Osawatomie History & Railroad Museums

The story of Osawatomie is preserved and displayed at the Osawatomie History & Railroad Museum in artifacts and records of the concepts, habits, skills, arts, instruments, and institutions of the residents and its surrounding area.

From its beginning as an Indian Mission to its fame as an “abolitionists’ nest” during the territorial Border Wars, to its recognition as a railroad metropolis, and a national leader in mental health, Osawatomie Kansas, has truly been “one of a kind”. Unique in name and character, Osawatomie, and its story provide insight into events in Kansas, and the nation.

The Story is complex, evolving from the events and the people who have contributed to its development and telling.

We hope you can find time to visit our museums with your friends and family soon to see the story of Osawatomie.

Osawatomie History Museum

The Osawatomie History Museum, founded in 1990, focuses on the history of the city itself from territorial Kansas period, through evolution from rural life to current establishments and the people who experienced those changes.

Osawatomie Railroad Museum

The MoPac Railroad Depot Museum, opened in 2002, is a replica of the 1890 Missouri Pacific passenger depot that celebrates the “glory days” of railroading. Caboose #942, the last surviving horizontal wood sheathed caboose in the Missouri Pacific Line has been restored to 1940’s condition.

Focus on History

Richard “Ellis” Johnson – Rock Island Lines

Richard “Ellis” Johnson, a 1925 Osawatomie High School graduate, rose from small‑town beginnings to become one of the nation’s leading railroad executives. He began his career with the Missouri Pacific Railroad shortly after graduation and later joined the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad in 1936. Over nearly three decades, he advanced through key leadership roles—secretary to the general manager, assistant general manager, assistant vice‑president of operations, and ultimately executive vice‑president.

In 1961, Johnson was elected president of the Rock Island Lines, serving until his retirement in 1965. His influence extended across the industry through service on the boards of the Kansas City Terminal Railway Co., Waterloo Railway Co., Railway Express Agency, and multiple national railroad associations.

A member of the United Methodist Church of LaGrange, Illinois, and active in civic and professional organizations, Johnson lived in Scottsdale, Arizona, from 1970 until his passing on June 12, 1974.

Horatio Alger Award

Johnson received the Horatio Alger Award, one of the nation’s most respected honors recognizing individuals who rise from humble beginnings to achieve remarkable success through hard work, integrity, and perseverance. The award celebrates leaders whose lives embody the classic “rags‑to‑riches” American story—an achievement that reflects Johnson’s lifelong dedication to excellence and service.

Sources:

Osawatomie Graphic News August 16, 1962

https://www.osawatomiealumni.com/MEMORIALS/1920-1929/1925-johnson-ellis.htm

https://scholars.horatioalger.org/members/detail/r-ellis-johnson

https://obits.arizonagravestones.org/view.php?id=39428

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/51635005/r-ellis-johnson