Downtown Newton
Downtown Newton

 

HISTORIC NEWTON

Downtown Driving Tour

Welcome to the Historic Newton Driving Tours! Each of the three routes explores a unique aspect of Newton’s history, from architecture to Mennonite heritage to the railroad and its connection to the Mexican-American heritage and the Chisholm Trail.

 

Here, you’ll find expanded histories on the featured sites as well as photos and information about the Newton community today. Enjoy the drive!

Select Your Route

route one

Mexican/Railroad/Chisholm Trail Properties

 

route one

Mennonite Heritage/Bethel College Properties

 

route one

Architectural Properties

 

 

This postcard image shows the Ragsdale Opera House, one of the Ragsdale bothers’ contributions to downtown Newton. It was built in 1885 and stood at the corner of Main and Broadway until Jan. 1, 1915, when it was destroyed by a fire. title= This photo taken in 1901 looks up Main Street. The four-story Clark’s Hotel is pictured on the left, which also housed the Santa Fe offices. At right is the Santa Fe depot and Arcade Hotel title= title= Taken circa 1901 title= This photo shows the Santa Fe Engine 1880 being moved onto East Broadway and into the display area at Military Park. A temporary track extension was built to move the engine into the park. title= This photo shows the Bethel Administration Building in 1917 title=