the explorer - Kansas Sampler Foundation

Issue #98
April 2013
THE EXPLORER
The Kansas Explorers Club is created to inspire, educate, and encourage the
exploration and appreciation of Kansas...and to have fun doing it!
Explorers are urged to look for the rural culture elements in each town —
architecture, art, commerce, cuisine, customs, geography, history, and people.
Kansas Sampler Foundation, 978 Arapaho Rd., Inman, KS 67546
620.585.2374 kansassampler.org [email protected] / [email protected]
Explorer newsletter #98 is an all-festival
issue featuring exhibitors attending
the Kansas Sampler Festival.
It’s time for the Kansas Sampler
Festival which means…
YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE
While you’re out and around exploring the state,
just know that the purchases you make at locallyowned stores or cafes, or the admissions you pay
at attractions, are truly valued.
Feel good about every dollar you spend in a
small town!
Thank you, Marci Penner
THE EXPLORER SEASON IS
OFF AND RUNNING!
May 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
May 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Light Park, 11th and Kansas, Liberal1
Kansassamplerfestival.com
Whether you just want to come eat Dinky Dunkers and
have your picture taken beside a Mammoth Donkey or
plan day trips and discover fun stops to make along
your usual route, you’ll find all this at the 24th annual
Kansas Sampler Festival!
Having a plan for the two-day event makes it even
more fun.
 For example, maybe you’d like to plan a culinary trip
around the state. So at the festival, you’d go to each
town’s booth asking about their best food offering.
Pick up a map at the Kansas Explorers Club tent or
the state Kansas Tourism booth in the statewide tent
and mark it up as you go around the festival.

Maybe you’d like to get to know, for example, North
Central Kansas. Spend leisurely time in that tent
planning day trips. Let them know what you’re doing.
They’ll bend over backwards to help, as would any
regional tent.

Maybe you just want to eat Kansas foods, listen to
Kansas musicians, buy Kansas products, and try to
answer Marci’s Kansas questions at The Stump.

Bring kids! There is a children’s area and close by
are the pack goats and Mammoth donkeys. Lots of
exhibitors have things for kids.
GET IN GEAR,
EXPLORER GEAR, THAT IS!
New t-shirts, a sweatshirt, a long-sleeved shirt, a
visor, and a cap will be the new Explorer merchandise to debut at the Kansas Sampler Festival.
Shirt messages are:
 Explore Kansas (the word “explore” inside an
outline of the state).
 I am a Kansas Explorer Club member.
 Kansas Explorers Club (full zipper sweatshirt).
 We are Kansas.
 Rural by Choice.
 We Kan! sustain rural communities.
 Get Real, Get Rural.
Plus Explorer specials on past “Explorer gear.”
2013 Explorer Buttons wording:
 I’m a Kansas Explorer.
 Explore Kansas.
 Rock n’ Rural.
Pick up your gear and free button at the Kansas
Explorers Club tent at the Kansas Sampler Festival!
Featuring the rural culture elements of customs, people...
CLOWNIN’ AROUND
Famous clowns came from Kansas!
SEDAN2: Sad-faced, Weary Willie, a famous clown
played by Sedan’s Emmett Kelly performed for the
Ringling Brothers Circus from 1942-1955. In 1956 he
performed as the mascot for the Brooklyn Dodgers
baseball team! A museum in Sedan tells his story.
WESTMORELAND3
(Pottawatomie Co. booth):
Whizzo the Clown and the
Wiziarde Novelty Circus family
came from Westmoreland. The
barn used for practice by the
performers has recently been
restored and is located at the
Rock Creek Historical Society
Museum. You can see the original hooks where the trapeze hung. Memorabilia of the
circus act is inside the museum.
Featuring the rural culture elements of people, history...
EISENHOWER IS OUR PRESIDENT!
Dwight Eisenhower was also president of Columbia
University for two years prior to becoming the Supreme
Allied Commander of NATO during World War II.
The presidential museum has murals, photographs,
films, and artifacts that tell about his boyhood and family, his military career, and his life as president. Ask at
the Abilene4 booth about Eisenhower, and Mr. K’s
Farmhouse restaurant, a place formerly called Lena’s.
They’ll tell you that owner, Lena, used to paddle
guests on their birthdays.
She even paddled
Eisenhower on his 75th! The paddle hangs on the wall.
