Legacy Winter 2012

N O S T U C FO AL S

LEGACY 

WINTER 2012

T H E

J O U R N A L

O F

T H E

R E N O

C O U N T Y

H I S T O R I C A L

S O C I E T Y

early resident often mentioned “the barton” in his diaries…page 4

I 24 blasting port-a-pots right out of the mine

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E 28 barton salt paraphernalia …from books to pin-ups

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LEGACY 

THE JOURNAL OF THE RENO COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

HISTORICAL SOCIETY STAFF (full-time)

Linda Schmitt, executive director, rchs

4 the foster diaries – part 2 ...insight into daily reno county life

lindas@undergroundmuseum.org

Jamin Landavazo, chief curator, rchs jamin@undergroundmuseum.org

Gayle Ferrell, director of operations, kusm gayle@undergroundmuseum.org

Tonya Gehring, docent supervisor, kusm

21 association’s new rep from rchs ...jamin landavazo selected

22 looking ahead 100 years ...when the 2012 time capsule is opened

tonya@undergroundmuseum.org

Mike Allen, finance manager, rchs mike@undergroundmuseum.org

Dave Unruh, maintenance supervisor, kusm dave@undergroundmuseum.org

Lynn Ledeboer, curatorial assistant, rcm

24 blasting out the port-a-pots ...bringing “necessities” up to snuff

27 a big thanks to our 2011 members ...and welcome to new board members

lynn@renocomuseum.org

Tina Moore, administrative assistant, rcm tina@renocomuseum.org

Kourtney Krehbiel, visitor services, kusm kourtney@undergroundmuseum.org

28 spotlight on barton paraphernalia ...persevering through good and bad times

30 mark your calendars ...everything from murder to masons

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Michael Armour, president • Charles Studt, treasurer Shannon Holmberg, secretary • Richard Shank, presidentelect • Nan Hawver • Barbara Withrow • John Doswell Tim Davies • Todd Laffoon • Sherry Mundhenke • Patty Foss Elaine Fallon • Billy Klug • Mary Wilson • Conrad Koehler Myron Marcotte, ex-officio • Lee Spence, ex-officio Mike Carey, ex-officio

Volume 24, No. 1 Legacy is published quarterly by The Reno County Historical Society, Inc. 100 S. Walnut St., P.O. Box 664, Hutchinson, Kansas 67504-0664 For advertising or membership information, call 620-662-1184. © 2012 The Reno County Historical Society, Inc. ISSN 1045-3423 All rights reserved. The RCHS disclaims responsibility for statements of fact or opinion made by contributors.

all family photos appearing in this article are from helen foster sanders’ scrapbook.

the foster family gathers in 1943 for francis’s 82nd birthday. in front row are francis, center, and daughter, helen, and wife, ella, on the right. directly behind francis is son leon. above right in 1944 are ella, left, and helen; and near right, are son jim and ella in center, flanked by two of ella’s sisters, circa 1920.

The Diaries of Francis Marion Foster PART 2

By Lynn Ledeboer, RCM Curatorial Assistant

Francis Marion Foster. Born in Ohio on

Company in 1892. They leased the Toby & Booth Packing Plant and buildings located at May 23, 1861…died in Hutchinson on the east end of Campbell Street for their salt October 8, 1953… buried in Hutchinson’s operation.

Eastside Cemetery.

After brothers Frank and William died, E.E. ran the company until his death n this issue we catch up with early in 1912. C.H. Humphreys and E.T. foster worked Hutchinson resident Francis MariGuymon purchased stock in the on and off for on Foster where we left off in 1904. company in 1913 at which time E.M. “the barton” If you recall from the Fall Legacy Barton became Vice President. for more than issue, he has been married to his secMrs. Barton, E.E.’s widow, 40 years ond wife, Ella Parcell, for one year and remained on the board until a puris now working for Barton Salt. chase by Humphreys and Guymon was Because “The Barton,” as ella Marion often complete. parcell foster with daughter, Modernization of the Barton plant began called it, played such a largehelen, role in his andlife, stepsons, lester in wwi uniform, immediately in 1913 with the addition of here is a little background on and the company. either leon, kenneth or jim. ca. 1918. vacuum pans, rotary vacuum filter wheels, Brothers E.E. Barton, Frank Barton and (1993.10.124) William Barton organized the Barton Salt dryers, grainer pans, packaging machinery

I

4

at the same party in 1943, francis, below, faced a daunting number of candles. whether or not he extinguished them all in one puff is lost in the mists of history. at this time, the family was living at 208 park in hutchinson.

 in the dairy salt department, and creation and installation of salt block presses.

In 1913, daily salt production at the Barton Salt Company was about 43 tons with approximately 21 employees. By 1951, daily salt production was 240 tons with 155 employees. The company continued in operation as the Barton Salt Company until it was purchased in 1973 by Cargill Salt.

The first mention of Marion’s contact with Barton Salt is in 1902.

He continued to work on and off for the company until 1945 when he was 84 years old.

His sparse jottings in his diaries paint a revealing picture of the frustrating mechanical and operational battles that the Barton Company faced in its early days.

Let’s return once again to see what is happening in 43-year-old Marion Foster’s life. (His spelling and punctuation have been preserved.)

1905

Saturday, January 7 – Went to town in afternoon. Scaled #3. Sidewall fell in North boiler

[For the remainder of his time at Barton, Francis Marion works the stoker, scales pans, and works on the boilers and pumps. He also helps load and unload salt or “makes salt” from time to time. He continues to play for dances.]

Monday, May 14 – Going to work with Lem Huston in morning at Carey’s Tuesday, May 22 – Got new 100 H.P. dynamo direct current Sunday, June 10 – Got through at Carey’s so that leaves me out at present I guess.

Thursday, June 14 – still loafing. Work scarce Friday, June 15 – Brung tools home from Barton Block

(See ELLA, page 6)

francis’s daughter, helen, is pictured below with her son, lester rucker. photo

Monday, November 13 – Ella got new coat nice.

1906

Tuesday, March 20 – Bull wheel belt broke twice Wednesday, March 21 – #3 and #4 down in morning. Got #4 started.

Pinon on #3 broke. #1 boiler down Monday, April 23 – Repairing lag rails. Charley Brice Nash got his leg broke by a fall of salt.

Wednesday, April 25 – Leon out fishing til 10 oclock. We was uneasy.

Sunday, January 22 – Mother, Pa over to dinner. Had music

Wednesday, May 2 – Run brine pumps some.

Tuesday, January 24 – scaled #2. Cold, frosty in pan room.

Monday, May 7 – Went got Brice Nash home from hospital

5

is circa 1930.

an ad from a 1909 edition of the local newspaper, left



“Ella got her hat from Sears Robuck” (Continued from page 5)

Friday, December 7 – Layed us all off at noon.

Over to Morton.

Monday, December 24 – Started two jobs today

1907

[In 1907 Foster often travels to Oklahoma where he works cutting wheat and doing general farm chores.]

