Bonner Springs, KS
County: Wyandotte
History
Bonner Springs, Kansas has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. The area where Bonner Springs is located was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Shawnee people.
In the early 1800s, pioneer families began settling in the area. One of these families was the Tiblow family, who built a trading post and ferry on the Kansas River. The trading post, known as Tiblow Station, became an important stop on the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route between Missouri and New Mexico.
In 1868, the Missouri Pacific Railroad was built through the area, leading to the growth and development of the town. The town was officially incorporated as Bonner Springs in 1898, named after Robert E. Bonner who was a prominent New York publisher and friend of the local landowner.
Throughout its history, Bonner Springs has been known for its agriculture and horticulture. In the early 1900s, the town became a significant producer of vegetables and fruits, particularly tomatoes. The area's fertile soil and favorable climate contributed to its success in agriculture.
Bonner Springs also played an important role in the early years of the film industry. In the 1910s, filmmaker Colonel Selig built a film studio in the town, attracting several Hollywood actors and actresses to the area. Some silent films were produced in Bonner Springs before the studio eventually relocated to California.
Over the years, Bonner Springs has continued to grow and thrive as a suburban community. The town has been able to maintain its small-town charm while embracing modern developments and attracting new businesses and residents.
Today, Bonner Springs is home to various attractions and events, including the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the contributions of agriculture to American society. The town also hosts the popular Kansas City Renaissance Festival and the Tiblow Days festival, which commemorates the area's history and heritage.
Overall, Bonner Springs, Kansas is a town with a fascinating history that reflects its early Native American roots, its importance as a stop on the Santa Fe Trail, its role in the early film industry, and its continued growth and development as a suburban community.
Attractions
Kansas City Renaissance Festival
A popular annual event held in Bonner Springs, featuring a renaissance village filled with live entertainment, jousting tournaments, arts and crafts, food, and more.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark
A large water park with thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and other water attractions for all ages.
National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame
A museum and educational center dedicated to promoting and preserving the history of agriculture in the United States.
Cricket Wireless Amphitheater
An outdoor concert venue that hosts various shows and live performances throughout the year.
Moon Marble Company
A unique store offering a wide selection of marbles, toys, games, and demonstrations of marble making.
Edwardsville Lake
A serene lake located just a few miles outside of Bonner Springs, offering fishing, boating, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead
A farm-themed attraction with a petting zoo, pony rides, nature trails, gardens, and educational programs for children.
Wyandotte County Park
A beautiful park with walking trails, picnic areas, a disc golf course, and sports fields.
Bonner Springs City Library
A modern library that offers various services, resources, and events for the community.
Bonner Springs Historical Society Museum
A small museum showcasing the history of Bonner Springs and its surrounding areas.
Climate
Bonner Springs, Kansas has a humid continental climate. It experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.
Summer in Bonner Springs is typically hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (29-32°C). Heatwaves are not uncommon, and the humidity can make it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are also frequent during the summer months, bringing occasional heavy rainfall.
Autumn in Bonner Springs is mild and marked by beautiful foliage. Temperatures start to cool down, with daytime highs ranging from the 60s to the 70s Fahrenheit (15-25°C). The evenings can be quite chilly, especially towards the end of the season.
Winter in Bonner Springs is cold and snowy. Average temperatures range from the 20s to the 40s Fahrenheit (-6 to 4°C), with occasional drops below freezing. Snowfall is common, with an average of around 20 inches (51 cm) per year. Winter storms can bring heavy snow and freezing rain.
Spring in Bonner Springs is mild and often considered the most pleasant season. Temperatures gradually rise, ranging from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit (10-25°C). Precipitation is typically moderate during this season, but severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall and occasional tornadoes can occur.
Overall, Bonner Springs experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, from hot and humid summers to cold and snowy winters.
Neighborhoods
Bonner Springs, Kansas is a small city located in northeastern Kansas, just outside of the Kansas City metropolitan area. While it is a relatively small community, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within Bonner Springs.
Downtown Bonner Springs
The heart of the city, downtown Bonner Springs offers a historic charm with its well-preserved buildings and small-town atmosphere. Here, you'll find locally-owned shops, restaurants, and a variety of services. The downtown area is also home to many community events throughout the year, such as parades and festivals.
Basehor
Although technically a separate city, Basehor is located just east of Bonner Springs and is often considered part of the greater Bonner Springs area. Basehor is a residential neighborhood, known for its quiet streets, suburban homes, and spacious yards. It offers a more rural feel compared to the other neighborhoods in Bonner Springs.
Canterbury Woods
Located on the western edge of Bonner Springs, Canterbury Woods is a newer residential neighborhood. It features a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, along with some green spaces and walking trails. Canterbury Woods offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to amenities and main roads.
Whispering Pines
Situated in the southern part of Bonner Springs, Whispering Pines is a neighborhood primarily composed of single-family homes. It is known for its tree-lined streets and larger properties, providing a quieter and more secluded living environment. The neighborhood is surrounded by nature, with some homes offering scenic views of nearby woods and parks.
Providence Pointe
Located on the eastern side of Bonner Springs, Providence Pointe is a newer residential area with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. It offers a range of amenities such as parks, playgrounds, and walking trails. The neighborhood is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to schools and shopping centers.
These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods in Bonner Springs, each with its own characteristics and appeal. Whether you prefer a historic downtown setting, a suburban lifestyle, or a quiet residential area, Bonner Springs offers a variety of options to suit different preferences.