Featuring the rural culture elements of history, commerce...
SALT OF THE SUNFLOWER STATE
From dark rides to seasoning...
KANSAS UNDERGROUND SALT MUSEUM,
Hutchinson6. As their web site says, in 90 seconds
you’ll travel 650 feet below the Kansas prairie to see
a place that has been there for 275 million years.
Take a ride on the tram or train once you’re down
under and learn all about the uses of salt and the
mining of salt.
DUCK SALT, Greensburg7. You don’t need to lick
the walls of the salt museum to get your fix, buy Duck
Salt from Matt Deighton. Ask him why he calls it
Duck Salt. Find him in the Kansas Products tent.
Featuring the rural culture elements of geography, architecture,
commerce...
GREEN ROCKS, RED ROCKS,
ALPACA SOCKS
GREEN ROCKS: The only green stone quarry you’ll
find in the state is located in Graham County. You
may think the limestone buildings in Hill City8 have
been painted green but that’s a natural stone color.
RED ROCKS is the name of editor William Allen
White’s home, now a state historic site, in Emporia9.
The striking 1889 home was built with red Colorado
sandstone. In his editorials, White used the small
town as a metaphor for understanding social change
and for preaching the necessity of community.
ALPACA SOCKS (find Alpacas of Wildcat Hollow in
the Kansas Products tent). Ed and Marta Howe of
Eskridge10 will be selling numerous alpaca items, like
socks! They are warmer than wool and hypoallergenic.
Featuring the rural culture elements of architecture, history…
THE CAPITOL THAT NEVER WAS
In 1855 President James Buchanan approved
federal money and appointed officials to establish
government offices in Lecompton5 (Douglas County).
It was intended to be the first capitol of Kansas.
Construction stopped in 1857 when it became clear
that the Lecompton Constitution (proslavery) would not
be passed. Finally, in 1882 Lane University (named
for James Lane, controversial antislavery supporter)
was constructed, using the capitol ruins. A museum
now tells the story of the plans for the territorial capitol
and the history of Lane University. Dwight Eisenhower’s parents met there as students!
Stop at the Lecompton booth for information about
this Territorial Capitol Museum and other attractions in
the town once called, the Wall Street of the West.
Featuring the rural culture element of architecture...
BANDSHELL QUEST
So many entertaining things happen in bandshells!
Those represented at the festival include: Abilene4
(1981), Clay Center11 (1934, WPA), St. Francis12
(1934, WPA), Lindsborg14 (WPA), Barnes15 (1940,
WPA, the state’s smallest), McPherson14 (1939,
WPA), Arkansas City16 (1918), Dodge City17 (1934,
WPA), and Garden City18 (1931, WPA).
Page 2
Featuring the rural culture element of architecture…
COURTHOUSE QUESTERS
Numerous Kansas Explorer Club members have
been choosing to go to every courthouse in the state.
The festival will be a great place to ask about interesting courthouse nuances. Here are a just a few of the
courthouses represented at the festival:
ANTHONY, Harper County19: This red-brick with
limestone trim 1908 George Washburn courthouse is
one of the state’s most well maintained and beautiful.
COTTONWOOD FALLS, Chase County20: One of
the 8 Wonders of Kansas Architecture, the 1873 limestone courthouse is the oldest-operating in Kansas.
The walnut spiral staircase leads to a bird’s-eye view
of the city from the oval window.
HUTCHINSON, Reno County6: An imposing but
grand art deco limestone exterior is in contrast to the
stunning interior with marble columns, bronze newel
posts, exquisite murals, and Japanese inlay.
MARYSVILLE, Marshall County21: The old 1891
red brick-faced Romanesque courthouse, now the
county museum, is one of the most striking buildings
in the state. Look for the word “Justice” that stands
out in terra cotta above the second-floor windows.
The polished red granite columns are rare in Kansas.
PAOLA, Miami County22: This is another beautifully
restored George Washburn courthouse. The restored
courtroom is an interior highlight. Stained glass and
ornate woodwork accent the 1898 structure.
SEDAN, Chautauqua County2: The 1918 courthouse was the last courthouse in the state designed
by architect George Washburn.
SMITH CENTER, Smith County24: The best place
to learn about the old Dutch Mill is in the courthouse!
The bright green and blue floral pattern tile running
throughout the courthouse adds a classic touch.
