Life In Gardner--The History of Gardner, Kansas

Known as where the Trails Divide, (Oregon, California & Santa Fe) Gardner, Kansas has a significant place in the history of the westward expansion of the United States. 



Henry J. Gardner

Gardner, Kansas is named in honor of Governor Henry Gardner of Massachusetts (1855-1858).

 

Nearly all of the early settlers were Free State men and one of the first Free State conventions in the country was held in Gardner in 1858.

Many abolitionists like John Brown arrived in this area (Kansas Territory) from Massachusetts and other New England states.

Gardner was the first town in the State of Kansas to be raided by border ruffians from Missouri, called Bushwhackers.

 

On October 22, 1861, Bushwhackers raided Gardner because of its support of freedom for slaves. Gardner was raided two other times between 1861 and 1863.

 

 

On June 7, 1886, a petition with fifty signers was filed with the district court providing that Gardner should become an incorporated town of the third class.  On September 26, 2002, Gardner officially became a City of the Second Class.  

 

  

Gardner's 150 Years Old!

In 2007, the City of Gardner celebrated it's 150th Birthday - Gardner's Sesquicentennial! This year long celebration culminated with the Festival on the Trails event held on September 14 and 15, 2007.

 

Today, nestled between New Century Air Center and the BNSF Intermodal national rail hub in nearby Edgerton--Gardner is poised for enviable growth, offering great home values and small town charm.

 

Gardner Bank is proud of our 31 year relationship with Gardner and it's business owners and residents.

For more information about all of Gardner Banks checking and savings accounts, personal, home, auto loans and certificates of deposit--visit www.gardnerbank.com or call 913-856-7199.