Osborne County, KS
On the Meade Ranch in southeast Osborne County is a bronze plate with cross-marks upon it which is the most important spot on this continent to surveyors and map makers. The point of intersection of those two lines is called the Geodetic Center of the United States. On the tiny point where those two lines cross depend the surveys of a sixth of the world's surface.Of literary significance, Osborne County is the prairie location of the John and Rosa Ise homestead whose lives were chronicled in the annotated book, Sod and Stubble, highly recommended reading for a day by day account of pioneer life on the prairie.
Russell Stover's birthplace was in Alton, and Porky Pig had roots in Portis. For the most enjoyable learning experience, come to the Storytelling Capital of Kansas held in Downs the last weekend in April.
You're welcome anytime to Osborn
Explore Osborne County
The Organ Factory
The historic Baptist Church of 1890 is now home to Richardson's Organ Factory. Tour the factory and learn about organ design from a European-trained organ master.
Downs, KS Historic ChurchesCarnegie Library
The Downs Carnegie Library built in 1905 which was constructed from a $5,000 gift from Andrew Carnegie, still houses the library. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings.
Downs, KS Carnegie LibrariesSod and Stubble Country Self-Guided Auto Tour
Three miles northwest of the city of Downs is located the site of the 1871 homestead of immigrant Henry Ise. In 1873, Henry married seventeen-year old Rosa Haag of Holton, Kansas and brought her west to live. Twelve children (five girls and seven boys) were born on this homestead in the 27
Downs, KS Pioneer LifeDowns Unplugged Coffeehouse
The Downs Unplugged Coffeehouse presents amateur and professional artists the second Saturday of each month starting at 7:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.. Enjoy comedy, music, and theater! "Unplugged"
Downs, KS EntertainmentGeodetic Center of North America
The Geodetic Center of North America was entered on the National Register of Historic Places on October 9, 1973. It is not to be confused with the Geographic Center of the Continental United States, which is located some 50 miles to the north near Lebanon, Kansas.
Osborne, KS Geographical MarkersOsborne WPA Scout Cabin
Built of native stone as a Works Progress Administration (WPA)project in 1936, the historic Scout Cabin features original fireman poles and a massive stone fireplace. The building is available for meetings, reunions, and other community events.
Osborne, KS Historic BuildingsOsborne Carnegie Research Library
The Osborne Carnegie Library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1912
Osborne, KS GenealogyOsborne County Pioneers Memorial
This simple elegant sphere-topped white marble column was dedicated in 1929 to preserve the memory and spirit of Osborne County's first generation of settlers. It is located on the northeast corner of the historic courthouse square.
Osborne, KS MemorialsLipton Hotel
The Lipton Hotel was built in 1880 and is still standing. It once sheltered dignitaries and politicians. Today it houses one of the areas finest gift stores on the street level and some of the old rooms upstairs have been converted into modern apartments.
Downs, KS Historic BuildingsRecreation
The Osborne visitor can enjoy outdoor activities at the municipal swimming pool, Sanders Baseball Complex, Osborne Gun Club Shooting Range, tennis courts, three miles of bike trails, or just spend some time enjoying one of three parks located in the community.
Osborne, KS RecreationDowns Golf Course
The Downs Golf Course is open to the public and located only four miles north of the city. It is a challenging, well kept, nine-hole sand green course.
Downs, KS Golf Courses