Last updated: October 2, 2026
Place
Bluejacket Crossings of the Wakarusa River
Lawrence, Kansas photo collection, RH PH 18, Kenneth Spencer Research Library, University of Kansas
Quick Facts
Location:
The “Bluejacket” crossings of the Wakarusa River are located on private land between Eudora and Lawrence, Kansas. The general vicinity of the historic fords is north of 1275 Rd, which lies south of Lawrence. The fords are not visible from public right of way, but the river’s course is marked by a band of forest along its banks.
Significance:
The Wakarusa River posed the first difficult stream crossing for westbound emigrants traveling the California Trail out of Independence and Westport, Missouri.
Designation:
Historic site on the California National Historic Trail.
OPEN TO PUBLIC:
No
MANAGED BY:
Private
The Wakarusa River, a tributary of the Kansas River, posed the first difficult stream crossing for emigrants traveling across Kansas from the jumping-off towns of Independence and Westport, Missouri. Although the river was not deep, its 20-foot banks and limestone ledges forced travelers to dismantle their wagons, lower them to the streambed, tow them across, and then haul them up the north side using ropes. Several wagon fords existed along the river, and all of them posed these challenges.
The Bluejacket Crossings, located on the lower Wakarusa above its confluence with the Kansas River, were named for three Shawnee brothers who operated an inn and ferry there beginning around 1854. By then, however, emigrant traffic across Kansas had declined as most overlanders were setting out from Nebraska outfitting towns to the north. Many who still traveled this route bypassed the Bluejacket Crossings in favor of a toll bridge about 6 miles upriver.
Today, the Bluejacket Crossings lie on private land and are not open to visitors. The general area of the historic fords, though, can be approached via 1275 Rd, south of Lawrence. Glimpses of the river also can be seen from bridges on KS-10, E 1900 Rd, and E 1750 Rd between Eudora and Lawrence. Artifacts from the wagon fords are exhibited in the Eudora Community Museum at 720 Main St, Eudora. Check the museum website for hours.
Site Information
Location (The “Bluejacket” crossings of the Wakarusa River are located on private land between Eudora and Lawrence, Kansas. The general vicinity of the historic fords is north of 1275 Rd, which lies south of Lawrence. The fords are not visible from public right of way, but the river’s course is marked by a band of forest along its banks.)