Lyon County History Center and Museum

Crazy Quilt Stitches Workshop! W/Barbara Say
2025-11-08 12:30 - 15:30, 2025-10-11 12:30 - 15:30 (America/Chicago) | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
We are excited to be working with Barbara Say to bring a monthly sewing workshop to LCHC. Learn different stitches and how to add beads, buttons, lace, and other embellishments to your project. The only requirements are the ability to use a needle and thread and bring your imagination.
*Supplies needed: embroidery hoop, needles, floss, scissors, tape measure, masking tape, small beads, buttons, and scraps of cotton lace.
*If you don’t have all the supplies listed above, extras will be available.
Workshops will be on the following Saturdays, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM:
September 27
October 11
November 8
December 13
Contact us at 620-340-6310 to let us know you will be attending!

Good Way Sunday | October 6th | The Finale
2025-10-06 16:00 - 18:00 | Howe House, 315 E. Logan, Emporia, KS, 66801, United States
Good Way Sunday Concert Series – 2025 Seasonat the Howe House: 315 E. Logan Ave, Emporia, KSJoin us on the first Sunday of each month from April through October, 4 PM to 6 PM, for the Good Way Sunday Concert Series — a free, family-friendly music event that brings the community together in the heart of Emporia!Set in the beautiful historic grounds of Good Way Gardens, this concert series showcases a wide range of incredible regional talent, from bluegrass and folk to jazz, rock, and beyond. It’s more than music — each concert also features hands-on arts & crafts, educational garden and prairie activities, and a welcoming space for all ages.Bring a chair, pack a picnic (no alcohol), and fill up your water bottles — then settle in for an evening of fun, fresh air, and fantastic performances.Admission is free, but free-will donations are gratefully accepted to support the concert series and on-site garden programming.Come experience the rhythm of the prairie — we can’t wait to see you there!
April 6 – Humbletown Formed in the humble prairie town of Vermillion, South Dakota, Humbletown has emerged as a powerful multi-genre bluegrass-inspired ensemble.
May 4 – Sam and the Fire Watchers Sam and the Firewatchers are a Kansas-based band blending blues, classic rock, and bluegrass into dynamic performances and heartfelt originals, built on nearly two decades of collaboration and camaraderie.
June 1 – Wayne Gottstine Band The Wayne Gottstine Band is a rock band from Kansas known for bringing the heat with big vocals and infectious rhythms.
July 6 – Cowgirl’s Train Set Cowgirls Train Set is a high-energy acoustic folk act based out of Kansas. They pride themselves on their eclectic sound and unique songs and plan on having you dancing and singing. Strap in, you savages, and all aboard!
August 3 – Beth and Brandon combine their classical, folk, jazz and choral music training to create a modern perspective on a vintage sound.
September 7 – Patti Steel Patti Steel’s music is a soulful fusion of genres. It weaves together the heart of roots and jazz, the raw emotion of blues, the honesty of country, and the electrifying energy of rock and roll.
October 6 – Tallgrass Express String Band Whether playing on a flatbed trailer at a ranch, doing roving music at Symphony in the Flint Hills, or entertaining in an art gallery in Kansas City, Tallgrass Express brings the look and sound of the Flint Hills to delighted listeners.
Each concert features arts and crafts activities, and interactive garden and prairie-based educational opportunities!

Hispanic Heritage Art Show w/H.O.T.T. Opening Reception
2025-10-03 17:00 - 20:00 | Kansas
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with H.O.T.T.’s 4th Annual Celebration at the Lyon County History Center! This year’s event takes place during October’s First Friday Art Walk and features a vibrant evening of culture, art, and community connection. Guests can enjoy a live Folklórico dance performance by Raíces Hispanas, view a special Hispanic art exhibit, taste authentic snacks, and hear personal stories from members of Emporia’s Hispanic community. The opening reception will be held on Thursday, October 3, from 5:00–8:00 PM, and the exhibit will remain on display through November 8.

