First surveyed in 1887 and incorporated in 1904, Barnard may be small in population but they are big with heart. The community has recently completed several new murals and created a pickleball court in the city park. The Barnard Lion's Club hosts popular fundraisers such as a Fish Fry (see event listing) to support local activities.
The Gurley Marsh is a 160 acre natural wetland located in northern Lincoln County 1/2 mile north of the K-14 and K-284 intersection. From Barnard, 6 miles west on K-284 and 3/4 mile north on K-14. The area, locally referred to as ‘the salt marsh’, is home to a variety of wildlife of all sizes and excellent for bird-watching. A pull-off stop is located along the highway for visitors to get a closer look.
Barb Rathbun's passion for collecting cookbooks over a period of many years resulted in the transformation of a small home into a museum of almost 9,000 cookbooks. They range from church and humorous cookbooks to ones centering around Southern funeral or cannabis recipes! The oldest dates to the 1890s; the biggest is 12 x 5". Stop by! She'd love to share them with you.
Lincoln County's earliest pioneer settlement was by Civil War veterans known as the “Colorado Boys” in 1865 with the town being incorporated in 1905. Beverly is the birthplace and childhood home of Donald K. Ross, the recipient of the first Congressional Medal of Honor awarded in World War II. A portion of K-18, which passes by the north edge of town, was recently renamed the Donald K. Ross Memorial Highway in his honor. Volunteers have worked hard to spruce up city park with new playground equipment and a mural.
Built in 1920, this red-brick, one-room schoolhouse gets its name from sitting right on the Ottawa/Lincoln County line. From Beverly, 2 miles east on K-18, then 1/4 mile north on N 310 Rd. (Private property)
Enjoy the best of the Smoky Hills with this 12-mile gravel road drive. From Beverly, go west on K-18 a 1/2 mile then turn north on 280th Rd and drive for 7 miles. Road curves west on Sage Rd for 1 mile then curves north again on 270th Rd. Drive north 4 miles. Road intersects with Wheat Drive, a blacktop road. Barnard is 2 miles to the west. From Barnard, drive 2 miles east on county blacktop road Wheat Drive. Turn south at 270th Rd for 4 miles. Road curves east on Sage Rd for 1 mile then curves south again on 280th Rd. Drive south 7 miles until meeting K-18. Beverly is 1/2 mile east.
Carneiro (Portuguese for "sheepfold") became a town in 1882 when Harvard graduate Edward Wellington established a vast sheep ranch at the point where the Smoky Hill Trail crossed Alum Creek. On this site the town emerged as Wellington built homes and buildings for his employees and for friends he had lured from Boston to help with his ranch. The Union Pacific Railroad stopped here as a shipping point for the sheep. Now, with crumbling facades, broken windows, trees, and bushes, this little unincorporated town is a veil of its former self.
The first Danish immigrants arrived in 1869 and established the community of Denmark. The original town site was supposed to sit near the top of the hill where the Denmark Lutheran Church was constructed. However, when plans for the railroad were announced the community re-established its center along the railroad with commercial buildings, a bank, and hotel. Don't miss the stone arched bridge crossing the Spillman Creek. On Saturday, May 4, 9am-1pm, several sites will be open with volunteers available to talk about the history of the community and refreshments served at the Denmark Hall. From K-18, go 3 miles north on 120th Rd. The church and hall are at the intersection with Pike Drive and the village is 1/2 mile west on Pike Drive. (Find a more information about activities happening at this site on the Events page)
The first Danish immigrants arrived along the banks of the Spillman Creek in 1869, and nearly all of them lost their lives in an Indian raid in May of that year. Many Denmark area residents are descendants of those early settlers, four and five generations later. A monument to the raid was erected in 2019. From K-18, 2 miles north on 120th Rd.
Originally named the Dansk Evangelical Lutheran Kirke, the 1878 native limestone church sits on top a hill overlooking the Spillman Creek Valley with 360-degree views. (NRHP) The Denmark Hall was built in 1911 as an opera house and has been used as a community center for every occasion over the years. The extensive wood beadboard interior features an early basketball court and stage. On Saturday, May 4, 9am-1pm, the church and hall will be open along with other Denmark sites. Refreshments will be served as well in the hall along with Aebelskiver demonstrations (Danish pancakes). (See Events page for more information.) From Lincoln, 7 miles west on K-18, then 3 miles north on 120th Rd via a winding gravel road.
Bisect history and the Saline River Valley starting at I-70 with modern wind technology and going backwards in time ending in historic Denmark. Along the way see historic limestone fence rows, farmsteads, and incredible views. From I-70, take exit 216 and go north on 12th Rd. 12th will change to 120th Rd after E. Ash Dr. Vesper is 13 miles north of I-70. Denmark is 3.5 miles north of Vesper.
The oldest building in Ellsworth, the limestone jail is a shell of its former self, but it still stands to tell the story of some of the wickedest lawbreakers in the Wild West. A small interpretive sign and iron cutout tells the history of the jail.
It just might be the fanciest historic jailhouse in Kansas. Constructed in 1910, it held prisoners in the back area until 1981. The front section served as living quarters for the sheriff and his family. Six Ionic columns span the entrance of this three-story Classic Revival structure, which today is privately owned. We recently learned that this building is undergoing a big transformation into housing, Click on Read More to learn more!
