Topeka Relocation Guide 2009

T he Great Overland Station: Rich History, Elegant Architecture Exhibiting ornate glazed terra cotta embellishments and a 34-foot-high ceiling, the Union Pacific passenger station was reported to be “one of the finest passenger stations on the line” when it opened January 27, 1927. Today that elegant structure at 701 N Kansas Avenue is the site of a museum celebrating the state’s rich railroad heritage and the All Veterans Memorial, a stunning tribute to the men and women who have given their lives to uphold freedom. The story of Topeka, founded in 1854, begins with transportation. Prior to the city’s official settlement, its land north of the Kansas River included part of the Oregon Trail. With an interest in developing the nation, Cyrus K. Holliday, one of the city’s founders, envisioned a railroad reaching all the way to Santa Fe, N.M. He watched his dream become a reality in Topeka when the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway laid the first tracks near 4th and Washington Streets on October 30, 1868. About 50 years later, the future Great Overland Station – one of the finest representations of classic railroad architecture in Kansas – would be designed by renowned architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood. Over the years, four principal railroads – the Union Pacific; Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway; Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad; and Missouri Pacific Railroad – served Topeka, giving it a unique distinction because of the town’s size. Although railroading has changed dramatically since its heyday, Topeka remains the center of several vital operations of the BNSF Railway Co. and a key link in the Union Pacific system. The Great Overland Station represents the heritage of all the railroads that have crossed Topeka and the state. Group Tours and Special Events Schedule a group tour of The Great Overland Station and All Veterans Memorial and learn about the history of the railroads alongside a knowledgeable docent. Or register for a Harvey House luncheon and relive the days when Fred Harvey hired thousands of young women, clad in neat black and white uniforms, to serve fine meals at Harvey Houses along the Santa Fe Railroad line from Kansas to California between the 1880s and 1950s. According to Bette Allen, executive director of The Great Overland Station, the station will hold its sixth annual gala and fundraiser in June and the second annual Topeka Railroad Festival with a variety of family-friendly offerings in August. “This beautiful facility – restored to look like it did in 1927 – is the setting of many weddings, other receptions, special events, concerts and a Christmas expo,” Allen says. She invites the community to get involved in the city’s rich history and noted that supporters can serve on planning committees and join “Friends of the Station,” a special membership program. The Great Overland Station is open to the public for a nominal fee Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with last ticket sales at 3:15 p.m.; the facility is closed on Mondays and major holidays. For more information, call 785-232-5533, e-mail info@greatoverlandstation.com or visit www.greatoverlandstation.com. A Wealth of History On May 2, 1971, the last passenger train left the station. The building was later remodeled for railroad offices, abandoned in 1988, and damaged by fire in 1992. The restored Great Overland Station opened its doors again as a community landmark in 2004. Visitors to The Great Overland Station can peruse Union Pacific artifacts and photographs, a display of Kansas trains dating back to 1932, a historical exhibit of Topeka from 1800 to the present, a model G gauge train layout, simulator and baggage cart and more. Outside, the All Veterans Memorial consists of a dramatic sculptural flame centered above four reflecting pools. Linked to The Great Overland Station by the Corridor of Flags, the memorial is the setting for patriotic celebrations, holiday ceremonies and community events. Fifty American flags proudly wave above the flags of all 50 states, signifying America’s unity of spirit. Here, current and future generations will create new memories against the backdrop of the nation’s heritage. Topek a Reloc at ion Gu ide 20 09 23 http://www.greatoverlandstation.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Topeka Relocation Guide 2009

Topeka Relocation Guide 2009 Contents Topeka's Pioneering Spirit Prevails During Turbulent Economic Times The Topeka & Shawnee County Library is "Your" Place Topeka Arts Community Grows Through ARTSConnect Topeka Bragging Rights History of Topeka Choosing Topeka Little Know Facts About Topeka 15 Things to Experience in Topeka What's a Young Professional to Do? Topeka in Profile Transportation Lodging Brick Oven: American Cuisine with a Multi-Cultural Twist Great Overland Station: Rich History, Elegant Architecture Religious Organizations Libraries, Shopping and Child Care Referral Housing Income Demographics Business and Industry Topeka MSA Employment Education Higher Education Opportunities Healthcare Local Transportation Taking Care of Pets Utilities Cultural Activities Trails Festivals Attractions Important Numbers Community Information Sources Licensing Agencies Employment Agencies

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