Crazy Quilt Stitches Workshop! W/Barbara Say
2025-09-27 12:30 - 15:30 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
We are excited to be working with Barbara Say to bring a monthly sewing workshop to LCHC. Learn different stiches and how to add beads, buttons, lace, and other embellishments to your project. The only requirements are the ability to use a needle and thread and bring your imagination.
*Supplies needed: embroidery hoop, needles, floss, scissors, tape measure, masking tape, small beads, buttons, and scraps of cotton lace.
*If you don’t have all the supplies listed above, extras will be available.
Workshops will be on the following Saturdays, 12:30PM-3:30PM:
September 27
October 11
November 8
December 13
Contact us at 620-340-6310 to let us know you will be attending!

Good Way Sunday | September 7th 2025
2025-09-07 16:00 - 18:00 | Howe House, 315 E. Logan, Emporia, KS, 66801, United States
Good Way Sunday Concert Series – 2025 Seasonat the Howe House: 315 E. Logan Ave, Emporia, KS Join us on the first Sunday of each month from April through October, 4 PM to 6 PM, for the Good Way Sunday Concert Series — a free, family-friendly music event that brings the community together in the heart of Emporia! Set in the beautiful historic grounds of Good Way Gardens, this concert series showcases a wide range of incredible regional talent, from bluegrass and folk to jazz, rock, and beyond. It’s more than music — each concert also features hands-on arts & crafts, educational garden and prairie activities, and a welcoming space for all ages. Bring a chair, pack a picnic (no alcohol), and fill up your water bottles — then settle in for an evening of fun, fresh air, and fantastic performances. Admission is free, but free-will donations are gratefully accepted to support the concert series and on-site garden programming. Come experience the rhythm of the prairie — we can’t wait to see you there!
April 6 – Humbletown Formed in the humble prairie town of Vermillion, South Dakota, Humbletown has emerged as a powerful multi-genre bluegrass-inspired ensemble.
May 4 – Sam and the Fire Watchers Sam and the Firewatchers are a Kansas-based band blending blues, classic rock, and bluegrass into dynamic performances and heartfelt originals, built on nearly two decades of collaboration and camaraderie.
June 1 – Wayne Gottstine Band The Wayne Gottstine Band is a rock band from Kansas known for bringing the heat with big vocals and infectious rhythms.
July 6 – Cowgirl’s Train Set Cowgirls Train Set is a high-energy acoustic folk act based out of Kansas. They pride themselves on their eclectic sound and unique songs and plan on having you dancing and singing. Strap in, you savages, and all aboard!
August 3 – Beth and Brandon combine their classical, folk, jazz and choral music training to create a modern perspective on a vintage sound.
September 7 – Patti Steel Patti Steel’s music is a soulful fusion of genres. It weaves together the heart of roots and jazz, the raw emotion of blues, the honesty of country, and the electrifying energy of rock and roll.
October 6 – Tallgrass Express String Band Whether playing on a flatbed trailer at a ranch, doing roving music at Symphony in the Flint Hills, or entertaining in an art gallery in Kansas City, Tallgrass Express brings the look and sound of the Flint Hills to delighted listeners.
Each concert features arts and crafts activities, and interactive garden and prairie-based educational opportunities!

Good Way Sunday | August 3rd 2025
2025-08-03 16:00 - 18:00 | Kansas

Flint Hills Spirit Fair | By Flint Hills Paranormal
2025-07-19 10:00 - 17:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801

Good Way Sunday | July 6th 2025
2025-07-06 16:00 - 18:00 | Howe House, 315 E. Logan, Emporia, KS, 66801, United States

