COUNCIL GROVE (KSNT) – Visitors packed a territory ballroom in Council Grove Sunday afternoon, to step back into Kansas history and mark 175 years of the opening of a historic site.
The Kaw Mission first opened its doors as a school for Kanza children in the early 1850’s, as the limestone structure stands as one of the oldest public buildings in Kansas. The historic site is a lasting reminder for Kansans, of the people, cultures and conflicts that helped shape the Sunflower State.
“The Kaw Mission is so unique, there’s not another one like it. It’s a beautiful grand building, and it’s been a part of Council Grove ever since 1850. Families throughout the middle part of the state all across the United States, and across the world have come to the Kaw Mission to learn about the tribe, the Kansa. It’s just been a main stay, and you just don’t see a lot of 175-year-old buildings,” said Mark Brooks, the site administrator.
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Keeping that history alive takes more than just preserving stone walls. Site administrators said the work also includes uncovering new stories about the students, missionaries and Kanza people who once lived in the area. They hope events like the celebration can inspire younger generations to see the building, not just as a landmark, but as a living piece of Kansas history.
“When this building turns 200, hopefully the site administrator will do another program of newly discovered history of that building, the students, and the people who came to be missionaries,” Brooks said.
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