Be sure to stop by to view the art of Jerry Exline, the Artist of the Month at the Ellsworth Art Gallery. An up and coming gallery they also feature work by Charles Rogers, an international artist.
This 1951 structure is an excellent architectural example of the Modern Movement. A Civil War statue stands in front. Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
The museum complex is on the two-block site of the original commercial district. It features the 1878 Victorian Hodgden House and the 1886 livery stable—both constructed with Dakota sandstone. Enjoy a two-hour tour or whatever works for you. Admission fee includes Fort Harker and all buildings at Ellsworth. Thu 12-4pm; Fri-Sat 10am-4pm (NRHP)
The Ellsworth Golf Course has been around for over 100 years. Nine holes wind through subtle hills and beautifully aged cottonwoods. Th clubhouse features the 900 Room, available before or after your round to enjoy hand crafted sliders and your favorite drink.
When Central National Bank was constructed in 1915 it included a "private room for the exclusive use of the lady patrons of the bank and a 'Farmer's Meeting Room,' which provided meeting space for 100 people." This architectural beauty was acquired in 1931 by Citizens State Bank & Trust Company and has been in business at this location ever since. The bank invites visitors to stop in for free popcorn on Friday, May 3 during regular business hours.
Seventeen interpretive signs around town, marked by silhouettes, feature the history of Ellsworth and help you visualize the Wild West and Ellsworth's cowtown days.
Between the I-70 exits for Vesper (216) and Sylvan Grove (209), on the south side of the highway, interstate travelers have seen a "guiding light" every night since 1976. In that year Gerald Klema and friends erected a 60-foot steel cross lit with 44 bulbs. It stands near the Excelsior Lutheran Church. Photo courtesy Marci Beneda.
KANcycle is a rural bike share program. You can find bikes to rent in Ellsworth and Lincoln. Bikes can easily be checked out with Movatic app. Ride for as long as you want and then return the bike to a KANcycle rack. Available 24/7 and FREE RIDES for this event! In Ellsworth, find bikes in Krizek Park and downtown at Douglas & Main.
Krizek Park is a beautiful park with a variety of amenities. You'll find covered picnic areas, tennis courts, 18-hole disc golf course, modern playground equipment, walking trail suitable for walkers, bicycles, skates, and skateboards. Restrooms on site.
Explore and learn about the most advanced Underground Nuclear Missile Silo. Built in 1959 during the Cold War, this facility once held an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile, the first of the "super hardened" missile silos. Explore the Launch Control Center, now an Airbnb, and follow the 40-foot tunnel into the 200-foot deep missile silo. Tours every 30 minutes on the hour and half hour, reservations are recommended through the website. Cost $35 (children 5 and under free), includes a Missile Silo Coffee Mug and a UFO craft beer. From Ellsworth go east for 10 miles on J Road (E K-140) and turn north on either 23rd Road or 25th Road. Follow the signs. Thu-Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 12-5 pm (Located in Ellsworth County but has a Brookville address)
This scenic hilltop cemetery is where you'll enjoy a great view of Ellsworth. Mother Bickerdyke isn't buried in this cemetery, but you'll find a memorial to her among the graves of 32 of her Civil War nurses and the wives of Civil War veterans. From Main St in Ellsworth, travel south on Hwy 14 for 1.25 miles, turn right (west) on Ave L for .5 mile. The cemetery is on the north side of the road.
From K-140, 2 miles south on K-141, then 2 miles west on K. These mushroom-shaped rocks are a geologic phenomenon of sandstone spheres. Two are balanced on a stone "mushroom stem!" They likely served as meeting places and landmarks for American Indians and early pioneers. Cross the footbridge and to the east find the rock bearing an etching of the U.S. flag. Mushroom State Park is one of the top 8 Wonders of Kansas - Geography.
The ornate, historic Insurance Building (NRHP) will one day be home to the hall of fame dedicated to preserving the heritage of the cattle trailing industry. Exterior view only.
Because it's off the main drag, finding this old-time park is a nice surprise. It includes a 1940 National Youth Administration band shell, a rock-lined creek, and a series of bridge—a nostalgic and lovely place!
Svaty Ranch & Wild Horse Sanctuary is only one of four public off-range pastures in the United States, where upholding the historic pioneer spirit of the American West is honored and celebrated with the majesty of free-range Wild Mustangs. Join us at Svaty Ranch to tour, take photographs, or learn how you can adopt a majestic Mustang of your own. Drive by's welcome during daylight hours. Appointments available for on site tours Thursday, May 2 from 9am-4pm. Call Jake at 785.531.1967 to schedule an on site tour. (It's okay to call on Thursday FOR Thursday appointments)
When the railroad built through to Ellsworth in 1872, the Texas cattle drovers followed. It was during these trail driving days that Ellsworth gained its reputation as the "wickedest" cowtown in Kansas.
Constructed in 1887, this structure is an example of the earlier style Santa Fe depots in Kansas. On the exterior you'll see decorative eave brackets, a gabled bay window, and a large overhang that once protected passengers from the weather. The passenger wing has been converted into a small museum that documents Holyrood’s railroad and community history. Explore the freight dock and find the scribblings of passengers of the past. ADA accessible and restroom available. (NRHP) Stop in for an Open House on Thu-Fri 2-4pm. Also open on Sat 1-4pm with a "Pickin' and Pie at the Depot" event.
