History & Museums: Remembering and Honoring

Memorials

Located next to Emporia State University’s One Room Schoolhouse, the NATIONAL MEMORIAL TO FALLEN EDUCATORS (12 W 18th Ave, ESU Campus) commemorates educators who lost their lives while performing their professional duties. As the founding city of Veterans Day, our military memorials carry special significance. At the ALL VETERANS MEMORIAL (933 S Commercial St), take a walk amongst the Tablets of Honor, a World War II Sherman tank, a Huey helicopter, and USS Oliver Hazard Perry anchor. Also located at the All Veterans Memorial is the Vietnam Veteran Memorial and Purple Heart Memorial.

Historic Downtown

DOWNTOWN EMPORIA was designated a Federal and State Historic District in 2012. It encompasses a total of 18 blocks centered around Commercial Street and 6th Avenue. Within this area you will find 17 architectural styles including Gothic Revival style churches and a number of Italianate-style buildings from the 1860s, built soon after Emporia was founded. One of Emporia’s crown jewels is the Granada Theatre. This 1929 Spanish Colonial Revival theater has been fully restored and is truly eye-dazzling. Enjoy the surroundings as you shop and eat downtown!

Museums

The LYON COUNTY HISTORY CENTER (711 Commercial St) presents the story of our region from its earliest inhabitants to today. Explore exhibits about the Flint Hills, area Native Americans, the everyday life of early immigrants, and our history as a railroad hub and the founding city of Veterans Day. The Kid’s Zone and model train makes the Center fun for all ages. HOWE HOUSE AND WELSH FARMSTEAD (315 E Logan Ave) is one of the oldest homes in Emporia, built in 1867 by one of the first Welsh settlers to the area. The home is a rare example of an early settlement structure that has survived in near original condition, including 18-inch thick limestone walls, original black walnut woodwork, native oak floors and furniture. The surrounding 15 acres of land showcase antique farm tools and masonry equipment. Tours are available by appointment (620-340-6310).

Red Rocks State Historic Site, Home of William Allen White

William Allen White Historic Home

RED ROCKS STATE HISTORIC SITE (927 Exchange St) is the home of William Allen White, editor of the Emporia Gazette from 1899 to 1944. White wrote many beloved short stories and novels, and rose to prominence on the world stage after penning his fiery editorial, “What’s the Matter with Kansas.” As a star author, journalist, and public figure in his day, Mr. White hosted five U.S. Presidents at his home here in Emporia. White’s gorgeous Tudor Revival style home features a staircase designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, furnishings and personal items of the White family, as well as a lily pond and gardens on the grounds. The site is open for tours Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from April to October.