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Category Archives: History
Dinosaurs Are Coming to Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heros from June 15 to July 11
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Food For The Journey: Kansas Stories at The Gordon Parks Museum
Presentation Explores African American Food Traditions in Kansas
Fort Scott, KS. – The Gordon Parks Museum in Fort Scott, Kansas will host “Food for the Journey: Kansas Stories,” an interactive presentation and demonstration by Theressa Rice that will take place on June 19, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at The Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center at 2108 S. Horton St. Members of the community are invited to attend the free event. Contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext. 5850 for more information. The event is part of “Kansas Folklife: Celebrating Kansas Traditions,” a series of folklife presentations developed by Humanities Kansas recognizing the nation’s milestone 250th anniversary.
This is a free Lunch and Learn event, with drinks and desserts provided.
“Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this presentation event to learn more about the Kansas Folklife and the journey of African Americans migration from the south” said Museum Director, Kirk Sharp.
As African Americans made their way to Kansas, what foods came with them? Theressa Rice’s presentation is rooted in stories – stories from her history, her grandparents’ farm, her family’s migration from Oklahoma and Texas, and the food that graced the table for Sunday Supper once they reached their destination. Some stories might sound familiar – hunting for rabbits, frying up chickens, boiling potatoes dug straight from the ground, and picking berries off the vine to make into a delicious pie. Audience members will connect to these timeless traditions that stretch across generations (and maybe even get a slice of homemade pie to try).
Theressa Rice is a storyteller, baker, and small business owner.
“Kansas Folklife: Celebrating Kansas Traditions” is part of “By the People: Beyond 250,” a national initiative of the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.
For more information about “Food for the Journey: Kansas Stories” in Fort Scott, Kansas, contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext.5850 or visit gordonparkscenter.org
About Humanities Kansas
Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas. Since 1972, HK’s programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and invite new insights. Together with statewide partners and supporters, HK encourages Kansans to draw on diverse histories, literatures, and cultures to create connections with one another and strengthen Kansas communities and our democracy. Visit humanitieskansas.org.
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Fort Scott Stories Documentary Film Returns for Encore Theatrical Version
Fort Scott, Kan. June. 2, 2026 – The Gordon Parks Museum, in partnership with photojournalist and documentary filmmaker D. Michael Cheers, recipient of the 2025 Choice of Weapons Award, proudly presents the encore screening of Fort Scott Stories, the theatrical version. The feature-length documentary is inspired by Gordon Parks.
The screening will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, as part of the 23rd Annual Gordon Parks Celebration that is taking place October 1 – 3, 2026. General admission doors will open at 12:30 p.m., followed by the film screening at 1:00 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required.
Fort Scott Stories offers a compelling and intimate portrait of present-day Fort Scott, capturing the heartbeat, character, and vibrancy of a community rich in history, resilience, and diverse cultural experiences. Through the voices of residents spanning generations, from youth to elders, business owners to church members, the documentary weaves together authentic narratives that reflect both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life in Fort Scott that reflects the city’s enduring spirt.
“Fort Scott Stories is about honoring the everyday lives that shape a community,” said D. Michael Cheers. “Gordon Parks taught us that there is power, dignity, and beauty in telling people’s stories with honesty and care. This film is my creative way of continuing that conversation, by listening deeply, bearing witness, and allowing Fort Scott to speak for itself.”
Inspired by Gordon Parks’ unpublished LIFE magazine assignment in Fort Scott in 1950, this film continues his legacy of truth-telling through art, empathy, and vision.
“We are very fortunate to have this film being shown once again here in Fort Scott with the shortened length theatrical version.” said Kirk Sharp, Executive Director of the Gordon Parks Museum. “We had a had packed house for the premiere of the film this past April, and we expect even a larger crowd for the encore screening. Fort Scott Stories will make you smile, cry, and feel inspired and empowered. It is an honest and deeply human reflection of a community, seen through compassion, memory, and hope. The film is both a continuation of history and a living conversation about where we came from, and who we are today.”
The documentary also features actor Kyle Johnson, who portrayed Gordon Parks in the 1968 film The Learning Tree and is a 2021 Choice of Weapons Award recipient.
Ticket registration is available through the Gordon Parks Museum website event page at
https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events or by calling 620-223-2700, ext. 5850.
Running Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes.
