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Threshing Machine Canyon
THRESHING MACHINE CANYON
One of the best kept secrets in the state lies near Cedar Bluff State Park and Reservoir. Threshing Machine Canyon was a station on Butterfield’s Overland Despatch (BOD) or the Smoky Hill Trail.
Interesting Facts about Threshing Machine Canyon:
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Originally known as Bluffton Station on BOD
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Site of 1867 Native American attack
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Freighters were transporting a threshing machine to Brigham Young in Salt Lake City
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Group stopped for the night below limestone bluffs in canyon
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Group was ambushed during the night
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All the men were killed and the threshing machine was set on fire
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Remains of the burned machine could be seen for years
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Remains now on display at Trego County Historical Society Museum in WaKeeney
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Travelers carved their names and dates in the limestone bluffs
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Carvings dating back to the mid-1800s are still visible
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Area located in Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area, which is closed to the public during certain seasons
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Check with Cedar Bluff State Park Office for directions and open/closed status
Contact Us
Cedar Bluff Reservoir
32001 Hwy 147
Trego County, KS
(13 miles south of I-70, Exit 135, on Hwy 147)
Mailing Address:
32001 147 Hwy.
Ellis, KS 67673
(785) 726-3212