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Osawatomie History & Railroad Museums

The story of Osawatomie is preserved and displayed at the Osawatomie History & Railroad Museum in artifacts and records of the concepts, habits, skills, arts, instruments, and institutions of the residents and its surrounding area.

From its beginning as an Indian Mission to its fame as an “abolitionists’ nest” during the territorial Border Wars, to its recognition as a railroad metropolis, and a national leader in mental health, Osawatomie Kansas, has truly been “one of a kind”. Unique in name and character, Osawatomie, and its story provide insight into events in Kansas, and the nation.

The Story is complex, evolving from the events and the people who have contributed to its development and telling.

We hope you can find time to visit our museums with your friends and family soon to see the story of Osawatomie.

Osawatomie History Museum

The Osawatomie History Museum, founded in 1990, focuses on the history of the city itself from territorial Kansas period, through evolution from rural life to current establishments and the people who experienced those changes.

Osawatomie Railroad Museum

The MoPac Railroad Depot Museum, opened in 2002, is a replica of the 1890 Missouri Pacific passenger depot that celebrates the “glory days” of railroading. Caboose #942, the last surviving horizontal wood sheathed caboose in the Missouri Pacific Line has been restored to 1940’s condition.

Focus on History

OMS Osawatomie History Project – “Osawaopoly 1994”

A 7th-grade Elective class at Osawatomie Middle School recently completed a contest in which students developed a “Monopoly”-like game board based on 1994 Osawatomie news, events, and businesses. The final results showcase many hours of research into local newspapers and the students’ creative and imaginative minds.

Job well done, students!