Holyrood City Park is a refreshing family stop, featuring a walking trail, picnic shelters, modern playground equipment, and a splash pad (open if weather permits.) Public restrooms and a water bottle refill fountain are available.
In front of the converted grade school, now a fire department, stands a little shelter with a blond-brick base, a red bell, and a bright red sign. As a reminder of the fire department's past, the sign reads, "1901 Holyrood F.D. Chemical No. 1."
Originally the Ford Building constructed in 1920, it became the office of this locally owned telecommunications company in 1985. Small glass tiles from the original transoms are now in the chandeliers and front desk, and early telephones are on display. Stop by for a brief tour of the building, enjoy some refreshments, and grab some free H&B swag before you hit the road. Visitors who share a selfie and tag #bkrt24 and #holyroodkansas with the retired phone booth on Santa Fe can collect a special gift while they’re in the office.
Pick up a map/guide at the Historic 1887 Depot, 200 block N Main, to navigate a driving tour of the four historic cemeteries that surround Holyrood: Cain City, St. Peter, St. Paul, and Palacky Cemeteries. The interred reflect the town’s early heritage of Irish, German and Czech settlers who worked together to create a new life in America. See if you can find the German poem, early settlers Patrick Phelan and John Corrigan, and solve the humorous epitaph written in hexadecimal code. Visitors to the country sites are asked to park on the main gravel roads.
Visit yesteryear when you pop into the phone booth located next to the building that housed H&B’s office prior to the renovations of the current building. Take a selfie and share on social media. Visitors who share a selfie from the Phone Booth and tag #bkrt24 and #holyroodkansas can swing by H&B during office hours (refer to H&B’s listing) to collect a special gift.
Painted by Gail Williams, this colorful mural greets park visitors with an array of sunflowers, wildlife, and wildflowers created from local children's fingerprints. Look for it under the water tower at the corner of Main and Olds next to the Holyrood City Park, and be on the lookout for our resident fox as depicted in the mural!
"Erected by the taxpayers of Holyrood" is etched into the bottom right corner of the 1926 red-brick city building.
Why is Main wide enough to double park in the middle? Before the automobile age, posts and stone water troughs for tying up and watering horses stood midway from either side of the street. As the story goes, with their horses and buggies parked in the center, folks could sit along the sidewalks and visit and not be in danger of being kicked!
Kanopolis preserves one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in Kansas, and folks have been coming here since 1952 to watch movies under the stars. Admission $9 for 13 and up and $6 for 5 to 12 years. Gates open at 7pm.
#16 on the Kanopolis Lake Legacy Trail tour. From Kanopolis, 3 miles east on L, 1 mile south on 22, 1/4 mile left on M, 1 mile south (again) on 22, then west on N to the road's end. Look right toward the bottom of the bluffs and you'll see three distinct openings of the caves. Originally dug by Charles Griffee in the 1880s for a dwelling, they later were used by the Faris family for a spring house, generator room, and school. Annette Thille White uncovered the caves again in the 1980s. If the terrain is dry, you can go inside the caves. Volunteers on site, Fri 4-6pm and Sat 11am-2pm.
Fort Ellsworth was established in 1864 to protect travelers enroute to Santa Fe or to Denver City. Renamed Fort Harker in 1866, it was moved months later to the present site of Kanopolis and became a major supply post for military campaigns against the Plains Indians. Four original buildings, all constructed with Dakota sandstone, still stand. Re-enactment soldiers will be on the grounds (see Fort Harker Soldier Encampment under events). Admission charge. (NRHP)
From K-4, 3 miles north on K-141. Completed in 1948, Kanopolis is the oldest recreation state park in Kansas. Among its 35 miles of trails, the five-and-a-half-mile Horsethief Canyon Trail is a statewide favorite for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. A beautiful trail, it features canyons, sandstone bluffs, prairie, and low-water crossings. State park entrance charge. Cabins available, reservations required.
Drive through the Smoky Hills on this 80-mile trail featuring 27 historic sites—from forts and caves to cemeteries and ghost towns. For a pdf download click on Read More. (Download may take a few seconds.)
Abram was the original county seat decided by election in 1871; however, after another election and a murder, the new location for the county seat was moved to Lincoln Center in 1872. From Lincoln, 1 mile east on K-18, then 1/2 mile south on 210 Rd, then 1/4 mile east on Kale Dr. Find the marker on the north side of the road. Close to Moffit Massacre site. Marker is 1/4 walk in pasture. Private property, stay on mowed path only.
Donated to Audubon of Kansas, the property combines native grasslands and forests along the Bullfoot Creek with modern farming practices. Take a quiet stroll along the one-mile hiking trail to see wildflowers, birds, and ruins of the original Achterberg homestead. See event listing for several opportunities to enjoy bird-watching and the dark night sky. From Lincoln, drive west on K-18 for 2 miles to 170th Rd. Turn south for approximately 4 miles to trail head sign.
Get on your bike and experience the BKRT and Post Rock Country in a new way! Local gravel roads offer riders beautiful rolling hills, big skies, and scenic views for miles. Locals have outlined a few routes ranging from short trips to 50+ miles. See event listing for an evening ride with locals on Thursday, May 2.
