Pioneer Log Cabin
The Riley County Historical Society was organized in 1914, and the log cabin was its first major project. Many of the Society's original members helped to settle Riley County in the 1850s and 1860s. The cabin was built to help preserve that experience. It was constructed by volunteers on its present site in City Park from donated materials, including locally grown walnut logs.
On October 2, 1915, the cornerstone for the pioneer log cabin was laid. The stone came from the first building constructed at Kansas State Agriculture College. A box of historical papers was placed in the foundation at that time. The cabin was originally built to show the type of home that housed the early settlers of Riley County. It features historic farming tools and household goods of the pioneer period.
The cabin was the first and only museum of the Riley County Historical Society until 1957, when a larger space was provided in the basement of the City Hall building. In 1977, the museum was moved to a new building at 2309 Claflin Road.
The Pioneer Log Cabin was recently restored with a new roof and windows. The exhibits were cleaned and refreshed for visitors to enjoy their next Sunday afternoon stroll through the park.
Thank you to Heritage Builders who facilitated the restoration and donated time, supplies, and labor this project.
The 2024 season will open on Sunday, April 28 and run through Sunday, October 27. Admission is always free.
Address:
City Park- Manhattan, KS
Hours of Operation:
April - October: Sundays 2:00pm - 5:00pm
And by appointment: (785) 565-6490
Admission:
Admission free. Donations accepted.