Speaker's Bureau

2010 Topics

 

New for 2010!

What do you get when you start with an 1893 arson in the office of the Harvey County Register of Deeds, add an individual who then just happens to possess the only “complete set of deeds for Harvey County,” and multiply by several attorneys, law enforcement officers, newspaper publishers, and other interesting characters? You get Harvey County’s Foulest Crime and Greatest Legal Battle, researched and presented by museum volunteer and Newton City Attorney Bob Myers.

 

A Pile of Pictures, A Heap of History

A “family album” of past Newton families, events and architecture using images from the over 3,000 historic photos housed in the Museum collection. Also available, an accompanying bus tour for retirement communities and other organizations that can provide their own bus. Current tour area highlights downtown and the new McKinley Historic District. Other areas available upon request.

 

Harvey County Through My Eyes - RWP Muse

Coming from Ohio to Newton in 1871, Muse witnessed and described the cowboy era, the geography and the early politics of Harvey County in his article “History of Harvey County, Kansas, For One Decade-From 1871 to 1881.” Muse watched the growth of Newton from its infancy and was an avid promoter of the town.

 

The Present Meets the Past: Visible Signs of Harvey County History

A look around current-day Harvey County to examine the indications of the past that are still visible.

 

‘Ladies, the Meeting Will Please Come to Order’

Celebrate the Ladies Reading Circle, Newton, 1880-2005, which is the oldest continuously-meeting women’s club in the state. Examine women’s history and how the club was part of the Women’s Club Movement across America.

 

Inside & Out: A Hunt for Architectural Accents in Harvey County

Take a tour of some of the fascinating features of our county buildings, both inside and out. An interactive “quiz” adds extra fun to this presentation.

 

Antique American Indian Art & the Fred Harvey Company

Explore the weavings, basketry, pottery, jewelry and katsinsas promoted so heartily by the Fred Harvey Company in the early 1900’s. Enjoy a look at the materials and construction techniques of these artistic pieces, the influences on the art and the changes through the decades.

 

The Proutys of Harvey County: Upbuilders

The Amos Prouty family (son William pictured at right) came to Harvey County in 1871, settling in Emma and Macon Townships. Trace this cornerstone family throughout the history of the county.

 

‘Wish You Were Here’: Postcards from Harvey County and Beyond

Get a taste of the rich history of the postcards that document the county and state.

 

Pulpits & Potlucks: A Photographic History of the Churches of Harvey County from 1872 through 2007

Highlighting the rich faith history of the county through the exploration of worship, fellowship, service, architecture and more. Underwritten by Midland National Bank (Newton) and the Kansas Humanities Council.

 

Family History 101

A beginners guide to starting family history research. Includes suggestions on library and archives to visit within a days drive of Newton as well as internet resources.

 

Common to Downright Strange: Object from History

Examine assorted items from the near and far past and hear the stories that go along with them. Highly interactive program!

 

Good Roads—From Cowpaths to Interstates

Explore the “good road movement” that bicycle enthusiasts began in the late 1800’s and how the movement led to the development of the modern interstate system.

 

Up the Beaten Path: Following the Chisholm Trail

An estimated 700,000 Texas longhorns were driven from Texas to shipping points in Kansas in 1871 alone, most following the Chisholm Trail. Fortunes were made and towns were built, including Newton. Join us to hear tales of trail drivers and cowboys who were involved in “the greatest migration of animals ever known.” Learn about the more “unglamorous” side of cattle drives that included soaking downpours, frustrations with other cowboys and stubborn cattle through first-hand accounts of trail drives from 1867 through 1872.

 

An Accomplished Young Lady

In an 1890 article an author advised “If you have daughters, teach them all needlework, . . . . Dress modestly, but not fine, unless the world knows you can afford it.” Young ladies and their mothers faithfully followed this advice and the results are evident in popular activities and hand crafts of young ladies from the 1880s through today.

 

 

Who would enjoy an affordable, educational and entertaining presentation?

Civic organizations

Church groups

Family reunions

Class reunions

Service organizations

Social clubs

Annual meetings attendees

And more!

 

Pricing:

Speaker’s Bureau programs are $25 per presentation.

Mileage within Harvey County is included.
Host your event at the Museum for a unique and fun atmosphere.
Contact us for scheduling and pricing information.
Additional donations are very much welcome and appreciated.

 

To schedule a program:

Harvey County Historical
Museum & Archives
P.O. Box 4
Newton, KS 67114

 

(316) 283-2221
director@hchm.org