Kansas
7 Cozy Towns to Visit in Kansas
Admitted to the Union in 1861, Kansas is a historically fascinating and agriculturally rich land that forms an important part of the American Midwest. Also known as the “Sunflower State,” Kansas has a relatively small population of just under three million inhabitants. Still, it is filled with a cultural, historical, and natural allure ideal for any potential road trip. While major cities like Topeka and Wichita will still attract the most attention, Kansas also has several smaller, cozy, and charming towns that showcase the beautiful character of the “Sunflower State.” So come see this Midwestern treasure and spend time in these fabulous cozy towns, where some of the very best of “America’s Heartland” can be appreciated by all ages of travelers.
Abilene
Founded in the 1850s, the town of Abilene is now the seat of Dickinson County, home to a modest population of just under 6,500 inhabitants. This charming historic community located along the Smoky Hill River was once a stop on the famed cattle driver’s route, the Chisholm Trail, and today, a feeling of the Old West is still palpable. Explore the Old Town District and its assortment of 19th and early 20th-century landmarks, including the Seelye Mansion (1905), amongst others listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From there, make sure not to miss a ride on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad, which truly transports its guests back to the fascinating 1800s. Meanwhile, anyone interested in the nation’s political history should visit the Eisenhower Presidential Library in town. Having grown up in Abilene, this museum celebrates the life and career of Second World War General and 34th President Dwight Eisenhower in a most fascinating and interactive fashion.
Dodge City
Dodge City was once a bustling Wild West hotspot for gamblers, cowboys, outlaws, and many other colorful characters. While its “glory days” may be behind it, the town remains a most charming and fun place for anyone in southwest Kansas to discover. Founded in the 1870s and now home to nearly 28,000 residents, this seat of Ford County is a great destination to experience what the 19th century West was all about in a modern setting. Visit the Boot Hill Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the Old West and Dodge City’s importance in the region following the Civil War.
Meanwhile, even just a stroll through the historic downtown is a treat, where an eclectic range of 19th-century storefronts (including saloons) and other preserved buildings create an atmosphere of time travel. Those visiting this year should plan their trip for the Dodge City Days celebration in late July or early August. The event makes for an awesome outing that the entire family can relish, with rodeos, live music, parades, classic car shows, barbecue cookoffs, and more.
Atwood
With a modern history dating to the 1870s, the town of Atwood is a charming small community ideal for anyone looking for a genuine taste of Midwestern America. It is the seat of Rawlins County in the northwestern corner of the State, home to just over 1,000 residents. Known for its hot summers and mild winter temperatures, spending time outdoors is always popular here. A popular option is the nearby Lake Atwood, where visitors can enjoy fun opportunities for swimming, sailing, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, and even golf. Similarly, family fun awaits at the July Rawlins County Fair, where live music, food vendors, and other entertainment delight all ages. Those looking to stay in town can opt to visit sites like the Rawlins County Courthouse instead.
Fort Scott
Named for a general in the War of 1812, the picturesque town of Fort Scott is a great place of natural and historic allure for anyone in southeastern Kansas. The seat of Bourbon County, home to a population of just over 7,500 residents, Fort Scott can trace its modern history to the 1850s. Indeed, guests can continue to marvel at several historic structures and architectural styles at the Fort Scott Historic Site, where many properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From there, visit the Fort Scott National Cemetery, where the tombs of more than 8,000 service men and women rest.
Along with historic tales for history enthusiasts, Fort Scott boasts plenty of outdoor charm for nature lovers. Scenically situated along the Marmaton River and within the Osage Plains, the town experiences hot summers and mild winters, and spending time in nature is always a popular activity. Stop by the 155-acre Gunn Park, where one can enjoy boating, fishing, biking, hiking, and golfing opportunities in a most serene and welcoming ambiance.
Ottawa
The seat of Franklin County, the town of Ottawa (no relation to the Canadian capital), is beautifully situated along the banks of the Marais des Cygnes River. Home to the Ottawa University (1865), this historic town is a great place to enjoy authentic Americana in a warm climate known for its hot summers and cool winters. Spend an afternoon in the downtown historic district and explore several 19th and early 20th-century buildings, including the Plaza 1907 movie theatre, which calls itself the “oldest purpose-built cinema in operation in the world.” Amongst other spots of interest include the Old Depot Museum, where spending time along the river is always a popular outing. Add in a fine assortment of local restaurants, shops, galleries, and other businesses, and the charm of this cozy Kansas town surely cannot be beaten.
