National Register Listing

Alma Downtown Historic District

a.k.a. 197-279

Missouri St., 2nd to 5th, Alma, KS
Local significance of the district:
Architecture; Commerce

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2009.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The Kansas State Capitol building in Topeka features a famous mural called "Tragic Prelude" by John Steuart Curry, which depicts abolitionist John Brown and other figures from Kansas history.
Kansas random facts
Wabaunsee County, Kansas, situated in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back hundreds of years. The land that now comprises Wabaunsee County was once home to various Native American tribes, including the Kaw, Osage, and Potawatomi peoples. These tribes relied on the abundant natural resources of the area, including the Kansas River and the fertile land for farming.

In the early 1850s, European settlers began to arrive in Wabaunsee County. The community was officially established in 1855 and named after a prominent Potawatomi chief, Chief Wabaunsee. The county played a significant role in the Bleeding Kansas conflict, a precursor to the American Civil War. Many residents of Wabaunsee County were actively involved in both sides of the conflict, leading to tensions and violence within the area.

Agriculture became the backbone of Wabaunsee County's economy in the late 19th century. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for the successful cultivation of crops such as wheat, corn, and oats. Additionally, the arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad in the 1880s further facilitated the transport of goods and accelerated the county's growth.

Over the years, Wabaunsee County has faced its share of challenges, including droughts, economic downturns, and depopulation. Despite these hardships, the county has managed to maintain a strong sense of community and pride in its heritage. Today, Wabaunsee County is prized for its scenic beauty, historic buildings, and preservation of its agricultural roots. Visitors can explore the county's rich history through museums, historic sites, and annual events celebrating the community's past.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Wabaunsee County, Kansas.

  • 1854: Wabaunsee County established as one of the original 33 counties of Kansas Territory
  • 1855: First settlers arrive in the county
  • 1860s: The population grows rapidly due to the expansion of the railroad
  • 1872: Alma becomes the county seat
  • 1880: Construction of schools and churches begins in the county
  • 1903: Wabaunsee County Historical Society is founded
  • 1930s: The Great Depression causes economic difficulties for the county
  • 1986: The National Register of Historic Places includes several Wabaunsee County properties