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The legend of the Jayhawk States that: "Early one autumn morning in 1856, Pat Devilin, a Free-State Irishman, rode into Osawatomie with his saddle bags laden with considerable goods. As he tied his horse in front of one of the stores, one of the men standing nearby said, 'Pat, it, looks like you have been foraging.' Pat, as he mounted the steps replied,'Yes, I have been over in Missouri jayhawking.' When asked what he meant by the expression he said that in the old country they had a bird that worried its prey before devouring it. He added that what he had been doing was jayhawking. This is the only known origin of the word."

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Old Stone Church

One of the first churches in Kansas, this church was built by a Congregationalist group and is typical of the church structures built during pioneer days in Kansas.

Osawatomie, KS Historic Churches

The Mills House

William M. Mills, an oilman from Pennsylvania, drilled over 400 oil and gas wells in his lifetime. He drilled the Norman #1

Osawatomie, KS Historic Homes

Osawatomie History Museum

Exhibits include The Railroad, Oswatomie State Hospital, pre-Civil War, Rural Culture, and the Social History of Osawatomie. Special rotating exhibits present Black History Month in February, Women's History Month in March; April, Art; May, Alumni; June, John Brown; August, Founders Day;

Osawatomie, KS Museums

First Land Office

This land office building was built in 1854 and was used by the first mayor of Osawatomie, H. B. Smith, and his brother who were the first land patent agents in the territory. It was deeded to the city in 1954 by A. W. Youngberg as a memorial to his wife.

Osawatomie, KS Pioneer Life

Creamery Bridge

The Creamery Bridge which spans the Marais des Cygnes River at Eighth Street is one of two Marsh Arch triple span bridges located at Osawatomie. The other spans the Pottawatomie Creek, and both are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Osawatomie, KS Historic Bridges

Things to do near Osawatomie, KS

Osawatomie Sports Complex

Softball and baseball diamonds. Picnic area. ...

Midway Drive-In Theater

Halfway between Osawatomie and Paola on Old Kansas City Road. One of twelve drive-ins remaining in the state. Unique viewing ...

Leavenworth Country Club

Course Access: PrivateHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: Yes...