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Chouteau's Island


category : Pioneer History
Chouteau's Island was the largest island of timber on the Arkansas River in this area. In the spring of 1816, Auguste Pierre Chouteau was returning to Missouri with several other fur trappers when they were attacked by a large party of Pawnee Indians. Chouteau's party saw the Indians in time to cross over the shallow water to the island. From there they were able to repulse the Indian attack and make their escape.

In 1825, Joseph C. Brown, a U.S. engineer, surveyed the Santa Fe Trail. He designated Chouteau's Island as the point for turning south to join the Cimarron Cut-Off at Wagon Bed Springs, some ten miles south of the present day Ulysses.


Come visit us in Lakin, Kansas

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Charlie's Ruts

About four miles east of Lakin on highway 50

Lakin, KS Pioneer History

Old Commercial Hotel

The Commercial Hotel built in 1883 and run by Mrs. W.P. Loucks, had a good trade. Mrs. Loucks, the genial hostess, was the pioneer hotel keeper of Lakin. She came here in 1879 when Lakin was a way station on the Santa Fe and opened an eating house for the railroad employees. "

Lakin, KS Historic Buildings

Kearny County Historical Society Museum

Step back in time as history unfolds at the Kearny County Museum on Buffalo Street. Established in 1979, the museum won the Kansas Historical Society's Award of Excellence in 1982. In 1974

Lakin, KS Museums

Loucks Municipal Park

Sunshine and fresh air abound at Loucks Municipal Park, two miles west of Lakin on U.S. HWY 50. Donated by Charles A. and Rhonda Loucks in 1950, Loucks is an 80

Lakin, KS Recreation

Historic O'Loughlin House

The O'Loughlin house was called, "The Little White House", as it was the largest building in the town and was the center for social gatherings, church services, meetings and housed visiting dignitaries. The White House is the oldest two-story house in Lakin. It was built in 1875

Lakin, KS Museums

Things to do Pioneer History near Lakin, KS

Old Steele Pioneer Home

Bear Creek Pass

This pass is one of the most interesting histories in the state of Kansas. Kearny County was fortunate in the creation of the...

Aubey Route

The Aubrey Route, which left the Santa Fe Trail on the Arkansas River at Chouteau's Island and Indian Mound, west of Lakin, c...

The Lone Tree Massacre

Conestoga Wagon