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Trip Ideas for History Buffs
Overland Park is full of experiences that connect you to the past. From historic landmarks and memorials to museums and parks, OP celebrates the pioneers and visionaries who helped make Overland Park what it is today: one of the best places to visit - and live! - in the United States.
Add these stops to your itinerary and uncover history in Overland Park during your stay.
Local History
Strang Line Car Barn
Learn more about Overland Park’s founder by visiting the Strang Line Car Barn at 79th and Santa Fe Drive. In 1906, William B. Strang, Jr. opened a commuter railroad to transport Johnson County residents into Kansas City. The Strang Line Car Barn was used to store and repair the trolleys used on the Strang Line and operated until 1940 when the rail line was closed.
The building has gone through several reinventions, including time spent as an auto repair shop and a furniture store. Today it is the home of the special events venue, Stone Manor on 79th.
Strang Carriage House
When you visit Thompson Park in the heart of downtown OP you’ll find the Strang Carriage House. Another remnant from the Strang Line, it was used to house carriages and automobiles and served as a residence from Strang’s personal driver. Original features of the building can still be seen including most of the original clay tile roof and large exterior doors.
Johnson County Museum
For even more local history, visit the Johnson County Museum at the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center. Here you can browse historic photos, artifacts and documents from the late 1800s on, as well as explore interactive exhibits like the 1950s All-Electric House.
U.S. History
The Santa Fe Trail Marker
The historic route of the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails is one of the most significant pieces of history in Overland Park, but it didn’t leave much physical evidence behind. However, at 87th and Santa Fe Drive you’ll find the Santa Fe Trail Marker. This red granite boulder was placed by the Kansas Daughters of the American Revolution in 1906 to mark the historic trails.
Strang Park
Along with a portion of the original Strang Line Railroad, Strang Park also features interpretive panels detailing the site's significance to the historic route of the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails
Memorials
The 9/11 Memorial is on the campus of the Overland Park Fire Training Center and offers a place for quiet reflection on the events of that tragic day. The memorial includes a steel beam from ground zero, educational panels from the 9/11 Commission Report, a weeping wall fountain and benches.
Korean War Veterans Memorial
The Korean War Veterans Memorial is located at the corner of W. 119th and Lowell in central OP. Created with the Korean War Veterans Association Chapter #181, this memorial commemorates the service of those who served in the armed forces from 1950-1955 using 30 granite panels engraved with Korean War information and the names of 415 Kansas soldiers lost in the war.