Located in the southwestern suburbs of Kansas City, Merriam embodies the essence of a Midwestern small town. The city maintains a relaxed atmosphere and Midwestern charm with big city amenities and excitement just up the road. Merriam has approximately 11,000 residents who form a close-knit community with beautiful surroundings. Look for Merriam apartments for rent and experience life in the heart of America.
The Shawnee Indians first moved into the Merriam area from Ohio and Missouri in the late 1820s. The Quakers followed soon after and built a mission in 1836. David Gee Campbell built the first community here near Turkey Creek and named his settlement Campbellton. Railroad development brought new residents to the area as Merriam was on the route between Kansas City and Olathe. In 1870, the town's name was changed to honor Charles Merriam, the treasurer of the Kansas City, Fort Scott, and Gulf railroads. Kansas City was a hub for trade, communication, and transportation, and developers believed that Merriam's country atmosphere was the perfect place for an amusement park. Merriam Park was extremely successful, bringing in more than 20,000 visitors a day. Merriam was officially incorporated as a city in 1950, and today is one of the most vibrant communities in the Kansas City suburbs. The city continues to develop as its own entity in the region, drawing open-minded residents to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle in Merriam apartments.
Merriam hosts an annual Turkey Creek Festival and 5K Fun Run to celebrate the local community. Events include a pancake breakfast, summertime arts and crafts, a petting zoo, pedal boat rides, roving clowns, and much more. The city is also home to many events in the holiday season including Breakfast with Santa, the Candy Cane Hunt and Mayor's Tree Lighting, Halloween Happenings, and Mom & Son Shenanigans, among others.
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