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
Osborne 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 MemorialsGeodetic 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 Carnegie Research Library
The Osborne Carnegie Library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1912
Osborne, KS GenealogyOsborne 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 County Veterans Memorial
Erected in 2000, This granite obelisk is dedicated to the memory of all Osborne County military veterans who ever served in active duty. Located on the north side of the historic courthouse square, the black African/
Osborne, KS MemorialsRecreation
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 RecreationCarnegie 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 LibrariesDowns 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 EntertainmentOsborne County Courthouse
A visit to the Osborne County Courthouse will show the use of the area's popular post rock material in its Romanesque Revival styling. Built in 1907-1908 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places,
Osborne, KS Historic CourthousesOsborne City Cemetery
The Osborne City Cemetery opened in 1879 at the corner of Eleventh Street and U.S. Highway 24 West. Veterans ranging from the Mexican War though the Vietnam War are buried here. Noted buffalo hunter Jeff Durfey and Howard Ruede, author of the celebrated book "Sod-House Days,"
Osborne, KS CemeteriesOsborne County Museum Complex
The Osborne County Museum Complex offers an opportunity to visit the past with memorabilia dating back to the pioneer days.
On Exhibit
* Horse-drawn farm machinery
* Stonemason's tools
* Medical equipment