Mahaffie House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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J. B. Mahaffie House
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 Location in Kansas
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1100 Kansas City Road, Olathe, Kansas |
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| Built | 1857 |
| NRHP reference No. | 77000583 |
| Added to NRHP | August 29, 1977 |
The Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historic Site, also known as the Mahaffie Farm, is a special place in Olathe, Kansas. It was once a busy stop for people traveling west on famous routes. These routes included the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails. Many travelers started their journeys from nearby Westport, Missouri. The farm was especially popular in the 1860s when many people were moving west.
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Welcome to Mahaffie Farm!
Today, the Mahaffie Farm is a fun museum and gift shop. It sits on a large piece of land, about 40 acres (160,000 square meters). This historic site helps visitors learn about life in the 1800s.
What You Can See Today
The Mahaffie Farm often hosts exciting events. You can see people dressed in old-fashioned clothes acting out scenes from the American Civil War. These events often focus on the "Bleeding Kansas" period, a time of important events in Kansas history. They also show what life was like with "bushwhackers," who were groups of people involved in conflicts during that time.
Living History and Fun
At the farm, you can also meet a real blacksmith. A blacksmith is someone who shapes metal using heat and tools. Other skilled workers show how people made things long ago. It's a great way to see history come alive!
The Mahaffie Family Story
The original farm was started by James Beatty Mahaffie and his wife, Lucinda. They began their farm in 1858. They managed the farm until 1870 and continued to live there until 1886. The main house you see today was finished by Mr. Mahaffie in 1865.
Building the Farmhouse
The house is very strong, built with thick limestone blocks. These blocks are two feet thick! The Mahaffies actually got the stone right from their own farm. Their family name, Mahaffie, is still remembered in Olathe. You can find a street named Mahaffie, a school called Mahaffie Elementary School, and even a newer neighborhood with their name.
External links
- Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site
- Travel Kansas - Mahaffie House information and photos
