Merriam has undergone a remarkable transformation from its humble beginnings in the 1950s to its modern identity as a vibrant, suburban community. Our history reflects evolution through infrastructure developments, community initiatives, and a strong focus on enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors. This timeline captures significant milestones, beginning with Merriam’s incorporation in 1950 and leading up to its 75th birthday celebration in 2025!
October 23, 1950
Merriam officially became an incorporated city of the third class. This was in response to the growing population and need for local governance. City services included police protection, street maintenance, super of public health, a swimming pool, and a volunteer fire department. The first city hall was on the corner of 58th St. and Kessler. The population was 1,640.
November 24, 1950
The first city council meeting was held with Carl R. Engel serving as the first mayor. Council members also served as law enforcement, and Carl Looper was appointed town marshall, without pay.
May 1951
Two full time police officers were hired – Perry Carver and John Conner. Both provided their own vehicles with lights and sirens.
1956
Merriam welcomed the first public library (former Antioch branch) and the first public park in Johnson County (Antioch Park).
Construction of I-35 through Merriam began.
Jan. 18 1957
Merriam transitioned to a city of the second class, reflecting its development and population growth to 4,327 residents.
1960–80s
Merriam continued to grow as a suburban community with new residential and commercial developments. Its proximity to Kansas City made it an attractive location for families and businesses.
1961
Merriam City Hall opened on 62nd Terrace.
1962
First full-service hospital, Shawnee Mission Medical Center (now called AdventHealth) opened. It had 65 beds and it was the first suburban hospital in the metro.
1963
The Merriam Dolphins swim team was created.
1964
Georgetown Apartment Complex was developed by J.C. Nichols as the first luxury apartment complex in northeast Johnson County.
1969-1972
Merriam is the home of the first Johnson County Community College location.
1970
Population hits 11,000 residents.
1973
Julius McFarlin was the first African American elected to political office in Johnson County.
1975
Merriam purchased land for $1 from the Urban Renewal Agency of Merriam to establish Brown Memorial Park, the City's first park.
1977
The Johnson Drive bridge over Turkey Creek was closed after a flood. The bridge was reconstructed in 1980.
1985
Merriam hosted the first Turkey Creek Festival.
The Merriam Aquatic Center was built at 6040 Slater St.
1989
The Irene B. French Community Center opened at 5701 Merriam Drive.
1990s
Merriam strengthened its local economy, particularly in retail and small businesses. The city invested in parks and public amenities, enhancing the quality of life for residents.
1993
Turkey Creek Streamway Trail was proposed. The trail was constructed in segments with the final addition connecting Werner Park to Waterfall Park in 2006.
1996
The Merriam Public Works facility opened at 6901 Knox St.
March 8, 1997
The Tim Murphy Art Gallery hosts its first show – the Heartland Pastel Exhibition.
1998
Merriam Town Center opened at Johnson Drive and Antioch Road.
1999
Merriam establishes a Farmers' Market held at Waterfall Park.
2000s
Significant infrastructure improvements were made, including enhancements to roads and public spaces. The city expanded its recreational offerings with new parks and facilities.
2000
Merriam hosted the first Turkey Creek Car and Motorcycle Show in downtown Merriam.
2001
Merriam Marketplace opened as the new home for the Farmers' Market. The marketplace was made possible by Merriam voters approving a 1/8-cent sales tax in 1998.
2004
The new police station was built and City Hall was remodeled, adding a new council chambers and changing the front to face north.
2006
Flags 4 Freedom was created by a group of Merriam residents and known as the largest flag field in the state of Kansas.
Merriam Historic Plaza & Visitors Bureau opened on Shawnee Mission Parkway and East Frontage Road.
2014
Merriam welcomed IKEA to its mix of retail offerings, the first in the state of Kansas.
2017
Expedia names Merriam a “top tourist-friendly city” in the U.S.
2018
Niche names Merriam one of “the top 20 places to live” in Kansas.
2020
The city celebrated the opening of the new Merriam Community Center and continued to enhance its public spaces.
When demolishing the former Irene B. French Community Center along Merriam Drive, a time capsule was discovered dating back to 1911.
2024
92% of Merriam residents are satisfied with the overall quality of life in the City.
The new Merriam Plaza Library branch opened.
Walker School (Philadelphia Missionary Baptist Church) named to the Kansas Register of Historic Places.
2025
Merriam turns 75 and celebrates with a birthday party on October 23, 2025 at the Merriam Marketplace!
Learn more about Merriam's history.