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Columbus, Kansas

The Columbus Wye is a one of its kind three way switch allowing trains to turn around.

The crossing, formerly located in the northern part of Columbus was donated to the City of Columbus by the Burlington Northern Railroad. At the time the switch was constructed, it was one of the three built: one in Hamburg, Germany, destroyed during the war, and one in Pennsylvania which was removed within a short time. The crossing before you is the only one remaining.

The Columbus Wye, as the crossing was called, was well known by those familiar with the railway system. It was listed in every railroad exchange in the United States, showing which rail was used to reach the proper destination.

When the crossing was installed, it had 90 lb. rail. When diesel engines came on the scene in 1958, it was changed to 115 lb. rail to handle the additional weight. The original crossing held up until 1968 when it was replaced with an exact replica, and was in use until 1981 when it was replaced with a two-way crossing.Frisco 1701 Caboose

The caboose is unique in that it is one of 13 train cars converted into a caboose.

- This exhibit donated by Columbus Lions Club

Attractions and Upcoming Events

1919 Seth Thomas Clock

The clock was originally purchased through public donations as a war memorial for servicemen from Cherokee County who had served in World War 1. The giant Seth Thomas 1919 model clock was placed in the tower of the 1889 courthouse. In 1955

Columbus, KS Artifacts

Big Brutus

One of the most unique day trips in Southeast Kansas is to Big Brutus, 11,000,000 pounds of fun! Big Brutus is the world's second largest electric mining shovel. Walk through its cavernous body, sit in the operators chair or climb 16

Columbus, KS One Of A Kinds

Columbus Museum

"A Town within a Town" A colorful look at the history of Columbus. The unique Village Street, made entirely of brick from the Columbus Metzger Brick & Tile Plant between 1880 and 1910, runs along models of early shops and businesses like the Music Shop, Doctor'

Columbus, KS Museums


Columbus' 1880s Town Square

Take a stroll around the 1880's square of Columbus and visit our shops. You must not miss the turn of the century architecture, or the unique color schemes of each building. Tour the community and see the many historical churches and Victorian homes. Driving tour map available at Chamber office, 320

Columbus, KS Historic Downtowns

Things to do near Columbus, KS

Neosho Wildlife Area Fishing

Sportsmen are encouraged to take advantage of fishing, which is normally allowed from March 1 to October 1. Fishing for fla...

Elk Falls Cemetery

History buffs will find much of interest here. In addition to the graves of Prudence Crandall and her brother Hezekiah, sever...

Teacher of the Plains Grave

Frank Hobbs was the first teacher in Elk County in 1869. In 1933, each student in the county contributed a nickel to build th...