December 20, 2008
Holiday closing
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be closed on Saturday, December 27 for the holiday weekend.
2009 calendars
The Valley Falls Historical Society 2009 calendars:
• unique
• practical
• Valley Falls oriented
• collectors items
• pictures suitable for framing
• great gifts for $5.00
Available at Evelyn's, Stewart's Olde Store, The Vindicator office and the Historical Society Museum. Mail orders also accepted. Add $2.00 each for postage and handling. Request from VFHS Calendars, 310 Broadway, Valley Falls, KS 66088
• unique
• practical
• Valley Falls oriented
• collectors items
• pictures suitable for framing
• great gifts for $5.00
Available at Evelyn's, Stewart's Olde Store, The Vindicator office and the Historical Society Museum. Mail orders also accepted. Add $2.00 each for postage and handling. Request from VFHS Calendars, 310 Broadway, Valley Falls, KS 66088
December 11, 2008
Old-fashioned Christmas; Pearl Harbor remembered
by Betty Jane Wilson, historical society president
Inspired by Clement Clarke Moore’s immortal “Night Before Christmas.” reminisences of an old-fashioned Christmas developed into the theme for the seasonal window display at the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.
Dazzling sunlight reflections from huge, colored baubles replace traditional strings of tiny, twinkling electricity-fed bulbs spiraling and evergreen tree.
Gaily wrapped “mystery” gifts, toys and stuffed animals crowd around the tree. A vintage scooter and skates with shoes of questionable age add credence to past generations’ holiday celebration.
A bright, flaming fireplace completes the Christmas scene and reminder of Mr. Moore’s “Happy Christmas to All . . .” amid expressions of honor, blessings, patriotism, and holiday levity, the Veterans’ window remembers Pearl Harbor and commemorates the 67th anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Naval Installation Dec. 7, 1941, that plunged the country into war — changing the world forever.
“Reminder: Incessant prayers for peace are always in vogue.” BJW
Darlene Glassel, Geneva Lonard, and Ellen Schrick will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13. Admission is free.
Historical society 2009 calendars are available at the museum, Evelyn’s, Stewart Hardware, and the Vindicator office.
Inspired by Clement Clarke Moore’s immortal “Night Before Christmas.” reminisences of an old-fashioned Christmas developed into the theme for the seasonal window display at the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.
Dazzling sunlight reflections from huge, colored baubles replace traditional strings of tiny, twinkling electricity-fed bulbs spiraling and evergreen tree.
Gaily wrapped “mystery” gifts, toys and stuffed animals crowd around the tree. A vintage scooter and skates with shoes of questionable age add credence to past generations’ holiday celebration.
A bright, flaming fireplace completes the Christmas scene and reminder of Mr. Moore’s “Happy Christmas to All . . .” amid expressions of honor, blessings, patriotism, and holiday levity, the Veterans’ window remembers Pearl Harbor and commemorates the 67th anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Naval Installation Dec. 7, 1941, that plunged the country into war — changing the world forever.
“Reminder: Incessant prayers for peace are always in vogue.” BJW
Darlene Glassel, Geneva Lonard, and Ellen Schrick will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13. Admission is free.
Historical society 2009 calendars are available at the museum, Evelyn’s, Stewart Hardware, and the Vindicator office.
November 07, 2008
New display window lighting
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Cornucopia crammed with yields of an abundant harvest of food and contemporary table setting of fine china and flatware on linens of delicate handiwork preparatory to a bountiful feast set the scene for a Thanksgiving Day celebration. A portrait of an ancestral Native American astride his horse and with outstretched arms paying homage to the Great White Father completes the Valley Falls Historical Society museum display.
Individual military service flags, war-time hand weapons, medals of honor, military headgear, and photos of Valley Falls peace celebrations on display in the museum veterans window honor all veterans past and present on Veterans Day, November 11.
Notice if you will, that timed spotlights now draw attention to the museum and its window displays in the early hours of the evening. This is a new addition.
Anna Irwin, Lucile Smerchek, and Dalene Senn will be museum hosts Saturday, Nov. 8. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.
Cornucopia crammed with yields of an abundant harvest of food and contemporary table setting of fine china and flatware on linens of delicate handiwork preparatory to a bountiful feast set the scene for a Thanksgiving Day celebration. A portrait of an ancestral Native American astride his horse and with outstretched arms paying homage to the Great White Father completes the Valley Falls Historical Society museum display.
