atchison county historical society museum

The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe. Train enthusiasts recognize the name of this railroad right away. Music enthusiasts may quickly recognize the words from the song of the same name. The railroad was often referred to as Santa Fe railroad. Funny thing, the railroad never operated in Santa Fe.The railroad operated from Atchison to Colorado, beginning in 1859. The railroad stayed in business until 1996, when it was merged with Burlington Northern and formed Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF).The history of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad is highlighted, along with a lot more, at the Atchison Depot and Historical Society’s museum.The museum starts with a look at the early Native American discoveries, including tools and weapons.Lewis and Clark’s expedition is highlighted. The team traveled up the Missouri River and met Native Americans in the area.An exhibit highlights Amelia Earhart’s birth in Atchison and her family’s local history.An early newspaper printing press is on display.Telecommunication’s history is examined at the museum. A switchboard is on display.Rifles and other weapons are on display.I liked a display featuring World War I items.Commerce and agriculture are also recognized at the museum.Jesse Stone (aka Charles Calhoun) called Atchison home. Who was he? Oh, he wrote a little song called “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” which became an early Rock ‘n’ roll hit. It was written for Big Joe Turner, but it may have become better known after being covered by Bill Haley and the Comets.Stone was known as the “Architect of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” because of his songwriting and music arrangement skills. His songs were performed by many big time acts – Elvis Presley among them.Stone’s early career included playing at the famed Cotton Club, after having the gig arranged by Duke Ellington. Stone was born in 1900 and passed away in 1999.Outside the Depot building – which also houses the visitors center and Chamber of Commerce – stands the rail museum. It’s an outdoor collection of train cars. It’s actually operated by the North East Kansas Railroaders, a group of train enthusiasts.Both museums are free, but will accept donations.

This is the place were we picked up our tickets for trolley tour and Sallie House. We could not get tickets for the Haunted Trolley tour, but I thought the historical tour was very informative and a great introduction to town. I now know why were are so many beautiful homes in Atchison, at one time 10% of the population were millionaires! We also learned about the President for a day. (Yes, there is a Presidential Library in Atchison!) It was a good overview and help us select some other attractions to visit for our day trip Cost was only $6, a bargin! .I will agree with some folks that the wooden seats are not very comfortable, but the tour is only and hour so we endured. I do wish I had a little more time in the museum, but we got there just before the next trolley tour started. The musuem is free admission. BTW they do have a popcorn machine that you can help yourself to popcorn. It was a nice snack before we started the tour.

This was a nice museum with lots of local history. We were glad we went because we got an overview of what the history was, and then we focused on specific museums that centered on what we were really interested in.

A friend wanted to research information she had regarding her Grandmother, who came to Atchison from Ireland. The person behind the desk was very helpful. We then went through the museum...well done!

Whether passing through or staying in Atchison Kansas take time to see this facility. Great history of the area and some railroad cars and memorabilia too. This is definitely worth the stop.