ORIGINAL STORE FRONTS
Tour Through Time
Jung's Barber Shop
William Jung opened his Barber Shop in the Ellinwood Underground in 1887. He was a prominent businessman and was the band leader. Barbers were known as "barber-surgeons." Within his barber shop, he also would pull teeth, bleed people and do other medical work.
Opened in 1887 by William Jung
"William Jung's Barber Shop & Bath Rooms: All Kinds of Tonsorial Work."
"Satisfaction is our Motto"
Tom Drake's Harness Shop
Tom Drake opened his shop in 1887. All the equipment is believed to be original. When Tom Drake retired in 1920, he sold off the remaining inventory, put a padlock on the door and walked away.
Opened in 1887 by Tom Drake
Retired in 1920 - Leaving all his supplies behind
Metal Work was done upstairs - leather and wood working were in the basement
Also find cooling tables original to the Ellinwood Morturary
Jung's Bath House and Ellinwood Steam Laundry
Mr. Jung is said to had a contract with the Santa Fe Railroad to do the laundry for the trains when they stopped in Ellinwood. In addition to the laundry, you could have a bath, lye soap and clean towel for 15 cents. Cowboys looking for a bargain could have used bath water and a dirty towel for 5 cents.
Started by William Jung
1905, the City of Ellinwood put in a water tank and indoor plumbing was added
Porcelain sinks and claw-footed tubs would have arrived around the same time
Hot Bath Water for 15 cents
Reimagined Spaces
The Underground Saloon
The Underground Saloon has undergone repeated changes. Originally, it housed Joe's Snack Counter in the Underground. It was then transformed into JP Webber's Sunflower Sample Room, and between 1940 and 1960, this space was the Ellinwood Public Library. The Underground Saloon operates on Friday & Saturday night with a menu reminiscent of the prohibition era.
The Library
The Library has witnessed a fascinating evolution over the years, serving as a reflection of Ellinwood’s changing times. It now is set up as a library adorned with classic books and even local library cards to honor the first public library that was housed next door. This space was the children's library during that period.
The original library was next door where the Underground Saloon is now.
The Drummer's Room
The Drummer’s Room in the Ellinwood Underground offers a glimpse into the hidden history of traveling salesmen—known as "drummers"—who passed through town. These salesmen would rent small rooms beneath the bustling streets of Ellinwood, using them as makeshift showrooms to display and sell their wares to local businesses. Visitors can step back in time and imagine the deals struck and the goods exchanged.
Schedule Your Tour of the Underground
Tunnel Tours
Journey beneath the streets of Ellinwood and discover a hidden world frozen in time. Our Ellinwood Underground Tours take you through the historic tunnels and basements that once housed bustling businesses. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the town’s unique history, and the entrepreneurial spirit that built Ellinwood, Kansas. Tours are through scheduled reservation times or via appointment. Our scheduled tours are given Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday at 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. As well as the 3rd Sunday of the month at 2 p.m.
If these times do not work for you, please contact us to schedule a time.
$15 per adult
$7.50 for 5 - 10 year olds
Under 5 are free.
Paranormal Tours
Step into the shadows and uncover the spirits of the past with Ellinwood Underground Paranormal Tours, held Friday and Saturday nights.
Whether you're a seasoned investigator or a curious thrill-seeker, these guided explorations take you deep into the town’s historic tunnels, where whispers of the past still linger.
Choose from a 3-hour, 6-hour, or even an overnight investigation,
Plan a Group Event
Looking for a unique and engaging outing for your group? The Ellinwood Underground Tours offer an unforgettable experience for school field trips, corporate outings, birthday parties, and private events. Step beneath the streets and explore the hidden tunnels, historic storefronts, and fascinating stories of Ellinwood’s past. Our knowledgeable guides bring history to life, making it an interactive and educational experience perfect for students, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're planning a school trip, team-building event, or private group tour, we can customize the experience to fit your needs. Group rates available—book your underground adventure today!
SAVING THE TUNNELS
our story of saving the tunnels begins with Adrianna Dierhof
Adrianna Dierhof inherited what is now known as the Ellinwood Emporium from her uncle. She knew the history of the tunnels were something to be saved. The Cty of Ellinwood began to fill in the tunnels during the 1970's when they poured the concrete sidewalks. Thanks to Adrianna Dierhof, Ellinwood, Kansas, is the only place in the state with any tunnels remaining in relatively their original state.
