The importance of presenting the history of the development of western Kansas has begun thanks to museums like the Prairie Museum of Art & History. I was born and grew up in the far northwestern corner of KS. However, I have lived the majority of my life on the East coast where I have experienced historical preservation in multiple venues and often wondered when such preservation would start in Western Kansas and indeed it has. Recently, it was my pleasure to research the records for the Lone Star Presbyterian Church, which is on the grounds of the Prairie Museum. These hand written records are now available to descendants (and others) of the original congregation of The Lone Star Presbyterian Church, which is representative of early prairie churchs. This church is only one of many parts of the museum that tells of the development of prairie life in that part of our country. Through newsletters and personal visits, it has been a pleasure to observe the development of the museum. The museum's programs focusing on numerous aspects of prairie life history through to current day developments are to be highly commended. Thus the Prairie Museum of Art and History is an important part of the foundation for understanding and supporting the future development of Western Kansas.
My favorite landmark in Colby, Kansas, is the Prairie Museum of Art and History. I take friends, family, and visitors there often as well as my students. There is always something interesting and something to learn. I have been involved in the museum for a generation and recommend it to all ages. Quite and exceptional collection and outstanding staff! We have so many projects going there at the museum and many more to entice innovative people who are proud of local culture and history. This is a great place to preserve the regional heritage for generations to come.