Merriam, Fairway and Countryside Real Estate Area Information and Homes for Sale in Kansas City, KS.


	Merriam, Fairway and Countryside Houses for Sale

Merriam, Fairway and Countryside

The history of the small neighborhood of Countryside, known as “Johnson County’s Square-Mile Garden,” is an interesting one. Founded in the 1930s and incorporated as a city in 1951, Countryside remained a very small town for over 50 years. In 2003, Countryside, consisting of just 133 homes, was relieved of its independence and consolidated with Mission, Kansas.

To learn more about the region’s history, one may visit the Johnson County Historical Museum, located in nearby Shawnee Mission. The facility features permanent and rotating exhibits, a library, educational center and museum gift shop. One of the more popular permanent exhibits depicts the development of Johnson County over time, beginning with the arrival of the Shawnee Indians in the 1820s. Special programs and tours for all ages are also available.

The Shawnee Mission State Historic Site, located in Fairway, offers an educational look at the Native American lifestyle of the nineteenth century. The Shawnee Indians were moved to this area in the 1820s, receiving a land grant in exchange for turning over their lands to the East. Once a defensive fort, the mission also served as a Civil War Union camp. The 14-acre mission site includes three historic buildings and special exhibits featuring 19th century artifacts. Guided tours and workshops are also available.

The Wonderscope Children’s Museum is another popular attraction for both children and their parents. The museum features a variety of interactive, educational exhibits and activities, including replicated emergency rooms, face painting and a giant pulley.

Residents of Merriam and neighboring communities enjoy several events each year, including the Turkey Creek Festival, Tennis Clinic and an Ice Cream Social. At the Turkey Creek Festival – held in May – residents can participate in a 5k run, parade and crafts, while enjoying local foods and other activities. During the Tennis Clinic, Merriam residents age 18 or younger can take part in free clinics put on by the local Parks and Recreation Department. The department also puts on the annual Ice Cream Social, in celebration of National Parks and Recreation Month in July. Activities include entertainment, children’s programs and, of course, free ice cream for all attendees. One may also spend a relaxing afternoon at the Helen Cuddy Rose Garden and Memorial Arboretum, enjoying 640 roses and the lovely surrounding landscaping.