Lawrence 1970s Project
1/1/25 @ 7:00 pm – 12/31/25 @ 8:30 pm
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 2029. These celebrations pay tribute to these important anniversaries, provide context by linking history to current community issues, and encourage people to share their memories of this significant decade in Lawrence’s history.
Share your 1970s story!
The 1970s were a pivotal moment for civil rights and cultural achievements in Lawrence. From integrating a swimming pool to establishing an arts center and community theater, the decade marked many significant milestones. Participate in the 1970s Project by sharing your story using the link below!
Current Exhibits
Events
2025
February 1: Remembering Two Kansas Poets: William Stafford and Ronda Miller
April 19: Lawrence Earth Day Fair
April 26: The Watkins at 50! A Museum Birthday Party
May 16: Steve Jansen Remembers: Stories of the Watkins Museum’s Early Days
June 7-June 28: Lawrence 1970s Walking Tours
July 11: Electrifying History: Explore the Milburn Electric Car
2024
January 20: Celebration of William Stafford: Living a Poetic Life
February 9: Vietnam Veterans Exhibit Talk with Mike Delaney
March 8: Vietnam Veterans Exhibit Talk with Pat Donahue
April 20: Lawrence Earth Day Fair
October 15: Liberating Lawrence: Gay Activism in the 1970s at KU
October 19: The Merc Exhibit Reception
2023
February 24: Celebration of From Then to Now: A Student History of Haskell Indian Nations University
April 22: Lawrence Earth Day Fair
April 29: Swimming in Change: Desegregating Lawrence’s Public Swimming Pool
June 30: Celebrate 70s Lawrence: Three Short Films from a Groovy Time
August 24: Postwar Journeys: Discussing the Vietnam War’s Aftermath.
2022
August 26: The Willow in Lawrence: A 45-Year History
September 11: Public Dedication of Desegregated Swimming Pool Marker
September 23: The February Sisters: Remembering & Moving Forward
December: Opening of From Then to Now: A Student History of Haskell Indian Nations University
2021
October 18-22: 51 Years OUT! Celebrating Gay and Lesbian History at KU and Lawrence
2020
January 18: Celebration of William Stafford: Living a Poetic Life
January 31: To Tell Our Stories: The Clinton Lake Communities
February 9: Remembering Rick “Tiger” Dowdell
February 10: Black History Matters Doc & Discuss
February 28: Opening Doors: Accessibility in Lawrence