Tuesday, August 27 – Myrtle and Dave got 9#

boy. What do you think of that?

Saturday, November 16 – Got all the scaffolding down from building. Oklahoma admitted as a state today at 9 oclock a.m.

All the whistles blown throughout.

1908

[Throughout 1908, Marion looks for work in Hutchinson. He once again finally finds work at “the Barton.”]

6

Saturday, July 18 – Going to take the pan room day time.

Monday, August 31 – Edward E. Barton back.

Folks got moved today.

Saturday, November 28 – The Block went down this morning. No gas.

They say the line blowed up, East. I went to town in evening. Ella got her hat from Sears Robuck

1909

Wednesday, February 3 – Scaled #2 pan. Fixed elevator head sprockets.

Tuesday, May 4 – Hot in pan room. Got summoned to court tomorrow. Brice Nash VS. Barton Salt Co. Wednesday, May 5 – At Court most of day.

Wednesday, May 19 – Pa got a lot of medicine.

Green’s sasparilla. The Block is about full of salt Friday, September 10 – Barnum and Baylie Circus here. Edward E. Barton took his buggy out today.

Tuesday, October 5 – Went with Edward E. to Morton Plant to look at engine.

Friday, October 29 – Got engine couple of days ago.

Got gear today to fix mining machine.

1910

Wednesday, May 18 – The earth is supposed to pass through the tail of the great Halley Comet Saturday, May 21 – Scaled #1. Got it fitted. Steam on it. Edward E. here.

Monday, May 23 – Saw the comet. Don’t amount to much.

Saturday, May 28 – Went down to fix pan room roof.

I am painting Edward E.’s buggy

Thursday, April 27 – I went on day time today.

Run the dairy mill. Had 5 girls sewing sacks

Tuesday, June 7 – Finished buggy.

1912

Thursday, November 17 – Went to Carey’s and took a look at their new pans.

I run a nail in my foot.

Awful sore.

Monday, November 21 – Run dairy mill while.

Got to run elevator faster.

Monday, December 19 – The arm on #2 nearly off. Discovered it in time to avert a (w)reck. Got the stakes all set for the foundation of #1 pan.

1911

Sunday, April 9 – Brice Nash case comes up tomorrow again Monday, April 10 – At courthouse most of day Tuesday, April 11 – They compromised the Nash case

7

Thursday, February 22 – Edward E. (Barton) has a sore foot.

Friday, February 23 – Edward E. out today on account of his foot.

Monday, February 26 – Edward E. died this evening at 5 oclock of Diabetes. Only sick a few days.

Friday, March 1 – Mrs. Edward E. Barton got here early this morning.

Saturday, March 2 – I went to funeral of Edward E. Barton. They will take him to Tarrahaut, Indiana this evening.

Thursday, May 9 – Mrs. Barton held the fort today.

1913

[The Foster family goes to concerts most Sundays at

(See UP TO, page 8)

the area beneath the barton pan room was most unpleasant, as is evident in this glass plate negative.

(1992.145)

throughout his diary, foster refers to “scaling pans” in the barton mine. the process involved removing calcium build-up from open-top grainer pans. these steam-heated pans were used to reduce the brine to a thicker solution that was later refined in a filter wheel.

ed barton’s death was reported in the february 27, 1912, issue of the local newspaper.



“Up to Police Station. All Right.”

(Continued from page 7)

ella, at right, is perhaps dressed for church in her beautiful long dress and stylish hat.

Convention Hall or to ball games in Carey Park during the summer.]

Friday, June 19 – I am thinking of going west harvesting.

Wednesday, January 29 – Tacked up no smoking cards in building.

Wednesday, July 29 – Up to Block afternoon. Going to work in morning [Barton]

Monday, January 15 – Mill in crippled condition today. Piston to engine that runs vacuum machinery broke this morning. Got big engine going this afternoon.

Tuesday, March 4 – I took inventory of stock-cooperage, bags salt, etc.

Tuesday, January 26 – Ella went with care to colored church.

Monday, March 24 – The Barton plant will change management first of month. Our manager out to plant afternoon. Wants to start up soon.

Friday, February 12 – We moved today in to Brice Nash’s house #129.

Monday, February 22 – Little Lester inlisted in the Malitia.

Monday, March 31 – Invoicing the bags. It is a big job. Going to start plant in the morning.

Saturday, May 22 – Up to Police Station. All Right.

Wednesday, November 5 – Getting smoke stacks from the Morton Monday, November 10 – They got the old stacks down. Got some pictures of the block

1914

[Marion works on vacuum pumps, mining machine, and often with numbers 1, 2 & 3 “efects” (triple effect) and boilers during his time at Barton this year.]

Friday, April 17 – Shaved my mustache off Sunday, June 14 – I guess I am out at Bartons

Sunday, November 29 – Uncle Bill and Aunty here for supper. Had possum.

1915

[Each year Marion and Ella plant a small garden of beans, peas, spuds and lettuce. They also raise chickens. Marion struggles with boils on his knees and legs; calls it “a gathering” on his leg.

His writing becomes quite beautiful, flowing and flowery. He is 54.]

8

[A May 24, 1915, Hutchinson News article reports that the police picked up Marion’s son, Lester, on suspicion of breaking into a freight car. He was released due to having an alibi. Did Francis Marion perhaps vouch for his young son’s whereabouts since things ended up being “All Right?]

Friday, June 18 – Mrs. Barton over at plant this afternoon.

1916

[Francis Marion and Ella go often to see the movies, with Charlie Chaplin being a favorite. He ceases to include as many details about his work at Barton

at far left, francis, about 65 years old, holds his grandson, lester “leck” rucker. (scrapbook 1993.10.151) near left, ella is with grandson leck, circa 1930. above,this photo finds a rather unhappy young helen.

for the rest of the diaries.

Watching baseball and listening to boxing on the radio become a passion, often listing the outcomes of many matches in his diaries. Both Ella and Marion become involved with fraternal-type organizations such as the Royal Neighbors and several others. Ella goes “lodging” each Tuesday and Thursday evening for many years.]

Monday, March 27 – Went to hear Blind Boon [John William “Blind Boone” was a famous American pianist, whose eyes were removed by doctors at an early age in an effort to relieve brain fever. Marion would have seen him at Convention Hall when Blind Boone came to give a concert.]

Friday, November 3 – Pa Foster buried. Folks all went home this evening.

Saturday, December 23 – Went to town in evening.

Bought some trinkets. We got $5 gold piece from the Company.

1917

Monday, March 19 – They called the R.R. strike off.

I guess we are in it with Germany.

Thursday, March 29 – Most of the men at the plant are asking for more money.

Monday, April 2 – Things looking grim.

Friday, April 6 – War was declared on Germany

today. There was a big parade.

Thursday, May 3 – We got increase in wages. I am getting 25¢ per – hour.

