Fun Facts A few things we bet you didn’t know about Warrensburg and Johnson County: The phrase “A dog is a man’s best friend” originated here, from the 1870 trial of beloved hunting dog Old Drum. A new 9.1 million-digit prime number was discovered here, by UCM faculty members Curtis Cooper and Steven Boone. Whiteman Air Force Base is so big it has its own zip code: 65305. Some famous folks were born here: John William “Blind” Boone (composer and pianist), Sidney Toler (portrayed Charlie Chan). A few other famous folks got their schooling here: Carrie Nation (prohibitionist), Dale Carnegie (author and speaker), David Cook (singer), Grant Curtis (co-producer of the Spiderman movies) and James Evans (the chemist who invented Cheerios). During the Civil War, both sides drew up armies here; on a few occasions they even drilled together. After the war, many of surviving former soldiers – and former enemies – returned to Warrensburg, again living together in the same town. There are over 500 acres of golf course greens in the area at Keth Memorial Golf Course, Hidden Pines Country Club and Royal Oaks Golf Course (affiliated with Whiteman AFB). The Nance Middle Eastern Collection at the UCM Archives and Museum is the largest collection of traditional Middle Eastern Bedouin artifacts in the United States.
Warrensburg
at a glance…
Warrensburg’s history dates back to 1833 when Martin Warren arrived from Kentucky and settled along the Osage Indian Trail. While you’re here, take time to see some of the restored historic structures in Warrensburg, including the 1890s train depot, the 1838 Johnson County Courthouse, made famous by the “Old Drum” trial of 1870, and the oneBristle Ridge Vineyards room school house.
1894 Masonic Temple
In Warrensburg, you’ll find a unique blend of small-town friendliness and big-city culture. We’re a small town, with a great quality of life and friendly folks. But we’re also home to the University of Central Missouri, and our neighbor is Whiteman Air Force Base, home of America’s B-2 Stealth Bomber. Thanks to University of Central Missouri Mules football Photo © Bryan Tebbenkamp these two unique entities, we’re “made fresh daily” because of the flow of new residents and new ideas. You never know who you might meet here! Located in the center of the nation’s heartland, Warrensburg is just a 45-minute drive from Kansas City, four hours from St. Louis and three from Branson. We’re at the crossroads of Highways 50 and 13, and just 15 miles south of I-70.
Opportunities for outdoor recreation abound in and around Warrensburg. Numerous city parks and a nearby state park provide places to golf, fish, play ball, ride horses or ride bikes.
The ‘Burg
Looking for something to do indoors? We’ve got something for everyone, from small intimate boutiques and major discount stores to places to stay in shape, art galleries and museums. More than 50 restaurants offer a variety of dining styles, and there are several hotels and beautiful bed and breakfast inns from which to choose. The Warrensburg community also hosts a variety of events each year, including the Annual Spring Fine Arts Show, the Johnson County Fair and Rodeo, Freedom Festival, the University of Central Missouri Homecoming parade and game, the Highlands in the ‘Burg, Warrensburg Wheels car show, an Earth Day festival, racing events, the UCM Performing Arts Series, the Montserrat Vineyards Poetry Festival and the nationally acclaimed Children’s Literature Festival.
Johnson County
around town… Old Drum
VisitWarrensburg.org
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One of the most celebrated figures from Warrensburg’s past, the hunting dog known as Old Drum became world-renowned – and was the inspiration for one of our country’s most famous original sayings – thanks to a trial that happened right here in Warrensburg. When future U.S. Senator George Graham Vest delivered his closing argument in the Old Drum trial in a Johnson County courtroom in 1870, he had no idea his words would make him famous. He made the speech while arguing on behalf of Charles Burden, whose favorite hunting dog was shot by the young ward of Leonidas Hornsby. Vest’s words, coining the phrase “A dog is a man’s best friend,” won him fame across Missouri and around the world. A copy of Vest’s Tribute to a Dog can be found engraved beneath the statue of Old Drum on the lawn of the current Johnson County Courthouse, 300 N. Holden St.
Blind Boone Park
Originally a park for the black 2 community during segregation, this beautiful park is named in memory of John William “Blind” Boone, the son of a former slave and a military bugler who was born and grew up in Warrensburg. Boone lost his sight at an early age, but he persevered to become a world-renowned pianist and composer. Today this restored park features a sensory walkway with a scent garden, wind harp, reflexology path and more. 402 W. Pine St., just west of downtown.
