Tryst Falls, Clay County's first park, a beauty spot on Williams Creek, was dedicated in May 1972. The land was first owned by Lonwig McCrory who operated a water mill at the falls in the 1840s and 1850s, and furnished cornmeal and wheat flour to the community. According to the late Mrs. Robert Steele Withers, county historian, the park was once a meeting place and picnic site for young couples. Hence the name. The pool, before 1883, had a tall pinnacle of rock which stood below the falls. High water dislodged it and tumbled rocks can be seen today. The 1913 postcard in color pictures a horseman crossing on what was then the south part of Highway 92, about three miles east of Kearney. When the new Highway 92 was being constructed workmen were about to blast out the old bridge and the rocky ledge pictured. Jim Trimble, then a state representative, saw them and phoned historic-minded officials in Jefferson City. The picturesque site was saved. Today the park remains a quiet sanctuary, its 19 acres ablaze with fall colors. Kansas City Times, November 1, 1985.
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