McPherson County, KS
Most of the early settlers of McPherson County came from the east lured by the promise of free land. The Santa Fe Trail which crosses the county just south of McPherson is a current reminder of the early heritage of the county. Marked with monuments where it crosses the county's highways, the variations the trail left on the terrain are still visible from aerial photos.
McPherson County offers a rich diversity of historic, cultural, and natural attractions. It was settled primarily by Swedish, German, Swiss, and Volga German immigrants whose heritage is very alive across the county. Enjoy historical celebrations in full native costumes each summer and fall in Lindsborg, "Little Sweden, U.S.A." and the Scottish Highland Games at McPherson. Native prairie can still be found in this area, some of which overlooks the Smoky Valley. The county also includes some of the finest cultural attractions in the area.
Explore McPherson County
Model Railroad Layouts
Learn about American history and railroading history by viewing one of Kansas largest model railroad layouts. Two train layouts featuring N&HO scales; "A slice of American history preserved in miniature." In this 1,694 square feet area there is over 1,250 feet of HO&N scale track and over 1,700
McPherson, KS Railroad HistoryCoronado Heights
Coronado Heights is a twenty-six acre virgin prairie park overlooking the Smoky Valley. The first buildings of Lindsborg were at the foot of this hill. Legend says it was also a lookout for Coronado's party on their 1541 journey into Kansas. This is one of the two highest lookout points in Kansas.
Lindsborg, KS LandmarksWorld War II Memorial Mural
The World War II Memorial is painted on the wall of this building located across the street from the Galva Museum in downtown Galva.
Galva, KS MemorialsWild Dala Herd
Chicago May Have Cows but Lindsborg has Wild Dala Horses! The Herd of Wild Dala Horses, one of the 8
Lindsborg, KS ArtMarquette Historical Museum
The museum is on the State Register of Historic Places and highlights early Marquette and pioneer items, including a number of items that recall the tornado of 1905 which left serveral town structures damaged or destroyed. The Elim Lutheran Church young people society (Luther League)
Marquette, KS MuseumsChisholm Trail/Santa Fe Trails Meet
Two of the most historic trails of Kansas, the Santa Fe Trail and the Chisholm Trail, meet just 3 miles east of Canton on Highway 56, on the McPherson/Marion County line, the only place in the United States where these two trails cross.
Canton, KS Pioneer LifeRange School Museum
This authentic one-room schoolhouse was moved into Marquette from its location northwest of town. It was built in 1906, and is very unique because of its all-wood interior. It has been beautifully restored and is operated as a museum by the Marquette Historical Society. It was moved here in 1986
Marquette, KS Historic SchoolhousesAnton Pearson Woodcarving Studio
The Pearson Woodcarving Studio, located is the oldest artist's studio in Lindsborg, preserves the memory of early pioneers. Son in law, Norman Malm, a prolific artist, continues the woodcarving tradition. A large collection of his pen and ink drawings and satire cartoons are shown as well. Norman'
Lindsborg, KS Art GalleriesMcPherson Valley Wetlands
The wetlands are managed primarily for waterfowl and other hunting during the season and wildlife viewing the rest of the year. Public hunting is allowed on most of this almost 4,000 acre area. Sportsmen should check with the wildlife manager for possible changes in areas open to hunting.
McPherson, KS RecreationKansas Motorcycle Museum
The Kansas Motorcycle Museum features vintage antique motorcycles of many different makes and models. The museum is dedicated to motorcycle memorabilia. The museum also displays over 600 trophies owned by local legend motorcycle racer Stan Engdahl. A new addition to the museum was completed in 2005
Marquette, KS MuseumsHanson-Lindfors Home
This 16 room Victorian house was built in 1888 for Hans Hanson, one of the town founders. Restored to its original appearance, it is completely furnished with antiques, some original to the home. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Marquette, KS Historic HomesMcPherson County Courthouse
The cornerstone for this magnificent city landmark was laid in 1894 at a building cost of $35,000. The courthouse, built of native Kansas limestone, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was completely refurbished in 1980. The 105
McPherson, KS Historic Courthouses