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Historic Coal Creek Library Open Sundays 1-4

Thru Oct!

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Black Jack Cabin to be Open May 25 and June –

Saturdays 1-4!

For more info about Black Jack Cabin For more info about Black Jack Ruts Walking Trail

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Santa Fe Trail Historical Society: What Do We Do?

What Did SFTHS Do in 2023?

Protecting, Preserving and Promoting:

  • Regular maintenance of the 7 properties we own or lease – including the walking trail at the Black Jack ruts/Boyd Prairie.
    • Trimmed the 15 ft tall hedge at Allen Park and removed trees growing in it!
    • Repainted several signs along the Santa Fe Trail.
  • We were authorized $156,700 in ARPA funds from the county for several projects. 
    • Wood floors in the Santa Fe Depot were refinished ($ 3,700). 
    • Clearfield Schoolhouse bell tower reconstructed, complete with bell.  ($82,747)
    • Clearfield shingle siding replacement ($10,000) – occurring Spring 2024
    • Stabilizing the west wall footings of the Vinland Grange Hall ($42,000).
      • Have submitted request for Heritage Trust Funds to rebuild the concrete steps on the E. end of the Grange for an additional $82,000.  Under contract to start late May 2024.
    • ARPA funding for screen windows for top floor of the Grange. ($10,000) -spring 2024 project
  • Roger has applied for a $5,000 grant from HCC for 3 small projects.
  • SFTHS Board members worked to develop a Strategic Plan and revised Bylaws.
  • Educational provided: Maple Leaf Festival Bus Tours, Home School student presentation at Black Jack Cabin, Retired group from Osage City tour, answered letters from 5th graders in Maine with SF Trail questions, City, Vintage Park presentation and tour, Jan 2024 – presentation at Baldwin library.
    • Website updating continues: santafetraildouglas.org and communication with email list.
  • Digitization (Scanning) Project of Baldwin City Council records from the 1880s on mostly completed in joint venture with Baldwin City Public Library
    • Funds raised in Dec. to continue to digitize historical documents in the library.
    • Volunteering in the Kansas Room at the public library continues.
  • We are in the process of working out details to rent the depot for short-term events.
  • John More continues to organize the flag displays at the Black Jack Cabin.
  • Nick Pumphrey serves as Chair of the Douglas Co. Heritage Conservation Council. 

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If You Would Like to Join or Support Our Group:

Click these links for Membership Info or Support Us Info!

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