About the Lyon County History Center

Public research area in the archives at the Lyon County History Center

History

The Lyon County Historical Society was established in 1937 thanks to members from the local chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution who spearheaded the venture.  LCHS was first located in the basement of the Civic Auditorium/William L. White Auditorium.

In 1980, operations moved just across the street to the vacant Emporia Public Library, formally housed in a 1904 Carnegie Library. The library had been vacated following the construction of the new Emporia Public Library located in the same block. The archives department was housed in the former library until 1996 when a separate building was purchased.

LCHS was housed in the original public library until 2016 when it moved to its current location at 711 Commercial St in historic downtown Emporia.  During the capital campaign to purchase and remodel the new facility, the Board of Trustees approved to name the new building the Lyon County History Center.

Mission & Vision

Mission Statement: The Lyon County Historical Society saves and shares the diverse history and culture of Lyon County, Kansas and welcomes all to experience stories that will inspire connections, ignite conversations, and instill community pride.

Vision Statement: We envision history and culture to be at the center of discovery, engagement, and change.

Board of Trustees

LCHS is fortunate to have a dedicated and accomplished group of individuals who will lead the organization in the future.