Up until the 1930's and '40's, locally quarried limestone was still the primary building material for everything from fence rows to buildings to bridges. Several limestone arched bridges remain to this day, some under open roads, some no longer supporting daily traffic, but all are worth a drive to appreciate their simple beauty. See link for information and location of these bridges.
Built in 1914, the Lincoln Carnegie Library is one of 59 libraries built in Kansas by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. Today, it is just one of 25 still in use for that purpose. Mon-Fri 10am-1pm; 2-6pm; Sat 9am-1pm (NRHP)
Take the main cemetery entrance to the second crossroad. Just in front of the limestone mausoleum stands the gravestone for a Civil War drummer boy. Continue to the end of that driveway, turn east on South, then north at the next crossroad. The first gravestone on the west side is shaped like a suitcase and marks the 1891 grave of a traveling salesman. A fitting epitaph reads, "Here Is Where He Stopped Last."
Go ahead and give the big cottonwood tree a hug! It's one of the largest in the state! The park has a number of limestone structures made by the National Youth Administration in the 1930s including the Scout Cabin, picnic tables, a shelter, and an amphitheater. Disc golf course added in 2018. (NRHP)
This Romanesque Revival courthouse was built in 1900 using native limestone to achieve a striking result. A 1913 Civil War statue of a soldier at parade rest stands to the southeast of the courthouse. (NRHP)
You can't miss the wagon wheels that accent the exterior of the Kyne House. As one of the first limestone homes built in the county, this native limestone museum tells the story of Lincoln County's development and showcases F.A. Cooper's work including an unfinished county map depicting historical events. Entrance through the Lincoln County Historical Museum Complex. Admittance by donation. (NRHP)
Museum resembles an old-time drug store with a fascinating collection of pharmaceutical artifacts from the 1880s to 1920s including actual prescription bottles and containers, shelving, druggist tools, and a 'shock box'. Ask the founder, Jack Crispin, questions. You won't regret it! (NRHP) Thu-Fri 1-5pm; Sat 10am-12pm and 1-5pm; Sun 1-5pm. (Closed during lunch)
Designated on the National Register of Historic Places in 2020, 2/3rds of the downtown was built between 1881 and 1920 in architectural styles ranging from Victorian, Italianate, to Commercial. The downtown's extensive use of native Post Rock limestone is a lesson in the creativity and skill of early stone mason pioneers in the area.
The Finch Theatre was a long vacant building lovingly renovated by community volunteers into a modern movie theatre and events venue. Fri-Sat 7pm; Sun 3pm. See website for movie being shown during the BKRT. NRHP (historic district)
This is one of the best 9-hole sand green courses in the state featuring an undulating layout with both uphill and downhill fairways and elevated tee-boxes. Greens fee.
Featured in the lobby of the bank, this multi-panel mural by artist Julia Bland depicts local people, homes, barns, limestone fence posts, livestock, and wildlife in four seasons scenes of agricultural activities from winter cattle feeding to summer wheat harvest. See it when you visit Lincoln on Thursday and Friday during the BKRT.
KANcycle is a rural bike share program. You can find bikes to rent in Ellsworth and Lincoln. Bikes can easily be checked out with Movatic app. Ride for as long as you want and then return the bike to a KANcycle rack. Available 24/7 and FREE RIDES for this event! In Lincoln, find bikes at the Courthouse Square.
Look for the big blue and white striped awning that announces the Lincoln Art Center. Featuring new exhibits every 8 weeks with unique work from Kansas and midwest artists, and displayed in an appealing open space. A gift gallery features products by Kansas craftsmen. Tue-Fri 12-4pm; Sat 9am-12pm. (NRHP historic district)
Constructed in 1895, the three-story Queen Anne-style Victorian wood-framed house sits on a rustic native limestone foundation. The interior features Lincrusta wainscoting in the main floor parlor, an eight-foot, stained-glass stairway leading to the second floor and original furnishings of the Marshall and Yohe families. Visit the house during Pie on the Porch, Thursday, May 2, from 3-5pm, or ask at the Lincoln County Historical Museum about tours. (NRHP)
.jpg)
Lincoln County's newest park was created when the McReynolds Family donated the four acres around the Saline River dam to the county in 2021. Since then, volunteers have been working to improve the property as a family-friendly fishing hole. 1/4 mile south of Lincoln on K-14, park entrance immediately south of the Saline River bridge, west side of the highway.
As pioneers moved west to settle the frontier, there were clashes between Native Americans and settlers. The site marks one of those clashes in 1864. From Lincoln, 1 mile east on K-18, then 1/2 mile south on 210 Rd, then 1/2 mile east on Kale Dr. About 1/4 mile east of the Abram Marker on the north side. Private property. Stay on mowed paths only.
Colorful outdoor murals are found in almost every community in Lincoln County. Some have been around for years, painted and maintained by local artists, and some have popped up more recently, painted both by volunteers and professional artists. Visit Lincoln, Sylvan Grove, Barnard, Beverly, Vesper, or Westfall to check out the inspiring public art installations! Click on Read More to see the locations.
Keep your eyes open for creatures dotting the highways as part of local artist Jim Dickerman's Open Range Zoo. The creatures are made from anything including old farm equipment, car parts, scrap metal, animal bones and feathers, driftwood, limestone, and antlers. Creatures are perched on the tops of fence posts and billboards, tucked between tree groves and bushes, and nestled on rock outcroppings. Jim’s work is also featured at the Grassroots Arts Center in Lucas.