Wamego
Wamego is home to a modest population of just under 5,000 inhabitants, and its scenic beauty and small-town charm make it a cozy place to visit for anyone in the northeast corner of Kansas. Named for a Native American chief and formally established in the 1860s, the historic allure of Wamego is hard to deny. Visitors can explore several landmarks here that have been included on the National Register of Historic Places. Including the Old Dutch Mill (1879) and the Columbian Theatre (1893), there is indeed a fascinating story waiting to be discovered by guests of all ages.
Outside of local history, one can spend some time at the inviting Wamego City Park; quiet and reflective afternoons can be enjoyed in the public space covering some 12 acres. Finally, amongst Wamego’s most unique attractions is the Oz Museum, where an impressive collection of over 25,000 items lovingly celebrates the books and beloved movie “The Wizard of Oz.” It is an immersive and fun experience for solo travelers and families alike, and it will have guests wondering if they are in Kansas anymore!
Leavenworth
Located along the Missouri River, the historic and scenic town of Leavenworth is also known as the “The First City of Kansas.” The town was founded in the 1850s, and today, it is the country seat of Leavenworth County with a bustline population of over 37,000 inhabitants. Guests can enjoy plenty of opportunities to learn about America’s past while taking in wonderful natural scenery. History enthusiasts especially rejoice in town, as it was an important center during the Civil War with a number of fascinating historic landmarks. These include the Frontier Army Museum, the Buffalo Soldier Memorial Monument, and the famed Fort Leavenworth, constructed in 1827. Meanwhile, spending time near the Missouri River is always a popular outing, and residents and guests alike can enjoy scenic walks and bike rides in a warm summer and cool winter climate.
Conclusion
Affectionately known as the “Sunflower State,” the Midwestern hub of Kansas is a great place of discovery, where fascinating history, geographic beauty, and plenty of small-town charm can be found. Although the state’s major cities continue to be worthy destinations of discovery, Kansas’ smaller and cozy towns should not be overlooked by any traveler looking for a fun holiday stopover. From the Wild West throwback of Dodge City to the scenic surroundings of Wamego, these and other inviting small Kansas towns are great ways for the solo traveler and whole family to discover the best of the Midwestern USA. So hit the road and come see the great State of Kansas across an exploration of these awesome, cozy, and friendly towns.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A new room at the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department will be used to interview survivors of sexual assault and trauma.
The ‘soft room’ is the first of its kind in Missouri.
Rachel Henderson/KSHB 41
An organization called Project Beloved has set up over 100 soft rooms nationwide. The most recent room put into service isi n Kansas City.
“I’m really excited for Kansas City to have this room, and to set that precedent in this area for their approach to sexual assault,” said Becky Halterman, Project Beloved vice president.
Halterman has personal ties to Project Beloved’s cause.
“Project Beloved was started April 10, 2018, a year to the day after my niece, Molly Jane Matheson was found raped and murdered,” Halterman. Her sister, Tracy Mathesan, is the founder and Molly’s mother.
Rachel Henderson/KSHB 41
The organization seeks to educate the public and advocate for sexual assault survivors so they’re empowered to find their voices through the support they’re given.
“There’s a lot more progress that needs to be made, starting from a place of believing,” Halterman said. “Let’s invite them into this room, have them tell their story, investigate it, and find out what we can do.”
Zachary Mallory understands just how much progress is necessary.
“I was sexually assaulted at 17,” Mallory said. “I know what it felt like to be not believed. I know what it felt like to be unheard and to be re-victimized.”
A decade later, Mallory’s found love and safe spaces in his partner, his dog and community involvement. But that doesn’t mean he’s forgotten what he went through, particularly in interview rooms.
“Sitting in that room and just listening to them ask me questions, I’m like, ‘Why am I here?’” he said. “Sitting in fluorescent lights is not going to be a good situation, it’s going to make me more frustrated, it’s going to make me very uncomfortable, and I’m going to be very agitated.”
Tye Grant is President and CEO of the Police Foundation of Kansas City.