WAKEENEY, Trego County25: The original roof was
removed in 1951-1952 but the peaked part was
replaced in the last two year! In 1974, several scenes
of Paper Moon were filmed here.
WINFIELD, Cowley County16: A county map is
etched into the stone face of the courthouse.
Lincoln County
Courthouse,
built 1900.
HISTORIC THEATRES
Want to go to a movie at restored historic theaters in
the state? Talk to people in these booths: Larned27
Lucas28, Grant County29, Hutchinson6, Russell28,
Pratt31, Phillips County32, Hamilton County33, and
Greensburg7.
Featuring the rural culture element of customs…
THE WIZARD OF OZ IS KANSAS!
LIBERAL1: LAND OF OZ, 1 Yellow Brick Rd.
A replica of Dorothy’s house and statues of Dorothy
and Toto, the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and the Lion are
found at the Land of Oz where you can follow the
Indoor yellow brick road through vignettes of movie
scenes. Dorothy statues can be seen around town.
WAMEGO3:
OZ MUSEUM,
511 Lincoln
Included in the 2,000
artifacts found in this
museum are the original
Oz book by L. Frank Baum
and some items from the
1939 MGM movie.
WASHINGTON15: THE MAYOR
Charlie Becker, the mayor of Munchkinland in the
film The Wizard of Oz, lived in the little stucco house at
6th and E. With his wife, Jessie.
WASHINGTON: MUNCHKINLAND PLAYGROUND
South of U.S. 36 on D. This impressive Oz-themed
playground was built with $90,000, 42,000 screws, six
miles of lumber, and 14,000 volunteer hours!
SEDAN2: YELLOW BRICK ROAD
Names on the 11,000 bricks on Sedan’s downtown
Yellow Brick road sidewalk represent every state in the
U.S. and 28 foreign countries. Yellow stripes border
the bricks.
Featuring the rural culture element of customs...
I’M JUST A SWINGIN’!
HAYS34, 26th and Vine: The only cemetery in the
state with tree swings — two double-seat swings!
HERINGTON4, N. Broadway. Father
Padilla Park is where you’ll find an
unusual swing. It appears that two trees
have grown cuffs to hold the bar for the
swing.
MELVERN RESERVOIR35: In Osage
County, find a suspension bridge at
Outlet Park over Long Creek.
HARVEY COUNTY PARK WEST36, from Newton go 10
miles west on U.S. 50, then 4 miles north on N.
Halstead, and 3 1/2 miles west. Feel the swing of the
wire-mesh suspension footbridge across the fishing lake.
Page 3
Featuring the rural culture element of customs…
Featuring the rural culture elements of art, customs, history…
TELLING TIME WITH A SUN DIAL
BIG and BAD
DODGE CITY17: On the north side of the restored Santa Fe Depot (201 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd) you’ll find two big
sun dials. One shows Central Time and the other is
set to the Mountain Time zone. These were built for
the early railroad passengers and are now restored.
In 1966 a 30-foot-tall steel structure of Johnny Kaw
was erected in Manhattan43 City Park at 11th and
Poyntz. There he stands with giant scythe in hand,
gazing out at all who pass by.
BIG
In Topeka44, a big wren sits in the median divider between SW 12th, SW Huntoon, and SW Topeka Blvd.
It’s first “nest,” in 1947, was atop radio station WREN.
After flying out of state for awhile, this wire mesh and
concrete landmark returned in 1993. It was built in
the 1930s by an unknown artist.
MEDICINE LODGE37: You’ll find an equatorial sun
dial monument at the high school, one block east of
U.S. 281 on El Dorado.
Featuring the rural culture elements of history, people…
STRAWBERRIES and ROSES
A gray stone marks the site of Strawberry (10 miles
north of Clifton15 (Washington Co.) on Eagle Road,
then one mile east on K-148 to Fox). This settlement,
named for the wild strawberries that grew here, existed
from 1868 to 1951.
The area between Orville and Armstrong and N. 4th
and N. 7th in Kansas City23 is the heart of Strawberry
Hill, the home of Croatian, Slovenian and mixed ethnic
immigrant descendants. This neighborhood, named
for wild strawberries that once grew here, is characterized by narrow streets and alleys and quaint houses perched among its hills. Sadly, in 1957 construction of I-70 destroyed one-third of the neighborhood.
Strawberry Hill Museum and Cultural Center, 720 N.
