Abilene

Abilene's history begins in 1858, when the Hersey family settled in the area and built a log cabin. The cabin was named Abilene, which means "City of Plains." Abilene's growth did not happen overnight, but when the Kansas Pacific Railroad was built in 1867, the small town began to thrive. Abilene played an important role in transporting cattle from Texas to various markets throughout the United States. The cattle would be loaded onto the train in Abilene before being transported across the country. Today, Abilene is a charming small town with a population of over 6,000 people. This small Kansas town is best known as the childhood home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States.

Make a point of stopping by the Seelye Mansion during your visit. This mansion was named one of the "8 Wonders of Kansas — Architecture," and it's easy to see why during your visit. Many of the furnishings in this incredible 11,000 square foot home were purchased at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. Of course, a trip to this small town would be incomplete without a ride on the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad. There are journeys for the entire family, from dinner trains to daily excursions. Spend some time in Old Abilene Town if you want to see what life was like in Abilene so long ago.