RV Rentals in Emporia, Kansas

Explore Emporia, Kansas, in an RVshare RV Rental

A friend described Emporia, Kansas's beautiful prairie to young Lawrence, Kansas newspaperman G.W. Brown, who decided it would be the perfect place for a planned community. He decided to share his idea with some co-workers - Preston B. Plumb, Lawrence resident General G.W. Deitzler, and Lawrence merchants Lyman Allen and Columbus Hornsby. Together, they formed the Emporia Town Company. Soon, Plumb moved to the area and started the Kansas News to advertise the new community. The men were so sure that their idea would work that they named the community Emporia after a city-state in Northern Africa that was extremely powerful. 

The Town Company paid to have over 1,500 copies of their advertising distributed across the eastern United States. The advertising asked school teachers and merchants to consider moving to this newly started prairie paradise. The promotion worked, and over 2,000 people moved to the area during the first year. An important factor in encouraging people to move to the area was the 1857 vote to make Kansas a free or a slave state, and the Kansas News ran numerous editorials on why Kansas should be a free state. In about 1862, Emporia had its place in history cemented in place when it became the county seat. You will want to see the current courthouse, which is the second on the site. 

Learn more about this city of 24,000 people by exploring the Lyon County Historical Museum. An essential part of the town's growth was establishing the State Normal School in 1863, which is now Emporia State University. You can find many delicious restaurants nearby, including Do-Bs, El Torito Grill Mexican Restaurant y Cantina, and Bobby D's Merchant Street BBQ. 

Events in Emporia, Kansas

• Lyon County Fair – This weeklong event includes livestock and art shows, food vendors, music and tractor pulls at the Lyons County Fairgrounds.

• Ranch Rodeo – Watch local participants compete in your favorite rodeo events during this early August festival at the Lyons County Fairgrounds.

• The Orchard's Fall Harvest Festival – Play miniature golf and participate in craft activities at this September festival at The Orchard. 

• Freedom Fest – Take part in the foot and bike races and attend the candlelight memorial service during this Veteran's Day festival in downtown Emporia. 

• Great American Market – Shop for clothes, collectibles, antiques, unique items, and food during this September festival in downtown Emporia.