Wednesday, July 4 – Lester with Company E.

these excerpts are taken from the 28 diaries, dating from 1874 to 1949, in the

Thursday, August 16 – I see by the paper Leon and Florence are married.

They haven’t said.

museum’s collection.

Saturday, August 18 – Went to Convention Hall and up town. This was Soldiers Night at Hall.

legacy.

the years 1874 to 1904 were covered in the fall, 2011, issue of

Monday, September 17 – Kenneth went out to Yaggy to work picking apples.

(See TRAGEDY, page 10)

Monday, July 24 – The boys are writing pretty regular Thursday, November 2 – Pa Foster died early this morning. He will be buried here at 2 tomorrow. Ella went to Nickerson today with the WRC.

9

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620-662-5315

Tragedy…

(Continued from page 9)

above left, brothers lester, left, and Leon flank their aunt florence in this 1918 photo.

above right, lester appears optimistic in his world war i uniform before he was shipped off to war.

Friday, September 28 – Lester at home tonight.

They entrain for Ft. Sill tomorrow about 2 p.m.

Friday, October 5 – From the first I get 27 1⁄2 cents per [hour] Sunday, November 4 – Leon went hunting. Got big jack rabbit Tuesday, November 6 – Ella joined the Royal Neighbors.

1918

Wednesday, January 16 – Got letter from Lester.

He thinks they will be going to France soon. at right, this photo of lester, taken by a comrade in his camp, was published in “reno’s response” book that featured reno county residents who served in world war I.

Sunday, February 3 – Leon and Florence flew the coop to parts unknown as yet.

Wednesday, March 6 – Got letter from Lester.

He gets a furlough last of week.

Thursday, March 14 – Moved to 306 E. Carpenter Friday, March 15 – Getting things straightened

10

up some. We have lots of junk.

got her a Codak. [Possibly a Kodak camera?]

Wednesday, April 3 – Lester left this evening to join the regiment.

Monday, September 30 – Got letters from Lester and Kenneth.

Monday, June 3 – Kenneth enlisted in Army today.

Saturday, November 2 – Clear most of day. Cloudy while in evening. Southerly wind. We first heard Lester was wounded then heard he was killed but no official report yet.

Saturday, July 13 – Got letter from Lester. Somewhere in France.

Friday, September 27 – Helen is 14 today. Mother

Monday, November 11 – Armistice was signed at 1:45 a.m. (our time) so the war must be over.

Tuesday, November 26 – We got a telegram last evening stating Lester died November 30 [see below]. Ma Parcell came this evening.

[Marion writes “November 30” as the day Lester died, but he meant “September” because he writes this entry on November 26. Corporal Lester O. Foster of Company E was shot on September 28, 1918, while leading his squad in battle in Charpentry, France, during the Battle of the Argonne.

this stone monument honoring lester stands at the second street bridge over cow creek. one newspaper account states that lester was shot in the arm “...as the 35th division went ‘over the top’ and into the barbed wire forest. he (lester) kept on, was shot (again) while leading his squad at charpentry sept.

28, and died of wounds two days later.”

He died on September 30.

A stone monument, one of 11 in Hutchinson, can be seen on the Second Street bridge over Cow Creek honoring Lester O. Foster’s sacrifice. Lester was also awarded the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously, and in 1932 a Hutchinson chapter of the Disabled American War Veterans was named after him. Lester was Francis’ second-born son.]

but Beckie, didn’t get through.

Sunday, December 7 – Went over to see Leon’s new talking machine.

Monday, December 8 – Not working. I went over to

Thursday, March 4 – The wind blew our outhouse over last night.

1921 Friday, May 6 – Out to Twin Wheel plant in afternoon.

Saturday, December 28 – Kenneth got home this morning.

1919

[Francis Marion and family begin to “motor around” or drive around many evenings.]

Friday, May 9 – Harry came in evening to show Ella more about driving and found a bearing burned out.

Sunday, May 18 – To ball game afternoon. Barton vs. Carey. Out driving in the evening.

Friday, June 13 – Saw airplane demonstration over East of Plant on Reformatory Land.

Saturday, August 23 – Mother died this evening at 9:40.

Monday, August 25 – We buried mother this evening. All the children here

Twin Wheel and Foundry afternoon [Twin Wheel was a Hutchinson manufacturer that made a novel twinwheel windmill.]

1920

Saturday, January 10 – Helped move. We are now at 208 Park St.

11

Monday, June 20 – We drove out the Medora road. It’s a heck of a road.

Sunday, October 16 – Lester’s body arrived this evening. Will be buried next Sunday. Folks coming back.

Sunday, October 23 – Folks up from Wichita.

Lester was buried this

(See A SON, page 12)

brothers, kenneth, left, and lester, are pictured in “reno’s response, reno county in the world war, 19171919,” compiled by fred henney, and published by hutchinson office supply & printing co.

this photograph of jim foster is printed on the reverse of a hutchinson police form. jim’s long-time alcoholism often bought him a stay in the local jail.

(1993.10.49)

A son struggles…

(Continued from page 11)

afternoon. Stant and Lou here while.

1922

at right is a news clipping of jim foster and a chick with a fully developed third leg. foster’s son, jim, who battled alcoholism, was a long-time chicken farmer who was residing at 405 carpenter. (from helen’s scrapbook…

1993.10.15)

[Beginning this year, Marion and his family struggle with son Jim’s drunkenness. It is unclear if Jim and Kenneth are one and the same, as in Kenneth James “Jim” Foster, born approximately 1900 or 1901. As Francis’s diary reveals, Jim struggled with alcoholism for most of his life. He worked with poultry and was a longtime Hutchinson chicken farmer. The Fosters move quite often; whether this is due to Marion’s lack of job consistency, Jim’s alcoholism, or other reasons, is unknown.]

Sunday, December 9 – Ella went to Jim and Eads.

Jim’s on a toot. Ella gave him a little money this morning for his birthday.

1925

Sunday, June 21 – Helen married this evening.

[Daughter Helen’s marriage to Lyroenza “Bus” Rucker was her first.]

Saturday, July 15 – Doctor came – pronounced it muscular rheumatism and said that my teeth were bad.

Monday, July 17 – Doc came in morning. Brung Dentist. Made date for 2:30pm. Pulled 10 teeth [unable to read] In awful pain.

Wednesday, August 16 – Jim came home in evening crazy drunk. He went back to town.

1923

[Francis begins putting five percent of his pay into a savings account with Barton Salt.]

1924

Tuesday, February 5 – Ella to lodge. A couple of boys over with guitar and accordion. Had little music.

Tuesday, March 25 – Ella got her hair bobbed. She’s gone to Lodge.

12

Saturday, December 12 – They layed Jim off at poultry house.

Monday, December 21 – Ella and Helen gone to get their hair Barbicured.

[Barbequed? Does he mean permed?]

“brung helen home. she has a big boy.” the big boy, lester rucker, is affectionately known as “leck” throughout foster’s diaries.