Individual military service flags, war-time hand weapons, medals of honor, military headgear, and photos of Valley Falls peace celebrations on display in the museum veterans window honor all veterans past and present on Veterans Day, November 11.
Notice if you will, that timed spotlights now draw attention to the museum and its window displays in the early hours of the evening. This is a new addition.
Anna Irwin, Lucile Smerchek, and Dalene Senn will be museum hosts Saturday, Nov. 8. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.
October 29, 2008
41st annual meeting
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
The Valley Falls Historical Society’s 41st annual meeting was held Oct. 26 at The Barn Bed and Breakfast Inn. There were 65 members and guests present, including exchange students from Poland and South Korea.
The following officers were elected to serve the society for 2008-2009: president, Betty Jane Wilson; vice president, Lesa Brose; secretary, Maxine Hefty; treasurer, Gary Coleman; directors, Joan Reichart, Kyle Quasebarth, and James Durand; historians, Arthur Strawn and Frank Shrimplin.
Guest speaker, Kirk Shapland, presented “Cody of the Plains,” a portrayal of plainsman and showman, Buffalo Bill Cody.
The society’s museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1. Calendars for 2008 and 2009 calendars are available at the museum.
The Valley Falls Historical Society’s 41st annual meeting was held Oct. 26 at The Barn Bed and Breakfast Inn. There were 65 members and guests present, including exchange students from Poland and South Korea.
The following officers were elected to serve the society for 2008-2009: president, Betty Jane Wilson; vice president, Lesa Brose; secretary, Maxine Hefty; treasurer, Gary Coleman; directors, Joan Reichart, Kyle Quasebarth, and James Durand; historians, Arthur Strawn and Frank Shrimplin.
Guest speaker, Kirk Shapland, presented “Cody of the Plains,” a portrayal of plainsman and showman, Buffalo Bill Cody.
The society’s museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1. Calendars for 2008 and 2009 calendars are available at the museum.
October 23, 2008
Museum ready for Halloween
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Black cats, a hoot owl, peaked witch’s hat, and battered broom surrounding a moonlit haunted house, earmarks of All Saints Eve set the mood for the window display at the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum. A lone figure with collection sacks waits for the “Trick-or-Treat” hour.
The veterans’ window, with a variety of American flags and Liberty posters emphasizes constant support of our troops.
Maxine Hefty, Patty Brown, and Joan Reichart will be museum hosts from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25.
2008 and 2009 historical society calendars are available at the museum. Other souvenir items will be available at the society’s annual dinner, Sunday, Oct. 26, at The Barn Bed and Breakfast. The event begins at 1:30 p.m.
Black cats, a hoot owl, peaked witch’s hat, and battered broom surrounding a moonlit haunted house, earmarks of All Saints Eve set the mood for the window display at the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum. A lone figure with collection sacks waits for the “Trick-or-Treat” hour.
The veterans’ window, with a variety of American flags and Liberty posters emphasizes constant support of our troops.
Maxine Hefty, Patty Brown, and Joan Reichart will be museum hosts from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25.
2008 and 2009 historical society calendars are available at the museum. Other souvenir items will be available at the society’s annual dinner, Sunday, Oct. 26, at The Barn Bed and Breakfast. The event begins at 1:30 p.m.
October 16, 2008
Century-old on display at museum
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Porcelain knobs and keys covered with celluloid are a few of the wonders of the Story & Clark Organ on display in the entry room of the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.
Once stored in the Historical Shrine Church, the instrument was transferred to the museum where the late Emile George disassembled and restored the century-old organ that originally featured brass reeds. George declared that everything that wasn’t wood or metal was replaced.
Historian Arthur Strawn helped strip the walnut cabinet of many varnishes and George restored the instrument, which contained some hand carved ornaments, with a fine satin finish. The ornate stool accompanying the organ was also restored by George.
Paintings by local artists, cabinets by local artisans, now deceased, and the historic depot fern are just a few of many items on display at the museum.
New 2009 calendars are available for $5.
Jamie Durand, Glenn Lester, and Galen Reichart will be hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 18. Admission is free.
Porcelain knobs and keys covered with celluloid are a few of the wonders of the Story & Clark Organ on display in the entry room of the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.
Once stored in the Historical Shrine Church, the instrument was transferred to the museum where the late Emile George disassembled and restored the century-old organ that originally featured brass reeds. George declared that everything that wasn’t wood or metal was replaced.
Historian Arthur Strawn helped strip the walnut cabinet of many varnishes and George restored the instrument, which contained some hand carved ornaments, with a fine satin finish. The ornate stool accompanying the organ was also restored by George.