The Post Rock Scenic Byway is an eighteen-mile route that extends north and south on K-232 through the Smoky Hills of Ellsworth, Lincoln and Russell Counties in north central Kansas. K-232 is a two-lane asphalt surfaced road. The byway offers scenic, recreational, geological and agricultural viewing opportunities. K-232 is located on the west side of Lincoln County. In 1989, Senate Resolution No. 1854 designated Lincoln County the "Post Rock Capital of Kansas."
Museum is dedicated to the preservation of artifacts of scouting organizations such as Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Pioneer Girls, Campfire Girls and other youth organizations. (NRHP) Thu-Fri 1-5pm; Sat 10am-12pm and 1-5pm; Sun 1-5pm. (Closed during lunch)
The first record of a Methodist sermon in the county was in 1871, before Lincoln was even established as a county seat. The first wood-framed church was built in 1879 and construction of the current church started in 1915. There are 44 stained glass windows including a beautiful dome skylight paid for by The Epworth League, an early youth group.
When exploring the area, take notice of the extensive use of limestone as the primary building material for nearly every historic structure in the area. "Post Rock" is the common term used for the Greenhorn Limestone rock layer because of its common use by early settlers as fence posts. The rock could be easily quarried and much more abundant than trees. Lincoln County was designated the "Post Rock Capital of Kansas" in 1989 and celebrated every Labor Day weekend with the Post Rock Festival. A fun post rock feature to look for in many area communities is a Post Rock Welcome sign. (See Events for several limestone dressing demonstrations.)
Lorraine rose like many towns, from the railroad, but was named after the daughter of a railroad official. The first consolidated school in Kansas was here, and attributed to the town's growth. A bustling little town cut down by not one, not two, but three fires. Each time, the town would unify and rebuild. The school is now closed and privately owned. The Baptist Church is still going strong. Liberty Trades is where you can find antiques and unique items. Lorraine is proud of its volunteer fire department with a mural on the building, and Centennial Park found next to it. Come see smiling faces in this quiet little town.
Barbara McCreery creates stunning dioramas and story boxes from found objects and sequins. The window on the south side of her very pink house has a sidewalk leading to her "One Window Gallery" where you will see one of her stunning and whimsical creations. You can also see her dioramas at the Switchgrass Studio in downtown Lucas.
Mosaics of colorful tiles and glass, toy cars, dominoes, badges, wine corks, and more adorn the walls for your viewing pleasure while you’re “resting” at this artistic public restroom. If you arrive after hours you can still sit on the outdoor toilet seat bench and admire the mosaic toilet lid that arches over the bathroom entrances. A large concrete roll of toilet paper unravels into a sidewalk. Mri-Pilar and Eric Abraham led a local effort to create this plaza. In 2014, Bowl Plaza was voted the 2nd Best Public Restroom in the U.S. in a contest by the Cintas Company. In 2018, it received an international award for being the Quirkiest Restroom in the World.
Learn about the history of Lucas and see print shop machines nearly 100 years old and still in operation today.
If the kids need to run off some energy or your feet are getting tired, take a load off and have a picnic here! Nice little park with modern playground equipment.
This renovated theatre is community-owned and run by volunteers. First-run movies are shown Saturday, 7pm and Sunday, 5pm. (Check the Events section for special activities planned for BKRT visitors.)
In a 2011 (restored in 2021) mural covering the entire wall south of Brant's, artist Erika Nelson has cleverly illustrated the early uses of native greenhorn limestone by Czech immigrants to this area.
If you're lucky enough to find Alan Vopat's gallery open you'll see alphabet letters used as you've never seen them before. Clusters of them form faces, bodies, objects, and much more. Not limited to 'letter art', Vopat's creativity knows no bounds. Find Alan's artwork at Switchgrass Studio as well.
Dew Dat Den is the studio of Rob Lindsay. The building was originally an art deco service station in the 1930s. Located near Main St, the yard features various large sculpture. This is primarily a drive by attraction.
A sharp eye will spot four limestone fence posts carved with faces. As a tribute to the area artists, Fred Whitman chose local folks for his subjects. Three 'face posts' can be found in Lucas along highway K-232 south of Lucas. A fourth one is found on K-18 highway just east of Lucas. For a list, stop by the Grassroots Art Center in Lucas. Detailed directions to each can be found by clicking on the link below.
From 1930s to 1999 a local Lucas resident, Florence Deeble, used colored concrete and specialty rocks to design postcards in her backyard of her favorite vacation spots like Mount Rushmore, Cathedral Mountain, Indian Pueblos, and Estes Park. Visionary artist, Mri-Pilar, has transformed the interior of the Deeble 1906 family home into the Garden of ISIS. Recycled art sculptures, computer parts, game boards, Barbies, and more are positioned on foil-lined walls. The Garden of ISIS and the Deeble Rock Garden can be toured with admission paid at the Grassroots Art Center. Admission charge for Deeble House. For tours, ask at the Grassroots Art Center. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 1-5pm
The American Fork Art Park was the inspiration and creation of self-taught artist, Mri-Pilar. For over 15 years these artistic (some over 7’ tall) outdoor fork sculptures have been a photo opt moment for visitors. Residing just south of the park are large metal sculptures of self-taught, recycled artist, Jim Dickerman. Find more of Dickerman’s outdoor metal art at the north end of Lucas Main Street (NE corner), the Grassroots Art Center and courtyard, and a small metal bird located at the concrete “LUCAS” sign at the intersection of Hwy 232 and K-18.
