Newsletter - Spring 2024

Hey there, Cowley County community! Cowley County Historical Society Museum has been lucky to add a gem to our treasure trove of local lore—the Bonnie Hittle postcard collection.  Big thanks to Bonnie for her passion in collecting these slices of Winfield life, and to her daughter Lisa for sharing them with all of us.  Cindy Goertz was the star of the show, bringing these postcards to life in a presentation that’s now up on our YouTube channel. And let’s not forget Lisa Hittle’s heartwarming intro that gave us a peek into the love and care that went into this collection.  You know, it’s things like this that knit us closer together. Sharing memories, reliving the good old days, and keeping the spirit of Winfield alive—it’s what makes us more than just neighbors; we’re a family. This collection isn’t just about the past; it’s our shared album, a reminder that every one of us is a thread in the rich tapestry of our community.  So, let’s keep the stories coming and the memories flowing. After all, that’s what being a community is all about!

Lisa Hittle, her brother Dennis Hittle and wife Connie.

The Museum held a delightful event, aptly named “Bonnets and Ball Caps,” at the Light Community Center. Aimed at involving elementary school children in museum activities, the event was a colorful display of creativity and community spirit.

The society recognizes the importance of engaging children with the history they are surrounded by. What better way to do so than through an interactive event? The afternoon was abuzz with excitement as children crafted their own Easter bonnets and stylish baseball caps.

As the crafting session concluded, the children, accompanied by the Easter bunny, paraded down Main Street, showcasing their handiwork.

Julie Mignone (in yellow in above photo) led the team of adults who facilitated the event, with Janet Tate, Karen Vann Young, and Marsha Granberry providing invaluable assistance. Their efforts ensured the event ran smoothly and that fun was had by all.

The Downtown Doc Walk on 4/4/24 was a resounding success, bringing together 55 community members for a mile-long journey of health and heritage. Led by Dr. Thomas Lyman, participants delved into foot and ankle care, learning valuable tips for the upcoming sandal season and ways to enhance ankle stability. The walk culminated at the Cowley County Historical Society Museum, where administrator Amy Jo highlighted the museum’s role in preserving local history and previewed exciting future events. The day was rounded off with prize drawings, a museum tour, and contributions to Health Counts Cowley County. It was a memorable blend of fitness, education, and community engagement.

On April 15, we hosted an engaging presentation titled ‘Rediscovering the Arkansas River.’ Hannes Zacharias, a Humanities Kansas speaker and former Johnson County Manager, shared his remarkable adventures along the 1,469-mile-long river. His interest extended beyond academia; he embarked on two solo kayak journeys along its length. space for this enlightening event, and the Cowley College Golden Tigers played a vital role in promoting it.

On May 4, Island Park transformed into a car enthusiast’s paradise. We hosted a non-judged car show, which featured an impressive lineup of about 30 cool cars, from vintage classics to modern marvels. Participants embarked on a scenic 52-mile cruise, relishing the thrill of the open road. Post-cruise, engines still warm, owners proudly displayed their rides while savoring BBQ grilled chicken and hot dog dinners. Approximately 125 people joined the festivities, celebrating their shared love for wheels, deals, and BBQ meals.

Until next year’s cruise, keep those engines revving!

Carl Martin with his entry

In the latest edition of our Museum Friends newsletter, we’re eager to share a recap of our final gathering before the summer hiatus. On May 20th, Gary Learned, delved into the history of the “Auxiliary Fields of Strother Field during WWII.”

While many are familiar with the pivotal role Strother Field played in the war, Gary’s talk shed light on the lesser-known auxiliary fields that were instrumental in supporting the main airfield. He provided a wealth of information on the acquisition and development of land across four sites in Cowley and Sumner counties, which served as auxiliary airstrips. Gary’s exploration answered key questions about the locations of these airfields, the process of land acquisition, their operational roles compared to Strother Field, and their fates following the war’s end.

This engaging session not only enriched our understanding of local history but also marked a memorable close to this season’s Museum Friends meetings.

You can watch the video on our YouTube channel!

The CCHSM was voted Best Museum in the County for the 7th Year in a row!

Dear Members and Community,

We are thrilled to share that our museum has become a beacon of community service and learning for the youth of Winfield and Ark City. This month, we welcomed six dedicated college students from Cowley College and Southwestern College, who chose to contribute their 9 hours each of required community service to our museum. (That’s 54 hours!) Their commitment to preserving local history and engaging with our heritage is a demonstration of the museum’s vibrant role in education and community involvement.

Moreover, we are proud to have a paid intern through financial aid at Southwestern College and another passionate young volunteer who regularly dedicate their time and talents to our cause, all the while building their resume. Their ongoing participation is not just a helping hand in our daily operations; it’s a clear indicator of the museum’s significance as a center for learning, growth, and civic engagement.

These young individuals’ choice to work with us reflects the museum’s reputation as an inclusive, educational, and inspiring place. It underscores our commitment to fostering a love for history and culture in the next generation. Their presence here is a bridge between the academic world and the practical, hands-on experience that only a place like ours can offer.

Let us celebrate their contributions and continue to support these bright minds who are not only preserving the past but also shaping the future.

Warm regards, Amy Jo McWhirt, CCHSM Office Administrator

Accessions from the public are the lifeblood of museums, serving as a cornerstone for both psychological (mental and emotional) enrichment and anthropological study (the study of humankind). They are a conduit for collective memory, allowing us to preserve and reflect upon our shared heritage. Each photograph, each artifact, is a snapshot of identity formation, capturing the essence of who we are and where we come from. These treasures foster an emotional connection, inviting visitors to traverse the corridors of time and experience the lives of those who came before us. From an anthropological lens, these items are invaluable. They offer a cultural representation that helps narrate the story of our ancestors, providing a visual record of the evolving social dynamics within our communities.

