Memorial Donation

 Dear Friends, 

It’s hard to believe another year has come and gone. I would like to take this time to thank each of you for your generous donations through the Memorial Day letter and your donations throughout the year. It is through your donations that the Lane County Historical Museum doors remain open. As utilities, supplies, and insurance continues to rise, it becomes more difficult each year to cover our expenses. The Memorial Day Letter is a perfect opportunity to remember friends and family that have passed and to honor those still living.

We have lost so many of our older citizens this year and one in particular is deeply felt by the Historical Society as we are eternally grateful for Ellen Mae Stanley, who diligently researched and authored several books on Lane County history. Her books contain a wealth of information that we reference quite frequently here at the Museum. The history, though a local one, parallels most of Western Kansas history as well, as early settlers in the area experienced the same weather patterns, similar farming operations, and the necessity to adapt to the environment. In that sense, it could be classified as regional history. What wonderful resources to have. Her books are available for sell in the Gift Shop. 

The Historical Society was honored to provide a book signing event for Vicki Krehbiel, part-time employee at the Museum, who had her first book published, Eighth Street Nine. It is a collection of fictionalized short stories based on real people that emulates what her life was like growing up in a small, agricultural community in the 1950s. Her book is also available in the Gift Shop as well as other books written by fellow Lane Countians.

Raising funds is always a priority so I am happy to announce that we are gearing up to take orders for our annual homemade ice cream fund-raiser as part of the Kick-Off to Summer and Car Show event sponsored by Lane County Eco-Devo/Chamber in the Dighton City Park on June 17. We unfortunately had to replace our freezer and refrigerator this year so the new appliances will be keeping the ice cream well chilled. Look for more information on flavors, when to order, and when you can pick up the ice cream at the Museum in early June.

If you are thinking about a vacation, we are thrilled to announce that Pat Murphy, who once held the title of Lane County Bachelor, and his wife Melynn, have graciously donated (1) two-night stay and (2) one-night stays at Murphy’s Resort located in Estes Park, Colorado. We will be selling raffle tickets in the fall and you just might be a winner. Murphy’s Resort is rated Tripadvisor’s #1 hotel in Estes Park and rated the Best of the Best by Traveler’s Choice in 2020, 2021, and 2022. They have also been a featured prize on The Price is Right television game show. Check out their website at murphyresort.com. Look for more information on the raffle tickets in the fall.

The Lane County Historical Society board members and employees work hard at preserving, maintaining, and procuring our Lane County history. I hope that you will consider giving generously through the Memorial Day letter and throughout the year to honor your friends and family and to help us preserve our Lane County history.

Sincerely,

Lisa Moomaw

Lane County Historical Society, Presiden