Paintings by local artists, cabinets by local artisans, now deceased, and the historic depot fern are just a few of many items on display at the museum.
New 2009 calendars are available for $5.
Jamie Durand, Glenn Lester, and Galen Reichart will be hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 18. Admission is free.
October 10, 2008
Early-day photos are museum treat
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Three enlarged photographs of early-day Valley Falls scenes and a painting of a Valley Falls landmark mounted on the west wall of the entry room greet the visitor to the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.
The photographs were from glass negatives obtained by the late Dale Irwin from the photographic studio of early-day photographer, Alice Gardiner Sennrich. The pictures are of the first depot, a wooden building built in 1872, featuring three young school teachers (circa 1905), Lenora Steele, Maud Myers, and Anna Kamm, on the platform next to the train. Also shown at the station are Bert McClure and his milk wagon.
The Harness racing picture depicts races held at the old fairgrounds near the river and the photo of the Ferris wheel (1911) recalls the days when carnivals were held in the downtown area, many near Broadway and Sycamore. The painting of the Piazzek Mill, built on the Delaware River in 1855, was acquired by the late Virginia Reichart and donated to the museum. Mrs. Reichart had the paintings done from photographs by the now-deceased artist Donald O. Ballou, one-time resident of Brewster place, Topeka, where Mrs. Reichart resided for several years.
Darlene Glassel, Geneva Lonard, and Ellen Schrick will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11. Admission is free.
New, 2009 historical society calendars are available at the museum for $5. The 2008 calendars are still available for the same price.
Three enlarged photographs of early-day Valley Falls scenes and a painting of a Valley Falls landmark mounted on the west wall of the entry room greet the visitor to the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.
The photographs were from glass negatives obtained by the late Dale Irwin from the photographic studio of early-day photographer, Alice Gardiner Sennrich. The pictures are of the first depot, a wooden building built in 1872, featuring three young school teachers (circa 1905), Lenora Steele, Maud Myers, and Anna Kamm, on the platform next to the train. Also shown at the station are Bert McClure and his milk wagon.
The Harness racing picture depicts races held at the old fairgrounds near the river and the photo of the Ferris wheel (1911) recalls the days when carnivals were held in the downtown area, many near Broadway and Sycamore. The painting of the Piazzek Mill, built on the Delaware River in 1855, was acquired by the late Virginia Reichart and donated to the museum. Mrs. Reichart had the paintings done from photographs by the now-deceased artist Donald O. Ballou, one-time resident of Brewster place, Topeka, where Mrs. Reichart resided for several years.
Darlene Glassel, Geneva Lonard, and Ellen Schrick will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11. Admission is free.
New, 2009 historical society calendars are available at the museum for $5. The 2008 calendars are still available for the same price.
October 02, 2008
Recent visitors; banquet ticket information
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
July and August visitors to the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum were: Chet and Earlene Boyce, Wakomis, Okla.; Ellen Hefty, Akron, Ohio; Margaret and Dennis McGrath, Ft. Morgan, Colo.; Terry Urban, Hays; Shirley Arnold, Ozawkie; and James Sears, June Huston, Susan Phillips, Warren and June Boyce, Shirley Neibarger, Mildred Hefty, Anita Stutesman, Beverly Reichart, Alex Ferguson, Marie Lange and Danny Lange, all Valley Falls.
September visitors were: Andrew Lonard, Kansas City, Mo.; Doris McClenny Boisen, Miami Springs, Fla.; Robert Lonard, Houston, Texas; Dick Strecker, Hiltin Head Island, S.C.; Presha, Brock, and Celia Emmert, Alma; Ron Smith, Auburn; Clifford and Cora Belle Lobb and Erin J. Ellerman, all Nortonville; Karen Sue Gordon, Denison; Dan and Mildred Linn, Wichita; Chad Quasebarth, Centralia; Bill and Virginia Billings, Lancaster; Patrick and Linda Henry, Coffeyville; John, Erica, Austin, and Madison Acheson, Effingham; Debbie Weston and Robert Kramer, both Meriden; Karen Lonard, Lenexa; Gwen Towle and Sheila Strecker, Overland Park; Tony Lonard, Lawrence; Pat Yehle, Lawrence; Jim Palmber, Patricia McClenny Nix, Earlene and Roland Reichart, Connie and Rosemary Strole, Eleanor and Larry Strecker, all Topeka; Dianna Welsh, Valley Falls; Donna Dunn, Michael Brose, Tom and Leah Brown, Harold and Gladys Wunder, Veryle Gilleece, Ashley and Joann Westbrook, Karen Botkin, Phyllis Petesch, Marie Lange, Danny Lange, Linda Schneider, Heather Edwards, Gordon and Margaret Lowry, Terry and Sondra Sullivan, Edna Coleman, Eileen Bledsoe, Kyle, Laura, Jackson, and Myles Reich, Melody, Caylin, and Peyton Conser; Doug Arnold, Mary Henry, Francis and Rosalie Hosler; Ardith Spencer, Don Carder; Caleb Clark, Winona Deckard, Ted and Jessie Montgomery, Calleigh and Carson Clark; Jeanette Smith, Cleo Carson, Joe and Linda Heinen, Tam and Alvin Wilhite, Harry Leonard, Brandon Tucking, and Dalene Senn, all Valley Falls.
