Santa Fe Trail Marker

Overview

After Mexico gained its independence from Spain, the Santa Fe Trail, established in 1821, became a vital commercial route to the western territories of the United States. This trail began in Missouri and passed through Kansas, Oklahoma, and Colorado terminating in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The trail was used by traders and settlers and was instrumental in opening these states for settlement. In 1846 during the Mexican American War, it was the route used by the military to invade Mexico. It became a well-established supply route for the military to their western outposts.

The Overland Park marker is one of 89 red granite Santa Fe Trail markers placed by Kansas DAR between 1906 and 1914. It is the easternmost Santa Fe Trail marker in Kansas.