Sculptures
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Gracing the grounds of the University of Central Missouri campus, many of these outdoor works are those of UCM alumni, including two by David Laughlin, Generations and Guardian, and Equiponderation by Phil Uyeda. Another Generations Photo © Bryan Tebbenkamp
unique sculpture, by faculty member Jerry Miller, called Squares + Movement = Questions, was built to encourage the viewer to manipulate the parts and become actively involved with the work and design process.
Murals
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Pertle Springs mural
Illustrative of Warrensburg’s history, two murals can be found downtown. The first, at the corner of Gay and Holden Streets, depicts downtown Warrensburg as it looked in the 1920s. The other, covering two walls at Holden and Market Streets, features the famed Pertle Springs Resort at the height of its popularity, and shows the resort hotel Minnewawa and many types of outdoor activities that were enjoyed by visitors.
Maastricht Friendship Tower An 80-foottall symbol of international understanding, the tower is inscribed on each side with a quote from the Jewish Mishnah, “Who is wise? He who learns from every person” in English, Hebrew, Dutch and Maastricht Dutch. Between South and Clark streets, just west of Holden Street.
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VisitWarrensburg.org
VisitWarrensburg.org
Historic Landmarks are interspersed
throughout Warrensburg: 1899 Warren Street Methodist Episcopal Church. Warren and Madison Streets. 1838 Johnson County Courthouse. Restored historic building is open weekdays for tours, 660-747-6480. 1898 Johnson County Courthouse. The current courthouse is open daily for public business, with historic information available at the County Clerk's office, 660-747-6161. 1894 Masonic Temple. East of the Courthouse across Holden Street, houses a private business. 1928 Gas Station. North Holden (old Missouri 13 North), .8 mile north of Cooper Ave. Built from local sandstone. 1888 Herbert A. & Bettie E. Cress House. 222 W. Gay St., private home. Howard School. 384 W. Culton, second oldest remaining black school established under the Freedman's Bureau after the Civil War. The building, second on the site, dates from the 1880s. The Howard School Preservation Association is working to raise funds to restore this historical gem.
All above properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Warrensburg Farmers Market
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From mid-April through mid-October, locally-grown foods can be found at the Warrensburg Farmers Market. Managed by Warrensburg Main Street, the farmers market is the best place to get home-made crafts and the freshest fruits, vegetables, eggs, meat, and jellies in town! Corner of North and Holden Streets in downtown Warrensburg. Call 660-4293988 for more information.
1898 Johnson County Courthouse
recreation…
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Warrensburg Community Center
This beautiful 52,000 square foot facility is located at the heart of the Warrensburg community, in Grover Memorial Park. The center has three swimming pools (spa, lap, and zero depth entry) and features a walking track, weight room, gymnasium, game room, arts and crafts room and meeting rooms. Also home to the Warrensburg Senior Center. 445 E. Gay St., 660-747-7178.
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Nassif 8 Aquatic Center The
newest addition to the Warrensburg recreation scene, the Nassif Aquatic Center is a blast for the whole family! A lap pool, spray ground, water slide, and lazy river mean big fun for everyone. In Grover Memorial Park, just west of the Warrensburg Community Center; open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Call 660-747-7178 for information.
Skate Park
9 Built especially for Warrensburg’s young people, the skate park in Grover Park is always a bevy of activity. Bring your board and show off your skills! Northeast of the Warrensburg Community Center on Mill St. Call 660-747-7178 for information.
Beautiful City Parks
Interspersed throughout town, Warrensburg’s city parks feature amenities like playgrounds, ball fields, a cave, shelter houses and more. For a complete list, or to reserve a spot for your special occasion, stop by the Warrensburg Community Center at 445 E. Gay St. or call 660-747-7178. Cave Hollow Bridge
UCM Recreation Center
10 The newly renovated Rec Center is open to the public and is a great place to take the kids! Enjoy the bowling alley (including Glo-Bowl on Friday and Saturday nights), snack bar, vending machines and a Chick-Fil-A®. Center can be reserved for special events, 500 S. Holden St., 660-543-4375.
Pertle Springs
11 Formerly the site of a renowned natural mineral spring and spa, Pertle Springs is a beautiful place to walk, picnic, watch wildlife and just relax. This area is owned by the University of Central Missouri, and includes Keth Memorial Golf Course, fishing lakes and hiking/ biking trails. South of Hale Lake Road between Holden St. and Pertle Springs Dr.
Bike Routes Marked by green and white signs, miles of bike routes wind all around Warrensburg. For a map, stop by City Hall at 102 S. Holden St. or the Chamber & Visitors Center office at 100 S. Holden St.
