Museum News (March 10, 2025)

As explored in our current exhibition, A Place to Call Home, the journey to Kansas was not for the faint of heart. Pioneers traveled hundreds of miles, often by wagon train, enduring extreme fatigue, starvation, and dehydration. Many succumbed to harsh environmental conditions, with rivers posing particular hazards. Crossing swollen streams often resulted in wagons being swept away, taking with them families and precious supplies.

The lack of adequate food and water was another constant threat. Hunting and foraging were unreliable sources of sustenance, and many pioneers found themselves facing starvation. Contaminated water supplies led to outbreaks of deadly diseases such as cholera and dysentery, which claimed the lives of many before they even reached their destination. Interestingly, coffee drinkers had a measure of protection from cholera, as boiling water to brew their beverage inadvertently killed harmful bacteria, reducing their risk of infection.

Once in Kansas, settlers had to contend with the unpredictable and often violent weather. The Great Plains were notorious for extreme temperatures, with scorching summers and bitterly cold winters. Due to romanticized advertisements, pioneers were often unprepared for the brutal climate, and many succumbed to heat exhaustion, frostbite, or hypothermia.

Even for those who survived the journey and initial settlement, daily life on the frontier was grueling. Farming on the dry, unforgiving soil required immense labor, and crop failures were common. Medical care was scarce, leaving settlers vulnerable to minor injuries that could quickly turn fatal. Women and children often bore the brunt of frontier hardships, with women shouldering immense responsibilities, from tending to livestock to home-building and medical care.

Despite the overwhelming challenges, many pioneers persevered. Their determination and resilience laid the foundation for the growth of Kansas as a thriving state. However, their sacrifices should not be forgotten. The journey west was not merely an adventure but a testament to human endurance and the high cost of the American Dream.

In addition to exploring pioneer history, visitors can also enjoy the work of our current Artist of the Month, Ken Caples. An exceptional woodcarver, Caples creates both whimsical pieces and stunning works inspired by the western frontier. His carvings include detailed depictions of buffalo, mountain men, and other iconic symbols of the Old West. His artistry brings the spirit of the pioneers to life, making his work a must-see for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

Come explore the hardships faced by pioneers settling in Kansas in A Place to Call Home. This engaging and educational exhibition will be on view through June 17th. The Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday and holidays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. We are closed on New Year’s Day. The Museum is fully handicap accessible, and admission is always free, thanks to the generous support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.