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Council Grove, Kansas

With its foundation laid in Kansas Territory, the Terwilliger Home was built alongside the famed Santa Fe Trail as Kansas became the 34th state.

Built by Abraham and Mary Rawlinson in 1860-61, this stone home was the last house freighters passed going West when leaving Council Grove as late as 1863.

From their home on the edge of the frontier, the Rawlinsons witnessed long trains of freight wagons loaded with goods, heading to or from Santa Fe. This home was a welcome sight to the freighters, as it signaled their return to civilization.

The property was purchased by William Riley Terwilliger in 1870, who added the South wing by 1873. The Terwilliger family came to Morris County in 1859, and he was at times a farmer, stockman, freighter, and owner of a livery stable.

The Terwilliger Home is one of the four oldest homes remaining alongside the Santa Fe Trail in Kansas.

Currently, a bakery cafe operate in the restored part of the house.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Council Oak

A shelter east of the Neosho River bridge protects the stump of the Council Oak. Gathered in the shade of the big oak on a hot August day in 1825

Council Grove, KS Landmarks

Terwilliger Home

With its foundation laid in Kansas Territory, the Terwilliger Home was built alongside the famed Santa Fe Trail as Kansas became the 34th state. Built by Abraham and Mary Rawlinson in 1860-61, this stone home was the last house freighters passed going West when leaving Council Grove as late as 18

Council Grove, KS Historic Homes

Seth Hays Historic Home

Council Grove town founder, Seth Hays, built this home in 1867. His slave, Aunt Sally, lived in the basement and cared for Hays and his adopted daughter, Kittie Robbins, until her death in 1872. Hays died a year later, February 3, 1873

Council Grove, KS Museums

Early Day Jail

Desperadoes, ruffians, robbers and horse thieves all "bunked" here in this early day calaboose (jail), built in 1849. It was said to be the only jail on the Santa Fe Trail at the time. Other Durland Park attractions:

Council Grove, KS Pioneer Life

Old Stone Barn

This imposing, 76-foot-long native stone barn was built into the bank of a hill in 1871 on land owned by the town's founder, Seth Hays. It's the only structure remaining from the Morris County Poor Farm, which existed here from 1889-1945.

Council Grove, KS Historic Barns

Things to do near Council Grove, KS

Vietnam War Memorial

Erected in honor of the Vietnam War Veterans....

Hunting

There are more than 108,000 acres of public hunting land in the Manhattan area. All are free and open to licensed hunters dur...

Circle Gallery & Frame Shop

Lyons/Hamblet Residence

This house was once the scene of much activity. It was the Lyons Boarding House before many hotels or restaurants were built....

Stone House in City Park