4th, shares the cultural story.
The Kickapoo or Potawatomi word muscotah means
“prairie on fire.” Supposedly, the name was given to
this area because of the wild roses located here in the
Delaware Valley. On June 1, Muscotah38 will hold a
Rose Festival. Everyone with the name of Rose, or
honoring a Rose, is welcome to be in a little parade!
Featuring the rural culture elements of people, history…
8 WONDERS OF KANSAS PEOPLE
Seven of the top 8 Wonders of Kansas People will be
represented at the festival:
Amelia Earhart
(Atchison38); Buffalo Soldiers (Leavenworth39); Carry
Nation (Medicine Lodge37); Emil Kapaun of Pilsen
(Marion County40); George Washington Carver (Ottawa
Co. Museum41 and Ness County42); James Naismith
(Lawrence5); and William Allen White (Emporia9).
The Big Well in Greensburg7, one of the 8 Wonders
of Kansas, is the largest hand-dug well in the world
Have you seen the post-tornado staircase and displays?
Plan to see it and remember that this, 109 x 32 feet
well was hand dug, with help of mules, in 1888!
BAD
Like the Big Well, the Dalton Gang Hideout, 502 S.
Pearlette, in Meade45 was one of the early attractions
in Kansas. The bank robbing gang of brothers used
their sister’s home in Meade as a hideout during the
late 1880s. In the 1930s, the WPA converted the
95-foot-long, 3-foot-high dirt tunnel into a walkway
with stone walls and cement floor.
Boston Corbett, the man who allegedly shot John
Wilkes Booth, Lincoln’s assassin, lived in a dugout in
Cloud County46 for awhile. A turnstile takes you to
the ruts of his “home.” Two miles south of Concordia
on U.S. 81, then 2 1/2 miles east on Noble Road, 3
miles south on 170 Road, and 3/4 mile east on Key
Road.
Wondering what to buy as a gift for the
graduate, Mother’s and Father’s Day or
that hard to buy for person?
Problem solved! Purchase the award
winning 8 Wonders of Kansas Guidebook! It’s available online or at 150
locations throughout Kansas. You
can find the list of retail stores near
you at 8wonders.org.
Page 4
QUEST REPORTS!
It’s fun to hear what other Explorers are doing. Report your Quest
choice or updates to [email protected].
Twenty-year old Nick Larmer, KE #3320 of Colby, is halfway to his
quest of hiking across Kansas. In March, he did the first half from
the Colorado border to Downs47 on U.S. 24. He’ll continue on that
highway to Missouri. Along the route he’s buying food at local grocery stores, visiting with the locals, and buying stamps. His family is
his support team but friends and Explorers along the way are letting
him camp in their backyards. Facebook: Hike Across Kansas.
New Kansas Explorer #6100 Elyssa Jackson, the director of the
museums in Iola48 (Allen County, Old Jail, Fred Funston), is going
to visit every museum in Kansas, starting with a goal of ten this
year. She also will buy something from each gift shop.
KE’s #1729 and librarians Kathy and Chris Rippel plan to visit at
least one library in every county. They want to see the variety of
services and decor and pick up cool ideas. Inside the Kirwin32
town square they found the 1916 brick city office and fire department. The building also houses the Kirwin City Library. The city
clerk is the director of the library!
KE #2200 Nancy Cole’s quest is to visit every state historic site.
She’s now been to the Mine Creek Battlefield near Pleasanton49.
She found new signage and plaques outside for the self-guided tour.
KE #375 Nancy Nolte and sister KE #1980 Judy Dayhoff just completed a Carnegie Library quest. Their next quest is to travel the
eight Kansas scenic byways and three historic byways!
travelks.com/ksbyways/
WELCOME TO THE
EXPLORER FAMILY!
This is a list of those who have joined since
the last newsletter and through April 11.
Special thanks to gift givers.
