An entrance through the Wolf Hotel on main street, and one from the antique shop across the way, gives access to one of the only remaining portions of the historic sidewalks that once ran along the underground storefronts in Kansas. Even if you don't latch on to the paranormal tales attached with the building, it's still interesting to walk through this glimpse of history, seemingly preserved in time.
With eight stairways that led from the streets to the underground tunnels, the town of Ellinwood could ensure that the grimy and sometimes questionable business of the gentlemen could be kept separate from the sophisticated women and children of the town.
Housing a diverse range of businesses from saloons, barbershops, and bath houses, the tunnels made way for 'Little Germany's' rapid business growth in the 1870's!
The tunnels once spread underground the entire business district of Ellinwood, providing safe passageway from muddy walks and tornadoes, as well as storing coal chutes! In 1982 however, the town decided to fill in the underground because they believed it would make things easier as they planned to put in new sidewalks.
Realizing their significance in the history of Ellinwood, Adrianna Dierolf fought to preserve a portion of the tunnels, which are the ones that are open to the public today.
Be sure to make your way up the stairs and tour the upper levels of the hotel too and check out this mural that is original to the building!
"Restoring a 121 year old building is fun! It's full of good energy and great people!"
"To read the paper."
"To check that my name isn't in the obituaries!"
"Because I wake up!"
"It's another day to enjoy."
"Summer time: to plant flowers and take care of the garden.
Thank you to our sweet Kansas family! We were so excited to meet you and share stories and adventures! We hope to see you again soon!
To another day on the black pavement road,
Love,
The Crew
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