Love history and culture? Scroll down to explore ways you can support the Lyon County History Center!

Building blocks in the children's area

Village Elementary School Pop-Up Museum

Ways to Support LCHC

For 85 years, the Lyon County Historical Society (the parent organization of the Lyon County History Center) has explored, collected, and shared the history and culture of Lyon County and the surrounding area.  You can help make history by becoming a member, sharing your stories and participating in this inspiring Lyon County adventure! By getting involved you will help sustain our work for years to come.

 

Membership

Annual memberships are the heart of our financial foundation.  Fees collected help as maintain and care for our collections, offer educational programming and create new and exciting exhibits.

 

Enjoy these members-only perks!

  • Free admission to Exhibit Hall
  • Receive the newsletter – “The Story Teller”
  • Discounts or free admission to special programs
  • Advance ticket sales to events
  • Discount in the Winter Emporium store
  • Invitation to Members-Only Events
  • Opportunity to join museum support groups
  • And much much more!

Seven Membership Levels to choose from:

Individual $30
Family $50
Explorer $100
Proprietor $300
Story Teller $500
History Keeper $1,000

New: Sign up for your membership online

As an alternative you may mail in the membership form below.

To become a member today print and mail the Membership Application along with your payment to:

Lyon County Historical Society
Membership
711 Commercial Street
Emporia, Kansas 66801

Time and Energy Donation

Our friends group supports the mission and vision of the Lyon County History Center. Lend us your skills and talents! We need your help in the following areas:

Administrative/Clerical
Collections and Exhibits
Research and Oral Histories
Special Events
Docent/Tour Guide
Educational Programming
Historical Performers
Fundraising
Carpentry/Painting/Gardening

If you are interested in supporting us, contact us at 620-340-6310.

 

Artifact/Archival Donation

Nearly 100% of our collections are the result of donated materials and objects. Each day, new artifacts and documents are added to the collections because of generous individuals and businesses.  These donations help the Society fulfill its mission as the county’s chief interpreter and repository of local history and culture.

Criteria has been established to help staff select materials into the collections. The selection process may take weeks as we evaluate each item, its conservation requirements, available space, historical relevance and other key factors. If you believe you have an item of interest, please email a detailed description and history of the item(s) with photos if possible, to curator@explorelyoncounty.org. After careful consideration, staff will notify you if the donation is accepted and the next steps in the acceptance process. Due to the volume of materials offered, the Society cannot accept donations from walk-ins. Please do not leave items at front desk or with volunteers. If you have any questions please call the Curator or Research Librarian at 620-340-6310.

While we would love to accept every object donated, it simply is not possible to do so while maintaining the integrity of the collection. If we are unable to accept your donation, we will assist you in finding other possible homes or proper storage of your belongings. We appreciate your interest in helping us save Lyon County history and culture.

 

Financial Donation

Your financial gifts assist us in offering a vibrant and interactive History Center to the residents of Lyon County and visitors to the region.  Please visit with the Executive Director to learn more about planned and corporate giving.