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Lakin, Kansas

The Kearny County Historical Society has purchased the old, 12-sided barn on the west edge of Lakin. It was restored at its present site, and then moved to a foundation at the Museum Complex in 2001.

The barn was built in 1909 by Robert Glass, a surveyor and superintendent of the Amazon Ditch Company. It contained stalls for four horses and six cows. A well was located in the center of the barn with a windmill on top to pump water. You climbed the windmill tower to get into the loft.

It is said the Utopian Societies, such as the Shakers, originated the round barn design. The circular design enclosed the maximum amount of floor space within the minimum amount of wall length. The circular form had the advantage of strength over the flat side. The roof of the circular barn was self-supporting and did not sag. The roof was also less liable to damage from heavy winds.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Old Commercial Hotel

The Commercial Hotel built in 1883 and run by Mrs. W.P. Loucks, had a good trade. Mrs. Loucks, the genial hostess, was the pioneer hotel keeper of Lakin. She came here in 1879 when Lakin was a way station on the Santa Fe and opened an eating house for the railroad employees. "

Lakin, KS Historic Buildings

Chouteau's Island

Chouteau's Island was the largest island of timber on the Arkansas River in this area. In the spring of 1816, Auguste Pierre Chouteau was returning to Missouri with several other fur trappers when they were attacked by a large party of Pawnee Indians. Chouteau'

Lakin, KS Pioneer History

Lakin City Park

While enjoying your stay in Lakin, stop and relax at Lakin City park. With a swimming pool, basketball facility, and a playground, everyone is sure to be pleased.

Lakin, KS Recreation

Loucks Municipal Park

Sunshine and fresh air abound at Loucks Municipal Park, two miles west of Lakin on U.S. HWY 50. Donated by Charles A. and Rhonda Loucks in 1950, Loucks is an 80

Lakin, KS Recreation

Santa Fe Depot

Lakin originated as one of the early stops on the Santa Fe Railroad from Dodge City to Colorado in 1872. This depot, constructed in 1876, replaced the original boxcar depot. The depot was moved to the museum site and restored in 1984. Mr. James Thomas, grandson of the O'

Lakin, KS Railroad History

Things to do near Lakin, KS

Dodge Theater

An historic art deco theater built in 1928 offers films of yesteryear. Movies are scheduled on weekends with times to be anno...