Book Art
HISTORY PROGRAMS
Reuse old books! Get creative by repurposing old books and turning them into art pieces! This guided adult program invites you to breathe new life into vintage books, giving them a second chance to tell a different story through art and creativity. All materials are provided.
Shawnee North Community Center Age: 18+
The Poor Asylum
Date: Feb. 20 Time: 6-8 p.m. Fee: $24
Learn the history of the Shawnee County Poor Farm. Nestled against the banks of Indian Creek, Shawnee North Park was originally established in 1871 as the Shawnee County Poor Farm. Over its 150-year history it has housed hundreds of people and was an important institution for Topekans and individuals living in Shawnee County. This presentation explores the park’s history, beginning with its roots in the Civil War and until its doors closed in 1942. Explore a bygone institution with connections to other important Topeka hospitals and parks.
Date Night Dessert
Preparing sweet desserts for Valentine's day can be a delightful way to express your affection. This program is the perfect time to share an elegant evening with your plus one and learn to prepare three sweet deserts together.
The Elegant Shelter House #3 at Lake Shawnee Age: 21+ Date: Feb. 2
Shawnee North Community Center Age: All Ages Date: Jan. 10 Time: Wed. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fee: $5
Time: 7-8:30 p.m. Fee: $30 a couple
NATURALIST HIKES
Healing Topeka: Historic Hospitals
Join us as we journey through time, uncovering the evolution of Topeka’s hospitals and why the Capital City was once called “the psychiatric capital of the world.” Explore institutions such as the Topeka State Insane Asylum, that housed and provided medical care for their residents. Or, learn about lesser known hospitals such as the Security Benefit Hospital, or the Hillcrest Sanatorium. Finally, we will cover one of Topeka’s greatest contributions to medicine, covering the Menninger Family and their important psychiatric work.
Over the Hill
Delve into the remnants of the Shawnee County Poor Farm, including the original building, barns and even the former cemetery. Immerse yourself in this adult oriented program with tales of bootleggers, grave robbers, and the Topeka State Insane Asylum at Shawnee County's oldest property. This program meets outside in front of the center and explores the park and community center. Please dress accordingly and there will be stairs.
Hillcrest Community Center Age: All Ages Date: Feb. 7 Time: Wed. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fee: $5
Shawnee North Community Park Age: 18+ Date: Jan. 13 Time: Sat. 6:30-8 p.m. Fee: $3
Ride to Wilderness
Discover Great Overland Station's connection to the national parks and rail travel. Train travel was incredibly important in the early tourism development in Yellowstone, Glacier and the Grand Canyon National Parks. The Union Pacific and Santa-Fe Railroad companies were integral in not only establishing the parks, but also funding hotels, restaurants and other attractions at the parks. Discover the stories behind the iconic railroads that connected the nation, carving through breathtaking landscapes and paving the way for adventurers and tourists alike.
Shunga Sessions
Embark on a fascinating journey through time as we explore the geologic history of Shunganunga Creek in Topeka, Kansas. Explore how Shunga Creek and the Kansas River valley formed under glaciers. This hike focuses on the natural history of the creek and is open to all age groups.
Great Overland Station Age: All Ages Date: March 6 Time: Wed. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fee: $5
Crestview Community Center Age: All Ages Date: March 23 Time: Sat. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Fee: $3
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