Knob Noster State Park
12 Featuring more than 3,500 acres of beautiful prairie, savanna and forest along both sides of a meandering creek, the park also has small lakes for fishing and non-motorized boating, with picnic sites along the lakeshore. Several trails run through the park, including an equestrian trail and a trail designed for all-terrain bicycles. RV parking with electric available. Seven miles east of Warrensburg on DD Highway, 660-563-2463.
Clear Fork Lake at Knob Noster State Park, Photo © Jeff Borchers
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Keth Memorial Golf Course
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This newly renovated public facility is owned and operated by the University of Central Missouri and is a full-service 18-hole facility with a snack bar and pro shop. Located in the Pertle Springs area on Par Dr., off of Pertle Springs Road, 660-543-4182.
museums and galleries… Mary Miller Smiser Heritage Library and Museum
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Housing materials on county history, family genealogy, local newspapers and more, the library and museum is a wealth of historic information. The Zinn and Leland Culp Barn features farm machinery and artifacts concerning the development of farm machinery and the general historic view of agriculture industry in the county. 302 N. Main St., open Monday-Friday 1-4 PM, 660-747-6480.
Historic 1838 Johnson County Courthouse 17 Dating back to 1838, the Old Courthouse is part of the Johnson County Historical Society’s museum complex. The courthouse was the setting for many notorious events, including a pre-civil war murder, a daring raid for the purpose of stealing/ preserving the county records throughout the war between the states, and perhaps most well known, the trial of Old Drum. The courthouse is one of the few examples of Federalstyle architecture west of the Mississippi River, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. 302 N. Main St., open Monday-Friday 1-4 PM, $3 admission, tours available, 660747-6480.
Keth Memorial Golf Course at Pertle Springs
Royal Oaks Golf Course
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Affiliated with Whiteman Air Force Base, this 18-hole course on more than 300 acres is open to the public through their guest program. On Hwy. 23 just south of the Spirit Gate entrance to Whiteman AFB, 660-687-5572.
Hidden Pines Country Club
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Situated at the western edge of Warrensburg, Hidden Pines features an 18-hole championship golf course with long and narrow Bermuda fairways and undulating greens. Clubhouse available for event rental. 77 NW Division Rd., 660-747-5515.
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One Room School Representing a long tradition of rural education in Johnson County and built in 1911, the school was originally used as a Subscription High School. Later a second story was removed and elementary students attended the school until 1860. Just behind the historic county courthouse, 302 N. Main St., open Monday-Friday 1-4 PM, $3 admission, tours available, 660-747-6480.
VisitWarrensburg.org
UCM Archives and Museum Located on the first floor of the James C. Kirkpatrick Library on the campus of the University of Central Missouri, the archives feature collections and artifacts spanning the globe from the Nance Middle East Collection and Guatemalan textiles to university history. Other permanent exhibits include the Rohmiller Seashell Collection, the Fred W. Schmidt MesoAmerican Collection, Native American objects from the Arctic, Plains and Southwest, prehistoric artifacts from archeological research in the local area, and WWI and WWII weapons, uniforms, gear and posters.
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arts and entertainment… The College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Central Missouri is the source of a wealth of musical, cultural and artistic expressions, all available to not only students, faculty and staff but also to the broader community. Ask for a copy of facets, a guide to all the artistic and cultural events on campus.
Performing Arts Series
This annual series provides cultural enrichment opportunities consisting of arts programs such as dance, theatre, music and the visual arts, as well as interdisciplinary performing arts programs. With a wide range of events from orchestras to acrobats, there’s something for every artistic taste! PAS Box Office, 660-5438888.
Department of Theatre The
Nance Collection Photo © Bryan Tebbenkamp Morgan and the Falcon Prince UCM Theatre
UCM Gallery of Art & Design 20 Located in the Art Center Building on Clark Street, on the campus of the University of Central Missouri, the gallery features constantly changing exhibits of works by visiting artists and designers as well as exhibition spaces filled with the works of students and faculty. 217 Clark St., 660543-4498.
Department serves as a unique and vital educational, artistic and cultural center, and resource for the university and region. The regular season is fall through spring. Summer productions are through the Central Missouri Repertory Theatre. Highlander Box Office: Martin Building, Room 113, 660-543-8811.
Concerts and Recitals The University of
Central Missouri Department of Music features free concerts and recitals from both students and faculty, as well as special events like the Alumni Choir & Big Band Dance in the fall. Department of Music, 660-543-4530.
