I promised more fun in Abilene, so let’s explore this sweet small town dripping with all things Americana. If you’re following along on my cross-country road trip, our last stop on Day 4 was at the Eisenhower Presidential Library campus in Abilene, Kansas.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines “Americana” as “materials concerning or characteristic of America, its civilization, or its culture. broadly: things typical of America.” They could just as easily have said, “See Abilene, Kansas.”
By the way, if you’d like to start reading about my cross-country road trip from the beginning, you can start with this post.
Downtown Abilene – Little Ike Park
I mentioned Little Ike Park in my last post and this will be the starting point for exploring the historic downtown area. I found a parking space at the corner of Third Street and North Spruce Street and started walking. My first surprise was discovering a printed map of the “Downtown Abilene Mural Walking Tour”. If you make a stop there, check for a rack near the entrance to Little Ike Park (from the north side – free parking lot – not this arched entrance on the street side).
In the park, you’ll find a statue of Dwight D. Eisenhower as a boy in overalls, perched on a short brick column. A metal arch and American flag welcome you to relax, enjoy the flowers, and even offers a shaded picnic table. This perfect spot to rest was totally refurbished and re-opened in 2019.
I’m including a copy of the map I picked up, but businesses change and there may even be more art added, so I recommend checking at the park to be sure you have the most up-to-date walking tour map.
Mural 1 – Abilene Mural
The first stop on the tour is directly behind Little Ike Park. Look closely and you’ll see that every letter in this Abilene Americana mural is a reminder of something special about the town and its history.
A – The purebred Greyhound dog represents the Greyhound Hall of Fame in Abilene and the National Greyhound Association where all racing greyhounds are registered.
B – This painting shows the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library that I wrote about in my last post. It’s just down the road from the main street.
I – Charles W. Parker has a long history in Abilene in the carousel and amusement business. The antique 1901 C.W. Parker carousel is the oldest operational carousel that is still open for rides. One carousel ride is included with each child’s admission to the Dickinson County Heritage Center.
L – Cleyson Leroy Brown built his first telephone exchange, called the Brown Telephone Company, in Abilene in 1898. Over the years, C.L. Brown purchased several other telephone exchanges and the combined company became known as United Telephone and Electric. The name of the company continued to change, eventually becoming Sprint.
E – C.H. Lebold, a local banker, realtor, and politician built this gorgeous mansion at 106 North Vine Street in 1880. It was built on the site of the home of the founders of Abilene. The mansion began as a residence, then became a home for telephone operators, an orphanage, then an apartment building.
N – From 1867 to 1871, the famous Chisholm Trail ended in Abilene, Kansas. Cowboys drove millions of Longhorn cattle from Texas north to Abilene where the livestock was loaded on trains and shipped East to be sold.
E – The American flag represents the 34th president of the United States. Dwight D. Eisenhower (Ike) grew up in Abilene. You can find out more about him and the Presidential Library in my previous post.
Say Hello to Ben Franklin
Head north on North Spruce Street toward Fourth Street. When you reach the corner look across the street and you’ll see a life-size sculpture of Benjamin Franklin. He’s relaxing on a bench, holding the Declaration of Independence, under a shady tree in front of the Abilene Public Library, 209 NW 4th Street. An American Eagle is keeping him company perched on the back of the bench.
This Ben Franklin sculpture was created by George Lundeen of Loveland, Colorado. Residents, Ron and Shirley Russell donated the piece to the library in 2010. What a generous gift for the community to enjoy! Make a stop here to talk to your kids about our forefather and for a fun photo op with Ben.
Mural 2 – Eisenhower Street Mural
After hanging out with Ben, continue East on 4th Street past North Buckeye Avenue. Look for the small sign for Meysenburg’s Liquor Store, 405 N. Buckeye Avenue. On the right wall of the building, you’ll see this giant digitized black and white portrait of President Eisenhower. He lived in Abilene from the age of two until he left home for West Point Military Academy – the beginning of his illustrious military career. William Counter, a local artist created this in 2007.
