Join Friends Advocating for the Fort Scott National Historic Site
Loretta George
Volunteers post a flag at a Fly the Flag subscriber’s business. Submitted photo.
A local group of Fort Scottians work together to help the Fort Scott National Historic Site personnel tell the story of the its’ history.
The Friends of the Fort Scott National Historic Site, INC was formed in 2009 to work in cooperation with Fort Scott National Historic Site, according to a press release.
Members primary purpose is to support, advocate, and promote the importance of the Fort and its history through education, fundraising, volunteerism, and preservation.
The group is having its annual meeting on Monday, September 12, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. in the basement of the Presbyterian Church at 3rd and Crawford Street, south entrance.
This event is free and open to the public.
“Anyone that would like to help the Friends of FSNHS with our mission to support Fort Scott National Historic Site is welcome to join,” said Friends of the Fort spokesperson Kelley Collins, herself a former park ranger for 23 years at the site.
“The community and all members of the Friends are encouraged to attend,” said President Reed Hartford said. “We will elect new officers, begin planning for next year’s activities, and enjoy a program presented by a ranger from Fort Scott NHS.”
The current leadership is Hartford, president; Matthew Wells, vice-president; Ronda Hassig, secretary and Marlene Braker, treasurer.
There are monthly board meetings, an annual meeting, and gatherings for various projects and fundraisers throughout the year.
What are those projects?
“We help the Fort with various events like the U. S. Naturalization Ceremony, Candlelight Tour, and 4th of July ( activities that are held at the fort),” Collins said.
Reed Hartford and Marlene Braker serve ice cream during an event at the site. Submitted photo.
“Our major fundraiser is the Fly the Flag project where we post an American flag outside subscribers homes and businesses on five flag holidays throughout the year,” she said.
Another community offering is in the works by the group.
“We are currently working with the National Park Service to bring a performance of Wahzhazhe: The story of the Osage people in dance and music to Fort Scott in July 2023,” Collins said.
There are various membership levels for the organization ranging from $35 to $1,000.
“Memberships help our organization support and promote Fort Scott National Historic Site in ways that the National Park Service cannot,” she said.
The organization lost two long-time members, Martha and Jim Scott, recently. Martha died and Jim moved away.
“Martha served as secretary for the organization since its inception and was a driving force in its establishment and success,” Collins said.
