History

Tonganoxie was named after the Delaware (Lenni Lenape) Indian, Tonqua Oxie. His name is spelled many ways indicating it did not lend itself well to English. The Delaware were moved to this area by a treaty in 1829. They arrived here between 1830-32. Although the circumstances are not understood, the U. S. government built a wood frame lodge and chose Tonganoxie to operate it as a inn for passengers traveling west . The first post office at Tonganoxie was in this lodge.

Visit the Tonganoxie Historical Society more
201 West Washington

Historically there is much controversy over the title of Chief for Tonganoxie. However, local townspeople have bestowed the title on him out of admiration and respect.

When the town was platted on July 26, 1866 it was on land owned by Magdalena Bury. Some of the early settlers wished to name the new town Buryville, but Mrs. Bury insisted that it be named after Tonganoxie.

The original town was located between First Street and Fourth Street and between Pleasant Street and Green Street. It was incorporated in 1868.

Hours:
Year round- Wednesdays 9:00 a.m. to Noon
April through October – Sundays 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Or contact any of the following for more information:
Connie Putthoff conputt@sunflower.com or 913-845-2905
Susy Ross Kanza@grapevine.net 913-845-2477
George Cooper glcooper20@tfmwireless.net or 913-845-3388

Monthly meetings:
Fourth Tuesday of the month, except for December and June, at 7:00 p.m.