 1926

Monday, January 24 – Helen got her divorce today.

people. Bus Rucker here while in evening to see Lester.

Tuesday, March 23 – Brung Helen home. She has a big boy. Bus over a while.

Sunday, May 8 – Clearing off afternoon. Hard dirty south wind. Wind storm done lots of damage to 4th East Carey Hills and the Carey Salt Plant. 1 man killed. Several injured.

Thursday, December 15 – I got my savings account from the Company today.

It was 57.50.

Monday, March 22 – Helen to Hospital. Ella up there.

[Baby is Lester Rucker, sometimes affectionately known as “Leck” throughout Foster’s diaries and in photos.]

Saturday, August 7 – Jim’s in hock. [By this, Francis means “in jail.”]

Wednesday, June 8 – Jim’s home and boozing.

Wednesday, September 21 – Ella up at the Fairground with Hadley

Monday, August 16 – Jim’s gone to Wichita.

Monday, August 30 – (They got Jim) Tuesday, September 28 – Ella to lodge. I went to hear Harry’s radio.

Sunday, October 10 – Heard the ballgame over the radio from New York, the Yanks and the Cardinals. 3 to 2 in favor Cards, St. Louis Nationals & New York Americans.

1927

[Francis is quite taken with the radio and takes every opportunity to listen. He begins taking young Lester to town with him most Saturday evenings while Ella continues to go to Lodge meetings and becomes very involved with Hadley Church.]

13

1928

Sunday, February 26 – (Jim boozing) Thursday, March 8 – Installing a Corliss engine at plant to drive the new salt drying machinery.

(See GOT RADIO, page 14)

“Got radio on trial...”

(Continued from page 13) Wednesday, May 23 – I am 67 young today.

Friday, June 8 – Ella 49 y.o. today.

Thursday, June 14 – The filter drier not doing good. daughter helen wears a chic hat in this 1920s photo.

Saturday, June 16 – Running salt this afternoon through the filter drier.

Monday, June 18 – A gas explosion in #9 boiler at the Barton wrecking 4 and tearing front off 3.

Saturday, December 29 – Radio rotten this evening.

Tuesday, June 26 – Run drier on new salt today. It is fine.

1929

Wednesday, August 15 – Ella has the club tonight – a noisy bunch.

Wednesday, January 2 – Jim in jail.

Thursday, January 17 – Ella and I to Hadley to hear the Negros sing.

Sunday, September 30 – Jim and I moved the outhouse this morning.

Sunday, January 20 – Radio no good.

Sunday, November 18 – Jim came this morning.

Came home in evening stewed.

Saturday, February 23 – Jim out & in again

Monday, December 24 – Got radio on trial.

Wednesday, May 22 – Building fish pond for Lester.

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dr. brinkley’s appearance drew hundreds, as reported in the nov. 1, 1930, issue of the local newspaper.

Wednesday, September 3 – I pulled out my savings account.

Thursday, May 23 – I am 68 today.

Tuesday, August 13 – Jim took us riding in his Ford.

Sunday, September 7 – Jim soaked.

Wednesday, August 14 – The plant’s business too big for our capacity.

Saturday, November 1 – I to town in evening. A Brinkley blowout at Convention Hall. Some crowd.

Monday, August 26 – Jim burnt car up with booze last night.

[Dr. J. R. Brinkley was an Independent candidate who ran for governor.

However, he was most famous for transplanting goat glands into men’s testicles in efforts to cure male impotence. He used radio programming very successfully to promote his bizarre practice.]

Friday, August 30 – Jim better.

Wednesday, October 30 – Ella had a club – a homely bunch.

1930

Thursday, February 27 – Blowed Corliss engine up this morning

1931

[Francis Marion’s handwriting begins showing the first signs of shakiness and perhaps aging this year. Ella continues to be very involved with the Hadley Church and various groups.]

Friday, February 28 – Put big motor on in place of Corliss.

Friday, April 18 – Jim drunk Thursday, May 8 – Ella and I took Lester to Carnival. He acted up.

Wednesday, February 18 – Ella gone to club. Jim drunk

Friday, May 23 – 69 years young today. I got shirt, pie and cake.

Sunday, May 17 – Fixing to put in bath

Sunday, May 25 – Jim still drunk.

Tuesday, May 26 – Got the bath in. Everybody bathing.

Friday, June 6 – The airport opening. Lots of planes

Wednesday, October 28 – Ella had a club tonight.

Some ugly mugs.

Tuesday, September 2 – Starting a new low wage scale.

Thursday, December 24 – Killed goose. Radio good.

15

(See BANKS, page 16)

THANKS TO OUR VOLUNTEERS Whether one hour or a full shift, each time a volunteer works on behalf of the Kansas Underground Salt Museum or the Reno County Museum it is a precious donation of time and energy.

We couldn’t do many of the things we do around here without you. You tackle any and all tasks we ask of you, big or small.

So, thank you to all our wonderful volunteers at RCHS. If you would like to volunteer or know someone who might be interested, please contact Tina or Tonya.

Whether your interests are general Reno County history or just salt, there are many rewarding opportunities that await!

Tina: 620-662-1184

tina@renocomuseum.org Tonya: 620-662-1425

tonya@ undergroundmuseum.org

“Banks all closed by order of federal government” (Continued from page 15) saturday, march 11

1932

Monday, April 4 – I went out to Carey’s plant today.

It’s quite a plant.

– long beach torn up bad with a terrible earthquake yesterday evening about 5 A.M. we haven’t heard

from helen yet. sunday, march 12 – got telegram about 9:45 pm stating all

o.k. don’t worry. helen.

Wednesday, May 4 – Ella gone to a Mother’s doings.

(Jim soaked about all the time now.)

fying the end of an era.]

1933

Sunday, February 5 – I went to plant. No work.

I had to scale.

Sunday, March 5 – Helen to California 10:20 am.

Sunday, May 22 – A surprise party on me! 71 years of age tomorrow.

Monday, March 6 – Banks all closed by order of federal government.

Tuesday, September 27 – The street cars quit yesterday noon.

Saturday, March 11 – Long Beach torn up bad with a terrible earthquake yesterday evening about 5 A.M. We haven’t heard from Helen yet. Ella got card from her this morn-

[This was the last day for operation of the street cars in Hutchinson, signi-

ing saying she arrived all right. The folks met her.

Sunday, March 12 – Got telegram about 9:45 pm stating all o.k. Don’t worry. Helen.

Thursday, August 10 – Barton’s cooper shop afire in morning.

1934

[In 1934 Francis is now working about six hours per day and writes mostly about weather. Ella continues to go to clubs, lodges, and ”doings” at Hadley. She begins to occasionally audit books as a part-time job.]

1935

Wednesday, January 2 – Ella to Legion. Boys over with their music boxes.

Monday, February 4 – Caught my hand in conveyor. Went to hospital.

Took off one finger. Came home Saturday 9.

Tuesday, August 6 – Had fire at the Barton Plant.

