Senator Preston B. Plumb is little known today, but in his lifetime he was a legend. Plumb smuggled guns for the Free State movement, pursued Quantrill's raiders, and served Kansas […]
Experience the Battle of Black Jack in a walking tour led by legendary 19th century abolitionist John Brown (AKA local historian Kerry Altenbernd). The tour will involve an explanation of […]
Haunting Humanities--the one-of-a-kind series of presentations, activities, games, and performances during the spooky season--returns to Abe & Jake's! For Haunting Humanities 2023, the Watkins will partner with Bleeding Kansas living […]
Our biggest event of the year returns! Drop by the museum for trick-or-treating and a ghostly scavenger hunt with prizes.
A controversial character largely known (as depicted in the movie Glory) as a Union colonel who led Black soldiers in the Civil War, James Montgomery waged a far more personal and […]
Help the Oak Hill Cemetery Committee cleanup historic Oak Hill cemetery by picking up sticks and trash, and raking leaves. Please bring your own rakes, gloves, and hand rakes. Bags […]
Don't miss your chance to meet bestselling author Tom Clavin as he discusses his latest book, The Last Outlaws: The Desperate Final Days of the Dalton Gang. Copies will be […]
One of our most popular events returns for its 10th anniversary! Bring the kids inside for holiday-themed crafts and activities, including the famous WATKINS HOBBY HORSES and the return of […]
Join us in South Park for a time traveling adventure! In December 1855, the Wakarusa War began the violent struggle over whether Kansas would become a free or a slave […]
Each month throughout the school year, the Watkins Museum’s education team offers interactive hands-on activities based on Lawrence history for children ages 3-5 who have not entered school. Tours include […]
Since 2020, the Watkins Museum has hosted a series of events to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1970s. Events related to the 1970s will be hosted throughout the city until […]
In connection with our exhibit Bundle Up: Battling the Cold in 1850s Kansas, the Watkins is partnering with the Ballard Center on a winter clothing drive. During our open hours, […]
