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.

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.