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
Galva Museum
Since the late 19th century and throughout the 20th century, the stone building has been an integral part of the Galva community. The two-story natural limestone building (referred to as the only skyscraper in Galva) was built in the early 1880s. It measured 100 feet by 25
Galva, KS MuseumsMcPherson 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 MuseumsMaxwell Wildlife Refuge
No other place in Kansas can buffalo and elk be viewed as they can at the 2800-acre Maxwell Wildlife Refuge. Voted as one of 8
Canton, KS Wildlife RefugesBirger Sandzen Memorial Gallery
The gallery holds an extensive collection of fine art from the master. It is a tribute to the beloved Swedish art teacher at Bethany College, the late Birger Sandzen. Here one may find oil and watercolor paintings, prints and woodblocks and more by Sandzen, as well as objects from the gallery'
Lindsborg, KS ArtsMarquette 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 MuseumsMcPherson Opera House
Built in 1888, the McPherson Opera House was considered one of the most elaborate and architecturally sound in the state. This three-story architectural showpiece, listed on the National Register of Historic Places had a seating capacity of 900
McPherson, KS Opera HousesChisholm 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 LifeBlacksmith Coffee Roastery
Every Fourth of July, one of the original owners, Janne Johnson of the old Holmberg - Johnson Blacksmith and Wagon Shop, would carry two large anvils outside the shop and at 4:30
Lindsborg, KS Historic BuildingsLindsborg Golf Course
The Lindsborg GolSeason: Year-round, weather permitting Course Type: City of Lindsborg Municipal course, pasture style. Original greens were cotton seed hull instead of sand. Surrounded by wheat, milo fields, crop ground and cattle. Course Designer:Hilding Jaderborg Year Built: 1960 Facilities &
Lindsborg, KS Golf Courses