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 the events leading up to the battle, a breakdown of the battle, and a walk through prairie grass paths, so please dress accordingly. Part of Civil […]
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 historians. Step back in time to join the Fight for Freedom. In 1855, the Wakarusa War began the armed fights over whether to make Kansas […]
This walk through downtown Lawrence lets us learn about the early entrepreneurs, architects, social and business leaders who laid the foundation for our city. Just for good measure we'll add a dash of 1863 and 1970 history as well. Our guide is Dr. Bob Dinsdale, local Lawrence history aficionado and tour leader. This tour will […]
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 radical war against slavery than popular history suggests. It is the true story of this militant abolitionist that Todd Mildfelt and David D. Schafer tell […]
In this new class, we'll explore this powerful, free website. We'll discuss how to navigate the site to find additional family members and how to collaborate with others by adding new memorials and photos. Space is limited; please register in advance. Registration is $15 for Watkins members, $25 general admission. or by calling the Watkins […]
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 available for purchase and author signing courtesy of our partners at the Raven Bookstore! This event will be held in-person at the Watkins and also […]
Join us at the Watkins Museum for classes based on Lawrence and/or Douglas County History. Topics will be explored using hands-on activities, art projects, and will be multi-subject when appropriate. Parents may attend class, or this can be a drop-off program. Time: 10:30-11:30 AM Enrollment: Students may enroll for the entire school year, or they may enrollmonthly. You […]
Join us at Liberty Hall on December 4, 2024, for a special screening of Television Event followed by a 40th anniversary reunion Q&A featuring The Day After’s cast and crew both in-person and virtually including: - Actor, Steve Guttenberg- TDA Director, Nicholas Meyer (Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan)- TDA Producer, Bob Papazian (Rome, […]
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 state, and it happened right under our feet, on ground we walk every day. Nearly 800 Kansans responded to the defense of Lawrence, threatened by […]
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 story time, videos, time in the galleries, handling artifacts, arts, crafts, and games depending on the month’s topic. Children must be accompanied by an adult […]
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, 10 AM-4 PM Tuesday through Saturday, stop by the Watkins to donate coats, hats, and other winter clothing items for community members in need.