National Register of Historic Places listings in Leavenworth County, Kansas facts for kids
Have you ever wondered about old buildings and places that tell a story? In Leavenworth County, Kansas, there's a special list of places that are super important to history. This list is called the National Register of Historic Places. It helps protect buildings, sites, and objects that have played a big part in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture.
There are 45 amazing places in Leavenworth County on this list. Two of them are even more special and are called National Historic Landmarks. These landmarks are recognized for their outstanding national importance. Let's explore some of these cool historic spots!
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is like a hall of fame for historic sites across the United States. It's managed by the National Park Service. When a place is added to this list, it means it's recognized as important to our country's past. This helps protect these places and sometimes provides support for their care.
Historic Buildings and Districts
Many places on the list are old buildings or groups of buildings called "historic districts." These show us what life was like long ago.
Cool Buildings in Leavenworth
- Abernathy Furniture Company Factory: This old factory building in Leavenworth was once a busy place where furniture was made. It shows us about the industries that used to thrive here.
- A.J. Angell House: A beautiful old house that tells us about the homes people lived in many years ago.
- AXA Building: Located on S. 5th Street, this building has been around since 1972 and is a great example of older architecture.
- Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad Passenger Depot: This old train station was a busy hub for travelers. Trains were a major way to travel across the country.
- David J. Brewer House: This was the home of David J. Brewer, an important judge who served on the U.S. Supreme Court.
- First Presbyterian Church, Leavenworth: A historic church building that has been a community gathering place for a long time.
- Hollywood Theater: Imagine watching movies here years ago! This old theater was a place for entertainment and community events.
- Leavenworth County Courthouse: This is where important county decisions are made. It's a grand building that represents local government.
- Leavenworth Public Library: Libraries are places of learning and community. This historic library has served the people of Leavenworth for many years.
- Old Union Depot: Another old train station, now used as the Leavenworth Riverfront Community Center. It's cool how old buildings can find new uses!
Historic Districts
Some areas have many historic buildings close together. These are called historic districts.
- Arch Street Historic District: A neighborhood with many old buildings that show how the city grew.
- Leavenworth Downtown Historic District: The heart of downtown Leavenworth, filled with historic shops and buildings.
- North Broadway Historic District and South Esplanade Historic District: These districts show us how different parts of the city developed over time.
Important Military and Veteran Sites
Leavenworth County is home to some very important sites related to the military and veterans.
Fort Leavenworth
Fort Leavenworth is a very special place. It's one of only two National Historic Landmarks in the county. It's one of the oldest active United States Army posts west of Washington, D.C. It was established in 1827. For many years, it was a key stop for pioneers heading west. It played a big role in the development of the American frontier. Today, it's still an important military base and training center.
Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery
Within Fort Leavenworth is the Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery. This is a peaceful place where soldiers and veterans are buried. It's a reminder of the brave men and women who have served our country.
Western Branch, National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers
This is the other National Historic Landmark in Leavenworth County. It was built to care for soldiers who were injured or disabled during their service. It shows how our country has tried to support its veterans throughout history.
Archaeological Sites
Some places on the list aren't buildings at all! They are archaeological sites. These are places where scientists called archaeologists find clues about people who lived long, long ago. They might find old tools, pottery, or remains of ancient homes.
- Caenen Site, Evans Site, Paul Site, Scott Site: These are all archaeological sites near Tonganoxie. They help us learn about the earliest people who lived in this area.
- Lansing Man Archeological Site: This site near Lansing is very important because it helped scientists learn about early human presence in North America.
- Quarry Creek Archeological Site: This site is known for showing evidence of the Kansas City Hopewell culture, an ancient group of people who lived here thousands of years ago.
- Zacharias Site: Another archaeological site that gives us clues about ancient life along the Salt Creek.
Other Interesting Places
- Begley Bridge: An old bridge that shows us how people built roads and crossed rivers in the past.
- Senator William A. Harris House: The home of a former U.S. Senator from Kansas.
- Fred Harvey House: Fred Harvey was famous for creating a chain of restaurants and hotels along railroad lines. This house was his home.
- Hund School: An old school building that reminds us of how education was provided in rural areas.
- Horace and Rosemond Lamborn Farmstead: A historic farm that shows us what farming life was like in the past.
- Little Stranger Church and Cemetery: A historic church and cemetery that served a local community for many years.
- Sumner Elementary School: Another historic school building that has been part of the community's education system.
Former Listing
Sometimes, a place might be removed from the National Register. This can happen if the building is changed too much, or if it's no longer there.
- Biehler Barn: This barn near Easton was once on the list but has since been removed.
