Welcome to the Anderson County Historical Society Museum
THIS MONTH'S FEATURE
Fink Sketches
Ed Fink published a book of his personal sketches of Anderson County. This sketch depicts the time just prior to the Civil War when border ruffians, pro-slavery advocates crossed the border to intimidate free state residents to run them out of the county so Kansas would be admitted to the Union as a slave state. Many of these free state men were murdered inciting John Brown, his sons along with others to go on raids into Missouri returning murder for murder during this time. The Pottawatomie Rifle Company was formed to defend against the border ruffians and several individuals from the Greeley area were members of the group. In 1856 the term "Bleeding Kansas" was started by newspapers because of all the blood shed over the decision of Kansas being a free or slave state. Permission has been granted for the use of Ed Finks sketches.
About Us
MONTHLY MEETINGS
MONTHLY MEETINGS---Everyone Welcome!!!
Our next historical society meeting will be October 5th at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Building, Garnett. So bring your best dishes for our carry-in meal before the meeting. Table service provided.
Collections at the Museum
We house a very wide collection of artifacts of Anderson County. Our "category" rooms include: School, Military and Organizations, Church, Home, Library, Medical & Business, Farm, and Country Store. We specialize in helping with family genealogy and research. We have most publications relating specifically to Anderson County. There are numerous printed family genealogies and surname files.
Museum Hours
The Museum will be closing September 30 for the winter. So be sure and visit us before then. Days open: Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. After the museum closes you many contact us for a visit via e-mail: at Information@historyandersoncoks.org
The museum phone will only be checked periodically so e-mail is the good way to inquire about visiting the museum. You may also call Kenny Kellstadt at 785-448-7562.
Properties
The Harris House
Harris Carriage House
Harris Carriage House
The Harris House was a gift to the Anderson County Historical Society in December 1980, by Dr. Claib B. Harris Jr, his wife Donna, his sisters Miss Isabella Harris and Mrs. Sue Williams, Garnett; and Mrs. Margaret Chafee, of Perry, Oklahoma. This home is open for tours and the society has sponsored special events. Private or group tours c
The Harris House was a gift to the Anderson County Historical Society in December 1980, by Dr. Claib B. Harris Jr, his wife Donna, his sisters Miss Isabella Harris and Mrs. Sue Williams, Garnett; and Mrs. Margaret Chafee, of Perry, Oklahoma. This home is open for tours and the society has sponsored special events. Private or group tours can be arranged by emailing or calling the Anderson County Historical Society.
Harris Carriage House
Harris Carriage House
Harris Carriage House
The Carriage House, behind the home, holds numerous items significant to the era. A Manners family 1860 conestoga wagon, the 1890 Garnett man powered fire hose cart, a Shellhorn family homemade sleigh, and an early yeast maker each represent a significant role in the history of Anderson County. Numerous other items of agricultural interest are displayed.
Valentin Gerth Cabin
Harris Carriage House
Valentin Gerth Cabin
The 1856 Valentin Gerth Cabin. First White settlement in Anderson Co, and a slave hideout. Located in Greeley, Kansas.