Vinland, Kansas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Vinland, Kansas
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Coal Creek Library in Vinland, erected in 1900, which is the oldest subscription library in Kansas
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 Vinland, Kansas
Location in Kansas
Vinland, Kansas
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Kansas |
| County | Douglas |
| Founded | 1854 |
| Platted | 1860s |
| Elevation | 889 ft (271 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (CST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| Area code | 785 |
| FIPS code | 20-74000 |
| GNIS ID | 479519 |
Vinland is a small community in Douglas County, Kansas, USA. It's not a city with its own government, but a group of homes and businesses. You can find Vinland south of Lawrence and north of Baldwin City.
Contents
The Story of Vinland's Past
The first people settled in Vinland in 1854. At first, some called the area "Coal Creek." This was because of the rock deposits found in a nearby stream. The community later got the name "Vineland." This name came from an orchard owned by an early settler, William Barnes. Later, a small mistake in writing changed the name to "Vinland."
Early Settlers and Their Beliefs
Many of the first settlers in Vinland came from New England. They strongly believed that all people should be free. They were against the practice of slavery in the United States. They also wanted Kansas to be a "free state," meaning no slavery would be allowed there.
The Oldest Library in Kansas
In 1859, two women named Annie Soule and Martha Cutter started a library in Vinland. They also created a book club. They hoped the library would help people learn and grow. They especially wanted to offer fun activities besides dancing.
The library began with only 10 books. Over time, it grew to have more than 2,000 books! People could borrow books if they paid a small yearly fee of 50 cents. The building that holds the library today was built in 1900. This was because the book collection had become too large. Today, the Coal Creek Library is known as the oldest library of its kind in Kansas.
Growth and Changes in Vinland
Vinland was officially mapped out in the 1860s. A post office opened in Vinland in 1868. It served the community until 1954. By 1912, about 75 people lived in Vinland. It was known as a good farming area. It also had ways to send messages and packages quickly. Today, the Vinland Grange Hall is a special building. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Education in Vinland
The public schools for Vinland are part of the Baldwin City USD 348 school district.
In 2010, the school board decided to close Vinland Elementary School. Another nearby school, Marion Springs Elementary, also closed.
