Last Chance Store facts for kids
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Last Chance Store
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U.S. National Historic Landmark District
Contributing Property |
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Last Chance Store in 1958
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 Location in Kansas
Location in the United States
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| Location | 500 W. Main St., Council Grove, Kansas |
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| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | 1857 |
| Architectural style | Frontier/Plains Vernacular |
| Part of | Council Grove Historic District (ID66000347) |
| NRHP reference No. | 71000322 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | June 21, 1971 |
| Designated NHLDCP | May 23, 1963 |
The Last Chance Store is a historic building in Council Grove, Kansas. It was built way back in 1857. This store was super important because it was the very last stop for travelers on the famous Santa Fe Trail before they crossed the Neosho River.
Imagine pioneers and traders heading west. This store was their "last chance" to stock up on supplies. It wasn't just a store; it was also a post office and a place where people could vote.
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A Stop on the Santa Fe Trail
The Santa Fe Trail was a very important route in the 1800s. It connected Missouri with Santa Fe, New Mexico. Traders, settlers, and even soldiers used this trail. It was a long, tough journey across prairies and deserts.
Council Grove was a key stopping point on the trail. It was known for its tall trees, which provided shade and wood. The Last Chance Store became a vital part of this busy trail town.
What Was a Trading Post?
In the 1800s, a trading post was like a general store. But it was also a place where people traded goods. For example, pioneers might trade furs or other items for food, tools, or clothing.
Tom Hill ran the Last Chance Store. He helped travelers get what they needed for their journey. It was a busy place, full of people coming and going.
More Than Just a Store
The Last Chance Store served many purposes for the community. It was a post office, which meant people could send and receive letters. This was crucial for staying in touch with family and friends far away.
It also served as a polling place. This is where people would go to cast their votes in elections. So, the store was a center for business, communication, and even local government.
The Building's Unique Style
The Last Chance Store is made from local limestone. This stone was common in the area. The building has a special look called "Frontier style" mixed with "Prairie Vernacular."
Frontier style buildings were often simple and practical. Prairie Vernacular buildings used local materials and designs that fit the flat prairie landscape. The store shows how building styles changed over time.
How It Was Built
The walls of the store are made of limestone blocks. These blocks were laid in a somewhat uneven way, but they made a strong building. The roof is a "gable roof," which means it has two sloping sides that meet at a ridge.
You can also see "quoining" at the corners of the building. This means there are special, often larger, stones placed at the corners. It adds strength and a decorative touch to the building.
A National Historic Landmark
The Last Chance Store is very important to American history. Because of its history, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 21, 1971. This list includes buildings, sites, and objects that are worth preserving.
The store is also part of the Council Grove Historic District. This district is a "National Historic Landmark." This means it's recognized as one of the most important historic places in the entire country. It helps us remember the history of the Santa Fe Trail and early American settlement.