The vacuum room damaged the most, the dairy mill and dryer department not damaged.

Tuesday, September 24 – Joe Louis nocked Max Baer out in the 4th round September 27 – Our new salt too fine to make blocks

16

1936

Saturday, March 14 – Jim got hit with car and bruised up some. Doctor out.

Monday, March 16 – Jim some better

1938

Tuesday, January 18 – Lots of grief with a worn out sprocket wheel.

Sunday, February 27 – Jim tangled with a car.

Got banged up some.

Monday, November 7 – Clear part cold. Northerly wind. My old teeth is giving me heck.

1939

[Foster’s handwriting continues to deteriorate and he is working less and less.]

Sunday, September 3 – Clear, wind variable to Northerly in evening. All Europe about in war today. Germany moving into Poland.

Sunday, May 5 – Mae and Harry came and took Ella and I riding to Arlington, Plevna, Turon, Cunningham, Kingman. Wheat looks good.

above is a steam-

Monday, September 23 – The 42 hour week, 30 ct minimum in effect midnight to midnight

Thursday, May 23 – Olla, Maggie, Becky, Mae and Harry here, rather surprise occasion. My birthday.

type of machinery.

Wednesday, September 25 – The boys are organizing a union at the plant.

Wednesday, November 29 – The Barton gave us 3 ducks, dress.

Monday, December 25 – Presents, nuts, candy, turk.

1940

[Foster’s handwriting has become very shaky and hard to read. He is 79 years old this year.]

17

powered dynamo that may have been used in the barton salt plant. foster would have worked on this (glass plate negative 1992.145)

Saturday, May 25 – Putting in new hoist at plant.

Sunday, June 16 – Mae and Harry took Ella and I for a ride out Nor. Plum to 50 North. Chase, Lyons, Ellinwood, Great Bend, Stafford, Sylvia, Partridge.

About 150 miles.

Wednesday, October 16 – Today all men between ages 21 to 35 had to register for the army, an opening for the duck season.

(See page 18)

(Continued from page 17)

from this photograph of a pan room in the barton salt plant, it’s clear why foster often describes working in the pan room as a “hell hole.” this is where he would scale pans and repair side walls that often fell in. (glass plate negative 1992.145)

Thursday, October 24 – Today starts 40 hour week.

Tuesday, October 29 – The folks look freakish going to masked partys.

1941

[At almost 80 years old, Foster goes back to working a full eight-hour day for a short time. He often works on his pond while Ella “lodges” and goes to “penny suppers.”]

Sunday, May 25 – Had my birthday dinner at Myrtles today. I am 80 years old, the 23rd.

Tuesday, May 27 – Ma died this evening. [Probably Ella’s mother.]

Friday, May 30 – Harry and Mae here in morning. We out Fairlawn and Eastside. Myrtle and Dave there. I never saw such a display of flowers.

“japan bombed hawaii...the u.s. decided war today on japan.”

Thursday, December 18 – Jim took Ella and I uptown to see pretty Christmas trimmings.

1942

Saturday, January 24 – We have quite a run on medicated blocks.

Tuesday, December 1 – I donated today’s work to the Community Chest.

Monday, December 14 – tonight at 10:00 p.m. we have a blackout.

1943 Monday, December 8 – Japan bombed Hawaii and Manila yesterday. The U.S. decided war today on Japan.

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[Foster’s writing is so bad now it has become hard to read. He still gardens and works on the lily pond. He notes his birthday each year.]

“Germany all in…Japan about to throw up her tail.”

Friday, February 26 – Ella to the school house about this rations business.

Sunday, May 23 – My birthday 82 old. Kids all here. Lots of eats, good time, presents.

1945

letter Lester. O.K.

[Foster’s handwriting is close to illegible by now.

His last day of work, very unceremoniously noted, as was his way, was April 14, 1945.]

Tuesday, May 8 – This is U.S. day. Germany all in.

Friday, August 19 – Japan about to throw up her tail.

Saturday, July 17 – 10:00 a blackout.

Tuesday, February 27 – Got letter from Lester.

Phillipines.

Tuesday, August 14 – Japan unconditional surrender.

Thursday, July 22 – Having a heck of a time with my feet

Thursday, April 12 – President Roosevelt died Tuesday evening.

Thursday, September 27 – Got letter from Lester.

He is in Japan.

Saturday, August 7 – A hell hole in plant.

Saturday, April 14 – This is my last day on public works. [He is 84.]

1946

Saturday, November 20 – Ella & Lester killed a big possum. I dressed it.

Friday, January 25 – Lester sent home a Japanese sword. Got it today.

Sunday, November 31 – Them possum is good.

It’s up to me to eat it.

Wednesday, May 15 – Folks after ice cream & the Pow-Wow in full dress.

1944

Saturday, January 19 – Helen married this afternoon.

[Daughter Helen marries Harley Sanders, her second marriage.]

Thursday, March 23 – Today is Lester’s birthday.

He is 18 young.

Tuesday, June 6 – They started the invasion last night. The whistle blew early this morning.

Thursday, June 8 – Ella 65 today.

Thursday, June 22 – Lester started to the army this morning.

Thursday, January 17 – Ella to Jim’s. He’s on a toot.

Tuesday, July 16 – Got telegram from Lester. He is in Camp Hood, Texas.

Friday, August 16 – I guess we’ll have to whip Russia yet.

Tuesday, April 17 – To town to see about my social security.

Friday, April 19 – Square with Barton.

Wednesday, April 25 – Ella & I signed up for our social security today.

Friday, April 27 – Got a

19

1947

Wednesday, August 13 – Ella, Hazel, Lilly making do-hickies.

Thursday, August 14 – They’re still making them do-hickies.

Wednesday, August 20 – Folks still making doodads.

(See THE AIR, page 20)

at left is foster’s grandson, lester “leck” rucker. on january 25, 1946, foster and ella received a japanese sword sent home by lester during his service in world war ii.

…GO!!!

“The air is full of mosquito dope” (Continued from page 19)

the photo above shows what a dynamo room looked like in the salt plants. this one dates from about 1906. foster mentions barton’s “new 100 h.p. dynamo” in his may 22, 1906, diary entry. (glass plate negative 1992.145)

Wednesday, November 26 – Hazel over in evening.

Got the old turkey cooking.

Tuesday, December 23 – All set for old Santy.

1948

[Throughout 1948 almost every day is a simply a weather report and Foster often writes, “Just another day.”]

Wednesday, August 18 – The air is full of mosquito dope. Putting it in with air planes.

Monday, September 13 – Air full of something to kill skeeters.

Sunday, September 26 – Wars and talk of wars.

Monday, October 25 – Clear cool South wind.

Just another wash day.

[1949 is the last year that we have diaries from Foster and his final legible entry is as follows]: Friday, January 14 – Cloudy, part cool. Northerly wind. To new book.

Unfortunately for us, Foster didn’t make it to that “new book,” or if he did, it is not in the museum’s collection.