Limited Edition DVDs will be on sale following the showing.
For more information about the Fort Scott Stories Feature Documentary Premiere in Fort Scott, Kansas, please contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700, ext. 5850, or email [email protected].
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Fort Scott National Historic Site to Host Annual Symbols of Sacrifice on May 22
Fort Scott, Kan. – Fort Scott National Historic Site invites the public to help place flags for the annual “Symbols of Sacrifice” Field of Honor at 8:30 a.m. Friday, May 22. Individuals, families and groups are welcome to participate and stay as long as they are available.
The display continues throughout Memorial Day weekend, Friday, May 22, through Monday, May 25. The Field of Honor, featuring about 8,500 U.S. flags, commemorates members of the U.S. Armed Forces who gave their lives in service to the nation. The display is open daily from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
Volunteers are also encouraged to help retire the display at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 26. The event will take place in all weather conditions.
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, began after the Civil War as a time to honor fallen service members. It was designated a federal holiday in 1971.
Fort Scott National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park Service, is open Friday through Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Park grounds are open daily from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. For more information or to learn how to get involved, call 620-223-0310 or visit www.nps.gov/fosc.
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Stories of Fort Scott Film This Evening
Fort Scott Stories film: powerful, emotional look at moments that define our community
Sending on behalf of Chamber Member
The Gordon Parks Museum
Fort Scott Stories isn’t just a film… It’s a powerful, emotional look at the people, history, and moments that define our community.
And this is your chance to experience it.
Through real voices and real stories, from youth to elders, this documentary captures the heartbeat of Fort Scott in a way that will stay with you long after the night ends.
You’ll laugh. You might cry. You’ll definitely feel something.
Saturday, April 25, 2026
Doors Open: 6:30 PM
Film Begins: 7:00 PM
Gordon Parks Museum (Ellis Fine Arts Building)
FREE Admission (Donations welcome)
Cash Bar Available
Reservations Required — contact the Gordon Parks Museum to reserve your seat.
Seats will fill quickly. Don’t miss this unforgettable night celebrating the soul of Fort Scott!
Fort Scott Stories Documentary Film Premiere is April 25
The Gordon Parks Museum at Fort Scott Community College is excited to remind the community and surrounding region of the upcoming premiere of Fort Scott Stories, a powerful feature-length documentary created in partnership with acclaimed photojournalist and filmmaker D. Michael Cheers, recipient of the 2025 Choice of Weapons Award.
The premiere will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the screening beginning at 7:00 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets as soon as possible, as availability is limited and the event is nearing capacity. Donations are welcome and will support the ongoing work and programming of the Gordon Parks Museum.
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation continues to grow for Fort Scott Stories, a documentary that captures the spirit, voices, and lived experiences of the Fort Scott community. Through deeply personal interviews and rich storytelling, the film reflects the beauty, complexity, and resilience of everyday life, echoing the legacy of Gordon Parks and his 1950 photographic work in Fort Scott.
“Fort Scott Stories is about honoring the everyday lives that shape a community,” said D. Michael Cheers. “Gordon Parks taught us that there is power, dignity, and beauty in telling people’s stories with honesty and care. This film is my creative way of continuing that conversation, by listening deeply, bearing witness, and allowing Fort Scott to speak for itself.”
Executive Director Kirk Sharp emphasizes the emotional impact of the film: “This documentary will make you smile, cry, and feel inspired. It is an honest and deeply human reflection of our community, bridging the past and present while inviting us to reflect on who we are and where we are going.”
Inspired by Gordon Parks’ unpublished LIFE magazine assignment in Fort Scott in 1950, this film continues his legacy of truth-telling through art, empathy, and vision.
The documentary also features actor Kyle Johnson, who portrayed Gordon Parks in the 1968 film The Learning Tree and is a 2021 Choice of Weapons Award recipient.
Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets by visiting: the Gordon Parks Museum website event page at
https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events or by calling 620-223-2700, ext. 5850.
For more information about the Fort Scott Stories Feature Documentary Premiere in Fort Scott, Kansas, please contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700, ext. 5850, or email [email protected].
Quindaro Townsite Designated National Historic Site in K.C.