Raymond Fox Still's outdoor styrofoam sculpture are being restored and placed throughout town. Fox, who passed away in 2017, lived in Sharon Springs in western Kansas. He was known for his unique archery targets made from wood, styrofoam and pipes. Some of his characters include the Saber-Toothed Tiger, Energizer Bunny and a 15-foot tall T-Rex! Lacie Austin of Lucas has restored these fabulous animals that are located along the downtown Main Street of Lucas. Additional Still animal sculptures can be viewed at the Grassroots Art Center gallery and courtyard.
S.P. Dinsmoor built his 11-room limestone and concrete log cabin home and Garden of Eden sculptures from 1907 to 1929 using 113 tons of cement and goodness knows how many tons of limestone! The sculptures are Dinsmoor's interpretation of the Bible, Populist politics, and modern civilization. He built the 40-foot-tall limestone mausoleum for himself and his first wife, and he is laid to rest in a handmade, glass-topped concrete coffin. Folks in Lucas tried to run Dinsmoor out of town, but in time his work became the area's main attraction, and still is today. It is one of the oldest such sites in the nation and the cornerstone of the Lucas creative community. Exterior sculptures are available after hours for self-tours. Admission charge. (NRHP)
Even the bright mosaic entrance sign on E. K-18 is grassroots art. This art style is fashioned by people who haven't formally studied art, and it has no inhibiting rules. The sculpture on top is an M. T. Liggett metal totem. On the new “2nd Best Small Town Arts Scene” billboard nearby look for the colorful tin man on top fashioned by self-taught recycled artist Gary Pendergrass. He is well known as the creator of the Steampunk yard environment at Wichita. Stop in Lucas to see the world from a grassroots artist perspective.
The Grassroots Art Center preserves, documents, and exhibits grassroots and outsider artists from around the Midwest. The Grassroots Art Center has three galleries, a gift area, a historic post rock court yard, artistic public restrooms and two art environments (Deeble Rock Garden and Mri Pilar's Garden of Isis). Grassroots is created by self taught individuals, all who work with non-traditional materials or environments, often resorting to found objects, or recycled items. These environments are challenging to preserve and often become destroyed after an artist's passing. Admission charge. $9 Adults, $5 Children, Members Free, and $1 coupons available for groups (20+) and special events (BKRT). Thu-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 1-5pm.
When you have lots of limestone to use for building structures, why not built a jail? That's what the community did in 1902 and it's still standing today. Another quirky place in Lucas for a selfie!
M. T. (Myron Thomas) Liggett was a self-taught, Kansas grassroots metal artist from Mullinville. Over thirty years later he has created some 500+ metal totems that are displayed on a section of farm ground on the west edge of Mullinville. He donated several metal totems to the Grassroots Art Center at Lucas. These outdoor sculptures installed along Harvest Road depict mythology, political and social happenings in society. The metal discs that are painted with sayings are the artwork of Tess Dunkel McKnight, Luray, Kansas.
The Grassroots Art Center sponsored an art contest asking for ideas to embellish Main Street light poles. Entries came in from across the US with youth to professional artists participating. The selected artists created and installed their pole art along the two blocks of Main Street. Visitors will experience flying fish, a red dragon head, wheat, mosaic diver, steam punk tractor, metal cow heads, sticks, serpents and more.
Roy and Clara Miller collected rocks and shells during their 1930s-1960s travels and transformed them into miniature Lucas buildings. The stand-alone towers they made from slag glass and barite roses. Visitors stopped often to see this roadside attraction, but after Roy's and Clara's deaths the miniatures were moved to Hays in 1969. Thanks to passionate efforts, these works of art came home to Lucas in 2013. In a park-like setting, the miniatures can be admired from behind the fence. Located just east of the Garden of Eden.
Old Blue Studio, a former tractor shop, is now home to Matthew Dominic Farley's art practice. Its exterior is embellished with a bold, graphic, wraparound mural inspired by both the building’s and artist’s lineages. Like much of Farley’s work, this mural, "All-Seeing Eye of Love", utilizes familiar elements in an unusual way. The workshop accommodates materials, space, and tools for art-making as well as for Farley's art conservation and preservation practice. Adjoining the studio is a budding sculpture garden, the Proving Ground, containing an evolving collection of artworks in various stages of development, including scale models for larger projects, temporary installations, and experimental designs. Drive or walk-by only.
Look for a new mural on the south side of the Lucas Library. The literary themed mural was painted in just 8 days by Kansas artists in 2023.
The 20 mile long Post Rock Scenic Byway runs along K-232, across the Wilson Lake Dam, from Lucas to Wilson in central Kansas. The byway showcases the native limestone fence posts and farm steads built by the early settlers. The stone was used for building material because of the lack of trees.