Francis Marion (Myers) Foster died October 8, 1953. He led a fascinating, perhaps uncommon, Reno County life here in Hutchinson.

He hunted buffalo at age 13, surveyed land

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with C.C. Hutchinson in his 20s, played the fiddle, piano and organ in “kitchen sweats,” battled early salt evaporation equipment at the Barton Salt plant and others, worked at Barton until he was 84, painted Edward Barton’s buggy, went to Barton’s funeral, married twice, raised six children, lost one child to WW I, worried as a grandchild went off to WW II, weathered the struggles of an alcoholic son, and – through all this – meticulously kept a daily diary for 75 years.

Foster’s life was clearly rich in family and experiences, both good and bad.

Foster’s diaries provide us a rare glimpse into the life of a pioneer Reno County salt worker.

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

Museum group selects Jamin

By Lynn Ledeboer, RCM Curatorial Assistant

C

ongratulations are in order for our own Jamin Landavazo, RCHS Chief Curator, who has been selected to serve as the new Southwest Kansas Representative for the Kansas Museums Association (KMA).

Her term, which began in November, will run for two years. Jamin was nominated by a peer on the KMA board and voted

into the position by KMA members. She replaces outgoing representative Linda Schmitt, RCHS Executive Director, who served on the board for two consecutive terms.

As representative, Jamin will update the KMA board about programming, activities and general news from museums in her representative area, one of four in the state.

J9525-1 Hutch Legacy Mag -Spring11-7.5 x 5 2c ad .indd 1

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Jamin stated that she is excited to be involved with the strategic planning process that is on the KMA agenda for 2012.

“The KMA has evolved in many ways throughout the years...and needs direction for the future,” she said.

We are sure Jamin will have fresh ideas to bring to the table in 2012. Way to go, Jamin!

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3/30/2011 10:24:39 AM

the residents of 1911 were proud of their founder and namesake, c.c. hutchinson, as shown by this photograph included in the 1911 time capsule. (2011.25.01.22)

What to put in the box?

T

he crowd’s anticipation is palpable as the museum curator gently eases the silver stainless steel box from the cornerstone.

Linda Schmitt As the sun strikes the Executive box for the first time in Director, 100 years, everyone can Reno County see that it is intact and Historical still shiny under a light layer of dust.

Society Gingerly, the curalindas@undergroundmuseum.org tor hands the box to the mayor and she carries it up the steps into the recently restored Bicentennial Hall. this ticket allowed As scores of excited hutchinson mayor spectators gather around, frank vincent to asthe lid of the box is looscend the platform at ened and gently lifted free the convention hall by the great-great-greatcornerstone laying great-granddaughter of ceremony along with Mayor Frank Vincent, who president william h. taft. (2011.25.01.10)

placed the first capsule in the cornerstone 200 years ago.

The crowd, some wearing vintage baseball caps, exclaims a collective “Ahh!” as the first item is removed from the capsule and is found to be in amazing pristine condition.

As more items are removed, the spectators are amazed at not only the condition of the items, but more importantly the stories that they tell about a different time in Hutchinson, and the people who sent their collective message into the future.

While this vision of the future will be dependent

on many unknown factors, it is the hope and expectation that captures our imagination and inspires us to replace the 1911 time capsule in the Memorial Hall cornerstone on April 27, 2012.

Now we begin the thoughtful process of identifying items for the new capsule that will be opened in 2111.

What will be the first item removed from the capsule? What messages will we send to our counterparts a hundred years from now? What stories will define who we were as a people and what we deemed important about our town?

What items will stand the test of time in terms of viability and functionality? What forms of media will be most easily accessed and interpreted in a society far beyond ours in communication and technology?

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does this “shaver’s masonic monitor,” describing ceremonies and traditions of the masonic fraternities, provide a small “glimpse” into 1911 Hutchinson?

(2011.25.01.17)

Will a picture still be “worth a thousand words?” And if so, what pictures should we send into the future? What is the vision of Hutchinson

that we will put forward for them to compare to reality in 2111?

Over the next few months, the Reno County Museum, the Landmarks Commission and the City of Hutchinson will be engaging in a community dialog to answer these questions.

Decisions will be made as to not only what items will go into the time capsule but also the details of

the ceremony itself.

Mayor Frank Vincent and company meticulously documented and passed down all details of the placing of the time capsule in 1911, and we will strive to do the same.

It is my hope that those who open the capsule will find the experience as awesome and illuminating as it has been for us.

Please join us as we work with The Hutchinson News, students, businesses and the community as we prepare to send a glimpse of Hutchinson 2012 into the future.

Watch for details about how you can get involved in the discussion.



among items in the 1911 capsule are: a chalmers hotel postcard, top (2011.25.01.20.2); an envelope and adhesive postage stamps, above (2011.25.01.20.2); and at left, an illustrated souvenir book with woman in flowing gown pointing out hutchinson on the map (2011.25.01.12).

We’re proud to share our hometown with you.

How fortunate we are to live in a community with such diverse and high quality amenities -- including the Reno County Museum and Kansas Underground Salt Museum!

4 Hutchinson locations to serve you

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BLAST POTS! H THOSE

By Gayle Ferrell, KUSM Director of Operations

visitors currently see this sign and donation box, above right, urging them to help blast the porta-pots out of the mine. a variety of plumbing pipes, below, stand ready for use in the long and eagerly awaited restroom facilities.

ere in the United States we really do live a privileged life.

We have had access to some conveniences for so long that we no longer even consider them options. Like electricity. And running water. And flushing toilets.

Underground at the Salt Museum these “simple” conveniences are not so simple, nor do I take them for granted.

I remember the day that the two toilets installed underground actually flushed. We celebrated!

We high-fived each other!

We flushed them again!

No longer would we have to plan a trip topside to timely correspond with one of our most basic needs!

Most of our visitors do not know that it was a complicated engineering

challenge to get water underground and sewage flowing back topside.

They are not aware that flushing toilets are a

LUXURY when installed 650 feet underground.

We learned fairly quickly that lines were forming at the bathrooms, which in turn limited the amount of time that visitors were willing to spend underground.

And so we rented two Port-a-pots.

I personally am not a fan of Port-a-pots. They serve the purpose, but they are still Bright . . . .

Yellow . . . . Port-a-pots.

During our underground construction five years ago, architectural plans were drawn for an Event Center that included multiple toilets and sinks in a nearby men’s restroom, women’s restroom, and family bathroom.

Also included were a janitor sink and storage, concession area, event kitchen, and small and large event areas.

As the concrete floor was poured, the sewer pipes, vent pipes and floor drains were installed.

Soon after, we were hit with the reality of what it was costing to install a water supply, sewer system, smoke detectors, fire alarm strobes, and electrical and communication devices.

Everything was different from the norm. Nothing was easy. Or reasonably priced.

Construction came to a screeching halt in and around the Event Center.

About half of the planned concrete was poured and numerous white PVC pipes were left sticking out of the floor.