Kansas City-area Lawmakers Introduce Bill Designating Quindaro Townsite as National Historic Landmark
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2), Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3), and Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (MO-5) introduced the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act to designate the Quindaro Townsite in Kansas City, Kansas, as a National Historic Landmark. The site served as a critical entry point for anti-slavery settlers and a sanctuary for those escaping bondage via the Underground Railroad prior to and during the U.S. Civil War.
National Historic Landmarks are designated through the National Park Service System Advisory Board or an official act of Congress. Last May, the National Historic Landmarks Committee unanimously recommended Quindaro Townsite for designation as a National Historic Landmark, however the administrative process has since stalled. This bill would bypass the administrative process and designate the site by congressional action.
“Quindaro holds an important place in the history of our region and nation,” said Congressman Schmidt, whose district includes the site. “Designating the site as a National Historic Landmark would ensure its legacy is properly preserved and recognized for generations to come. I’m honored to lead this bill and join Representatives Davids and Cleaver in supporting Quindaro.”
“Quindaro was a place of courage, hope, and resilience — a sanctuary for those risking everything for freedom. Designating this site as a National Historic Landmark has been long overdue and would ensure future generations can learn from the sacrifices and triumphs of those who came before us. I’m proud to join Representatives Schmidt and Cleaver in this bipartisan effort to protect our Kansas City history and honor Quindaro’s legacy,” said Congresswoman Davids.
“The Quindaro Townsite is an important piece of the regional history in eastern Kansas and western Missouri – and its legacy must be preserved for the generations still to come,” said Congressman Cleaver. “By designating Quindaro as a National Historic Landmark, we can ensure the story of those who resided on these grounds lives on through the locals and tourists who visit every day, spreading the inspiring story of Americans who fought to ensure the United States lives up to its highest ideals. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Reps. Schmidt and Davids, and I look forward to working with them to ensure it is passed into law.”
Bill text is available here.
BACKGROUND
Founded in 1857, Quindaro emerged as a beacon for Free-State advocates during the turbulent “Bleeding Kansas” era. Strategically located along the Missouri River, it served as a critical entry point for anti-slavery settlers and a sanctuary for those escaping bondage via the Underground Railroad. The town’s establishment was a collaborative effort among the Wyandot Nation, New England abolitionists, and African American settlers, exemplifying a unique and harmonious multicultural alliance during a period marked by division and conflict.
Beyond its pivotal role in the anti-slavery movement, Quindaro became a nucleus for post-Civil War African American advancement. The establishment of the Quindaro Freedman’s School, later known as Western University, marked a significant milestone as the first Black school west of the Mississippi River. Institutions like Douglass Hospital further underscored the town’s commitment to education and healthcare within the African American community.
Archaeological excavations have unveiled a wealth of artifacts, offering invaluable insights into the daily lives of Quindaro’s diverse inhabitants. The site’s preserved foundations and structures provide a tangible connection to this rich history. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 2002, Quindaro’s significance has been further acknowledged through its designation as a National Commemorative Site in 2019.
Fort Scott National Historic Site to host Annual Civil War Encampment
Fort Scott, Kan. – Fort Scott National Historic Site will host its Annual Civil War Encampment, April 18 and 19, 2026. Join us each day to experience cavalry, infantry, and artillery troops drilling and preparing for battle in the summer of 1861.
Talk to a blacksmith as he brings raw metal to life with his hammer, and speak with volunteers portraying some of the men and women who provided support to the troops and operations during the Civil War. Listen to the Second Hand Strings musical performance, learn about Civil War medicine, bread baking, and challenge your family or friends to tug-o-war and other historic lawn games. The weekend is full of adventure for the whole family straight from the 1800’s!
SATURDAY, APRIL 18
- 9 a.m. Raising the Colors (Garrison Flagpole)
- 9:30 a.m. Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
- 10 a.m. Ranger Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)
- 10:30 a.m. Cavalry Program (next to Stables)
- 11 a.m. Civil War Medicine (next to Post Hospital)
- 11:30 a.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
- 11:30-1:30 p.m. Cooking Demonstration (North of Dragoon Barracks)
- Noon Second Hand Strings Musical Performance (Hospital Porch)
- 1 p.m. Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)
- 2 p.m. Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
- 3 p.m. Cavalry Program (next to Stables)
- 4 p.m. Flag Retreat (Garrison Flagpole)
- 4:30 p.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
SUNDAY, APRIL 19
- 9 a.m. Raising the Colors (Garrison Flagpole)
- 9:30 am Historic Church Service (Dragoon Barracks)
- 10 a.m. Ranger Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)
- 10:30 a.m. Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
- 11 a.m. Civil War Medicine (next to Post Hospital)
- 11:30 a.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
- 1 p.m. Ranger Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)
- 1:30 p.m. Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
- 2 p.m. Civil War Medicine (next to Post Hospital)
- 2:30 p.m. Cavalry Program (next to Stables)
- 3:30 p.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
- 4 p.m. Flag Retreat (Garrison Flagpole)
- 4:30 p.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
Fort Scott National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park Service, exhibit areas and visitor center are currently open Friday through Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Park grounds are open daily from a half hour before sunrise until a half hour after sunset. To find out more or become involved in activities at the Fort, please contact the park at 620-223-0310 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/fosc.
