Council Grove Historic District facts for kids
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Council Grove Historic District
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Last Chance Store, a part of the district
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 Location in Kansas
Location in the United States
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| Location | U.S. 56 and other areas, Council Grove, Kansas |
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| Built | 1825 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000347 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHLD | May 23, 1963 |
The Council Grove Historic District is a special place in Council Grove, Kansas, United States. It's called a National Historic Landmark District. This means it's a very important historical site for the whole country.
The district includes six different areas in the city. These spots played a big role in the history of the Santa Fe Trail. This trail was a major route for people moving west in the 1800s. Council Grove got its name from an important meeting in 1825. At this meeting, the Osage people and the U.S. government signed a treaty. This agreement helped keep travelers on the Santa Fe Trail safe as they passed through Osage lands. This historic district was officially recognized in 1963.
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Exploring Council Grove's History
Council Grove was a perfect stop for travelers on the Santa Fe Trail. It had plenty of water and was the last place to find wood. Wood was very important for fixing wagons. However, this area was controlled by the Osage people.
The Important Trees
To make sure travelers were safe, the United States government met with Osage leaders. They signed an agreement that allowed safe travel through Osage territory. This important meeting happened under a large oak tree. This tree was in what is now a small park in the center of Council Grove.
Sadly, a storm knocked down the tree in 1958. But its stump has been saved and protected by a shelter. It's one of the main attractions in the district. Another very old tree was also part of the landmark. It was thought to be over 300 years old! This tree also fell over time. Now, a protected section of it is displayed near an old stone house.
Traces of the Santa Fe Trail
The exact path of the Santa Fe Trail changed over time. When Council Grove was planned, the trail was directed onto Main Street. About one mile (1.6 km) east of downtown, you can still see something amazing. There are undisturbed wagon ruts from the time of the westward migration. These are like old tracks left by thousands of wagons!
Historic Buildings to See
The district also includes three buildings from the time of wagon travel. These buildings show what life was like back then.
The Seth Hays House
The Seth Hays House is a single-story brick home. It was built around 1855. Seth Hays was the first white settler in Morris County. His first home was a log cabin on Main Street. Later, in 1857, he built the Hays Tavern. This tavern was a place for travelers to rest and get supplies.
The Last Chance Store
The Last Chance Store is another historic building. It's made of stone and was built in 1857. It's located at Main and Chautauqua Streets. Back then, this store was on the very edge of the community. It was the last place for travelers to buy supplies before heading further west. It was also named a National Historic Landmark in 1963.