The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4. Admission is free.
The Valley Falls Historical Society’s 41st annual meeting will be held Sunday, Oct. 26, at The Barn Bed and Breakfast Inn, 14910 Blue Mound Road. Lunch will be served at 1:30, entertainment at 2 p.m. featuring Kirk Shapland, reenactor of Buffalo Bill, portraying “Cody of the Plains.”
Ticket prices are $15 for the meal and entertainment or $5 for entertainment only. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Kendall State Bank or from Gary Coleman, Betty Jane Wilson, Lesa Brose, Maxine Hefty, Frank Shrimplin, Kyle Quasebarth, Joan Reichart, or Jamie Durand.
July and August visitors to the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum were: Chet and Earlene Boyce, Wakomis, Okla.; Ellen Hefty, Akron, Ohio; Margaret and Dennis McGrath, Ft. Morgan, Colo.; Terry Urban, Hays; Shirley Arnold, Ozawkie; and James Sears, June Huston, Susan Phillips, Warren and June Boyce, Shirley Neibarger, Mildred Hefty, Anita Stutesman, Beverly Reichart, Alex Ferguson, Marie Lange and Danny Lange, all Valley Falls.
September visitors were: Andrew Lonard, Kansas City, Mo.; Doris McClenny Boisen, Miami Springs, Fla.; Robert Lonard, Houston, Texas; Dick Strecker, Hiltin Head Island, S.C.; Presha, Brock, and Celia Emmert, Alma; Ron Smith, Auburn; Clifford and Cora Belle Lobb and Erin J. Ellerman, all Nortonville; Karen Sue Gordon, Denison; Dan and Mildred Linn, Wichita; Chad Quasebarth, Centralia; Bill and Virginia Billings, Lancaster; Patrick and Linda Henry, Coffeyville; John, Erica, Austin, and Madison Acheson, Effingham; Debbie Weston and Robert Kramer, both Meriden; Karen Lonard, Lenexa; Gwen Towle and Sheila Strecker, Overland Park; Tony Lonard, Lawrence; Pat Yehle, Lawrence; Jim Palmber, Patricia McClenny Nix, Earlene and Roland Reichart, Connie and Rosemary Strole, Eleanor and Larry Strecker, all Topeka; Dianna Welsh, Valley Falls; Donna Dunn, Michael Brose, Tom and Leah Brown, Harold and Gladys Wunder, Veryle Gilleece, Ashley and Joann Westbrook, Karen Botkin, Phyllis Petesch, Marie Lange, Danny Lange, Linda Schneider, Heather Edwards, Gordon and Margaret Lowry, Terry and Sondra Sullivan, Edna Coleman, Eileen Bledsoe, Kyle, Laura, Jackson, and Myles Reich, Melody, Caylin, and Peyton Conser; Doug Arnold, Mary Henry, Francis and Rosalie Hosler; Ardith Spencer, Don Carder; Caleb Clark, Winona Deckard, Ted and Jessie Montgomery, Calleigh and Carson Clark; Jeanette Smith, Cleo Carson, Joe and Linda Heinen, Tam and Alvin Wilhite, Harry Leonard, Brandon Tucking, and Dalene Senn, all Valley Falls.
The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4. Admission is free.
The Valley Falls Historical Society’s 41st annual meeting will be held Sunday, Oct. 26, at The Barn Bed and Breakfast Inn, 14910 Blue Mound Road. Lunch will be served at 1:30, entertainment at 2 p.m. featuring Kirk Shapland, reenactor of Buffalo Bill, portraying “Cody of the Plains.”