Five years later it is time to blast those Port-a-pots out of the mine!!!

We need approximately $70,000 to construct bathrooms around those pipes that have been pa-

(See page 26)

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by clicking on one of these buttons on our website, you can choose your giving level to help complete modern restroom facilities 650 feet underground. other giving levels are available.

www.undergroundmuseum.org (Continued from page 24)

tiently waiting for fixtures.

We currently have $27,000 from donors, grants, an underground donation box, and two October fundraisers – the “Hunt for Red Rock-tober” and the “Train of Terror.”

In January, we completed Step #1: Install the water and sewer lines that will connect the new bathrooms to the mechanical

room located near the hoist.

Considering that those areas are 500-600 feet apart and the lines must hang from the rock hard salt ceiling, this is no small plumbing task!

Step #2 is to frame the walls for the bathrooms with the labor provided by us.

Step #3 involves running individual supply lines to the sinks, urinals, and toilets.

Our current funds will run out in the middle of Step #2. That’s where YOU can help – starting right now!

CLICK & CLICK AGAIN

On our website is a logo like the ones shown above.

By clicking on the logo, you are redirected to our online store where you can designate the amount of your donation, and BOOM, we take this project to the next level!

For a donation of $1,000 or more, you become a member of our “Salt Circle.” You will be recognized in our topside lobby for a year, and your name will be included on a permanent donor board to be installed underground when the project is complete.

For as little as $100, you will receive recognition on the permanent donor board to be located underground.

A BASIC NEED

The Kansas Underground Salt Museum attracts visitors from across the nation and around the world.

Providing additional toilets underground for those visitors is fulfilling a basic need – one that has been ignored long enough.

Imagine the delight of elementary students when they are able to finish their field trip in comfort rather than focusing on the choice between waddling like a duck and visiting a bright yellow enclosure.

Or the relief felt by a visitor with a walker, cane, scooter or wheelchair when there is no hurry to finish their tour, or plan their escape to the more accessible “flushing” toilets waaaaaaaay down by the hoist.

This is a problem I would LOVE to SOLVE: Take 9 toilets, add 7 sinks, plus 3 urinals.

Then subtract 2 Port-apots.

www.undergroundmuseum.org

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

To our loyal 2011 members, we say....

T

Thank you!

hanks so much to every new and renewing member as of December 23, 2011.

RCHS appreciates your support in helping us provide thoughtful and entertaining exhibits and programming. ** = New member Friend: Allen County Library Whitey & Shirley Alpers **Norma & Duane Anstine Mildred Applegate William Ball Mike Benscheidt Larry & Bonnie Black Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Blocher Anthony & Connie Brauer Stanley & Katherine Brown Kiki Cappony Jo Ann Cole Bill & Mary Janet Collins Jane Cooper Maurice & Melva Cummings **Dr. John & Linda Dahm Ruth & Paul Dillon Donor Advised Fund of the Hutchinson Community Foundation Mary Alice Ditgen Ed Doherty Roy & Joan Dunn Lew & Julane Ediger Tom & Carolyn Elliott Patricia Fishback Barbara Frizell Charlotte Galler Esther & Wilbur Goheen John H. Hartford Heart of Kansas Quilt Guild Edna Hendershot Gladys Heter-Sargent Gay Hewitt Gary & Peggy Hughes Charles Hyter Diane & Chuck Lee Bob & Charlene Lind Rita Lingg Marian & Robert Lundquist Irene Martindell Lloyd & Ticky McAdams Douglas McGovern Sally Holmes McPherson Judith Mielke Peggy Miller Norma Mitchell

William Morand Norman Morray Max & Carol Murray Karen Orr Bill Pfenninger Vern & Aavon Powers Donna Pyle Richard & Candace Robl Trish Rose Del Ruff Jim & LaVerna Shaw Bill & Beth Southern Ruth Stiggins Allen & Ila Stone Mr. & Mrs. J.B. Stuckey L.P. & Maxene Thurman Ken & Glenda Vogel Paul & Deb Waggoner Earl & Julia Weidman Gene & Carlene Wells Clark & Charlene Wesley Vic & Jo Willems Robert & June Winslow Cleyon & Laura Yowell Supporter: Dan & Ann Adams Frank & Ardith Alexander Charles & Bonnie Benscheidt Dennis & Jennalee Boggs Ed & Jan Bolt Larry & Marilyn Bolton Norman & Gladys Bos Ann & Gordon Brown Mr. & Mrs. Richard Buzbee Mr. & Mrs. Elwin Cabbage Jim & Dianne Cannon Mabel Collins Commerce Bank Fred & Barbara Conner Richard & Marcia Cooper Bob & Sharon DeVault Carolyn & Dick Dillon Donor Advised Fund of the Hutchinson Community Foundation William & JoAnn Drews Gene & Rhonda Elliott John & Jane Eriksen Dick & Jane Falter Frank & Bonnie Fee E. Francis Habiger Helen Hadley Jess & Mae Harder Sandra & Jim Haskell Jerry & Nan Hawver Elizabeth I. Hayes Dr. & Mrs. Ken Hedrick

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Lona Hinshaw Greg Hoefer Ed & Vi Hoffman Kyle and Shannon Holmberg Ed & Marjory Johnson Pam & Randy Johnston Kenneth & Barbara Keefer Mr. & Mrs. Ron Leslie Dallas & Shirley Macklin Dan & Georgia Maxwell Wally & Joan McKinney Dr. & Mrs. Robert Morrison Dr. & Mrs. Jack Mull Rod & Bev Nash Robert Nicklin Sam & Judy Ontjes Jim & Sharon Peterson Tom & Kyle Philbeck William Rexroad Dr. David & Nancy Richman Harold & Janet Ryan Arvy & Jack Sampson Dr. Martha Sanders Lois Schlickau Gerald & Judy Schrater Jennifer & Bill Scofield Dick Siegrist Richard & Patti Shank Phil & Lorraine Simpson **Sirloin Stockade Charles & Patsy Studt Larry & Sue Wagerle Barry & Gale Wall Maurcena Wells Michael & Kelly Wesley Gary & Nancy Witham John & Barbara Withrow Cynda Wright Mary Anne Wright Backer: Bob & Ruth Barker Stan & Lisa Barker Ed & Carol Berger Dr. Bill & Kris Davis Dan & Sharon Deming Frank & Sally Depenbusch John & Kris Doswell Martha Fee Patty & Dan Foss Judy & Roger Hawk Tucker & Nation Meyer Molly Mitchell & John Wilson Kim & Cindy Moore Sherry & Gary Mundhenke Gary & Sue Poltera Virginia Rayl Robert Summers

James & Mary Sunderland Barbara Williams Jerry & Joan Wray Preserver: Merl Sellers Visionary: Mae Boggs Corporate Donor’s Circle: Advertising Specialties Bridgman Oil Cargill Salt Catalyst Creative Services Downtown Hutchinson Revitalization Partnership KKB Properties, LLC Robert’s Hutchline Shep Chevrolet, Inc. Simpson Capital, LLC Director’s Circle: Bank of Kansas Fee Insurance Agency Greater Hutchinson Convention/Visitor Bureau

Thanks to our board Serving on the board of any organization requires curiosity, commitment and generosity.