Mural 3 – Angel Wings – Perfect Photo Op
Continue East on 4th Street to Kirby Street. Turn right (South). When you get to the Hardware Store, turn around and you’ll see these heavenly angel wings on the richly textured brick wall, located behind Aksent Boutique. Graffiti artist, Whitney Kerr, created this interactive angel wings mural. Be sure to tag #WhitneyKerrPaints if you strike an angelic pose and share it on social media.
Mural 4 – Kansas Pacific Railroad Train Mural
Next, cross Kirby Street and you’ll immediately see the Train mural on the side of the Abilene Printing & Office Supply building, 207 NE 3rd Street. This slice of Americana depicts a Kansas Pacific Railroad train with cattle cars from the 1800s. It highlights the history of Abilene as a cowboy town and the last stop on the famous Chisholm Cattle Trail. Longhorn cattle were herded north from Texas, then loaded on trains here for transport back to the Eastern U.S. Whitney Kerr also painted this mural.
After you admire the massive train mural, walk across Third Street and head west toward the main part of the historic district. When you reach North Buckeye Avenue, turn left (south) at the Post Office.
Stop for a minute and check out the historical marker in front of the Abilene Post Office. It reads “This boulder marks the northern terminus of the Texas Cattle Trail over which, in 1867-1871 journeyed herds numbering more than three million head and it is dedicated to the Pioneers of Abilene in recognition of their achievements. Erected by the Abilene Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1925.“
Mural 5 – Wild Bill Hickok Mural
Continue south on North Buckeye Avenue toward the railroad tracks. Just before you cross the tracks you’ll pass the storefront for Dave’s Guns, 201 N. Buckeye Avenue. Ironically, on the 2-story south exterior wall of this gun store you’ll find the Wild Bill Hickok mural.
James Butler “Wild Bill” Hickok first gained notoriety as a gunfighter in 1861 when he shot three men who were all trying to kill him. In 1871 he took over as the Marshal of the tough cowboy town of Abilene – one of the most lawless towns on the frontier. Hickok also worked as a stagecoach driver. During the Civil War, he worked as a teamster and spy for the Union Army. Historical accounts say that Hickok killed over 100 men during his lifetime.
You may have also heard about the infamous poker cards he was holding when he was shot dead – a pair of black aces and a pair of black eights – since then it’s known as the “Dead Man’s Hand”.
If you’d like to learn more about this rugged symbol of Americana, check out these books about Wild Bill Hickok.
Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau
Head out from the Wild Bill Hickok mural and cross North Buckeye Avenue. Walk north back toward 2nd Street. Turn left (west) onto Second Street and continue walking. You’ll see various shops on the right (north) side of the street, public parking on the left side, then the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau on the left in the old train station, near the corner of North Spruce Street, 201 NW 2nd Street.
If your schedule allows and you’re looking for more ideas about things to do in Abilene, stop by and talk with the friendly ambassadors at the Visitors Center. Note: The Visitor Center was closed when I was there.
Mural 6 – Interact With the Local Street Art
After you leave the Visitor Bureau, continue walking west on 2nd Street. You’ll pass North Broadway Street, then on the right (north) side of the street, you’ll see a larger-than-life mural of Abilene resident, Harmon Geissinger. You’re encouraged to interact with Harmon. Take a picture shaking his hand or dangling from his fingers. Be creative. You can use the artist’s hashtag #whitneykerrpaints or #AbileneKS for this one too.
Mural 7 – American Bison on 6 Cent Stamps
Follow Second Street west to North Cedar Street, then turn right (north) onto North Cedar Street. As you round the corner you’ll come face to face with two giant American Bison. You may call this a buffalo. Do you know the difference between a ‘buffalo’ and ‘bison’ in America? There is none. The only difference comes from the people who use the words. These huge mammals of the open plains were called various names in different languages. As the names evolved the confusion began. Buffalo is the common name used by many Americans now, but Bison is technically the correct usage.
The bison is a quintessential Americana image. You can find the animals nowhere else besides the United States. Although they were almost hunted to extension in our early history, preservation efforts have brought them back. Here are some places where you can still see live bison in Kansas.