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Kylee Colson, Oakley
Torrin Reed, Wichita
Kendal and Dawn Rohr, Canton
Kara Jecha, Timken
Rob & Stefanie Culley,
Baldwin City
Gwen & Wesley Hovorka,
Dodge City
Lewis & Barbara Kollhoff, Salina
Molly Siemens, McPherson
Charles & Sharon Polston,
Haysville
Everett and Martha Lathrom,
Lawrence
Mary Sutherland, Andover
Jay McNett, Yates Center
Pam Tucker & John Denning,
Great Bend
Carla Jordan, Great Bend
Daryl & Rosemary Schooler,
Hiawatha
Lori Ross, Hays
Sylvia Campbell, Manhattan
Stanley Albrecht, Downs
Merry Bauman, Peck
Kate & Shawn Catlin, Anthony
Cindy Brungardt, Medicine Lodge
Sonia Smith, Gardner
Marcia Lawrence, Kansas City, MO
Darcy Herold, Augusta
Mike Strodtman, Bucklin
Teri Bahr, Overland Park
GET TO KNOW LIBERAL1!
LIBERAL VISITOR’S CENTER, 1 Yellow
Brick Road. Stop here for all the information
about things to see and do, and places to eat in
town.
CORONADO STATUE, a bronze of Franciso Vasquez de Coronado stands just off 1 Yellow brick Road.
Coronado and his soldiers came through the area in 1541.
SEWARD COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM and the CORONADO MUSEUM, 567 E. Cedar. Located in a 1918
home, this is the place to learn more about the area history.
BAKER ARTS CENTER, 624 N. Pershing. Local, regional, and national art is on display at this first-class gallery.
MID-AMERICA AIR MUSEUM, 2000 W. 2nd. One of the premier aviation museums in the U.S., this one has
over 100 aircraft including military planes, helicopters, home-built planes, modern jets, and a star ship.
INTERNATIONAL PANCAKE DAY RACE. See the Stan Herd mural at 4th and Kansas showing runners from
England and Liberal.
LIBRARY DOOR, 6th and Kansas. A giant book stands in front of the library.
“IT’S MIGHTY LIBERAL OF YOU.” That’s what travelers in the 1880s said to S.S. Rogers when offered water
from Roger’s well. See a statue of Rogers in Blue Bonnet Park, just east of the middle school at 7th and Western.
Page 5
THANKS RENEWERS!
Each one of you is important to us.
(This is a list of those who have renewed
between the last newsletter and Apr. 11)
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Michael & Ivona Pickering, Lincoln
Lynda Fort, Ulysses
WenDee LaPlant, Inman
Shingo & Kathy Kajinami, McPherson
Barb Robins, Pittsburg
Carl & Shirley Ade, McPherson
Ken & Mary Asher, Louisburg
Leilani and Chuck Thomas, Colby
Connie Dougherty, Lucas
William D. Krug, Medicine Lodge
Alyssa Penner & Ragnar Thorisson,
Seattle
Pam & Leon Schneider, Caldwell
Charley & Faye Minium, Morland
John E. & Merle L. Peterson, Emporia
Lidia Gray, Liberal
Rex & Nancy Jo Trauer, Dodge City
Marce Brewer, Beaumont
Vicki Arnett, Topeka
Carole and Virgul Bengston,
Hutchinson
Janet Wilson, Arkansas City
Karolen & Jim Harrouff, Emporia
Liz Knitter, Downs
Fred & Nancy Kerr, Pratt
Nancy Nolte, Blue Rapids
John S. Adams, Lawrence
William & Peggy Matthews, Manhattan
Marilyn & Martin Helmer, Lincoln
Paul Bahnmaier, Lecompton
Walt & Margaret Hays, Osawatomie
Chuck & Joyce Trimble, Burlington
Don, Janet & Bayley Shepherd,
Haysville
Hal & Eleanor Berkley, Tescott
Ann & Brian Conner, Salina
Bob & Dottie Harder, Topeka
David Amick, Lawrence
Kent & Deb Goyen, Pratt
Betty Roberts, Paxico
Crystal Kennedy, Lecompton
Terry L. Broberg, Lincoln
Bob & Gladys Woolwine, Dodge City
John & Sally Hatcher, Hastings
Joan Nothern, Glasco
Dave & Mary Hendricks, WaKeeney
Barbara McLain, Topeka
Beverly Kindler, Norton
Arlene Taylor, Eskridge
Wayne Hemmen & Elaine Aaron,
Wichita
Carol Bontrager, South Hutchinson
Clinton & Delaine Stalker, Satanta
Ronald E. Bishop, Lawrence
James & Clarice Hayden, Montezuma
Christa Lott, Minneapolis
Ginger & Loy Anthony, Ulysses
Ellie Duram, Wichita
John Pence, Manhattan
Carolyn Huebner, Topeka
Ann C. Strecker, Topeka
Nita Jones, Sedan
Ardeth Scott, Haviland
Bruce & Kathy Trapp, Haven
Jack & Vicky Wempe, Lyons
Riley & Sara Winkler, Lawrence
Margery S. Heeney, Topeka
Kathy Rippel, Great Bend
A. Ann Jessop, Topeka
Rita Schartz, St. John
Paul & Sandy Liechti, Lawrence
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Kathleen Whitley, Garden City
Jim Masson, Shawnee Mission
Del Ruff, Hutchinson
Dale & Beverly Cole, Salina
Brett Hanson, Wichita
Mary Moege, Wamego
Nancy Ann Perih, Topeka
Ron Jones, Salina
Larry & Dianne Rapp, Derby
Jim & Rita Starr, Topeka
Bob & Mary Lou Newsome, Manhattan
Donna & Francis Wiley, Lawrence
Jeanneen Campbell, Wichita
John L. Vickers, Louisburg
Barbara & John James, Baldwin City
Dennis & Janet Rorabaugh, Lawrence
Nancy L. Cole, Topeka
Marjorie Loyd, Topeka
Jerome Morgan, Salina
Robert & Agnes Meier, Hays
Allen Conner, Wichita
Sally Frederick, Kansas City
Judy Langley, Hutchinson
Gary & Rosemary Fisher, Moundridge
Barbara Schmidt, Independence
Sue Smith, Cottonwood Falls
Martha Knudsen & Marlie Ten Eyck,
Newton
Al & Ann Ogden, Overland Park
Jan Russell, Olathe
Ray Demuth, Dodge City
Don & Lynda Ochs, Overland Park
Susan K. Reimer, McPherson
Wayne & Danielle Goering,
Moundridge
Gordon & Maxine Mikesell, Clearwater
Heather Fuesz, Eureka
Marjorie A. Hensley, Sedgwick
Rita & Clinton Smith, Jr., Holton
Kenneth Boerger, Sedgwick
Terry & Bob Chesnut, Wichita
Nadine Bruner, Wichita
Robbie Thomas, Bel Aire
Nancy Jo Leachman, Salina
Dr. Herschel & Jacque Stroud, Topeka
Mariam Fleming, Overland Park
Marlan & Marvella Ratzlaff,
Moundridge
Bernard Larson, Tonganoxie
Ron & Sandy Larson, Wakefield
Doris S. Scott, Bucklin
Jon & Julie Prather, Wichita
Aldean Banker, Russell
Mary Arlington, Pierre
Glenda Trecek, Agenda
Kathleen & John Slaymaker, Wichita
Sara Sheffield, Wichita
Phyllis Strnad, Scandia
C. Dean & Rita Pressnall, Wichita
Greg & Gwen Leivian, Wichita
Larry & Nancy Gray, Wichita
Helen & John P. Pauly, St. Marys
Donna & Steven Price, Goodland
Robert, Melinda & Stephanie Miller,
Independence
Erin Debler, Alma
Courtney Neill, Toronto
James & Reba Erickson, Bonner
Springs
Alan & Nyla LeSage, Hill City
S. Diane Hill, Andover
Norma & Richard Wilson, El Dorado
Jerry Hager, Ford
Diane Smith, Lenexa
Dan Smith, Derby
John Holecek, McPherson
Sally Hayes, Wichita
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Lue & Pratt Barndollar, Coffeyville
Janet Horner & Michael Eravi, Lawrence
Christy Hopkins, Tribune
Warren & Claire Willenberg, Wichita
Wayne Stander, Topeka
Deborah Maupin, Paradise
Mary Jane Hurley, Concordia
Geneva Persinger, Johnson
Dee & Phyllis Scherich, Wilmore
Barrick & Kristi Wilson, Wichita
Wanda Euwer, Leander
Myrna & Bill Barnes, Elkhart
Ray Randolph, Indianapolis
Lucille & Jerry Kissel, Wetmore
Barbara Wilson, Osborne
Jeanne Riggs, Burlingame
Myron Lady, Abilene
Joan & Steve Heide, Downs
Linda Hubbard, Topeka
Carolyn Lindsey, Wichita
Nancy J. Cole, Moundridge
Jack (Picture Man) Mozur, Shawnee Mission
Gary & Glennys Doane, Downs
Marcia Rozell, Manhattan
Phil & Mary Jarvis, Winfield
Tammy Britt, Concordia
Dianne O'Connor, Topeka
Gary & Carole Spohn, Tampa
Lee & Susan Wallace, Topeka
Phyllis Eads, Wichita
Ed & Carol Berger, Hutchinson
Sarah Couch, Lawrence
Christopher Renner, Manhattan