As an ethnographic record, they are a testament to the diversity of human experience, enriching our understanding of societal structures and relationships. In sharing these photos and mementos, we not only honor the legacy of past generations but also weave the fabric of our current community, ensuring that every voice, every face, is part of the grand tapestry of history.

Thank you for sharing your precious photos with us!

Miss Martha Jarvis circa 1956

Neoma Case, Joan McGowan, Marlene, Geer, Sue Littrell, Linda Ormiston, Mary Pack. Circa 1956

“A Play in the 1890’s”
Benson Rupp, Maude Oldham Brown, Will Copple, Lizzie Oldham, Gordie Spraker, Mamie Spraker, Edgar Hawkins, Worley O’Neill, Edith Schwantes, and W.S. “Pat” Taylor. Cirea 1900

Why are we hosting a Fairytale Tea event in the Victorian age style? It is going to be a delightful and engaging event for the museum for several reasons:

Historical Connection: The Victorian era is known for its elaborate tea parties, which were significant social events. By recreating this atmosphere, the museum can offer a hands-on historical experience, allowing participants to step back in time and learn about Victorian customs and social etiquette.

Family Bonding: Such an event encourages family participation across generations, from grandmothers to mothers and children. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to create memories together while enjoying the charm of a bygone era.

Community Engagement: Events like these can attract a wide audience, fostering community spirit and inclusivity. It’s also a chance for the museum to collaborate with local historical homeowners, thus enhancing community ties.

Creative Expression: Dressing up in period costumes and engaging in role-play can spark creativity among participants, making it an entertaining and imaginative experience.

Join us at the Cowley County Historical Society Museum on Sunday, June 23, from 2-4 PM for an extra exhilarating afternoon of family fun—absolutely free! Dive into our annual exhibit theme, “Planes, Trains, and
Cars,” and enjoy a variety of activities both inside and outside the museum. Don’t miss this chance to explore the thrilling world of transportation through history.

Events like “Feed the Need for Speed” are vital for museums as they foster community engagement, ignite a passion for learning, and provide an inclusive space for families to create lasting memories together. They also highlight the importance of preserving our rich local history, from the airfields of WWII to the evolution of
transportation.

So, mark your calendars and let’s celebrate our heritage at full throttle! Make sure to stop by!

Future 2024 Events

• Saturday, June 1 “Fairytale Tea” at 1208 E 9th Ave. in Winfield, KS.
  You are invited to step back in time as you attend a multi-course formal tea with savories, sweets, and little favors. This special event sponsored by the Cowley County Historical Society Museum is reminiscent of the formal teas held in homes during the early 1900’s. There will be three seatings to choose from: 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., or 4:00 p.m.
  Cost: Adults $15 Children 5-12 $10.
  Reservations for this event need to be made by Thursday, May 30th, and may be made by calling the museum at 620-221-4811 or online at cchsm.com.

• Saturday, June 23, 2:00-4:00 CCHSM “Feed Your Need for Speed” (free event for all ages—watch for details) There will be fun action filled activities both inside and outside of the museum. Come visit!
  
  
• Saturday, August 1, “Teddy Bear Picnic” Watch for details!
  
  
• SEPTEMBER 23-27, ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE BEGINS! WATCH FOR MEMBERSHIP PACKETS TO ARRIVE IN THE MAIL.

BOOKS FOR SALE AT THE MUSEUM OR ONLINE:
Celebrate Winfield History Books 2001-2011 $15.00
Celebrate Winfield History Books 2012-2015 $15.00
Celebrate Cowley County History 2016-2024 $15.00
Winfield’s Golden Era of Sports $15.00
History of CC KS. The Indians Vol. II $33.00
Southwestern College $21.99
Winfield – Postcard History $21.99
Penrose Hills Albright $10.00
Kansas Mural’s $15.00
Prices include Sales Tax
Shipping/handling is an additional $6.00
To purchase please stop by the museum or check out our website www.cchsm.com.
Credit Cards and PayPal are accepted.
You may also send a check or money order with a list of books to:
CCHSM
1011 Mansfield
Winfield, KS 67156

Commemorative Bricks
We partner with Dawson Monument to engrave bricks, which are for sale, and make great memorials and also support the museum. The bricks border the walkway from the parking lot to the front steps. To purchase, forms can be found on the table by the books for sale or call 620-221-4811.
There are three levels of donations: Flat red brick with 2 lines of 12 characters -$75 donation. Flat red brick with 3 lines of 12 characters -$100 donation.
A contrasting brick with 12 characters-$500 donation.
Fewer letters may be used if you wish.

All donations, both monetary and historical arti-facts, are greatly appreciated. Our building is over 140 years old and requires significant ongoing maintenance in addition to operating costs. We continue to be a no fee museum and we have no plans to change that.
Your continued support will allow us to best serve the community.
We are especially seeking anything from diverse ethnic groups to add to our displays.

Established in 1931 and revitalized in 1967 with a relocation to our current home on Mansfield Street, the Cowley County Historical Society is dedicated to safeguarding and sharing the vibrant tapestry of our county’s past.
We are committed to fostering and promoting endeavors that celebrate local history. Visitors can explore a curated selection of local historical publications for sale in our bookstore. We take pride in our extensive archive of historical documents and treasured photographic memories. Come visit and see what’s new (or old) at the museum!