Ticket prices are $15 for the meal and entertainment or $5 for entertainment only. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Kendall State Bank or from Gary Coleman, Betty Jane Wilson, Lesa Brose, Maxine Hefty, Frank Shrimplin, Kyle Quasebarth, Joan Reichart, or Jamie Durand.
September 30, 2008
2009 calendars now available
The Valley Falls Historical Society 2009 calendars are now available at the museum, Evelyn’s, Stewart’s Olde Store and The Vindicator, all in Valley Falls. The cost is $8.00. There are a few 2008 calendars left, cost for those is $5.00.
September 11, 2008
Mural depicts town's railroad history
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Original photographs from the Valley Falls Historical Society files were the inspiration for the colorful Delaware River mural on display in the museum’s east window.
Representative of the late 1880s era, the old railroad bridge pictured in the foreground, parallel with the wagon bridge in the background, supports the Kansas Central Train. The elevator and mill, vital to the community’s economy, add credence to the historical scene.
A miniature locamotive with attached box cars, surrounded by vintage photos of Valley Falls train depots updates the city’s history as a popular railroad town.
An enlarged portrait of pioneer mill owner, operator and benefactor Joseph Piazzek surveys the scene including the grasshopper for whom the town was orginally named, Grasshopper Falls.
The museum’s west window is devoted entirely to the memory and anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, tragic terrorist attack that devastated the nation and shocked the world.
Anita Stutesman, Lesa Brose and Joan Reichart will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13.
The historical society will observe Grasshopper Falls Fun Day with free cider and doughnuts for visitors at the museum.
Original photographs from the Valley Falls Historical Society files were the inspiration for the colorful Delaware River mural on display in the museum’s east window.
Representative of the late 1880s era, the old railroad bridge pictured in the foreground, parallel with the wagon bridge in the background, supports the Kansas Central Train. The elevator and mill, vital to the community’s economy, add credence to the historical scene.
A miniature locamotive with attached box cars, surrounded by vintage photos of Valley Falls train depots updates the city’s history as a popular railroad town.
An enlarged portrait of pioneer mill owner, operator and benefactor Joseph Piazzek surveys the scene including the grasshopper for whom the town was orginally named, Grasshopper Falls.
The museum’s west window is devoted entirely to the memory and anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, tragic terrorist attack that devastated the nation and shocked the world.
Anita Stutesman, Lesa Brose and Joan Reichart will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13.
The historical society will observe Grasshopper Falls Fun Day with free cider and doughnuts for visitors at the museum.
September 04, 2008
Museum open house on Grasshopper Falls Day to follow renovation
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Scaffolding, ladders, drop cloths, brushes, and cans of paint in front of 310 Broadway are proof positive the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum exterior is undergoing a facelift.
The scarred and weather-beaten wood beneath the windows and the doorway has a new coat of paint. The screen door has been rebuilt with new hinges and screen.
The two-story McCammon structure, built of native limestone in 1884, has housed a variety of tenants, including several hardware stores. It provided a bank interior setting for the movie “Kansas.”
The historical society purchased the building in 1987 through the efforts of the late Greever Allan, who spearheaded a fund drive that raised $30,000 for the purchase.
The museum was opened to the public in 1990.
The second floor became available for additional exhibit space when an interior stairway was completed in 1991.
Plans are in the offering for an open house with free refreshments concurrent with Grasshopper Falls Funday, Sept. 20.
Dee Bayless and Ella Mae Holding will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Scaffolding, ladders, drop cloths, brushes, and cans of paint in front of 310 Broadway are proof positive the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum exterior is undergoing a facelift.
The scarred and weather-beaten wood beneath the windows and the doorway has a new coat of paint. The screen door has been rebuilt with new hinges and screen.
The two-story McCammon structure, built of native limestone in 1884, has housed a variety of tenants, including several hardware stores. It provided a bank interior setting for the movie “Kansas.”
The historical society purchased the building in 1987 through the efforts of the late Greever Allan, who spearheaded a fund drive that raised $30,000 for the purchase.
The museum was opened to the public in 1990.
The second floor became available for additional exhibit space when an interior stairway was completed in 1991.
Plans are in the offering for an open house with free refreshments concurrent with Grasshopper Falls Funday, Sept. 20.
Dee Bayless and Ella Mae Holding will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
August 25, 2008
Historical society rooms made for browsing
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Although our boots aren’t “made for walking” (they’re fashionable), our rooms are made for browsing (and we have several).
Local artists’ paintings, mega photos from glass negatives, wooden plaques listing historical society benefactors, life members, and memorial recipients, military apparel and artifacts, a reed organ, and the famous “Depot Fern” greet the visitor to the entrance of the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.
