Neosho County: Nature, History and Art

Nature, history and art offer several distinct ways to experience Neosho County: from a flat floodplain and a reservoir to historic buildings and collections. Depending on whether you are most interested in the landscape, recreational activities on the water or regional history, different themes take center stage.

Landscape and Time by the Water

The Neosho Wildlife Area lies on the broad, flat floodplain below the confluence of Flat Rock Creek and the Neosho River. Neosho State Fishing Lake offers a different focus by the water: the 92-acre reservoir is managed primarily for recreational fishing. Opportunities there include fishing, camping and wildlife watching. These activities offer different reasons to spend time outdoors.

Fishing is seasonally available in the Neosho River, Flat Rock Creek and Brogan Creek. Some sections of these waterways lie within the wildlife refuge; seasonal regulations may apply. If you plan to fish, check the current rules in advance.

Traces of History

The Osage Catholic Mission was founded in 1847 and quickly developed into a major frontier settlement in southeastern Kansas, as well as a gateway for trade and exploration of the frontier. The Osage Mission-Neosho County Museum is on the site of the original mission and directly beside the site of St. Ann's Academy.

Built in 1877, Oak Grove School is a one-story sandstone schoolhouse and a typical example of an early one-room school in rural Neosho County. In Chanute, the Austin Bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In Erie, First Christian Church illustrates the Classical Revival architectural style; the building is now used as a residence. Together, these examples show different aspects of historic structures: a rural schoolhouse, an architectural style and a listed bridge.

Art and the preservation of historic values also shape certain places. The permanent core collection of the Chanute Art Gallery includes works in 25 art media by 135 artists. Summit Hill Gardens brings art and nature together with the preservation of historic values; the grounds include the first school in Neosho County.

Museums, Markets and Special Reasons to Visit

At the Martin + Osa Johnson Safari Museum, you can take self-guided tours year-round or join a staff-led tour. Johnson films are also shown daily in a 30-seat theater. Since operating hours may change, check the current schedule before your visit.

The Farmers Market at the south entrance to Santa Fe Park operates seasonally from April through October on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7:00 to 11:00 a.m. Dates and times may change; checking the current schedule can help you plan. The Old Soldiers and Sailors Reunion in Erie is an annual, six-day tradition dating back to 1873. Check the current event dates before your trip.

Local residents and travelers can use the St. Francis Parish Gardens for personal prayer and meditation. Cardinal Drug Store offers another local specialty: handmade fudge prepared the traditional way and served with soda. Since business offerings may change, it is advisable to check availability before planning a visit.

Discover more destinations: Chanute, Pawnee, Riley County, Crawford, Trego County, Nemaha County, Montgomery, Russell County.

For the main travel overview: Kansas.