“Historic Churches of Rooks County and Beyond”

Rooks County, Kansas

Day Trip Itinerary

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. A Sentinel on the Plains: St. Joseph’s Church in Damar

The Rooks County Church Tour begins with a look at the beautiful St. Joseph’s Church in Damar. The nearly 90 year old church is visible for many miles around the area and has drawn countless visitors off the highway to view its magnificent interior. There is no charge for the tour; however, donations are accepted if you wish to take a color brochure.

10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Tour of Historic Nicodemus

The historic townsite of Nicodemus, along Highway 24 in Graham County, is the site of the first all African-American settlement in Kansas and is now a National Historic Site. Your tour will include visits to the First Baptist Church which was completed in 1907 and the African Methodist Episcopal Church which was built of native limestone in 1885. An optional tour of the visitor’s center could be arranged. There is no current cost involved in this tour but donations are accepted.

11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Lunch in Stockton

Enjoy a noon meal special at any of the restaurants in Stockton. A listing of restaurants can be found here.

1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. The “Stone Church” of Ash Rock

The Ash Rock Church, located north of Woodston in eastern Rooks County, was built in 1882 and is sometimes called the “Stone Church” because of its thick, limestone walls. The Church was renovated in 1976 to its present condition. There is no charge.

2:00 p.m. – Return Home

Optional Visits Include:

Shopping – Unique quilting shop,Stitch and Chatter; Sand Creek Mercantile; Twig & Vine; or Stockton Pharmacy.  Several others.

Museum – Rooks County Museum in Stockton

This is a suggested one-day tour for groups and can be adjusted to your schedule. For more information on all tours, please contact the Economic Dev. Office at 785-425-6881.