Visiting Writers The Department of English, in
conjunction with the Honors College, coordinates the Honors College/Pleiades Magazine Visiting Writers Series, and brings nationally acclaimed poets, fiction writers and essayists to campus. All readings take place in the Gallery of Art & Design, and are free and open to the public. Department of English, 660-543-4425.
around the area…
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Historic Landmarks in Johnson County: 1915-1949 Pleasant View School, 674 SW MO Hwy 131 (Medford area). Well-preserved country school. 1904-1930 Chilhowee Historic District. The old Chilhowee business district, about 1 block long at Walnut & Main streets. 1867-1895 John A. Adams Farmstead Historic District, 431 SE County Road Y. Tours available by appointment; call 660- 7475728. Knob Noster State Park. Several examples of WPA architecture, including a bridge, dam spillway, rock bathhouse, and workshop. More information is available inside the Visitors Center, 660-563-2463. All above properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Hunting and Fishing spots abound in Johnson County.
Managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation; call 660-530-5500 for more information: Ralph and Martha Perry Memorial Conservation Area, in Johnson County access is available by Highway 23. The area features a diversity of terrain and habitats, including bottomland crop fields, rolling upland fields, wetlands, and woodlands. Hazel Hill Lake, 502-acre area, 71-acre lake. The area is marked by a dispersion of cropland, old fields, native grass plantings, and timbered areas which together create habitat for a variety of wildlife species.
Photo © John Thompson
J.N. "Turkey" Kearn Memorial Wildlife Area, seven miles southeast of Knob Noster on Highway 23, then 2 miles east on County Road SE 600 which turns into 1201 Rd. going south. The area features a great variety of habitat types, including wooden hills, bottomlands, crop fields, and native grass fields. Two fishing lakes as well as several small ponds, and Muddy Creek crosses the northwest corner of the area.
Lions Lake, off Hwy. 13, ¾ mile west on Hale Lake Road and 1/3 of a mile north on Rotary Road, facilities/features include a boat ramp, picnic area, pavilion, fishing dock, and Lions Lake (12 acres). For more information contact the City of Warrensburg Parks & Recreation Department, 660-747-7178. Lake Cena, just south of Lions Lake (at Hale Lake Drive and Pertle Springs Road) and also referred to as Pertle Springs Lake, this lake is owned and managed by the University of Central Missouri; local fishermen recommend the shaded west end of the lake for catfish. The much smaller Racehorse Lake (at the southernmost tip of Lake Cena, south across Par Drive) is also open to the public. For more information contact University of Central Missouri Facilities-Grounds, 660543-4495. Holden City Lake, 3.25 miles west of Holden on Highway 58, then north on County Road SW 1521; look for the cantilever sign. For more information contact the City of Holden, 816732-6343.
Auctions Nearly every weekend there are estate and property auctions in Warrensburg and throughout Johnson County, a perfect outing for treasure and bargain hunters! Usually listed in the Thursday edition of the local paper, the Daily Star-Journal.
Whiteman Air Force Base Just 10 miles
east of Warrensburg, Whiteman Air Force Base is the home of the 509th Bomb Wing, which operates and maintains the Air Force’s premier weapon system, the B-2 Stealth Bomber. Whiteman is also home of the Air Force Reserve’s 442nd Fighter Wing (flying the A-10 Thunderbolt IIs), the Army National Guard’s 1-135th Attack Battalion (flying the AH-Apache), the Navy Reserve’s Maritime Expeditionary Security Division 13, and the 131st Bomb Wing (as an Air National Guard The B-2 Stealth Bomber “Classic Associate Unit” of the 509th Bomb Wing).
County Communities
Centerview, Holden, Kingsville, Knob Noster, Leeton and Chilhowee are some of the other towns in Johnson County that offer great opportunities for exploration. From small, locally owned stores and restaurants to historic architecture, there’s a lot to enjoy in each of these smaller communities! Ask for a county map at the Chamber & Visitors Center.
events…
VisitWarrensburg.org
There’s always something happening in Warrensburg! Below is a list of annual events; check out the calendar at VisitWarrensburg.org for a complete list and to verify dates and times, or call the Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center office for more information: 660-747-3168.
