Tonganoxie was named after the Delaware Indian Tonqua Oxie. His name is spelled many ways, indicating it did not translate easily to English. The Delaware arrived here between 1830-32 by an 1829 treaty. The US. Government built a wood-frame lodge and chose Tonganoxie to operate it as an inn for passengers traveling west. Historically, there is much controversy over the title of Chief for Tonganoxie. However, local townspeople have bestowed the title on him out of admiration and respect. The original town, which was incorporated in 1868, was located between First Street and Fourth Street and between Pleasant Street and Green Street. As you stroll the streets of Tonganoxie, you’ll see architecture dating back to the late 1800s.
Tonganoxie Historical Society
The Historical Society hosts a Fourth Tuesday Program every month, except June, July, and December. The program is of an historical nature and is preceded by a brief business meeting. The meetings are held at 7:00 pm in the Reno Methodist Church on the museum site at 201 W. Washington in Tonganoxie.
All members of the community are welcome. There is no charge and refreshments follow the program.
Presentation: 4th Tuesday of every month. You will have a presentation/speaker followed by desserts and mingling.