martin and osa johnson safari museum

SojournPro

My husband and I have been long-time Martin and Osa Johnson fans. We finally made the trip from Michigan to Chanute, KS, to see this museum. It was well worth it! The tour brings the story of Martin and Osa to life. I have always wanted to do a real African safari Johnson style, but alas, that Africa no longer exists. I get to live my dream vicariously through the books, photos, and films produced by the Johnsons. Read the books and watch the videos before you visit the museum, or wait until afterwards. It doesn't matter... If you dream of adventure, you'll be hooked!

881dianet

Growing up in Chanute, I visited the old museum many times. When it moved to the Old Santa Fe Depot, it got even better. Many exhibits from their travels. Great travel films and memorabilia. It is a nice place to spend the afternoon. The Chanute Public Library is in the same building.

407glorias

I was really impressed with all the history at this place. I would definitely recommend people stopping by and taking a look at it when driving by Chanute. Nice historic downtown with cool places to shop and eat and drink

WillisB_12

Before Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom, there was Martin and Osa Johnson. Captivating the world with their lectures, books and films. They lived a life of true adventure. Along the way they collected many artifacts and treasures. The drawings of birds and animals remind me of Lewis's diary during the Discovery Corps of Discovery. Turn of the TV and come to see. It may inspire you to a world of adventure.

JEHodges

Martin and Osa Johnson were the first to go to foreign places to film with sound the wildlife. I remember as a child reading her book "I Married Adventure". The museum is not large, but filled with interesting items and also stuffed animals. Don't skip the longer documentary film about their lives.

221catf

Interesting place to visit. The staff was helpful. The adjacent city library was also interesting. more characters are added that are meaningless and add fluff.

TEAAlefty

This museum is devoted to the special work of two special people. The museum is run by 3 special people who are knowledgable and enthusiastic and caring. I made a special grip from Boston to see this museum, and I was not disappointed. There are marvelous displays that have been artfully hung, a library for research, and a gift shop most imaginative. Having lived in Kenya and having fallen in love with the NFD, I knew about the Johnsons. You too will gain great insight into their work. Chanute itself is a charming town, and for self-satisfied Coasters a real Middle West revelation. So here's what you do: use Kansas City as a destination for 2-3 days and then drive down to Chanute overnight, maybe even more of eastern Kansas. Trust me, you'll haves a great time.

RudyWformerNYr

I read the book "Safari" by Martin and Osa Johnson years ago. Somehow I stumbled upon and then into their museum, two hours south of Kansa City. It was well worth the trip. Pack a picnic lunch and go experience how this adventurous couple - Martin and Osa - experienced life. They'd pick an exotic place on the map and visit for a while. When they returned they'd write books and articles about their adventures as well as release movies, documenting their exploits. What a lifestyle!

GeorgiaMichaelTaylor

I've traveled to over 20 countries, in South America, Europe and Africa. I love the gift shop, which is free to anyone. If you are traveling through on a road trip, and have an hour to kill, this is the place to go! There are several good spots to get a bite to eat afterwards, too. I like this museum because of the history they tell, the artifacts they have on display, and the spirit of adventure that is inspired. I'd recommend this museum for all ages, as our 3yr old daughter enjoyed the exhibits.

baclayjr_502926

i liked the historic place. The city was very small but full of history. I like to stay at Tioga Suites , the hotel was very accessible.

sarahc668

was way too cute. saw all kinds of things. but its one of those things you gotta do before you have to leave. best part it was only a block or so from my hotel downtown. got drunk later that night and had a blast across the street of the hotel and the food is awesome!!

Manhappiness

Words really can't describe how in awe I am of young Osa & Martin Johnson as they explored the unknown & began the nature photography that we now take for granted. This unusual museum beautifully presents details of their backgrounds, families, discoveries & achievements in such a way that I was truly drawn into their lives. Artifacts & photographs are shown in an especially personal perspective. Museum director, Conrad Froehlich, was so helpful & interesting.

budgettraveler52

Worth your while to stop in. These were explorers ahead of their time and very brave to visit places in the jungle not knowing what might happen to them personally.

597KarenW

An amazing collection of excellent African artifacts and art. I was quite impressed w/ the quality and the extent of the collection. a wonderful film and gift shop to boot!

joerazz1028

A piece of history I knew nothing about, but was very fascinated with once I visited. I am a history buff, and it was interesting to learn that Miss Osa was THE pioneer of just about everything "nature" that you see on camera. The nature film, the "Tarzan" movies, the Animal Planet type TV shows, all of them can be attributed to Osa Johnson. And the artifacts on display were also stunning. A bit haunting in my opinion, but stunning just the same.