As a former high-ranking member of the police department, he recalls how straightforward interview rooms were during his time.
Rachel Henderson/KSHB 41
“An interview room is built just to do that – interview somebody,” Grant said. “It’s a table and chair, not really a lot a thought about providing anything beyond a location to conduct an interview.”
The Police Foundation supports projects intended improve the police department. It funded KCPD’s first soft room, and Grant says there’s already talk of a second room.
“This is innovative today,” Grant said. “We should have done this a long time ago. So when they brought us this concept, our response was, ‘Absolutely, let’s do it.’”
The police department works over 500 sexual assault cases a year.
Though the room was just unveiled Thursday, it’s a space hundreds of survivors will now be able to use.
“Imagine if you were a victim of something, and you’re having to come and tell law enforcement about the worst day of your life, and you step into this space, it’s not what you’re expecting,” Halterman said. “You are able to sit in a space that’s safe, warm and inviting as opposed to cold, stark and sterile and talk to law enforcement, who also are in a different frame of mind. They’re also not interrogating someone, they’re not in that same space that maybe they were two hours ago interrogating a really violent offender.”
The space includes new furniture, lamps, rugs, paint, artwork, plants, blankets and dim lighting.
“This is a part of accountability and a part of bringing the community back together,” Mallory said. “I think that this is also going to save lives.”
As someone who’s attempted to take their own life, Mallory says the mental health support for survivors goes far beyond the soft room.
“I think going further is bringing more mental health support into the interviewing process,” Mallory said. “There’s a lot of work that can happen, and include people who have that experience to advise on what the next steps can be. I’m more than willing to be that resource if they want to reach directly out.”
A resource Mallory says was crucial when he was seeking help was the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault, or MOSCA.
“I finally found that passion within me that I didn’t know that I had,” Mallory said. “I started speaking out, speaking up every time I see something, I say something.”
Mallory also says it’s important to remember how common sexual assault can be.
“Sexual assault doesn’t just happen to women, doesn’t just happen to men, it happens to trans people, nonbinary people,” Mallory said. “It happens to everybody. It doesn’t discriminate.”
So along with advocates like Halterman, Mallory will keep the conversation going so that safe spaces can grow and spread.
“Being able to be that vocal voice and be that leader that the community needs, I’m happy to be here,” Mallory said.
If you or anyone you know has been impacted by sexual violence and needs support, please call MOCSA’s 24-hour crisis line at 816-531-0233.
WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – College students across southwest Kansas will soon have access to more program offerings through Newman University thanks to a $2.1 million Research and Public Engagement Development (RPED) grant from the U.S. Department of Education.
According to Newman, this grant will significantly enhance educational access and workforce development in southwest Kansas by creating partnerships with Dodge City Community College, Garden City Community College and Seward County Community College.
Newman said the grant will allow these colleges to strengthen program offerings in business, agribusiness, education, nursing and a future sonography program.
The university said the grant funding will also allow it to provide smart classrooms and a laptop loaner program for students. It will also increase need-based financial support and establish paid internship stipends for students.
Other plans for the grant include enhancing support services to promote student success. These services include improving advising, financial aid assistance and career development initiatives. Four new roles will be created to assist with these services.
Newman University President Kathleen S. Jagger believes the award is a “game-changer” for the region. “By providing accessible, affordable education coupled with immersive workforce training, we are empowering individuals and communities in southwest Kansas to thrive,” Jagger said.
The $2.1 million RPED grant is in addition to Newman’s recently announced $1.2 million in federal funding for a new mobile agribusiness technology lab serving students in Wichita and across southwest Kansas.
To find more information about education programs available through Newman, visit NewmanU.edu.
Copyright 2024 KWCH. All rights reserved. To report a correction or typo, please email news@kwch.com
MARION COUNTY —First responders are on the scene of a double-fatal crash in Marion County.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the crash involving two vehicles occurred just after 6:30 a.m. on Highway 50 just west of Florence. Each vehicle had a single occupant.
Authorities released no additional details just before 9 a.m. Thursday.
The roadway continues to experience traffic issues as first responders remain on scene to further investigate this tragic event. Please continue to avoid the area and use alternative routes.
Check the Post for additional details as they are released.
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