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
Anton Pearson Woodcarving Studio
The Pearson Woodcarving Studio, located is the oldest artist's studio in Lindsborg, preserves the memory of early pioneers. Son in law, Norman Malm, a prolific artist, continues the woodcarving tradition. A large collection of his pen and ink drawings and satire cartoons are shown as well. Norman'
Lindsborg, KS Art GalleriesMcPherson 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 HousesMcPherson 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 RecreationMcPherson 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 CourthousesBirger 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 ArtsCoronado 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 LandmarksGen. James Birdseye McPherson Statue
The equestrian statue that overlooks Memorial Park was dedicated in 1917 in a ceremony that attracted 40,000
McPherson, KS MemorialsBethany Lutheran Church
The interior of this historic church is reminiscent of churches in rural Sweden with a hand-crafted altar and large oil paintings.
Lindsborg, KS Historic ChurchesHenry Park
Whether you are looking for family gatherings or a one on one outting, Henry Park is the place with plenty of well kept grass and a shaded playground area with a picnic shelter, tables, restroom, and a tennis court.
Galva, KS RecreationStan Herd Mural
The Stan Herd mural painted in 1986 on a building on Main Street shows the artist's vision of how Inman might have looked in 1910
Inman, KS ArtsCity Parks
Swensson Park is located at 400 N. Main Street between Olsson and Swensson Streets. It provides picnic facilities, a children's playground, lily pond, the community bandshell, and tennis courts.
Lucia Park, 105
Lindsborg, KS Recreation