safari museum chanute ks

Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

MARTIN AND OSA JOHNSON SAFARI MUSEUM: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Martin and Osa Johnson

Safari museum.

+1 (620) 431-2730

From 1917 to 1936, Martin and Osa Johnson set up camp in some of the most remote areas of the world and provided an unmatched photographic record of the wildernesses of Kenya, the Congo, British North Borneo and the Solomon and New Hebrides Islands. Their equipment was the most advanced motion picture apparatus of the day, some of it designed by Martin Johnson himself.

When the young adventurers left their home in Kansas to explore and photograph these lands, little did they realize that they would provide the world with a photographic record of the African game of unimagined magnitude and beauty. The Johnsons gave the filmmakers and researchers of today an important source of ethnological and zoological material which would otherwise have been lost.

Their photographs represent one of the great contributions to the pictorial history of the world. Their films serve to document a wilderness that has long since vanished and tribal cultures and customs that have ceased to exist.

Through popular movies such as “Simba” (1928) and “Baboona” (1935) and best-selling books still in print such as I Married Adventure (1940), Martin and Osa popularized camera safaris and an interest in African wildlife conservation for generations of Americans. Their legacy is a record of the animals and cultures of many remote areas of the world which have undergone significant change.

The outstanding accomplishments and legacy of Martin and Osa Johnson – their films, photographs, expedition reports, correspondence and personal memorabilia – are housed at The Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum in Chanute, Kansas.

Life Highlights from the partnership that was

Married to Adventure

Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

on June 4, 2016

Martin and osa johnson safari museum.

To some, the story of Martin and Osa Johnson may seem more like a fantasy than reality. Osa, originally from Chanute, and Martin, raised in Lincoln and Independence, were married in 1910. Their love story is unique and involves adventures in Africa, Borneo and the South Pacific.

Not only did they explore these locations, they documented their adventures with film and photographs. 

“These Kansans captured the public's imagination through many movies, such as Simba and Baboona , and best-selling books including the classic zebra-striped I Married Adventure ,” says Conrad Froehlich, director of the Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum. "Martin and Osa popularized camera safaris and an interest in wildlife conservation for Americans and  people worldwide. Their legacy is a record of the animals and cultures in remote areas of the world which have undergone profound changes.”

It continues because of the dedication of Osa’s mother, Martin’s sister and the Chanute Chamber of Commerce. In 1961, they officially opened the Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum in Chanute. The museum features award-winning exhibits and highlights the Johnsons’ achievements. The museum also offers educational programs for children and adults, making it a perfect place to take the entire family.

Additional exhibits feature the rich culture and art of Africa. A collection of more than 2,000 photographs from other prominent explorers is also available for viewing.

“Visitors will find carefully planned exhibits, a range of education programs and a helpful staff of professional employees and volunteers,” says Froehlich.

The exhibit areas and Osa's Ark Museum Store are open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. As a non-profit, the museum charges admission to help cover operating expenses.

Call: (620) 431-2730

Visit: http://www.safarimuseum.com

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Good Day Kansas Explores: Martin + Osa Johnson Safari Museum - Chanute

The martin + osa johnson story - chanute.

I find Martin & Osa Johnson to be among the most fascinating couples in Kansas’ history. Their love story was built for a big screen as these southeast Kansas sweethearts won the hearts of millions across the world with their pioneering spirit and exotic adventures.

Martin Johnson grew up in Lincoln and Independence, where his passion for travel was ignited as his father, a jeweler, would receive crates from faraway lands, prompting Martin to stow away on a ship to Europe as a teenager. Soon after, Martin would travel the world as a chef on Jack London’s 45-foot boat from 1907 to 1909. When Martin returned, he would spend his time showcasing the photographs and artifacts he collected in a traveling exhibit. It was while he was in Chanute displaying his worldly collection that he met Osa. Although it wasn’t loved at first sight for Osa, Martin & Osa married a few months after meeting in May of 1910.

The Johnsons had plans to operate the Snark Theaters in Independence, but Martin was destined to live a life of travel and exploration. His passion was enough to convince Osa to give the expedition lifestyle a chance. In 1917, they left for their first trip together to the South Seas, resulting in their first movie, Among the Cannibals of the South Pacific , premiering in 1918. Martin & Osa would then go on several African safaris over the next few years exploring Uganda, Serengeti Plains, Belgian Congo, and Borneo.

Over their career, the Johnsons made eight feature movies, published nine books, and had a photography portfolio in the thousands. Upon returning home, they lectured throughout the United States, telling honest and real depictions of their explorations in a time when far-off lands were out of reach for ordinary people. You can learn more about Martin & Osa’s incredible life by visiting the Martin & Osa Johnson Safari Museum, in Chanute , Kansas. You can see artifacts from their travels, read fascinating snippets about their wanderlust life, and get an inside look at the tribes and people that welcomed and entrusted this adventurous couple into their world to be some of the first photojournalists to document the cultural diversity amongst humanity.

The museum is in downtown Chanute where you can find local retail gems, a classic car collection at Howard’s Toys for Big Boys , eateries (I had a delicious panini with hand-cut fries at The Outsiders Bar and Grill ), grab an ol’ fashioned soda at Cardinal Drug Store, or even a community-wide festival, like their Artist Alley Festival that spans several blocks. Be sure to stop and see the Google Earth street mural commemorating Chanute as the Center of Google Earth on Apple products at the intersection of Main and Lincoln.

As always, use the #ToTheStarsKS as you stop at these places so we can follow along!

Martin and Osa Safari Museum

The Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum is located in Osa's hometown of Chanute, Kansas. The museum was founded in 1961 to preserve the…

Come out to Chanute and see all that this Southeast Kansas community has to offer!