January • Dr. Martin Luther King celebration events: Collegiate Challenge Workday, Gospel Concert, Scholarship Dinner • Central Missouri Bridal Expo and Fashion Show
Central Missouri Bridal Expo
May • Montserrat Poetry Festival • UCM 50 Year Alumni Reunion • Mid-Missouri Artists Summer Exhibition • Memorial Day Weekend Races
June • UCM Freshmen Orientations • Demolition Derby • Knob Noster Carnival & Fair • Leeton Carnival & Fair • Master Gardener Tour • Family Concert in the Park
July • Freedom Festival • July Fourth Weekend Races • Johnson County Fair • Community Band Concert • Missouri Lions All-Star Football Game
February
July 4th Photo © Jackie L. Manetzke
• Performing Arts Series and Department of Theatre events
March • Children’s Literature Festival • KOKO Spring Expo
April • Youth/Teen/Adult Egg Hunts • Farmers Market opens • Earth Day Festival • Highlands in the ‘Burg • Knob Noster State Park Beautification Day • Opening Races, Central Missouri Speedway • Spring Fine Arts Show
Highlands in the ‘Burg
Annual Spring Fine Arts Show
August • UCM International Student Info Fair • Warrensburg Wheels Car Show • UCM Move-In Day • Holden Fair
September • Chilhowee Fair • Labor Day Weekend Races • Johnson County Rodeo • Warrensburg Half Marathon • Celebrity Waiters Dinner (United Way) • Wings Over Whiteman Air Show • Get The Red Out Street Fair
Warrensburg Half Marathon Photo © John Hess
VisitWarrensburg.org October • Run for Freedom • Cemetery Walk • UCM Family Weekend • Paint the ‘Burg • UCM Homecoming (Parade and Game) • Leeton Fall Festival • Mid-Missouri Artists Fall Fine Arts Show • Festival of Champions • Downtown Trick or Treat
restaurants & eateries... For the most current list go to VisitWarrensburg.org or call the Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center at 877-OLDDRUM or 660-747-3168. Wine tastings are often available at these area businesses: Bristle Ridge Vineyards 98 NE 641 Rd. Knob Noster 660-422-5646
Wine 101 120 E. Cooper Ave., Ste. D 660-422-8101
Photo by linhtinh
La Sous Terre 101 W. Pine St. 660-429-3600
transportation... Amtrak: 800-USA-RAIL, amtrak.com Jefferson Bus Lines: 888-864-2832; connects with Greyhound, tickets available at Warrensburg Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center Kansas City International Airport: 816-243-5237; about 1.5 hours from Warrensburg Paint the ‘Burg
November • Christmas Arts & Crafts Show • Chili Cook-Off (United Way) • Wreaths & Wits
December • Holiday Homes Tour • Breakfast With Santa • Performing Arts Series Holiday Event
Old Drum Transportation: 660-747-9131; small bus that travels throughout Warrensburg, provided by the City of Warrensburg, warrensburg-mo.com Central Cab Transportation: 660-429-5523; taxi service, based in Warrensburg University of Central Missouri Max B. Swisher Skyhaven Airport: 660-543-4921; 3 miles west of Warrensburg on Highway 50
medical services… Western Missouri Medical Center: 660-747-2500, 403 Burkarth Rd. mediQuick: 660-747-1111, 510 E. Gay St., after hours and weekend routine care, managed by Community Health Partners
lodging... Bed & Breakfast Inns
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439 E. Russell Avenue 660-429-2183 800-800-8000 www.super8.com
1 Camel Crossing Bed & Breakfast
210 E. Gay St. 660-429-2973 www.camelcrossingbb.com
2 Gelbach Manor Bed & Breakfast
300 S. Holden St. 660-747-5085 www.gelbachmanor.com
3 Good House Bed & Breakfast
707 N. Holden St. 660-747-9563
Hotels & Motels 4 Belmont Motel 629 E. Business 50 Hwy 660-747-8634
Super 8 Motel
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University Inn Hwy 13 & Hwy 50 660-747-5125 877-99-MULES www.magnusonhotels.com/university-inn-warrensburg
distance to missouri cities... Branson: 161 miles Cape Girardeau: 321 miles Columbia: 95 miles Jefferson City: 90 miles Hermann: 158 miles Kansas City: 64 miles Lake of the Ozarks: 65 miles Sedalia: 29 miles Springfield: 120 miles St. Joseph: 122 miles St. Louis: 218 miles
5 Comfort Inn Warrensburg Station
609 E. Russell Ave. 660-429-4848 800-228-5150 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/mo177
6 Days Inn 204 Cleveland Ave. 660-429-2400 800-329-7466 www.daysinn.com
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Holiday Inn Express 626 E. Russell Avenue 660-747-3000 800-HOLIDAY www.hiexpress.com
community information... When you visit Warrensburg, be sure to stop by the Chamber & Visitors Center office in the historic train depot, downtown at 100 S. Holden St. The office is open Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Along with friendly smiles, we have maps, restaurant information and area souvenirs, including B-2 memorabilia. Stop by - we’d love to see you!