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About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.
Fort Scott Stories is more than a film
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Gordon Parks Museum receives Historic Yearbooks and Two Glass Dish Artifacts
Fort Scott, Kan. – The Gordon Parks Museum has received a rare donation of historic items connected to the early life and legacy of Gordon Parks. The donation includes a 1926 Plaza School-Fort Scott yearbook, a 1925 Fort Scott High School yearbook, and two glass dishes, generously given by Cheri Dixon, a longtime family friend of Parks. Dixon, a former resident of Fort Scott, Kansas, now resides in Smyrna, Georgia.
The 1926 Plaza School-Fort Scott yearbook belonged to Dixon’s grandmother, Louella (Russell) Hill, a lifelong resident of Fort Scott. Hill graduated from the eighth grade at Plaza School in 1926 and was both a classmate and lifelong friend of Gordon Parks. Parks attended the segregated Plaza School from kindergarten through eighth grade at what was formerly 111 Hendricks Street, located on the east side of what is now the Fort Scott National Historic Site.
The yearbook is particularly significant because it is the same year Parks graduated from the eighth grade, and his graduation photograph appears in the book. The 50-page publication provides insight into student life at Plaza School during the 1920s, including academics, athletics, and school activities.
Also included in the donation is a 1925 Fort Scott High School yearbook that belonged to Dixon’s grandfather, Clarence Hill, who graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1925.
In addition to the yearbooks, Dixon donated two glass dishes that appear in a well-known photograph taken by Gordon Parks of Clarence and Louella Hill inside their Fort Scott home. In the photograph, Louella Hill is holding one of the dishes. The image was taken in 1950 as part of Parks’ assignment for Life magazine for photo essay, when he returned to Fort Scott to do a story on segregated schools and follow up on the lives of his former classmates from Plaza School. The photograph later appeared in the 2015 book Gordon Parks: Back to Fort Scott.
The items were donated in honor of Louella Russell Hill, Shirley Hill Hutt, and the Cheri Dixon family.
“We are beyond excited to receive these incredible historic items from Cheri Dixon,” said Kirk Sharp, Executive Director of the Gordon Parks Museum. “The 1925 Plaza School yearbook, will offer valuable insight into the history of the school and student life during that time in the 1920s when Gordon Parks attended school there.”
The Plaza School was later renamed Hawkins School in 1946 in honor of Professor E. J. Hawkins, a longtime educator, administrator, and coach at the institution. The original two-story school building with a full basement was demolished during an urban renewal project in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Today, a memorial wayside marker recognizing the school stands at the Fort Scott National Historic Site recreational vehicle parking lot behind the Chamber of Commerce building.
MORE
The newly donated yearbooks, along with other Plaza-Hawkins School artifacts and the glass dishes, are now on display at the Gordon Parks Museum on the campus of Fort Scott Community College.
For more information or to schedule a museum visit or tour, contact the Gordon Parks Museum at (620) 223-2700, ext. 5850, or email [email protected].
| (Left to Right) Kirk Sharp and Cheri Dixon at her home in Smyrna, GA, holding the 1926 Plaza School Year book. |
| 1925 Fort Scott High School Crimson Yearbook. |
| (Photo Left to Right) Kirk Sharp and Cheri Dixon at her home in Smyrna, GA, holding one of the dishes and the book Back to Fort Scott which features the 1950 photograph taken by Gordon Parks in the home of her grandparents, Louella and Clarence Hill, while her grandmother is holding one of the same dishes. The photo below is an image of the photo that Gordon Parks took in 1950. |
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