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Abilene, Kansas

Abilene, Kansas

Over 3 million head of Texas Longhorn cattle arrived in Abilene between the years of 1867 and 1872, to be shipped east by rail. Tom Smith and Wild Bill Hickock became famous for their attempts to maintain law and order on Abilene's legendary Texas Street. As the railhead moved west and the cattle trade waned, Abilene businessmen became entrepreneurs in other areas and the community continued to grow.

C.W. Parker operated an amusement company south of Abilene, manufacturing hand-carved carousels and carnival equipment. Dr. A.B. Seelye's patent medicine company was known across the country. C.L. Brown founded United Telephone Company, which later became Sprint. And President Dwight D. Eisenhower grew to manhood with his five brothers in Abilene. First-class museums showcase the lives of these men.

Known as the Greyhound Capitol of the World, Abilene hosts the Greyhound Hall of Fame and National Greyhound Association Headquarters.

Abilene's history has been well-preserved in its quality museums and beautifully restored historic homes. A diverse economic base is supported by several manufacturing firms and a growing service industry. Thousands of visitors from around the world travel to Abilene each year to tour and shop in the growing number of antique and specialty shops.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Seelye Mansion and Museum

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the twenty-five room Georgian mansion was built in 1905 by A.B. Seelye, a patent medicine entrepreneur. Museum depicts turn-of-the-century medicine business.

Winner of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Architecture!!

Abilene, KS Famous Homes

Museum of Independent Telephony

The Museum of Independent Telephony shares a building with the Dickinson County Historical Society and Museum. It was in Abilene that Cleyson L. Brown, a local youth, built and operated a telephone exchange in 1898

Abilene, KS Museums

C.W. Parker Carousel

This antique carousel is a National Landmark and was built in Abilene by C.W. Parker c. 1901. The carousel is a track-operated machine consisting of 24 hand-carved horses and 4 chariots on a 50

Abilene, KS Landmarks

The Heritage Center Museums

The Museum depicts life on the plains during the American pioneer movement & westward expansion periods. Exhibits include Indians, pioneers, railroad, agriculture, Victorian and cowtown eras.

Abilene, KS Museums

Great Plains Theatre

"Kansas' premier professional theatre company", is housed in the Great Plains Theatre, a 100

Abilene, KS Theatres

Things to do near Abilene, KS

Fall River Hunting

Most lands and waters at Fall River are open for public hunting with the exception of Kansas State Park lands, developed camp...