Fathers Day Make it and Take it Craft Day!
2025-06-14 10:00 - 15:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Father’s Day Make-It & Take-It Craft Event – Travel Tic-Tac-Toe Game🗓️ Saturday, June 14, 2025🕙 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM📍 Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, KS💵 $5 per crafter | Free for members
Looking for a creative Father’s Day activity in Emporia, Kansas? Join us at the Lyon County History Center for a fun, hands-on Make-It & Take-It craft event that’s perfect for kids, families, and anyone who loves DIY gifts!
At this drop-in event, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind travel tic-tac-toe game—a thoughtful and playful gift for the father figure in your life. Customize the game pieces, decorate a keepsake canvas bag, and take home something truly personal. Whether you gift it to Dad or keep it for family road trips, it’s a fun way to spend the day and make lasting memories.
All materials are provided, and no registration is required—just come ready to create!
This event is part of our ongoing community craft series and is great for families looking for things to do in Emporia, KS this Father’s Day weekend.
👉 Perfect for ages 4 and up👉 All materials included👉 Makes a great handmade Father’s Day gift👉 Located in historic downtown Emporia

North Lyon County / Santa Fe Trail Bus Tour
2023-04-22 09:30 - 15:00 | North Lyon County Museum, 100 E. 3rd, Admire, KS, 66830, United States
Santa Fe Trail Bus Tour will meet at 9:30AM and departs from Admire Community Center at 10AM. $30/person, includes lunch.
Click here to reserve your space today.

Kansas Day Birthday Bash
2023-01-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Kansas Birthday – Back after two years it’s our annual Kansas Birthday Party. Come for some Kansas fun while exploring Kansas symbols, local history and more. Free and open to the public! Refreshments will be served.

A Creative Guide to Writing Your Family's Stories" by Kim Stanley
2023-01-09 13:30 - 15:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Join us on Monday, January 9 at 1:30 PM for the program, “A Creative Guide to Writing Your Family’s Stories.” Kim Stanley, a speaker with the Humanities Kansas Speakers Bureau and a professor at McPherson College will guide participants through the process of bringing your ancestors to life via creative storytelling. This event is paid for by a grant from the Humanities Kansas and co-hosted by the Emporia Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

An Evening of Poetry
2022-04-30 19:30 - 20:30 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
An Evening of Poetry” presented by the ESU Chamber Singers. Join us for an evening you won’t want to miss! Performing Michael J. Trotta’s “For A Breath of Ecstasy,” audiences will hear the poetry of Sara Teasdale in a whole new light.
Lisa Soller with the Lyon County History Center will read excerpts of poetry with a Lyon County connection.
Tickets are $12 for General Admission and $25 for VIP. Click here to purchase tickets.

Santa Fe Trail Bus Tour
2022-04-30 09:30 - 15:30 | Kansas
Santa Fe Trail Bus Tour will meet at 9:30AM and departs from Admire Community Center at 10AM. $25/person, includes lunch. Click here to purchase tickets.

Santa Fe Trail Program
2022-04-28 19:00 - 21:00 | North Lyon County Museum, 100 E. 3rd, Admire, KS, 66830, United States
Tuesday, April 26 and Thursday, April 28 @ 7PM – One program, two nights! Join us for the program “Santa Fe Trail of North Lyon County” presented by Jan Huston. Explore the 1862 murder of Judge A.I. Baker on the Santa Fe Trail and other trail history. Tuesday, April 26 at the Lyon County History Center and Thursday, April 28 at the North Lyon County Museum in Admire.

Santa Fe Trail Program
2022-04-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801

Beginner Genealogy Workshop
2022-04-23 14:00 - 15:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
In partnership with the Emporia Public Library, Lisa Soller will lead a workshop to explore the basics of researching genealogy.

LCHS 84th Annual Meeting
2022-03-08 18:00 - 20:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Join us on March 8 @ 6:00PM for the 84th LCHS Annual Meeting. This meeting was originally scheduled for February 8, but has been rescheduled to March 8 due to increase in Covid cases. The meeting will only be in person. No Zoom link will be needed.

Tasty Bites and Social Time
Meet the Board of Trustees and Staff
Recognize outgoing Trustees
Business Meeting – 2021 Financial Report and Annual Meeting Minutes
Proposed By-law Changes and Vote
New Board Trustee Election
2021 Review and 2022 Looking Ahead

As part of the upcoming Annual Meeting members will vote on changes to the LCHS by-laws. For those wishing to view the revised by-laws click the link below:
LYON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY BYLAWS (8) .