Newly renovated building housing the Lucas Public Library, which offers books and other reading materials, videos, public computers, free wifi, charging station, and relaxed atmosphere, complete with a kids room with Legos and train table. Thu-Sat 8am-7pm; Sun 8am-1pm
The old Ford dealership on Main Street is now Standing Dog Studio, a local artist's gallery. LeAnne Doljac's gallery is filled with weird and wonderful art you never knew you needed: torch cut metals, ceramics, mosaics, paintings, hand dyed fabrics and more. A great place to purchase some quirky art to remind you of your wild adventure, or just stop by to view some local art and get some free snacks.
Honoring the multiple Outsider Art environments that have flourished in Lucas since the early 1900s, the World’s Largest Souvenir Travel Plates depict those environments alongside a visual history of the town. The dish itself is 14’ in diameter, formed from a large fiberglass satellite dish with another, smaller dish mounted inside as the center medallion. The large travel plate was originally painted by Erika Nelson in 2006 and refurbished with updated imagery in 2018.
World's Largest Thing's Roadside Sideshow Expo features exhibits about roadside attractions billed as Worlds Largest Things, and houses the World's Largest Collection of the World's Smallest Versions of the World's Largest Things. The colorful mural above the awning hints at the wonders inside the downtown exhibition space. Souvenir vending located inside!
Designated on the Register of Historic Kansas Places in 2020, the downtown's native Post Rock limestone buildings represents the community's development since 1887. Over the last 10 years, several buildings have undergone extensive rehabilitation including Fly Boy Brewery & Eats and the Farmers Elevator Coop. The old Sylvan State Bank is currently in the process of rehabilitation.
Built in 1913 in the Prairie School style, the school first served many of the area's German Lutheran immigrants. For 67 years it taught eight grades of students before closing permanently in 1981. The Bethlehem Lutheran Church has been preserving the building and has restored a replica of the original classroom. Visit the school and enjoy peach cobbler served by volunteers on Fri 1-5pm; Sat 10-5pm. (NRHP)
See a sampling of Post Rock Country’s limestone structures, including a one-room school house, a four-arch bridge, and a homestead house along this short seven mile gravel route connecting Sylvan Grove to the Post Rock Scenic Byway. See link for detailed driving instructions and additional information.
Built in 1908 from local greenhorn 'post rock' limestone over the Spillman Creek, this unique double-arched bridge was abandoned by the KS Dept of Transportation in the early 1990's. The Sylvan Historical Society took ownership and maintains a small roadside park and gazebo with history about the bridge. From K-18, 8 miles north on K-181. Check out the Bridges of Lincoln County listing for another stone arched bridge nearby on Sage Rd. (NRHP)
In years past, locals brought their cream, eggs, and grain to this elevator company, and the limestone building was the hub of ag commerce for the town. Today the building is once again becoming a vital hub on Main Street. During your visit you will see how a committed group of senior citizens is repurposing a historic building to provide a new home for their Senior Center members, and create a unique meeting space and connected courtyard. Enjoy some coffee, lemonade, and cookies while visiting with the members about this creative enterprise. Listed on the Register of Historic Kansas Places.
Constructed by the Union Pacific Depot in 1887 as part of the "Plainville Line", the depot features a waiting room, agent's office and freight room. The depot has undergone extensive restoration over the past few years by the Sylvan Historical Society and is now a museum displaying railroad memorabilia. Antique farm equipment will also be on display. (NRHP) Open Thu 5-7pm; Fri 12-7pm; Sat 9am-5pm
The Yesterday House Museum is located in the historic B. F. Foster building. Displays highlight events, commerce, artifacts, and people related to the 148-year history of Sylvan Grove. A new annex features a display of antique farm machinery and related items. Listed on the Register of Historic Kansas Places. Fri 12-7pm; Sat 9am-5pm
This large 800+ sq ft outdoor mural is a tribute to renewable wind energy which has been powering Lincoln County since the 19th century and is now providing power and economic benefits from a nearby modern wind farm. The mural also includes the old limestone Vesper school, a meadowlark, limestone post rock, local scenery, and the Kansas flag, which was originally designed by a Lincoln County native, Hazel Avery. On Saturday, May 4, mural artist Matthew Miller will be available at the Vesper Community Center for a meet and greet from 6-7pm.
Eight miles south and eight miles east of Lincoln is the tiny town of Westfall. Although it no longer has an active business district, there are a number of new young families that are bringing new life to the community. Several buildings have been painted along with a large mural. A community center hosts local events.
The buttery yellow Lustron home is one of only 91 of the approximately 100 prefabricated steel homes built in Kansas. After WWII, housing needs expedited the building of these low maintenance, highly durable homes. Drive-by only.
In 2023, Melissa Shaw painted this Czech-styled selfie mural for the After Harvest Czech Festival in Wilson. It represents the Czech Republic motto, Pravda vítěz = Truth Prevails. Since 1918, the motto is still used today on the banner of the President of the Czech Republic. The motto is believed to be derived from Jan Hus’ phrase “Seek the truth, hear the truth, learn the truth, love the truth, speak the truth, hold the truth and defend the truth until death.” The mural represents religious imagery and scripture.
Reserve a one-hour tour to go down 176 feet into this decommissioned Atlas F Missile Base to learn about the Atlas ICBM Program, the Cold War, and better understand the property and the structures that were built for the U.S. Air Force. Hear about future plans for this missile silo which includes becoming an AirBnB. This site is currently operating as an adventure resort open for camping, RV’s, VanLife with hiking trails, campfires and stargazing. Call the phone number listed to book a tour. Admission per person is $20. Tour times are Thu-Sun 8:30am, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm, 6:30pm. For more information about the site click on Read More below.
