ARVONIA
The town of Arvonia was settled in 1869, by a company of Welsh people led by John Mather Jones. The now extinct town, located in southwest Osage County overlooking Melvern Lake, it is a spot full of history and rich agricultural activities. Once a town of over 700 residents, when the railroad unexpectedly did not come through Arvonia, the leaders began to leave. Many of the Welsh settlers stayed around working as farmers. Some moved to nearby towns that had railroads. The remaining citizens farmed and worked in coal mines.
SITES TO VISIT
Located at 32413 S. Arvonia Rd. You can tour the historic Arvonia Calvinistic Methodist Church built in 1883. The church was in continuous use as a church until 1965. Tour anytime or attend our Christmas Candlelight Service early in December. The church is available for small weddings or funeral services.
The Church
The Humphreys House, now owned by Rob and Susan Atchison, was one of the original buildings in Arvonia. Built in the 1860s, it has been renovated 3 times. In 1913 it was raised and a basement dug underneath. It continues to be a private residence
The Humphreys House
The Arvonia Cabin is a modern lodging facility located within Eisenhower State Park in Kansas. Positioned near the Abilene Campground, it offers guests a scenic view of the lake. This small house is available to rent for short stays. The house sleeps 5-6 people. It is located at 8103 Arvonia Rd.
The Hunting Cabin
The Main House is one of several notable structures in the area. The Arvonia Historic Preservation Society has been active in preserving these buildings and promoting the community's heritage. Located at 8090 W. 323rd St.
The Main House
Built in 1872 by Kansas architect John G. Haskell. Visitors can ring the bell, take pictures, and see what school looked like 100 years ago. The stone structure is the most photographed one room school in Kansas. Interior tours by appointment and walk around outside on your own anytime. The Arvonia Historic Preservation Society also hosts field trips for local schools. Located at 32465 S. Arvonia Rd.
The Old School House
The Quonset building is located behind 8090 West 323rd St. on private property. Events are held here, including the Fall Festival. The Quonset is also available to rent for a wedding venue, business meetings or receptions.
The Quonset Building
The Arvonia Township Hall was built in 1916 by the local grange. There is memorabilia, maps and pictures to take you back in time. The hall is located at 32358 S. Arvonia Rd. This venue is available to rent for parties, meetings, receptions and other events.
Township Hall
HISTORY
Arvonia was established in 1869 by Welsh settlers. Once a community of over 700, it now has fewer than 20 residents. The town once had 3 churches, 2 blacksmith shops, a general store, a hotel, a cheese factory, and more. People came to settle and farm the land. There was also coal mining in the area. The Welsh pride still survives and it is a wonderful place to visit. Descendants of Prince Owain Glyndwr, the last true prince of Wales, lived and owned land in Arvonia. Their name was Puleston and there is a creek with that name. The horse of Abraham Lincoln that followed his casket in his funeral procession spent its last days here. His name was “Old Bob”. The Arvonia School, Calvinistic Methodist Church and Arvonia Township Hall have been lovingly preserved by the Arvonia Historic Preservation Society with the help of donors, grants and funds raised through events. Grants from trusts of former residents, Lewis H. Humphreys and Walter and Evie Jones as well as the Heritage