National Register of Historic Places listings in Pottawatomie County, Kansas facts for kids
Welcome to Pottawatomie County, Kansas! This area is home to many cool and historic places. These special spots are listed on something called the National Register of Historic Places. It's like a national scrapbook of important buildings, sites, and objects that tell us about America's past.
When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized as being very important to history, architecture, or even how people lived long ago. In Pottawatomie County, there are 16 different places that have earned a spot on this special list. Let's explore some of them and discover the stories they hold!
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What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the United States government's historic places. It's managed by the National Park Service. The main goal is to help people understand and protect places that are important to American history.
When a building or site is added to the Register, it gets special recognition. This can help protect it from being torn down or changed too much. It also helps people learn about the history of their local area and the country.
Historic Buildings and Homes
Pottawatomie County has several historic buildings, including old homes and unique structures. These places often show us how people lived and worked many years ago.
Cassius & Adelia Baker House
Located in Wamego, the Cassius & Adelia Baker House is a beautiful old home. It was built for Cassius and Adelia Baker. This house was added to the National Register in 2013. It stands as a reminder of the early families who settled and built up the town of Wamego.
George and Virginia Trout House
Another historic home in Wamego is the George and Virginia Trout House. This house, found at 615 Elm Street, was added to the Register in 2014. It's another example of the interesting architecture and family life from the past in this Kansas community.
Joseph Heptig Barn
Out in the countryside near Flush, you can find the Joseph Heptig Barn. This barn is a great example of the important role agriculture played in Kansas history. It was listed in 2011. Barns like this one show us the farming methods and building styles used by early settlers.
Pottawatomie County Fair Pavilion
The Pottawatomie County Fair Pavilion in Onaga is a special place. It was added to the Register in 2004. Fair pavilions are often places where communities gather for events, celebrations, and to show off their agricultural achievements. This pavilion has likely seen many county fairs and community events over the years.
Historic Sites and Landmarks
Beyond buildings, the National Register also includes important historical sites and landmarks. These places might be natural areas or spots where significant events happened.
Old Dutch Mill
One of the most recognizable landmarks in Pottawatomie County is the Old Dutch Mill. You can find it in Wamego City Park. This unique windmill was listed in 1973. It's a popular spot and a symbol of the area's heritage. Windmills were once very important for grinding grain and pumping water.
Pottawatomie Indian Pay Station
Near the city limits of St. Marys, you'll find the Pottawatomie Indian Pay Station. This site was added to the Register in 1972. It marks a place where payments were made to the Pottawatomie Native American tribe. This site helps us remember the history and treaties between the U.S. government and Native American tribes.
Vermillion Creek Crossing, Oregon Trail
The Vermillion Creek Crossing is a significant historical site northwest of Belvue. It was listed in 1975. This spot was a ford, or shallow crossing, on the famous Oregon Trail. The Oregon Trail was a major route used by pioneers traveling west in the 1800s. This crossing was a vital part of their long journey. The property also includes a cemetery, reminding us of those who traveled and settled along the trail.
Vermillion Creek Tributary Stone Arch Bridge
About five miles south and one mile east of Onaga, there's a beautiful Stone Arch Bridge. This bridge, listed in 1986, crosses a small stream that flows into Vermillion Creek. Stone arch bridges are examples of strong and lasting engineering from the past. They were built to help people and goods cross rivers and streams safely.
Archeological Sites
Some historic places are not buildings but rather sites where archeologists have found important clues about ancient civilizations. These sites help us understand how people lived thousands of years ago.
Coffey Site
The Coffey Site is an important archeological area near Olsburg. It's located along the Big Blue River and Spring Creek. This site was listed in 1977. Archeological sites like Coffey Site can contain artifacts and remains that tell us about the earliest inhabitants of Kansas.
Dennis Quarry
The Dennis Quarry is another archeological site, found near K-63 southeast of Onaga. It was added to the Register in 2004. Quarries like this one might have been places where early people gathered stone for tools or building.
Vermillion Creek Archeological District
The Vermillion Creek Archeological District near Onaga is a larger area with important historical findings. It was listed in 1975. Archeological districts are often places where many different ancient sites are found close together, providing a bigger picture of past human activity.
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This image represents sites with restricted addresses, often for protection.
