150 Things I Love About Kansas
Through December 31, 2011
Special exhibits gallery
"When anything is going to happen in this country, it happens first in Kansas." --William Allen White, Emporia Gazette
Kansas became the 34th state in the Union on January 29, 1861. 150 Things I Love About Kansas celebrates the state's eventful history over the past century and a half.
The exhibit will feature 150 objects, images, and documents about Kansas. It will present Kansas symbols and stereotypes while also turning them inside out and inviting public reaction. The state's history, culture, and traditions will be examined through these common themes.
List of 150 Things (PDF)
Hear the 150 Things I Love About Kansas radio spot (MP3)
The Wizard of Oz
L. Frank Baum's classic book affected Kansas' image worldwide. Enjoy a variety of Oz objects, including original books and figures.
Weather
People who know little else about Kansas nevertheless associate the state with extreme weather events. Kansans have a more realistic view of the climate and how it impacts their lives.
Wild West
Kansas forever will be associated with the cattle drive era and its notorious cattle towns. We explore the real West as well as the more exaggerated version presented in rodeos and movies.
Wheat
Kansas has produced more grain than most other countries, and has come to be known by the names "Wheat State" and "Breadbasket of the World."
Sunflowers
The wild native sunflower is the Kansas state flower. It grows everywhere, and its image is an expression of the Kansas character and appears on everything from flags to license plates.
Landscape
Although the perception of Kansas is "flat" and "boring," many people find beauty in its landscape. "Flat" doesn't mean "boring."
People
Kansas is famous for its friendly people with open characters. We celebrate the diversity of our citizens, including native peoples, immigrants, famous folks, and unsung heroes.
This exhibit is funded in part by the Capitol Federal Foundation and the Kansas Humanities Council, a nonprofit cultural organization promoting understanding of the history, traditions, and ideas that shape our lives and build community.
