Every state has something quirky to boast about, and Kansas is not any different. For instance this plains state has the world's largest ball of twine, located in Cawker City, but did you know that it also boasts the geographical center of the Continental United States? Detours due to flooding of the Missouri river last year prompted me to take Highway 36 West and Highway 186 North to the small town of Lebanon. The original road trip destination was Lincoln, Nebraska, but this little detour really was on the way. Hwy 36 was a delight to ride; although a straight road, without much varying scenary, it was typical of the Kansas plains, and a refreshing ride where one's thoughts can wander with not much effort concentrated on riding mechanics. As I rode, I could imagine the hardships encountered by generations who had come before us, not on motorcycles, but in covered wagons. High cross winds and dust balls across the plentiful farmlands were constant on this lonely highway less traveled.
The location of the geographical center of the United States was established by the government geodetic survey of 1898. Financed by the business and professional people of Lebanon, KS, a stone marker north and west of town was dedicated on June 29, 1941.
When Alaska and Hawaii were added as States, Lebanon's site became the Historical Geographical Center of the 48 States or the Continental United States.
There is a park kept up by the Lebanon HUB Club members where you can picnic and rest. There is a small chapel there where you can find inspiration, and when I say small, I'm not exaggerating. The chapel seats eight and has a small pulpit, but no alter. At the pulpit, you'll find a bible and a guest book. When we were there, someone had placed small wooden cross necklaces that were FREE for the taking. There was a small comment box that looked like a donation box, but had a sign stating "do not place money in box". We placed a donation there, nonetheless. A painted sign across the street from the monument reads "Souvenirs available in Lebanon". Lebanon is a town with a population of just 364, and the geographical center of the lower 48 United States is just a few miles away at latitude 39 degrees and 50 minutes and longitude 98 degrees and 35 minutes.
If you're making a road trip through Kansas, this well paved road might serve as a shortcut, but even if it's a little out of your way, it's worth the detour to plant your feet at the center of the Continental United States. At 713 miles, just over 12 hours, this is a two day trip from Shreveport for most motorcycle enthusiasts.
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