They are more than limestone or brick buildings. These four historic landmarks showcase the role Kansans played in the era of westward expansion.

Nicodemus National Historic Site
Nicodemus

The town of Nicodemus is a story of perseverance. African Americans from Kentucky settled in northwestern Kansas, advertised as the “Promised Land,” only to discover a treeless prairie and people living in dugouts. Some people returned to the South, and those who stayed became landowners and farmers.

Established in 1977, the oldest remaining Black settlement west of the Mississippi River flourished until the population dwindled after a railroad bypassed the town. Fewer than 50 sixth-generation descendants of the town remain.

Visitors can tour the Nicodemus Historic Site, view preserved buildings and dine at Ernestine’s BBQ for a home-cooked meal. The Nicodemus Emancipation Celebration, held during the last weekend in July, is a three-day family reunion with food and games.

Nicodemus National Historic Site
304 Washington Ave, Nicodemus
(785) 839-4233
Website
Facebook
Instagram

Fort Hays Historic Site
Fort Hays

Fort Hays Historic Site was a U.S. military post from 1867 to 1889, protecting railroad workers and travelers on the Smoky Hill Trail. Soldiers were tasked with maintaining peace between pre-existing Indian tribes, settlers and Union Pacific Eastern Division railway employees.

As feuds declined, eventually forts closed, including Fort Hays. Today, Fort Hays Historic Site is open to the public. Tours begin at the visitor center/museum to view exhibits, including one about Chief Black Kettle, who worked to negotiate treaties with the U.S. military.

The guardhouse, which contains original jail cells and exhibits showing how the Buffalo Soldiers bunked, is included in a tour along with the remaining officers’ quarters, which feature period furniture.

Fort Hays Historic Site
1472 Hwy 183 Alt, Hays
(785) 625-6812
Website
Facebook
Instagram

Historic Ritchie House
Topeka

Built in 1856 in Topeka, this two-story stone home served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. The Historic Ritchie House was owned by abolitionist John Ritchie and his wife, Mary Jane. The oldest home in Topeka served as a refuge for approximately 250 fugitive slaves en route to freedom. The couple allegedly hid runaways in the underbrush and under rock outcroppings on their property.

The Shawnee County Historical Society, located next door, offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the Ritchies and other change-makers who once resided in Topeka. Both homes are in the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area, which encompasses parts of Kansas and Missouri and preserves stories of the struggle for freedom.

Historic Ritchie House
1116 and 1118 SE Madison St, Topeka
(785) 234-6097
Website
Facebook

Fort Scott National Historic Site
Fort Scott

Fort Scott was erected by the military in 1842 to maintain peace between white settlers and Native American tribes. Dragoon soldiers were tasked with escorting settlers traveling on the Santa Fe and Oregon Trails. The military outpost also played a vital role in Bleeding Kansas, the Civil War and the westward expansion of railroads until its closure in 1873.

Walking through restored barracks at the historic site reveals how top-ranking generals lived. Other buildings include a visitor center/post, hospital, stables, a storehouse, a bakehouse and a guardhouse. Tours can be self-guided using an audio app. Augmented reality features bring the Quartermaster’s Complex to life with authentic sound.

On April 18-19, history seekers can attend an 1840s fort reenactment at the Spring Civil War Encampment to witness troops prepare for battle and to see an artillery demonstration.

Fort Scott National Historic Site
199 Old Fort Blvd, Fort Scott
(620) 223-0310
Website
Facebook
Instagram

YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: