WELCOME TO the Atchison County Historical Society Museum
- Phone: (913) 367 6238
- Email: gowest1854@gmail.com
- Admission: $5.00 Under 12 - $1.00
- We are handicap accessible.
Charles and Sara Robinson aka Steve and Suzanne Germes, using their unique historical character interpretation skills will bring the period of “Bleeding Kansas” to life illustrating how Kansas became the 34th State.
The Kansas–Nebraska Act of 1854 allowed settlers in Kansas Territory to vote on whether to allow slavery within its borders. This new law would put into motion the period called “Bleeding Kansas.” This new act repealed the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which had prohibited slavery in any new States created north of the latitude line 36°30'. Predictably, violence erupted between Northerners and Southerners who rushed into the territory to further their beliefs. Within a few days after the passage of this Act hundreds of pro-slavery Missourians crossed into Kansas Territory with the intent on establishing a Pro-Slavery State. Atchison, Kansas played a critical political role in the early years of this period. Dr. John H. Springfellow, a territorial politician, came to Kansas Territory and settled in Atchison and published the first newspaper, the Squatter Sovereign , which was a pro Southern newspaper.
Abolitionists in the East established numerous Immigrant aid companies to oppose this new Act which had repealed the Missouri Compromise. Charles and Sara Robinson were abolitionists who came to Kansas Territory in 1854 from Massachusetts to help ensure Kansas Territory would become a Free State where slavery would be prohibited. Violent guerrilla warfare broke out between the two groups and would last for nearly seven long years.
Join the Robinson’s as they tell you about their lives and struggles to help make Kansas a FREE STATE!
Founded in 1967, The Atchison County Historical Society is committed to the principle that a citizenry must possess knowledge of their past to make informed decisions in shaping the future of our community. We believe the thoughtful and proactive preservation of our rich heritage is the best building block of the future.
From our beautifully restored Santa Fe Freight Depot Museum to our local landmarks, Atchison County offers a number of sites to visit and explore. Click on the short video at the left for a quick view of our museum. Review the list of local sites below and use the links to learn more.
Join our community of history enthusiasts and show your support for Atchison County Historical Society. Our Members receive our newsletters, as well as opportunities to volunteer and make a difference in our community. Membership support is an important part of our financial security.
Summer Hours: (April thru November)
Winter Hours: (December thru March)
Holiday Closures:
Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day,
Christmas Eve, Christmas, & New Year's Eve & Day.
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“The mission of the Atchison County Historical Society is to preserve, promote, record and share the history and historical artifacts of Atchison County, Kansas and increase public appreciation of our heritage and culture.”
The Atchison County Historical Society is committed to the principle that a citizenry must possess knowledge of their past to make informed decisions in shaping the future of our community. We believe the thoughtful and proactive preservation of our rich heritage is the best building block of the future.
Are you passionate about what we're doing? Let us know! We are always looking for volunteers to help us make our vision a reality. We'll help you find a way to volunteer that best suits you. We're excited to have you join the team!
Whether you help through monetary donations, volunteering your time, or spreading our mission through word-of-mouth, thank you. We couldn't accomplish our goals without the help of supporters like you.
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