Public training + public investigation
2021-07-31 15:00 - 23:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Join us for an afternoon of training and use your new skills to investigate the Lyon County History Center. Tickets are limited for the investigation so don’t wait! Bring some friends and join us!
Saturday, July 31, 2021 Training: 3 to 5 p.m. Investigation: 7 to 11 p.m.
Tickets are $5 for the training only and $15 for training + investigation.

83rd LCHS Annual Meeting
2021-02-09 19:00 - 20:00 | Kansas
Join us for the Lyon County Historical Society’s 83rd Annual Meeting. For the first time since 1938, the meeting will not be held in person. This year, the meeting will be held online via Zoom. Meeting begins at 7:00pm and will include election of new officers, 2020 recap and a look ahead to 2021. A security passcode will be required. Contact LCHC for the passcode and any questions you might have.

Mardi Gras Gala
2020-02-22 17:00 - 21:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Visit Bourbon Street without leaving Lyon County. Celebrate Mardi Gras at the Lyon County History Center with a taste of New Orleans cuisine, drinks, carnival games, silent auction and live music, The fun begins at 5:00pm. Limited tickets available. $30 for tickets -OR- $50 for TWO! Tickets available at the Lyon County History Center.

82nd LCHS Annual Meeting
2020-02-11 18:00 - 20:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Join us for the Lyon County Historical Society’s 82nd Annual Meeting. Welcome reception begins at 6:00pm with refreshments. The Business Meeting (the official stuff) will last from 6:30 – 7:15. The meeting includes election of new officers, vote to change a section of the LCHS by-laws and 2019 recap. The evening concludes with Garrett Seuser, ESU Intern, presenting a program, “Hidden History.”

There's Snow Place Like Home
2019-12-14 10:00 - 11:30 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
In partnership with Cradle to Career Literacy Center and Lyon County Parents as Teachers we are proud to present There’s Snow Place Like Home kids event! Come meet Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, play games, make crafts and enjoy a cookie you get to decorate! No admission and open to the public.

Members Only Christmas Parade Viewing Party
2019-12-03 18:00 - 20:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Watch the Emporia Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade from our 2nd and 3rd floors while enjoying warm beverages and yummy snacks at our annual Christmas Parade Viewing Party. This event is free to LCHS members. Contact us at 620-340-6314 or click on the link to learn more about becoming a member! https://explorelyoncounty.org/support/

Emporia First Friday Art Walk - Community Flute Choir
2019-11-01 17:30 | Kansas

History Heroes Fall Trivia Night
2019-10-03 18:00 - 21:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Show others how knowing useless trivia IS NOT a waste of time by entering in the Fall Trivia Night presented by the History Heroes Foundation. Entry fee is $60 per team with a max of six players per team. Snacks for all, prizes for the smartest group. Soft drinks available for purchase. Reservations encouraged, but not required.

Paranormal 101
2019-07-13 14:30 - 16:00 | Kansas
YOU can learn how to be a Paranormal Investigator; learn what ghosts are, how to capture them on various equipment, and how to get EVP’s and other evidence!! You will get to see FHP evidence of the paranormal, collected from several haunted locations! AND after you have completed training, YOU will be part of an investigation at the Lyon County History Center that evening!!! (You need to be 18 or older for the investigation.) This event is free and open to the public. The investigation that evening will have limited space.

Wine, Cheese and Trivia
2019-06-19 20:00 - 21:00 | Kansas
The public is invited to test their wits against the 2019 inductees for the National Teachers Hall of Fame. Prizes, refreshments and fun. This event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 7:30 PM.

Friday Family Funday
2019-04-26 10:00 - 11:00 | Lyon County History Center, 711 Commercial St, Emporia, Kansas, 66801
Mobilizing Literacy presents Friday Family Funday! Come join us for games, crafts, music, movement, and of course read aloud stories.
