The Evel Knievel Museum, Topeka, Kansas

Posted byChristi IfferganPosted inKansasTags:, ,

One of the first places I visited in Topeka, Kansas, was the Evel Knievel Museum.  I grew up knowing of Evel Knievel. I knew that he rode a motorcycle & was a daredevil, but not much more.

Ever wonder how he got the name Evel Knievel?  Here is the story. 

Evel Knievel joined US Army & after being discharged, he tried his hand at several jobs including:

  • Security service owner
  • Member & promoter of semi-pro hockey team
  • Hunting & fishing guide
  • Insurance sales

Then, he opened a Honda motorcycle dealership & began promoting motorcycle racing.  Soon after, he started his own motorcycle stunt show & called it “Evel Knievel & His Motorcycle Daredevils.”

In this show, he performed wheelies, crashed through plywood firewalls and jumped over two pick-up trucks. 

This first show was a huge success. More shows were scheduled and the jumps got bigger.

These pictures are of his motorcycles and the truck he used to haul all of his equipment.

In his 11-year motorcycle-jumping career in the 1960s and ’70s, Knievel attempted more than 75 jumps, becoming just as famous for the stunts he landed as those he didn’t. Knievel died in 2007 at the age of 69 from pulmonary fibrosis.

I enjoyed the museum but I still had one more thing to do before I left.  They offer a 4D jump where you can experience one of Evel Knievel’s jumps.  I wore a virtual reality headset & earphones while riding the motorcycle. The motorcycle leans into the turns and you feel butterflies when you “jump.” If you visit the museum, be sure to include a jump!

Published by Christi Iffergan

Hi! I am Christi, a full-time RV traveller since August 2021. I have always loved to travel, but COVID-19 put a stop to that. I was fast approaching 50, my condo was being placed up for sale and I was ready for a major change. Originally from a tiny town in rural Southwest Virginia, I am the mother to one son and a rescue Shih Tzu, Cappy. For the last 20 years, I worked in public library systems around the Charlotte & Myrtle Beach areas. I met some amazing people and made great friends along the way. Follow along on my adventures as I travel the US. I hope that our paths will cross one day!

9 thoughts on “The Evel Knievel Museum, Topeka, Kansas”

  4. I remember Evel Knievel, too! I seem to recall many times he had broken bones, etc. While I don’t remember the specifics, I do remember some crazy stunts. I also think he wanted to jump across the Grand Canyon, but I don’t think he did it. Fun post!

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  5. As always reading your blog is a learning experience. I enjoy reading every word. You have a wonderful Easter Sunday and a great dinner. I know you will never lack for company.

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