Meet Johnny Kaw —

The Giant of the Little Apple®

A larger-than-life legend rooted in Kansas folklore, right here in Manhattan.

If you’ve spotted the towering figure holding a scythe in City Park, you’ve already met Johnny Kaw, Manhattan’s most legendary resident. Standing 25 feet tall, this folk hero has become one of the city’s most recognizable icons and a must-see stop for visitors.

Part myth, part marketing genius, Johnny Kaw was created to celebrate Manhattan’s pioneering spirit—and today, he continues to welcome travelers with a smile as big as the Kansas sky.

The Tall Tale of Johnny Kaw

Illustrations of Johnny Kaw

Johnny Kaw is Kansas’ answer to larger-than-life American folk heroes like Paul Bunyan, Pecos Bill, and Finn McCool. His legend was created in 1955 by George Filinger, a horticulture professor at Kansas State University, as part of Manhattan’s centennial celebration.

Filinger’s stories imagined Johnny as a giant pioneer wheat farmer who shaped the Kansas landscape itself. According to the tales, Johnny Kaw:

Dug out the Kansas River Valley
Planted the state’s famous wheat fields
Invented sunflowers (Kansas’ state flower!)
Wrestled tornadoes by twisting off their funnels
Controlled the weather to help farmers

He even traveled with two feisty animal companions—a wildcat and a jayhawk—whose legendary scuffles were said to cause dust storms across the plains.

These stories were first published in the Manhattan Mercury and later compiled into a book featuring illustrations by Elmer J. Tomasch, helping establish Johnny Kaw as a uniquely Kansas folk hero.

The Story of Johnny Kaw Booklet Cover

A Landmark Built by the Community

Johnny Kaw’s legend leapt off the page and into reality with the construction of his iconic statue in 1966.

Located in Manhattan City Park, the statue:

Stands approximately 25 feet tall
Was built from concrete over a steel frame
Was funded entirely by local donations
Cost $7,000 to construct

The surrounding Johnny Kaw Plaza, updated in 2018, offers a welcoming space for photos, storytelling, and community pride.

Fun fact: Not long after the statue was installed, a tornado swept through Manhattan—but Johnny Kaw stood strong, adding to his legendary reputation.

A Must-See Stop in Manhattan

Whether you’re exploring the Flint Hills or strolling through town, Johnny Kaw is a can’t-miss attraction.

What visitors love:

• 📸 Perfect photo opportunity (don’t forget a selfie!)

• 🌳 Located in a 45-acre park with trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly destination with nearby splash park and open space

• 📍 Easy access from downtown Manhattan

Johnny Kaw isn’t just a statue—it’s a celebration of Kansas creativity, humor, and heritage.

For Kids: Meet the Giant Farmer!

Did you know Johnny Kaw could harvest an entire field of wheat with just one swing of his giant scythe?

Kids love imagining Johnny’s adventures! Here are some fun things to try during your visit:

Count how tall Johnny is (hint: taller than a house!)
Pretend you’re helping him plant giant sunflowers
Make up your own tall tale about Johnny Kaw
Spot the playground nearby for even more fun

Color Your Own Kansas Legend! Download the Johnny Kaw Coloring Page

Did You Know?

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