The Valley Falls Historical Society played host to local students from grades two through six celebrating Kansas Day, Friday, Jan. 28.
The students and teachers assembled at the museum at 30 minute intervals from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The teachers presented their students with a list of historical items to locate throughout the museum. Following the search, the visitors were invited to tour the museum and to see the collections, artifacts and antiques on display throughout the two-story building. Museum hosts were on hand to guide and answer questions.
The special interests of the groups were as varied as the ages and genders of the visitors. The sheepskin throw rug drew the attention of a few who chose to stretch out prone on the throw to experience the soft spun hair.
The baby stroller of recent vintage was recognized by more advanced groups while glittery party shoes, jewelry and a graduation dress were declared awesome. Some more conservative young women shunned the extravagance of the graduation attire.
Top honors for adult and youth admirers was won by the ever popular stereoscope. Lines formed by those waiting for a look-see of the hand-held "scope" to view the 3-D image of the post card type pictures displayed.
Close rivals in popularity were the country school desks and bench-like seats of graduated sizes for use by the student's physical size requirements. Ink wells, stick pens, slates, and first-year readers shared the rivalry.
Another crowd pleaser was the collection of Valley Falls high school senior graduation class composites. Young descendents surrounded the photo displays seeking school day pictures of parents, relatives or friends.
A miniature, partially functional typewriter from the bank, numerous cameras, toys, wagons and a scooter commanded viewing time from those whose interest focused on that historical era.
An antique album with thick pages of unidentified ancestral photos whetted the curiosity of a couple of youngsters. They were so intrigued they devoted their visiting time to carefully turning pages, commenting and frequently giggling about the wearing apparel and hair styles.
A small lad startled his peers by exclaiming "Isn't it fantastic?" when observing the huge display of intricate sailor's knots. His companion examined the larger knots of tightly bound cords with tiny exploring fingers.
Finale: A youthful departing guest announced "Wish I owned this place!"
The Valley Falls Historical Society's museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 12.
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