RED ROCKS
STATE HISTORIC SITE
927 Exchange St, Emporia, KS 66801
At home with
William Allen White
The stately Colorado red sandstone house known as Red Rocks was once the epicenter of progressive politics and spirited journalism in the early 20th century. This was the home of William Allen White—Pulitzer Prize-winning newspaper editor, author, and the voice of small-town America whose pen shaped national debates from the heart of the Midwest. Behind its walls, White hosted presidents, writers, and reformers, all while chronicling the changing tides of American life through the Emporia Gazette. Today, Red Rocks stands not just as a monument to a man, but to an era when ideas flowed as freely as conversation over the front porch railings.
Designated a Kansas State Historic Site in 2001, Red Rocks offers more than a glimpse into the personal life of one of America’s great public intellectuals—it invites visitors to step into the rooms where movements were born and friendships forged across ideological lines. Lovingly preserved with original furnishings, family heirlooms, and a backdrop of mature trees and limestone terraces, the home tells the story of a man who wielded words with conviction, compassion, and a touch of Kansas grit. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of architecture, or simply curious about the power of the press, Red Rocks promises an intimate look at how one small-town editor left a national legacy.
Topeka is a crossroads where rich history and passionate community spirit come together. Topeka has proven to be resilient. Its early history as a Free State community; where several citizens worked to help those escaping slavery. Today, you’ll feel the echoes of its pivotal role in the fight for freedom at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, where courage and conviction changed the course of American history. The Kansas State Capitol Building, crowned by its iconic dome, invites visitors to marvel at its artistry.
Topeka is a crossroads where rich history and passionate community spirit come together. Topeka has proven to be resilient. Its early history as a Free State community; where several citizens worked to help those escaping slavery. Today, you’ll feel the echoes of its pivotal role in the fight for freedom at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, where courage and conviction changed the course of American history. The Kansas State Capitol Building, crowned by its iconic dome, invites visitors to marvel at its artistry.
1887
Construction on the house began
5
How many presidents who spent the night at Red Rocks
2001
The year it became a
state historic site
before you go
What to Know
RED ROCKS STATE HISTORIC SITE
927 Exchange St, Emporia, KS 66801
As you plan your visit to the Red Rocks State Historic Site, here are a few items you should know.
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Tours are guided through the house. It takes about 45 mins to an hour to complete the tour.
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To fully visit the whole site, you'll have to use stairs
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Groups of 10 or more are required to book a tour in advance
Dates & Hours:
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Open seasonally, mid-April through mid-October
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10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday & 1 - 5 p.m. Sunday
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Closed on state holidays
Parking: Free parking along the street is available. Be watchful of street signs. The house is located in a residential area, with an elementary school directly across the street.
Admission: Free
Wander More
MAPLEWOOD MEMORIAL CEMETERY
2000 Prairie St
William Allen White, his parents, wife and children are all buried together in a family lot.
Where else should
you visit?
You're tour of William Allen White's hometown shouldn't stop with just a visit to Red Rocks State Historic Site.
EMPORIA GAZETTE MUSEUM
517 Merchant St
See where William Allen White made a name for himself.
PETER PAN PARK
S Congress & West Kansas Ave
The land for Peter Pan Park was given to the community of Emporia.
EMPORIA STATE UNIVERSITY
1 Kellogg Circle
William Allen White may never have completed his college degree, but he was an advocate for education
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