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The junction of the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails served as a way station for thousands of explorers, traders, missionaries and other pioneers who ventured to make the tortuous journey into the unknown West. As early as 1821, pack trains were making their way Westward. From 1840 to 1870, the Trails were heavily trafficked and small pioneer towns began to grow in their wake. Gardner was founded in 1857. Near its borders the famous Trails split in two. One sign, reading "Road to Oregon," was posted on a rough board pointing to the northern fork. The second sign merely pointed southwest along the Santa Fe Trail.
Today, modern pioneers seek out Gardner for its open expanse of land and its proximity to Kansas City and all the "big city" amenities it affords. A host of cultural and entertainment facilities can be found in the metro area including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Missouri Repertory Theater, State Ballet of Missouri, Starlight Theater and the Kansas City Symphony. The Kansas City Zoo, Worlds of Fun amusement park and Oceans of Fun are also a short drive away. Sports enthusiasts have numerous professional teams to cheer for including Chiefs Football, Royals Baseball, Attack Soccer, Blades Hockey and Explorers World Team Tennis. For those seeking a more active participation, there are numerous recreational opportunities with the city. There are four public parks, including beautiful Cornerstone Park, and an 18-hole municipal golf course. Within 10 minutes north of Gardner is 160-acre Gardner Lake, where fishing and light boating are popular. Hillsdale Lake, a 4,850-acre multi-purpose lake only seven miles south of the city, attracts more than 600,000 visitors annually. The Johnson County Fairgrounds in Gardner is also host to the annual Johnson County Fair. Many business people in Gardner commute to work; however, New Century Air Center and Sprint North Supply employ thousands of local workers. Business opportunities, affordable housing, quality education and health care, and memorable barbecue are a few of the many things that make Gardner a special place to live. This growing and progressive community strives for a promising future without sacrificing its small-town personality or it historic links to the past. |
