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Independence, Kansas

Independence, Kansas

Communities are simply a reflection of the citizens who live there. In Independence, Kansas that vision reflects a fierce pride for a colorful past and a sincere determination to preserve it while continually forging ahead. Citizens of Independence don't just "reside" here... they "live" here. And that takes a good amount of dedication and involvement... a commitment to its success.

In August, 1869, a small band of men left the city of Oswego, Kansas, hoping to find a favorable spot and become founders of a city. Their southwesterly course led them to the Verdigris River Valley.

The first stop occurred at Montgomery City, in Drum Creek Township, but they failed to obtain satisfactory arrangements with the Town Company that was already there. Determined to build a city that should bear in its name the spirit that prompted its establishment, Independence was founded. A post office was established in Independence July 1, 1870. In accordance with a proclamation issued by the Probate Judge, Independence became incorporated as a village on July 23,1870.

Legend has it that Independence, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, had more millionaires per capita than any place else in the United states. Standing as testimony to that legend are the stately mansions still scattered throughout the city. The five story former ARCO building at 200 ARCO Place, now the home to various businesses and state offices, still stands as a monument to the entrepreneurial spirit that not only produced the oil and gas industries, but also helped shape the future of Independence.

We're proud to be the hometown of Academy Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright William Inge; cable TV newsman/producer Bill Kurtis; Vivian Vance of "I Love Lucy" fame; Miss Able, the first monkey in space; Martin Johnson, world explorer; Harry Sinclair, founder of Sinclair Oil; and Alf Landon, 1936 presidential candidate. Others who called Independence home include Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the Little House books; and Tom Mix and Louise Brooks of silent movie fame.

We invite you to enjoy the abundance of history, culture, and recreation that is uniquely ours. We're sure you will "Catch the Spirit of Independence."

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Independence Museum

The Independence Historical Museum, owned and operated by the Ladies Library and Art Association, stands as one of the city's prime cultural attractions. Housed in the former city post office building, it has over 20

Independence, KS Museums

Independence Public Library

The Independence Public Library is still located at the corner of Maple and Fifth, in the structure as it was built by the Carnegie Foundation in 1907. The Library currently houses 61,700 volumes of print and non-print materials, with a patron registration of 9,880

Independence, KS Carnegie Libraries

Little House on the Prairie

Located 13 miles southwest of Independence, just off of Highway 75, is an authentic, reconstructed log cabin located near the original site where famous author Laura Ingalls Wilder lived as a child. Near the cabin, the remains of what could possibly have been the well that Pa and Mr. Scott dug. An 1

Independence, KS Pioneer History

Ralph Mitchell Zoo and Riverside Park

Zoo residents include sun bears, buffalo, monkeys, cougars, a swan pond, caymans, eagles, and a flock of tame peacocks who roam the grounds. One of the more famous inhabitant was Miss Able, the first monkey in space. She resided at Monkey Island until her blast off in 1960. This 124

Independence, KS Zoos

Independence Science and Technology Center

Houses a wide variety of exhibits that invite visitors to examine and experiment. Register on a computer, hear sounds on the echo tube, ride the Anti-gravity Simulator, or experience the hair-raising Van de Graaff generator. You may even want to visit with the life-like Albert Einstein.

Independence, KS Learning Centers

Things to do near Independence, KS

Big Hill Swimming Beaches

With Big Hill being one of the clearest lakes in Kansas the sand-covered beach has become a popular spot for cooling off from...

Pittsburg Memorial Auditorium & Convention Center

The Pittsburg Memorial Auditorium and Convention Center was dedicated on November 20th, 1925 as a Shrine Mosque. The outer st...

Countryside Golf Course

A challenging 9-hole course in a pretty country setting. Putting green and driving range for irons only. Rental Carts and Sna...

Garnett Country Club and Golf Course

The Garnett Golf Course in the North Lake area, offers a truly lovely nine-hole course where green fees are low and tee-time ...