Escapees September-October 2023

Beauty is apparent everywhere in the state of Kansas.

It can be viewed while standing on a windswept blu ff gazingat a distant lake. It can be seen while driving past fi elds fi lled with the liquid gold of ripe wheat, and it can be appreciated when observing the creative skills of past artisans. M any sights and scenes make Kansas appealing to the traveler who is heading across this state on Highway 36. Although Interstate 70 offers a faster journey, Highway 36 offers more than speed, such as many scenes that reveal past and current leaders who took a great interest in making Kansas what it is today. US Highway 36 traverses the entire width of northern Kansas. It is approximately 400 miles across the state. In the northeast, this route, begins with the wide Missouri River, is edged with fertile fi elds though the center of the state, and glides past the yucca-stud ded Kansas High Plains in the west. Passing through the towns along this route, travelers frequently encounter celebrations of pioneer heritage by way of festivals, fairs, parades and museums. These attractions entice travelers to explore the rich diversity of the settlements and their ways of life. This highway is also a repository for history. During the mid-19th century, Kansas became a crossroads for gold seekers, traders, freighters and pioneers. After seeing fertile soil and marks of civiliza tion, some pioneers decided to go no farther west. They immediately saw the opportuni ties on the rich glacial plains of Kansas. Down through the years, these early immigrants shaped the culture and ideals of Kansas. The historic sites along this highway represent some of America’s greatest moments because of the cultural diversity. In other words, Kansas is a culturally diverse state infused with fl avors and traditions which visitors enjoy.

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September/October 2023 ESCAPEES Magazine