Mary Brooks, Liberal
Charles Tweedy, Arkansas City
Ronald Beets, Gardner
Duane & Carolyn Iles, Holton
Sue Kill, Sedan
Linda & Chuck Burton, Manhattan
Chuck & Jane Olsen, Leawood
Karen Johnson, Lawrence
Steve Grieb, Lawrence
Joslyn Dewey, Garden City
Mike Tacha, Silver Plume
Don Johnson, Wichita
Jim & Nancy Sherer, Dodge City
Bill and Sue Fischer, Fort Scott
Sarah Willard & Tom Tucker, Hutchinson
Laveta & Charles Horner, Chapman
Susan Osborn, Lawrence
Anita Goertzen, Goessel
Stephen Perry, Wichita
Wayne Sangster, Prairie Village
John LaDuex, Clay Center
Steve Woolf, Bushton
Don and Michelle Wolfe, Overland Park
Jack Maier, Hillsboro
Bill & Maurine Regehr, Hesston
Kathy Dayhoff and Rick Meis, Westminster, CO
Aaron Sumner, Lawrence
Jay and Donna Frye, Haddam
Joe and Nakita Hirsch, McPherson
Ted Thomas, Mission
Stan & Donna Grigsby, Iola
Laurie & Jim Millensifer, Oakley
Suzanne Sauer, LaCrosse
Deann Mahoney, Geary, OK
Troy Shaffer, Yates Center
Duane & Audrey Mortensen, Lawrence
Nanci Shaw, McPherson
Simone Cahoj, Leoti
Phoebe & Steve Janzen, Florence
Marilyn K. Gerber, Wichita
Kim & Mark Clark, Hutchinson
Vic Willems, Hutchinson
Sue Shuman, Salina
Page 6
Kansas Explorers Club Membership and Renewal Form
Explorers Name _______________________________________ Names for family membership: ____________________________
Explorer Number (if you know it) ________________________________________________________________________________
First-timer _____; Renewal ____ Phone _____________________ E-mail _____________________________________________
Address _______________________________________ City ________________________________ State ____ Zip ___________
Gift membership to: ____________________________________ Mailing address _________________________________________
This is a gift from: ______________________________________________________________________ (Gift card will be enclosed).
Annual dues: Individual membership $18.61; family $30. (Family membership prior to #881 is grandfathered in at $18.61)
Check is enclosed _____ or Visa or Master Card #__________________________________ Exp. date ___________
Name on card ___________________________________________
I’d like to add a donation for the work of the Kansas Sampler Foundation _______________.
Send to: Kansas Explorers Club, 978 Arapaho Rd., Inman, KS 67546
EXPLORER TRACKINGS
KE’s #9 Mil & VLee Penner can’t wait to go back to
the newly-opened Mamma Lou’s in Buhler6, 111 N.
Main, for another hamburger. Word on the street is
that it’s the secret seasoning that makes it so good!
KE #22 Martha Slater Farrell loves the new Doo Dah
Diner in Wichita50. She says it’s a simple, homey
diner with made-from-scratch cooking and fresh
ingredients. She and a friend enjoyed the Eggs
Benedict and meat loaf. It’s located at Kellogg and
Market. In the morning you can get complimentary
monkey bread! Doodahdiner.com.
Von Rothenberger, KE #8, recommends the fried
chicken buffet (featuring pan-fried and oven-baked
chicken) on Friday at the Bull City Cafe in Alton47.
Open Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Homemade
pies are there for temptation every day. Captain Eight
also drools over the morning caramel rolls!
My payment is for ___ years of membership.
You can also renew or join online at explorekansas.org.
Nancy Cole, KE #2200, recently enjoyed a “personal
and enchanting tour” from Jackie Borgeson at the Osa
and Martin Johnson Safari Museum in Chanute52.
She also enjoyed a tasty milk shake at the Cardinal
Drug Store.
Marci Penner, KE #2 recently found the Kanza
Yansa, 157 N. 7th, Salina53. KE #2 said she’ll go
back for another Cranurkey—oven-roasted turkey
breast piled on a grilled homemade sweet potato
bun, topped with cranberry cream cheese spread!
Open Monday-Saturday 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
KE #1462 Pat Veesart recommends Hanna’s Corner
in Garden City18 for the hand-breaded Chicken Fried
Steak or pan-fried chicken on Thursday night.
KE #3049 Theresa Trapp recommends Woodie’s
BBQ Shack in McPherson14, 206 S. Centennial. She
says the place is hidden off the main road but worth
the search. woodiebbqshack.com.
KE #3198 Richard and Jane Hitchcock attended the
Lion’s Club Sausage Supper in Viola50 that features a
special pattie sausage recipe. They liked the familyway of doing things: bowls on the tables for second
helpings.
WE’VE HEARD ABOUT...
KE #6121 Molly Siemens recommends old K-10
between Alta Vista and Alma51, especially for the
beautiful stone barns and stone arch culverts. The
stretch she liked most was Illinois Creek Road
stretching east of Alta Vista on K-4 to Old K-10 east of
Alma between Volland and Alma.
Scottie G’s Bibz and Ribz, 115 S. Topeka Ave.,
Carbondale35. 785.836.7125. Word on the street is
that the owner, a contractor, used leftover tiles to
decorate.
CLUB FOUR CORNERS RESTAURANT, 15745
S. Topeka Ave., Scranton35. The menu and décor is
done in a John Wayne theme.
IF YOU GO, SEND A REPORT!
Page 7
THE EXPLORER #98
Non-profit organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 24
Inman, KS 67546
c/o Kansas Sampler Foundation
978 Arapaho Road
Inman, Kansas 67546
Return Service Requested
Use a credit card to renew or join
online at explorekansas.org.
IF IT’S TIME TO RENEW THERE WILL BE A NOTICE ABOVE
YOUR NAME ON THE ADDRESS LABEL AND AN INSERT.
Featuring the rural culture elements of architecture, customs…
TAKE ME OUT TO THE
BALLGAME!
It’s not every day that you see a water tower tank being
converted into a baseball museum.
Jeff Hanson has a dream — to bring people to Muscotah38, a town of 150, to learn about native Joe Tinker
and rural baseball. He thinks the attention to Joe Tinker
might even help “reverse the curse” of the Chicago
Cubs. The last time the Chicago Cubs won the World
Series was in 1908 when their shortstop was Joe Tinker.
Who knows, this just might turn things around for the Cubs
— and for Muscotah.
FIND EACH COUNTY HERE
15 21
24
32 24
32
12
8
47
25
25
34 28
42
33
27
18
17
29
1 45
7
6
31
37
19
46 11
38
43 3
39 23
41
10 44
4
53
51 35 5
22
14 40
9
20
49
36
48
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52
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2
Rural leaders
from across the
state visited the
baseball in
January 2013.
The two businesses in town are the Muscotah
Mercantile, located in a house in a residential area, and
the post office. Soon people can come to town to also
see the World’s Largest Baseball and a museum within it;
a mini-infield featuring iron cut-outs of Tinker to Evers to
Chance, the Hall of Fame double-play combination; and
an historic baseball mural on the city park concession
stand building.
A vintage baseball game will be played on July 27
between the Hodgeman 9 and the Wichita Redstockings. The game will take place in the city park on a
grass lot with a old-fashioned wood-and-wire backstop
and single benches along each baseline.
A work day for all of these projects will be May 17-19.
You can find a list of volunteer and donation opportunities at kansassampler.org.
If you can’t come to the work day, come on June 1 for
the local Rose Festival. If your name is Rose, you could
even be in a small Rose parade!
KANSAS EXPLORER CLUB
FUN AT THE FESTIVAL

Kansas Explorer Club meeting - May 5, 9:15 a.m.
Main stage. You never know what will happen at
these meetings but we always have a lot of fun—
and you get to meet other Explorers.

Have fun learning about Kansas and answering
questions at The Stump.

Come to the Kansas Explorer Club tent to say hey
and 1) get your button, 2) check out new Explorer
gear, 3) renew or join the Kansas Explorers Club,
and 4) play an Explorer game in the tent!
Your interest is really appreciated at each booth.
In fact, you are why we do the festival!
Page 8