by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Adopted in May 1861 by the Kansas Legislature — the Great Seal of Kansas. A colorful replica of the official seal of the state dominates the January window display of the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.
“Ad Astra Per Aspera,” translated “To the Stars Through Difficulty” is the state slogan. The seal features a half circle and a prairie landscape design with a settler’s cabin a river with steamboat, and buffalo pursued by Indian hunters. Thousands of American Buffalo roamed the Kansas prairies during the state’s Territorial Days. The animal was designated the official animal of Kansas in 1955. A painting of a Western Meadowlark overlooks the Kansas scene. The bird won the distinction of official state bird in 1937. The cottonwood tree gained fame as official state tree the same year. “Home on the Range” was selected as the state song by the 1947 Legislature.
A scattering of history books, maps, and travel brochures surrounded by the box turtle, a reptile, and honey bee have been added to the window scene. The last three were later designated official state wildlife. Travel pamphlets document the history and versatility of the state. Bunches of sunflowers, the native wildflower designated official state flower in 1903, serve as reminders that known worldwide as the Sunflower State, Kansas was admitted to the union as the 34th state Jan. 29, 1861. Happy Birthday, Kansas!
Sharing birthday remembrances, the Veterans’ window features a portrait of the late Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. centered among American and service organization flags, followed by the words, “I Have a Dream” immortalized by the renowned activist and civil rights leader.
The historical society museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, weather permitting. Call 785-945-3576, Betty Jane Wilson, for group or individual tour information.
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