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Waterville, Kansas

Waterville, Kansas

"First Cow Town and the end of the railroad."

Waterville began in 1867 when the Atchison and Pike's Peak Railroad line picked the site exactly 100 miles west of Atchison and named it after the superintendent's hometown of Waterville, Maine. As a pioneer town at the end of the railroad and along the Little Blue River, Waterville served as a supply center for the area by shipping livestock, grinding wheat, and accommodating travelers in several hotels. As churches and schools were built, this rowdy cowtown took on a more serene and gracious tone. Soon settlers began to build Victorian homes and start many businesses.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Opera House

Opened in 1903 and is still in use for community activities. The interior was recently painted, and the chandelier has been refurbished to glow as it did in 1903. Tours available.

Waterville, KS Historic Buildings

Waterville's Railroad Depot Museum

Waterville's Railroad Depot Museum keeps Waterville's history in the historic refurbished 1870

Waterville, KS Museums

Historic Homes

A variety of beautiful Victorian Homes. Powell Home (1895) on National Historic Register, Hall Home, Thorne Home, Thomas Home, and Virgin Home. Tours available.

Waterville, KS Historic Buildings

Weaver Hotel

The Hotel was built in 1905 and is on the National Historic Register. A bullet hole from a double bank robbery in 1910 can be seen today.

Waterville, KS Historic Buildings


Things to do near Waterville, KS