Learning the traditional “Czech” egg design on her grandparent’s farm, Betty Kepka went on to become known as “The Egg Lady” when she produced Kraslice (traditional Czech painted eggs) using the old-world hand-batiking process. Her paintings, jewelry, dolls, Hallmark designs and prints have been exhibited across the nation and she has taught the craft to keep the tradition alive. Her collection has been returned to Wilson in the care of the KS Czechs, Inc. Come see the display Thu-Sat 9am-6pm; Sun 10am-4pm. Open House Saturday 12-4pm (Photo: Kansas State Historical Society)
Not to be missed is the impressive granite Civil War monument featuring a Union soldier statue at its apex. Further adorning the memorial is a metal lion's head out of which water once poured to fill the watering trough for horses. The Czechoslovakian influence is apparent in this cemetery in the names of the interred.
Built as a water tower in 1907, this structure is the only native limestone circular jail in the state. The lower level was a jail until 1963 and held prisoners until they could be transported to the county jail. (NRHP)
Immigrants from Czechoslovakia began settling here in 1874. Wilson became the Czech Capital of Kansas by a proclamation signed by Governor Docking on July 10, 1967. The Czech Festival celebrates this heritage the last weekend of every July. Signs in Czech welcome you (Vitame Vas na Wilson) to this unique town.
The Historic Midland Railroad Hotel, built in 1899 was rebuilt in the 1920s after a fire gutted the interior in 1902. The hotel served as a backdrop in the 1973 film "Paper Moon". In 1997, the Wilson Foundation purchased the building launching a six-year, $3.2 million renovation. The Barn, built in 1906 in this location, was used to house race horses. It was later moved to a local farm for livestock use. In 2021, the barn was moved back into town and placed on the hotel grounds, just 50 yards from its original location. The renovated barn is now used as an event center and community meeting place. The Barn is open Fri-Sat 5-9pm and the hotel is open 24 hours a day.
In 2022, Mary Rose Enderle and Richard E. Bogenrife donated a miniature replica of the Statue of Liberty to the community of Wilson. It symbolizes the story of Wilson's Czech immigrant history. Find the statue in the American Legion Park just south of the Midland Hotel. (Photo: Marcie Bender)
Look for eight miniature Czech Eggs located throughout the town. All are easily located within a short walk around downtown. The Wilson Community Foundation put up the first egg in 2018 and local businesses and the Wilson Tourism Hub helped fund the rest of the eggs. They were first painted by Risk Rupp and later by Ace Walker of Oklahoma.
Out of the ashes of the 2009 fire will come an open-air pavilion with both outdoor and indoor stages. The salvageable stone from the 1901 limestone opera house will be incorporated into the pavilion.
This 18-mile drive from Wilson to Lucas, passing Wilson Lake, delivers sweeping vistas of grasslands, rock outcroppings, and long rows of the post rock fences. Wildflowers dot the roadway during their growing seasons.
North and south side of the railroad tracks nearest E. Although no longer in use, the complex of historic grain elevators is a favorite subject for photographers. Built prior to 1900, Soukup Elevators (south side of the tracks) also sold coal and implements, thus the Sunflower Coal mural on the smaller building. Kyner Elevators are on the north side of the tracks. Best place to park and take photos is at 27th St and Ave F.
The first outdoor payphone booth was installed in 1905 and by 1995 the number peaks in America, reaching 2.6 million phones. However, the increasing use of mobile phones has led to a decreased demand for pay telephones and they have been slowly disappearing. Approximately 100,000 public telephone booths remained in service by 2018. Originally founded in 1903 as Wilson Telephone, the company was purchased by Paul and Helen Grauer in the 1940’s and has been owned and operated by the Grauer family ever since. Wilson Telephone Company has central office locations in seven communities in central Kansas with each having a working telephone booth out front.
The mission of the museum is to preserve and display the heritage of Wilson and the surrounding area and enrich people's lives by connecting them to the past. Among areas of interest in the museum are Czech artifacts including dishes, kroje, kraslice-painted eggs, and Czech inspired artwork. Vintage wall phones and corded phones are on display as well as Wilson World printing press trays from the downstairs publishing company. Other collections include customer souvenirs, histories from churches, organizations, individuals, military artifacts, schools, and sports memorabilia. Open 1-3pm and whenever the open flags are out!
Thousands of volunteer hours and countless gallons of paint resulted in a giant colorful egg painted in the traditional kraslice style. Designed by local art teacher Christine Slechta, the fiberglass egg weighs 7,000 pounds and measures 20x15 feet. The egg rests under a stylish gazebo shelter.
An American doughboy statue stands atop this monument dedicated in 1919 "In Honor of our Soldiers Sailors and Marines of the World War."
Surrounded by the grasslands of post rock country, this clear lake provides a variety of recreational opportunities. The two-and-a-half-mile hiking loop at the Rocktown Natural Area features diverse prairie grasses, plants, and Dakota sandstone formations in a secluded cove. For cyclists, the 21-mile Switchgrass Trail is a mountain biker's dream. Check out Knotheads Bait & Tackle Shop, located on the east side of South Shore and see their listing under Shop Stops for fishing gear and kayak rentals.