Browsing rooms feature yesteryear sports gear, merchant photos, and establishments including a barber shop replica complete with striped pole (sans quartet) showcases with postal work items and a prized Grasshopper Falls stamp canceler, sewing necessities, railroad equipment, and a variety of telephones surrounded by operator photos.
China cabinets with interior lighting display shelves of antique glass and dinnerware, a Linotype and equipment used to publish the Valley Falls Vindicator occupies an entire corner of the room lined with advertising mirrors from various barber shops.
Toys, dolls, wagons, and scooters, prior to motorized vehicles, and games claim a share of browsing. A corner devoted to the pharmaceutical profession contains an enviable collection of supplies and neccessities, plus an 1872 prescription book.
Recently-installed, overhead, miniature spotlights illuminate the scenic theatrical curtain that emphasizes merchants wares, and is reminiscent of stage presentations of year’s past.
Twelve dozen egg crates, monkey wrenches, cow kickers, and animal nose snubs draw attention to shelves and walls lined with “tools of the trade.”
Second-floor browsing rooms are filled with wedding and graduation dress fashions, and a millinery shop, high school senior class composites, school trophies, country school memorabilia, bank paraphernalia, fraternal organization material, Rio Theatre movie posters, photographic enlargers, cameras, and film developers, utility room “back breakers,” including hand-operated clothes washer and wringer and a flat iron.
The Sam Strawn Room boasts quilts, coal room heater, pineapple legged dining table, womens’ high-topped, laced, pointed-toe shoes (boots aforementioned), baby clothes, and antique samplers.
Although our boots aren’t “made for walking” (they’re fashionable), our rooms are made for browsing (and we have several).
Local artists’ paintings, mega photos from glass negatives, wooden plaques listing historical society benefactors, life members, and memorial recipients, military apparel and artifacts, a reed organ, and the famous “Depot Fern” greet the visitor to the entrance of the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.
Browsing rooms feature yesteryear sports gear, merchant photos, and establishments including a barber shop replica complete with striped pole (sans quartet) showcases with postal work items and a prized Grasshopper Falls stamp canceler, sewing necessities, railroad equipment, and a variety of telephones surrounded by operator photos.
China cabinets with interior lighting display shelves of antique glass and dinnerware, a Linotype and equipment used to publish the Valley Falls Vindicator occupies an entire corner of the room lined with advertising mirrors from various barber shops.
Toys, dolls, wagons, and scooters, prior to motorized vehicles, and games claim a share of browsing. A corner devoted to the pharmaceutical profession contains an enviable collection of supplies and neccessities, plus an 1872 prescription book.
Recently-installed, overhead, miniature spotlights illuminate the scenic theatrical curtain that emphasizes merchants wares, and is reminiscent of stage presentations of year’s past.
Twelve dozen egg crates, monkey wrenches, cow kickers, and animal nose snubs draw attention to shelves and walls lined with “tools of the trade.”
Second-floor browsing rooms are filled with wedding and graduation dress fashions, and a millinery shop, high school senior class composites, school trophies, country school memorabilia, bank paraphernalia, fraternal organization material, Rio Theatre movie posters, photographic enlargers, cameras, and film developers, utility room “back breakers,” including hand-operated clothes washer and wringer and a flat iron.
The Sam Strawn Room boasts quilts, coal room heater, pineapple legged dining table, womens’ high-topped, laced, pointed-toe shoes (boots aforementioned), baby clothes, and antique samplers.
August 22, 2008
Ramp and hand rails new at Shrine Church
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
A white, walk-up ramp with hand rails added to the entrance of the Shrine church enhance the beauty and accessibility to the building. Designated a state historical shrine in the 1970s, the structure, located at the intersection of K-16 and Elm Streets is the first Lutheran Church built in Kansas.
Owned and maintained by the Valley Falls Historical Society, the Shrine is open to visitors by advance arrangement. Call Gary Coleman, (785) 945-3231, or Betty Jane Wilson, (785) 945- 3576 for an appointment.
The museum on Broadway Street will be open Saturday, Aug. 23, with hosts Galen Reichart and Glen Lester. Admission is free. Guided tours are available.
A white, walk-up ramp with hand rails added to the entrance of the Shrine church enhance the beauty and accessibility to the building. Designated a state historical shrine in the 1970s, the structure, located at the intersection of K-16 and Elm Streets is the first Lutheran Church built in Kansas.
