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
City Parks
The beautiful native stone park entrances to Marquette's City Park were built in the 1920's by local stone masons. They were donated by various organizations in the community which engraved their names on the posts.
Swimming Pool
Marquette'
Marquette, KS RecreationMcPherson 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 HousesArt in Public Places
A project of the Lindsborg Arts Council, Art in Public Places is a walking tour of the wide variety of displays in downtown Lindsborg. The multi media displays include paintings, tilework, sculpute and reliefs. Pick up a brochure at the Lindsborg CVB located at 104
Lindsborg, KS ArtCoronado Heights
Coronado Heights is a twenty-six acre virgin prairie park overlooking the Smoky Valley. The first buildings of Lindsborg were at the foot of this hill. Legend says it was also a lookout for Coronado's party on their 1541 journey into Kansas. This is one of the two highest lookout points in Kansas.
Lindsborg, KS LandmarksChisholm 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 LifeMcPherson County Courthouse
The cornerstone for this magnificent city landmark was laid in 1894 at a building cost of $35,000. The courthouse, built of native Kansas limestone, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was completely refurbished in 1980. The 105
McPherson, KS Historic CourthousesWorld War II Memorial Mural
The World War II Memorial is painted on the wall of this building located across the street from the Galva Museum in downtown Galva.
Galva, KS MemorialsMcPherson 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 RecreationBirger 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 ArtsGen. James Birdseye McPherson Statue
The equestrian statue that overlooks Memorial Park was dedicated in 1917 in a ceremony that attracted 40,000
McPherson, KS Memorials