Colby Sharples-Terry

Colby is a mother to 3 feral children who share their mother’s love of exploring Kansas. Colby enjoys gardening, outdoor activities, and a good ole Kansas cheeseburger joint. Raised in Northeast Kansas, Colby loves the rural & urban experiences Kansas has to offer.  Before joining the state Tourism Division 7 years ago, she was a regional manager in the beauty industry where her love to travel across Kansas began.

Summer Travel Bucket List: Chanute, Kansas

What makes your town a unique destination for summer travelers?

Chanute is home to the Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum, a destination that welcomes visitors from all over the world. The museum showcases the photography and films of Osa and Martin Johnson who were explorers in the early 20th century in Africa, the South Seas and Borneo. Chanute is only a two-hour drive from Lawrence and other major metropolitan areas in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.

Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum

Can you highlight some of the key attractions that visitors shouldn’t miss?

• The Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum also houses the photographic collection of Elizabeth Main LeBlond, a pioneer for female mountain climbers who was known, too, for her mountain and sports photography and filmmaking during the latter part of the 19th century.

• Howard’s Toys for Big Boys is an automotive museum featuring many rare automobiles as well as other automotive memorabilia. The collection is owned by Howard Alger, who has been collecting and restoring autos for more than 50 years. He opened his museum in 2017 upon his retirement.

• Cardinal Drug Store Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain is located in the Cardinal retail store and pharmacy in the heart of downtown Chanute.

• The Chanute Art Gallery has a core collection representing 25 mediums and numerous artists. Special exhibits are highlighted each month.

• The Chanute Historical Museum houses Chanute artifacts, memorabilia from the Santa Fe Railroad and Harvey House and the oil industry, sports information on baseball great Paul Lindblad and basketball’s Ralph Miller along with other collections. A replica of the Octave Chanute 1896 biplane glider hangs from the three-story open ceiling.

• There are walking trails, a public golf course, several downtown murals and other attractions.

What special events, festivals or activities are happening this summer?

• Every third Friday from May through October, Main Street Chanute will host a Cruise Night for individuals to cruise downtown Main Street.

• The Main Street Chanute Farmers Market is held every Tuesday from 5-6:30 p.m. at the downtown pavilion.

• MIRZA SEKCATS Car Show in Katy Park on Saturday, June 15, from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• City of Chanute Fireworks Show on Saturday, July 6, in Santa Fe Park.

Historic Santa Fe Depot

What landmarks or historical sites might visitors enjoy?

Chanute has a Veterans Memorial located near the Santa Fe Sports Complex that highlights U.S. conflicts as well as recognizing veterans.

In the heart of downtown is a memorial to Octave Chanute and the Wright Brothers. Mr. Chanute was a mentor to the Wrights and is the town’s namesake.

An 1872 160-foot bowstring arch bridge is located in Santa Fe Park as part of the city’s hike/bike path. It originally spanned the Neosho River east of Chanute and used to get livestock and crops to the railhead in Chanute.

Chanute Veterans Memorial

What accommodation options are available for tourists?

Chanute has four motels in addition to a hunting lodge and a number of Airbnb properties. The city has an RV campground as part of Santa Fe Park with 30 pull-through sites, a dump station and showers.

What are the must-try dishes or restaurants?

Chanute has several locally owned restaurants that feature local specialties such as lasagna roll-ups, smashburgers, all-day breakfast and chicken fried steak. In addition, there are two local restaurants featuring handmade Mexican food.

Can you share any insider tips or local secrets that might enhance a visitor’s experience?

The city has two older cemeteries dating back to the 19th century. Individual tours of several attractions can be scheduled. Wednesday mornings will find the local car club having coffee at Howard’s Toys for Big Boys.

Are there any outdoor recreational opportunities that visitors can enjoy during the summer?

The Maring Aquatic Center has a lazy river, water slide and lap pool that is open during the summer months.

There are three fully accessible playgrounds at three local parks.

Santa Fe Park has a lake that is open for fishing and has shelters for picnics as well as a retired locomotive that can be climbed on and investigated.

There are two hike/bike trails within the city limits.

Cardinal Drug Store & Gift

Are there any day trips or nearby attractions that you recommend combining with a visit to your town?

Chanute is within approximately one hour from the majority of the tourist attractions in southeast Kansas. One can make Chanute “home base” and visit locations such as Big Brutus, Little House on the Prairie and the Dalton Defenders Museum.

Can you provide any recommendations for scenic drives or picturesque routes in and around the area?

Chanute is located in a rural area of southeast Kansas. There are several country roads that provide good viewing for amazing Kansas sunsets!

Are there any famous or noteworthy residents, past or present, that visitors might find interesting to learn about?

Octave Chanute was a mentor to the Wright Brothers and is considered the “father of aviation.” He visited Chanute as a railroad engineer in the late 1800s and recommended the four townships come together to be considered for a larger rail stop. They did and named the town after him. In addition to other engineering feats, Chanute designed the Chicago and Kansas City Stockyards as well as the Hannibal Bridge in Kansas City, which was the first across the Missouri River in that area.

Osa Johnson was from Chanute and her husband, Martin, was from Independence, KS. They are famed photographers and filmmakers who were the first to send back the sound of a lion roaring for U.S. movie audiences to hear.

Howard’s Toys for Big Boys

How do you feel about your town, and what do you hope visitors will take away from their time here?

Chanute is a friendly community with people who care about their neighbors. We hope visitors will enjoy that friendliness and the attractions, retailers and restaurants that make our community of approximately 9,000 residents a wonderful place to visit and to live.

Summit Hill Gardens

Where can visitors go or look for more information or to start planning their trip?

The Chanute Area Chamber of Commerce & Office of Tourism website – www.chanutechamber.com .

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