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Tonganoxie, Kansas

The original Reno Methodist Church was opened August 16, 1891 at a cost of $1,900. Samuel Kelsall and James Phenicie were instrumental in its organization. The first minister was John Jacobs - a Baptist and blacksmith in Reno.

The original building was destroyed by fire in 1918 and was immediately rebuilt. It holds a rich history of Sunday services, marriages, deaths, ice cream socials and watermelon feeds. It officially closed in 1993. To save it from being torn down its members sold the building to the Tonganoxie Historical Society on June 9, 1993 for $1.00 and paid for the cost of moving it to the Historical Site in the spring of 1994.

Another historical note about the Reno Church is that it was used in the filming of "Where Pigeons Go to Die", produced by- and starring - Michael Landon in 1989. Now it stands as a reminder of all the religious history of this area - including old Bibles, ministers and community churches.

Located on the Tonganoxie Historical Society Museum site, the Reno Church may be rented for weddings, funerals and church or community meetings. The fellowship hall, located in the basement, has a small kitchen, restrooms, and is handicap accessible.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

The Fairchild/Knox Historic Barns

The Fairchild/Knox hay barn and milk parlor are now the Community building and the museum of the Tonganoxie Historical Socitey. The original barn was built in 1901, but burned down in 1928. Frank Fairchild, with his wife, Mattie, formerly of Ulster County, NY started the dairy with 40

Tonganoxie, KS Historic Barns

Tonganoxie Community Historical Society Museum

The Tonganoxie Community Historical Society (TCHS) owns and operates 10 acres, called the Site, with four buildings. They are The Honey Valley School house, Reno Methodist Church, Fairchild/

Tonganoxie, KS Museums

Tonganoxie Water Park

The Tonganoxie Water Park is a modern facility with two large water slides, spray ground, zero depth entry main pool, toddler pool, a full bathhouse, and a large water area for recreational and fitness activities. The Water Park is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day annually.

Tonganoxie, KS Water Parks

Reno Methodist Church

The original Reno Methodist Church was opened August 16, 1891 at a cost of $1,900. Samuel Kelsall and James Phenicie were instrumental in its organization. The first minister was John Jacobs - a Baptist and blacksmith in Reno. The original building was destroyed by fire in 1918

Tonganoxie, KS Historic Churches

Tonganoxie City Parks

VFW Park - This beautiful park was built by the local VFW post. It covers about 15 acres and is located at 900

Tonganoxie, KS City Parks

Things to do near Tonganoxie, KS

Group Tours - call the CVB to schedule

If you are a group travel planner and wish to visit Merriam's tour stops, give the CVB a call to schedule today. From handmad...

Smiley's Executive Golf Club

Course Access: PublicHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: 3 days...