KANSAS HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Topeka, KS | kshs.org

There are 16 historical sites in Kansas. The Hansen Foundation is offering support for on-site field trips to three NW Kansas sites that address major themes in Kansas and American history. Students will participate in state curriculum-standard tours and participate in hands-on activities. Admission fees and bus subsidies are included.

FORT HAYS STATE HISTORIC SITE (PRE-K – 12) ­— HAYS, KS

The Fort Hays U.S. Army post was active from 1865 until 1889. Troops stationed there defended the railroad and area settlements. Students will learn about Wild Bill Hickok, Buffalo Bill Cody, Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer, the U.S. Cavalry and the Buffalo Soldiers.

SCHEDULING: For more information, or to book a tour please contact: Tammy Younger, Fort Hays Site Administrator, at 785-625-6812 or tammy.younger@ks.gov.

PAWNEE INDIAN MUSEUM (GRADES 1, 3, 5-8) — REPUBLIC, KS

The Pawnee Indian Museum includes 22 earth lodge depressions, numerous storage pit depressions, and remains of the fortification wall that date back to the 1700s. Students will learn about the Pawnee — one of the largest and most powerful of the tribes living on the Central Plains, and how tribes followed the buffalo.

SCHEDULING: For more information, or to book a tour please contact: Betty Bouray, Pawnee Indian Museum Site Administrator, at 785-361-2255 or betty.bouray@ks.gov.

HOLLENBERG PONY EXPRESS STATION (GRADE 4) — HANOVER, KS

Pony Express riders and hundreds of pioneers made a stop at historic Hollenberg Station. The station was established by the Hollenbergs in 1857 to capture trade on the Oregon-California Trail. From 1860 to 1861 it included a Pony Express station. Students will discover the stories of pioneer life, a bustling trade post and the Pony Express.

SCHEDULING: For more information, or to book a tour please contact: Megan Sothan, Hollenberg Site Adminstrator at 785-337-2635 or megan.sothan@ks.gov.