800s And Botanical Garden At This Historic Site In Kansas
By Courtnie Erickson|Published July 20, 2021
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Courtnie Erickson
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From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
No matter if you are a history buff or you are simply searching for the perfect day destination in Kansas, there is something to learn, see, and explore at the Old Prairie Town/Ward-Meade Historic Site. Spending some time at this historic site in the Sunflower State is like walking around in the 1880s — you can explore the unique village,1850s log cabin, and one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the Sunflower State.
Located in Topeka, the Old Prairie Town/Ward-Meade Historic Site is a must-visit destination. This historical site is located on the Oregon Trail and is designed to preserve the history of Anthony Ward, a pioneer and wheelwright.
The Blacksmith Shop will also transport you back in time. The authentic appearance of the shop is interesting and makes you feel like you truly are walking around Kansas in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
The Pauline Depot and Caboose is one area in this historic village you will not want to miss. The depot was built in 1910 for only $985. It was built in Pauline, south of Topeka, and was moved to Old Prairie Town in 1982.
The 1800s one-room schoolhouse is a delightful area for adults and children alike. Groups can schedule an hour-long class in the schoolhouse, learning about life in Kansas decades ago and participating in games from the day.
The Potwin Drug Store is a favorite stop at this historic site in Kansas. Inside, you can step right up to the counter and order a soda or some tasty candy.
This mansion is now on the National Register of Historic Places. You can tour the mansion and see what living in this time period was like for some individuals. Make sure you stop by the 1850s Log Cabin that Anthony Ward and his family lived in while the mansion was being built.
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The 2.5-acre Ward-Meade Botanical Garden is a gorgeous stop at this historic site. Here, you will find more than 500 trees and shrubs and 5,000 annual flowers.
There are many stunning features around the botanical garden including a stream, bridge, waterfall, and gazebo. It’s the perfect place if you want to get away and enjoy some gorgeous scenery.
To learn more about the Old Prairie Town/Ward-Meade Historic Site in Kansas, click here or follow the historic site on Facebook.
If you have a favorite place in Kansas that you love to visit, let us know all about it! Click here to nominate your favorite attraction, accommodation, hike, historic site, and more.
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