If you’ve spent any time exploring Topeka, you’ve likely noticed the distinctive Ichabod statues scattered throughout the city. These colorful, larger-than-life figures aren’t just public art—they’re a celebration of Washburn University’s 150th anniversary, which was commemorated in 2015.
In total, there are 14 Ichabod statues, each painted by a different local or regional artist. They’ve become iconic landmarks in Topeka, sparking conversations, selfies, and plenty of curiosity from both locals and visitors alike.
🤔 What Is an Ichabod?
It’s one of the most common questions Washburn staff hear from new students and Topeka residents:
“What even is an Ichabod?”
According to the Washburn University website:
“Washburn University and its Ichabods are both named for an early benefactor of the school – Ichabod Washburn. Washburn students began referring to themselves as Ichabods in the late 1800s, and a mascot was given an image in 1938.”
So, the next time someone asks, you’ll have an answer—and a local history fact to share.
đź“Ť Where to Find the Ichabods in Topeka
Want to find or take a look at all of the different statues in Topeka? We did the hard work… now you enjoy the pictures or go see all 14 of them in person! The Washburn Alumni Association has put together the map below of the statues locations below.
artist, sponsor, and location. Whether you’re planning a city-wide photo challenge or just want to admire a few of them in person, this guide will help you get started.
1. “150 Years In Stride”
- 🎨 Artist: Margaret Ramberg
- 🏢 Sponsor: Bartlett & West
- đź“Ť Location: NOTO Arts Center, 935 N. Kansas Ave.
2. “Ichabod Comes To The Prairie”
- 🎨 Artist: Peggy Clark
- 🏢 Sponsor: Kaw Valley Bank
- đź“Ť Location: 1110 N. Kansas Ave.
3. “Democracy In Education”
- 🎨 Artist: Patricia Kahn
- 🏢 Sponsor: Ramada Inn
- đź“Ť Location: 420 SE 6th Ave.
4. “A Good Day To You”
- 🎨 Artist: Larry Peters
- 🏢 Sponsor: Westar Energy
- đź“Ť Location: 818 S. Kansas Ave.
5. “In The Black”
- 🎨 Artist: Patricia Kahn
- 🏢 Sponsor: Topeka Chamber of Commerce
- đź“Ť Location: 120 SE 6th Ave.
6. “Then and Now”
- 🎨 Artist: Peggy Clark & Martha Imparato
- 🏢 Sponsor: Topeka Capital-Journal
- đź“Ť Location: 616 SE Jefferson St.
7. “Topeka BouleBod”
- 🎨 Artist: Barbara Waterman-Peters
- 🏢 Sponsor: Capitol Federal Savings
- đź“Ť Location: 1201 Topeka Blvd.
8. “Prairie Horizons”
- 🎨 Artist: Barbara Waterman-Peters
- 🏢 Sponsor: KU Health System St. Francis Campus
- đź“Ť Location: 1700 SW 7th St.
9. “Tribute to Aaron Douglas”
- 🎨 Artist: Susan McCarthy
- 🏢 Sponsor: Federal Home Loan Bank
- đź“Ť Location: Chandler Library Pavilion (SW Horne & SW Washburn)
10. “Excellence – 150 Years and Going Strong”
- 🎨 Artist: Colton Anderson
- 🏢 Sponsor: Washburn Alumni Association & Foundation
- đź“Ť Location: 1729 SW MacVicar Ave.
11. “Washburn Tech”
- 🎨 Artist: Nancy Palbicke
- 🏢 Sponsor: Washburn University
- đź“Ť Location: 5724 SW Huntoon St.
12. “Gift of Education”
- 🎨 Artist: Patty Kahn
- 🏢 Sponsor: Washburn University
- đź“Ť Location: Westridge Mall, 1801 SW Wanamaker Rd.
13. “Original Mr. Ichabod”
- 🎨 Artist: Larry Peters
- 🏢 Sponsor: MRH Insurance
- đź“Ť Location: 3735 SW Wanamaker Rd.
14. “You Are Washburn”
- 🎨 Artist: Washburn Rural High School Art Dept.
- 🏢 Sponsor: USD 437
- đź“Ť Location: Shuler Education Center, 5928 SW 53rd St.
🗺️ Want to See Them All?
The Washburn Alumni Association created a map of all Ichabod statue locations, perfect for a self-guided tour around Topeka. You can view it here or follow their signage downtown and near campus.
1. “150 Years In Stride”
!["Ichabod]("ichabod-statue-noto.jpg")
2. “Ichabod Comes To The Prairie”
!["Washburn]("washburn-ichabod-sculpture.jpg")
3. “Democracy In Education”
!["Map]("ichabod-map.jpg")
4. “A Good Day To You”
The Ichabods aren’t just sculptures—they’re part of Topeka’s identity.
5. “In The Black”
6. “Then and Now”
<img src="ichabod-map.jpg" alt="Map of Ichabod statues around Topeka Kansas" />
7. “Topeka BouleBod”
<img src="ichabod-map.jpg" alt="Map of Ichabod statues around Topeka Kansas" />
Seeing the Ichabods in person makes you feel the pride of Washburn’s legacy.
8. “Prairie Horizons”
<img src="ichabod-map.jpg" alt="Map of Ichabod statues around Topeka Kansas" />
9. “Tribute to Aaron Douglas”
<img src="ichabod-map.jpg" alt="Map of Ichabod statues around Topeka Kansas" />
10. “Excellence – 150 Years and Going Strong”
<img src="ichabod-map.jpg" alt="Map of Ichabod statues around Topeka Kansas" />
11. “Washburn Tech”
<img src="ichabod-map.jpg" alt="Map of Ichabod statues around Topeka Kansas" />
Many locals enjoy hunting down all 14 Ichabods as a fun family outing.
12. “Gift of Education”
<img src="ichabod-map.jpg" alt="Map of Ichabod statues around Topeka Kansas" />
13. “Original Mr. Ichabod”
<img src="ichabod-map.jpg" alt="Map of Ichabod statues around Topeka Kansas" />
14. “You are Washburn”
<img src="ichabod-map.jpg" alt="Map of Ichabod statues around Topeka Kansas" />
FAQs About Ichabods in Topeka
How many Ichabods are there in Topeka?
There are 14 Ichabod statues across Topeka, created in honor of Washburn University’s 150th anniversary.
What is the meaning of the Ichabod mascot?
The Ichabod is named after Ichabod Washburn, a benefactor of Washburn University.
Can I visit all the Ichabods in one day?
Yes! Use the Ichabod map to plan your route and see all 14 statues in a fun Topeka art tour.
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About the Author:
This article, Ichabods Around Town and Where to Find Them, was written by Justin Armbruster of the Armbruster Team at Genesis REALTORS®, your local Topeka experts in real estate, relocation, and community connection.
Call or text Justin at (785) 260-4384 or reach out through this form.
We proudly serve buyers and sellers in all Topeka school districts, including: Washburn Rural, Seaman, Shawnee Heights, and Topeka Public Schools (USD 501).