Owned and maintained by the Valley Falls Historical Society, the Shrine is open to visitors by advance arrangement. Call Gary Coleman, (785) 945-3231, or Betty Jane Wilson, (785) 945- 3576 for an appointment.
The museum on Broadway Street will be open Saturday, Aug. 23, with hosts Galen Reichart and Glen Lester. Admission is free. Guided tours are available.
July 10, 2008
'Johnny' stories recounted in news clips
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
"Coal Oil Johnny" of Valley Falls ran the oil horse-drawn tank wagon from Arrington to Oskaloosa with intermediate stops.
News editors along the route recounted "Johnny" stories in the New Era. This from the Sept. 23, 1904 issue: "Coal Oil Johnny of Valley Falls was here and at Larkin Friday. He arrived about noon. His four faithful mules were dry and hungry.
"Summers fed them all they would eat – a half dozen ears of corn each and quenched their thirst with a few bottles of mineral water.
"Johnny was hungry too . . . but he did not eat as much as usual. He could only hide sever of the fat roasting ears an Indian maiden had fetched him, trading the others for three cold bottles somebody found in a well. Then he had no trouble disposing of 500 gallons of coal oil and gas. (Arrington Argus)"
New Era, Oct. 14, 1904: "Coal Oil Johnny lost a mule on his way home from Oskaloosa one night last week. He came to a bridge on where there were no side rails and the team scared at something and one mule pushed the other off, the fall killing it.
"The accident happened in Delaware Township and he will bring suit for damages. (Winchester Star)"
New Era, Dec. 27, 1906: (Johnny was city marshall of Valley Falls) "The city marshall having found all well on his beat at 3 o'clock Christmas morning, retired for a little sleep when a knock at his door aroused him. In his night dress, he opened the door to find himself confronting a man with blood on his eye inquiring for a missing horse and buggy.
"The marshal had put the horse in the feed stable. The man objected to parting with a quarter for stable charges . . . Hot words followed and a lively tussle ensued. In the melee, the waistband buttons of the marshal's gauzy garment flow off and his feet became entangled in the
fallen garb.
"Freeing himself, the marshal fled to his room for some needed apparel, but when he came clothed in battle array, his man was gone."
H. M. Dodge, nicknamed "Coal Oil Johnny," was later listed as "the cement man," and there is no other information available. (Source: Valley Falls Historical Society Newsletter, Dec. 29, 1970.)
July 03, 2008
June visitors
June visitors to the museum were:
Roy and Delores Haun, Canton, N.C.; Mike and Jen Goudzwaard, Lynnwood, Wash.; Laura Coker, Corpus Christi, Texas; Dennis Ferrell, Stillwater, Okla.; Elva Ferrell, Midwest City, Okla.; David and Susan Rader, Yukon, Okla.; Patricia Jamison, Greer, S.C.; Mr. and Mrs. Louis Geneva (Jayne Hurst), Cleveland Heights, Ohio; Sherry Hurst, Ashtabuch, Ohio; Pam Hurst Leitner, Divide, Colo.; Candace Hurst, Tijeras, N.M.; Roberta Hurst Watson, Roseville, Calif.; Linda Bono, Mayetta; Florence Kirby Schadt, Empria; Essie Newman Bays, Maple Hill; Elinor Cowell, Topeka; Pastors Dean and Norma Thompson, Concordia; Arthur Strawn, Nortonville, recently from Valley Falls; and Kris Brock, Jared Sloop, Eric Wilson, Marie Lange, Danny Lange, and Craig Gunther, all Valley Falls.
Roz Jackson, Roberta Holt and Betty Jane Wilson will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, July 5. Admission is free.
Roy and Delores Haun, Canton, N.C.; Mike and Jen Goudzwaard, Lynnwood, Wash.; Laura Coker, Corpus Christi, Texas; Dennis Ferrell, Stillwater, Okla.; Elva Ferrell, Midwest City, Okla.; David and Susan Rader, Yukon, Okla.; Patricia Jamison, Greer, S.C.; Mr. and Mrs. Louis Geneva (Jayne Hurst), Cleveland Heights, Ohio; Sherry Hurst, Ashtabuch, Ohio; Pam Hurst Leitner, Divide, Colo.; Candace Hurst, Tijeras, N.M.; Roberta Hurst Watson, Roseville, Calif.; Linda Bono, Mayetta; Florence Kirby Schadt, Empria; Essie Newman Bays, Maple Hill; Elinor Cowell, Topeka; Pastors Dean and Norma Thompson, Concordia; Arthur Strawn, Nortonville, recently from Valley Falls; and Kris Brock, Jared Sloop, Eric Wilson, Marie Lange, Danny Lange, and Craig Gunther, all Valley Falls.
