In 2014, we celebrated our 20th anniversary. Today, we proudly reflect on more than 25 years of preserving and promoting the historic trails in the Greater Kansas City area.

Founders: Lee and Dorothy Kroh

Lee Kroh, a passionate Santa Fe Trail enthusiast since 1960, traveled the entire trail more than 25 times. With Dorothy driving, Lee mapped the routes using topographic maps, old landmarks, and remnants of the trail itself. Dorothy, who grew up in the Morris community of Wyandotte County, brought deep local knowledge and a strong commitment to preserving the history of the Santa Fe Trail and the Fort Leavenworth–Fort Scott Military Road.

Their dedication began in 1992 when a challenge from the National Park Service inspired them and others to “write it down.” What started as a local mapping effort in Morris grew into the formal founding of the Kansas City Area Historic Trails Association (KCAHTA) in 1993.

Thanks to Lee and Dorothy’s vision, research, and hard work, KCAHTA has grown into a respected organization with over 70 members. We continue their legacy through mapping, marking trails with our signature brown signs, installing interpretive exhibits, education, and strong partnerships with local communities and the National Park Service.

We are deeply grateful to Lee and Dorothy Kroh. Without their passion and dedication, KCAHTA would not exist today.