This mural depicts two American Bison on 6-cent stamps that were issued in 1970 to highlight animal conservation. The mural also includes an Abilene, Kansas postmark. William Counter is the artist. A welcoming bench is available here if you need to stop and rest.
Mural 8 – Kansas Sunflower Stamp Street Art
When you wave goodbye to the bison continue north on North Cedar Street. At the corner of Cedar and Third Street cross the street, then turn right (east). You’ll probably already see the Sunflower Stamp mural on the side of the Tossed and Sauced Pizza place. This U.S. Postal stamp was issued in 1961 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Kansas’ Statehood. It’s been a long time since we used a 4-cent stamp, right? Even postcard stamps are 35 cents now.
Eisenhower Painted Quilt Block Trail
If you’re interested in finding a different kind of Art Trail keep walking east on Third Street. Walk past North Spruce Street to 104 NW Third Street. Here between the 2nd story windows, above the sign for American Family Insurance, you’ll see what’s known as a Painted Quilt Block or Barn Quilt Block. These intricate works of art can be found all over the country mostly in small-town and rural America. They’re painted on houses, businesses, and especially barns.
This blue, black and gray block is called the “Sailor’s Star”. It was painted by the Abilene High School Art Department.
To learn more about these Americana quilt trails and see all the addresses and descriptions of the Eisenhower Barn Quilt Trail, visit the Kansas Flint Hills Quilt Trails website here. The Eisenhower Trail covers an area inside the Abilene city limits, but you’ll need a vehicle to get to all the stops. If you’d like the full list let me know in the comments below or send a quick email or note on social media. I can send a list of 32 different addresses.
Shops, Restaurants, Antiques and Americana
My road trip schedule limited my time and access on this trip, but here are a few of the places that would be worth a look if you’re in Abilene.
As you wander around Abilene you’ll notice many antique shops. When I was there, some were open by appointment only and others were closed. I would have loved to wander around these shops to see what momentoes of the Old West and Americana were hidden inside. Here’s a map showing the locations of various antique shops in town.
Cypress Bridge Candle Company
Cypress Bridge Candle Company was only open with an appointment, but I absolutely fell in love with these adorable gnomes in their store window. They sell home decor, kitchen items, and a delicious variety of scented candles. Many of their Americana-inspired items are for sale online too, so be sure to support small businesses and check them out even if you’re not visiting Abilene.
Rivendell Bookstore
Who doesn’t love wandering through a bookstore during a road trip? And how could you resist a bookstore named Rivendell? This shop is housed in a historic building that’s over 100 years old complete with comfy chairs to preview your purchases. Rivendell Bookstore at 212 North Broadway Street, sells new and used books, as well as gifts and reading accessories. They’re pet-friendly too, so bring your furry friend on a leash and wander the aisles for your next favorite road trip read. You can also order books online.
If you wander over to the bookstore, check out another Painted Quilt block on the side of the building.
Amanda’s Bakery and Bistro
Amanda’s Bakery and Bistro on 302 N Broadway Street is the perfect spot to start or end your walking tour. The gang there serves up everything from breakfast sandwiches in the morning to soups, salads, sandwiches, and Bierocks (German yeast-raised rolls filled with ground beef, sauerkraut, and more) for lunch. The bakery offers a wide variety of treats, like frosted cake pops, fresh-baked pies, sweet rolls, and cookies for a fun afternoon treat.
This small town was such a refreshing surprise in the middle of my road trip. I love it when I have a chance to take a detour and find a hidden gem. What’s your favorite art on this walking tour? Have you been to Abilene? What other stops do you recommend?
Other Posts About My Road Trip
My Crazy Cross-Country Road Trip – Planning
Charleston West Virginia – Road Trip – Day 1
Kentucky Parks – Road Trip – Day 2
Missouri’s Best Foods, Parks & Road Trip Fun
Road Trip Destination – Manhattan Kansas – Day 3
Eisenhower Presidential Library – Abilene Kansas – Day 4
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Category: Kansas, Just for Fun, Midwest States, My Favorite Picks, Places to Eat & Drink
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