Roz Jackson, Roberta Holt and Betty Jane Wilson will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, July 5. Admission is free.
June 05, 2008
Father's Day displays
The museum will honor Dads with Happy Father's Day greetings from former days.
Poster cartoons of fatherly vocations and a floor scattered with tools of the trade enhance the display.
An assortment of flags from regulation to miniature size serve to honor Old Glory.
Roz Jackson, Roberta Holt, and Betty Jane Wilson will be the museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free.
Poster cartoons of fatherly vocations and a floor scattered with tools of the trade enhance the display.
An assortment of flags from regulation to miniature size serve to honor Old Glory.
Roz Jackson, Roberta Holt, and Betty Jane Wilson will be the museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free.
May 29, 2008
Memorial Day visitors
Memorial Day holiday weekend visitors to the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum were:
Mailyn Bernthal, Lincoln, Neb.,; Helen and Hoot Gibson, Rapid City, S.D.; Bruce and Inez Timmons, San Antonio, Texas; Jerry and Lorraine Ferrell, Des Moines, Iowa; Rosemary (Murphy) and Earl Weissgerksen, Menominee, Mich.; Ina Neubauer, Oregon City, Ore.; John and Herta Frommer, Lee's Summit, Mo.; Rollie and Elizabeth Hester, Dallas; Steve and Lauren Stoskopf, Leawood; Marlene Reichart Towle, Overland Park; Alice Burns Edmond and Bethany and Theresa Crubel, Manhattan; Pat Wilkerson, El Dorado; Deanna Hardenburger, Olathe; Judy Basnett, Shawnee; Lois Reichart Beames, Charles and Norma McMullen, Shirley Allen, Roger Barnes, Marlene Smith, Janet Barnes Burton, and Vera Irwin, all Topeka; and Patsy Frommer, Lee Botkin, and Francis and Virginia Grollmes, all Valley Falls.
Darlene Glassel, Maxine Hefty and Mary Maxfield will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 31. Admission is free. Guided tours are available.
-Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Mailyn Bernthal, Lincoln, Neb.,; Helen and Hoot Gibson, Rapid City, S.D.; Bruce and Inez Timmons, San Antonio, Texas; Jerry and Lorraine Ferrell, Des Moines, Iowa; Rosemary (Murphy) and Earl Weissgerksen, Menominee, Mich.; Ina Neubauer, Oregon City, Ore.; John and Herta Frommer, Lee's Summit, Mo.; Rollie and Elizabeth Hester, Dallas; Steve and Lauren Stoskopf, Leawood; Marlene Reichart Towle, Overland Park; Alice Burns Edmond and Bethany and Theresa Crubel, Manhattan; Pat Wilkerson, El Dorado; Deanna Hardenburger, Olathe; Judy Basnett, Shawnee; Lois Reichart Beames, Charles and Norma McMullen, Shirley Allen, Roger Barnes, Marlene Smith, Janet Barnes Burton, and Vera Irwin, all Topeka; and Patsy Frommer, Lee Botkin, and Francis and Virginia Grollmes, all Valley Falls.
Darlene Glassel, Maxine Hefty and Mary Maxfield will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 31. Admission is free. Guided tours are available.
-Betty Jane Wilson, society president
May 20, 2008
Memorial Day and reunion hours
The museum will have special hours for visiting alumni and invites resdients to take a tour and see the many new displays.
The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and then again on Sunday, immediately following the reunion dinner at the township hall.
Guided tours will be available and the society will have calendars for sale.
The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and then again on Sunday, immediately following the reunion dinner at the township hall.
Guided tours will be available and the society will have calendars for sale.
May 14, 2008
Historic fern offspring scattered
The purchase of the last offspring of the Santa Fe Depot fern left the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum recently.
The 18 starts divided from the parent plant in the spring of 2007 boast of owners local, state and out of state, including a single sprout stuck in a foam cup full of dirt and taken to Arizona.
The original plant continues to flourish on its pedestal at the museum. The plant dates back to 1914 or 1915.
- Betty Jane Wilson, president
The 18 starts divided from the parent plant in the spring of 2007 boast of owners local, state and out of state, including a single sprout stuck in a foam cup full of dirt and taken to Arizona.
The original plant continues to flourish on its pedestal at the museum. The plant dates back to 1914 or 1915.
- Betty Jane Wilson, president
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