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
Galva Museum
Since the late 19th century and throughout the 20th century, the stone building has been an integral part of the Galva community. The two-story natural limestone building (referred to as the only skyscraper in Galva) was built in the early 1880s. It measured 100 feet by 25
Galva, KS MuseumsMcPherson County Old Mill Museum
The Museum complex includes the restored 1898
Lindsborg, KS MuseumsChisholm 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 LifeArt 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 ArtMarquette's Historic Downtown
The downtown area of Marquette was built in the 1880's and 1890's, and has been restored to its turn of the century appearance. Most of Marquette'
Marquette, KS Historic DowntownsEarly Residents Walking Tour
"Where Did They Live? Early Residences of Lindsborg, KS." This is a self guided street /
Lindsborg, KS Historic HomesMcPherson 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 HousesCoronado 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 LandmarksBlacksmith Coffee Roastery
Every Fourth of July, one of the original owners, Janne Johnson of the old Holmberg - Johnson Blacksmith and Wagon Shop, would carry two large anvils outside the shop and at 4:30
Lindsborg, KS Historic BuildingsWorld 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 MemorialsMarquette Historical Museum
The museum is on the State Register of Historic Places and highlights early Marquette and pioneer items, including a number of items that recall the tornado of 1905 which left serveral town structures damaged or destroyed. The Elim Lutheran Church young people society (Luther League)
Marquette, KS Museums