The Reno County Historical Society (RCHS) would like to thank all its board members and the following outgoing members for their dedicated service: LeAnn Cox, Francis Habiger and Jerry Wray.

RCHS would also like to welcome new board members: Elaine Fallon, Mary Wilson, Billy Klug and Conrad Koehler.

We look forward to an exciting and rewarding relationship!

the date of this paperweight is unknown, but it shows a large factory that is likely the result of many additions. the company was proud of its “barton process.” “steam made” refers to evaporation mining. (1993.10.02)

BARTON SALT …playing a big role in Foster’s life Francis Marion Foster, the subject of our feature article in this issue, had a fascinating work history.

While many settlers in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s were looking for places to put down roots, build houses, and own farms, Foster spent time surveying, camping from place to place, and caring for other people’s farms and animals.

It was not until he took



foster kept this bonus card, above, for the years 1919 and 1920 and jotted down his earnings to determine his yearly bonus.

(1993.10.05) inset at right is the barton salt plant in 1902 with large wraparound porch.

(02.35.22.6a) by 1937 barton had grown to a vastly expanded plant, right. notice what appear to be delivery trucks near the bottom.

(1990.22.04)

28

FOCUS ON COLLECTIONS a job at Barton Salt in 1902 that he settled down a bit and built a career, working for the plant through good times and bad for a total of 43 years.

Barton played such a large part in Foster’s life and diary entries that we decided to feature some of the Barton

artifacts from our collections.

The company survived many early trials, but persevered and fostered a proud history that is still carried on today under the Cargill name.





“the fine art of seasoning,” a booklet from 1924, front and back at top, talks about the origins of the use of salt, table etiquette, and uses for salt beyond cooking in hopes of increasing salt sales.

(KUSM 2006.08.02 front and back). the trade card, above, promoted a salt to rid stock of the fly pest, but the back of the card, right, more likely caught the eye of many a farmer. (2009.10.01 front and back)

mini salt shakers, far left, feature the company’s tagline, “rain or shine, always fine.” (KUSM 2006.09.01-02)

this recognizable “3-B” logo (because barton’s best), near left, is seen on this promotional money clip from the 1950s.

(2004.03.02)

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have a totally gnarly time at this murder mystery dinner theater. see below for details.



EXHIBITS  & EVENTS

KANSAS UNDERGROUND SALT MUSEUM EVENTS KANSAS UNDERGROUND SALT MUSEUM

MURDER IN THE MINE

OVERNIGHT SCOUTING ADVENTURE

9 am–5 pm Tues–Sat 1–5 pm Sunday closed Mondays

Interactive Mystery Dinner Theater $50 per person / Table of 8: $360 For details and reservations: 620-662-1425 • 866-755-3450

last tour departs at 3 pm

“Who Killed the 80s?”

$30 per person Try an Overnight Scouting event for an exciting underground adventure.

Scouts must be 10-18 years of age.

Minimum one adult chaperone for each five scouts.

reservations strongly recommended call us or check our website for holiday hours.

NEW SALT BLAST PASS our best deal includes gallery tour, dark ride (both handicapped-accessible) and new train ride. adults: $18 seniors (60+), aaa & active military: $16.50 children (4-12) & reno county residents: $12 children under 4 not admitted due to mine safety regulations. pricing available to add only dark ride or train ride to gallery admission. all prices include sales tax. special pricing for groups over 28 and school groups with arrangements made one week in advance.

3504 e. avenue g (at airport road) hutchinson, ks 67501

620-662-1425 toll-free 866-755-3450

February 18 SOLD OUT! Encore performance: Feb. 19, 4:30 p.m.

Please arrive between 3 and 4 p.m.

“Once Upon a Murder” August 25 Doors open at 5 p.m.

Last trip underground: 6:15

Available dates: February 11 (girls only) March 3 (25 spots available) Call Tonya Gehring or Gayle Ferrell 620-662-1425 • 866-755-3450 __________________

Want to volunteer?

These events fill up fast! Make your reservations now for these hilarious, tongue-in-cheek, adults-only mystery spoofs. After all, who wants to miss a murder?

If you’d like to volunteer in the Kansas Underground Salt Museum, please call: Tonya Gehring 620-662-1425 • 866-755-3450

KUSM EXHIBITS SALT MINE EXPRESS

Hurry aboard to ride the thrilling new underground train.Experience the rustic side of the mine while traveling on original rails and ties used underground.

PERMIAN PLAYGROUND

This new interactive display allows you to explore the incredible varieties of salt.

First hand!

MINE CORRIDOR

Explore the general history of salt mining in Hutchinson, including mining equipment.

SALT SECRETS

Salt secrets finally exposed!

TAKE IT WITH A GRAIN OF SALT

Discover how live bacteria were extracted from ancient Permian salt.

MYRONMOBILE

THE IODINE DEFICIENCY DISORDER STORY

Come see the “Myronmobile,” from TV’s “Dirty Jobs” filmed in the Hutchinson Salt mine.

Explore the efforts of Kiwanis International and UNICEF in using salt to combat IDD.

THE STORY OF UNDERGROUND VAULTS & STORAGE

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View costumes and props from your favorite movies.

NOTE NEW HOURS

...for the kansas underground salt and reno county historical society museums. details in margin boxes below.

RENO COUNTY MUSEUM EXHIBITS COMING IN APRIL: CONVENTION HALL AND THE TIME CAPSULE BOX

This exhibit traces the history of Convention Hall and features items from the time capsule box that was recently extracted from the cornerstone.

Marvel at the pristine condition of these 100-yearold items, such as 1911 newspapers, cherished Masonic books, postcards and much more.

BISONTE HOTEL: THE BEST IN THE WEST

Visitors will have the opportunity to take a long-awaited look at one

of Hutchinson’s most beloved memories – the Bisonte Hotel. Experience the elegance and sparkle of the Bisonte in the early 1900s and its change to more modern times.

RCM ON THE ROAD…

We’re establishing small, temporary exhibits highlighting items unique to small communities in Reno County. See schedule below.

“86.121” Meet past Reno County resident Mildred Hobbs (donor #86.121) through the vast collection of arti-

“On the Road” Turon / Langdon: Turon Community Center & Library 501 E. Price St., Turon Tuesday through Thursday: 1–5 pm; Saturday: 9-noon 620-497-6443

facts she and her family generously donated to RCM. Follow the process of donating artifacts.

A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS

The Reno County Historical Society staff chose their favorite artifacts, most never before on exhibit.

TRANSPORTATION GALLERY

Come enjoy the Schuttler wagon, an Amish buggy, the Indian motorcycle, sidecar and much more in this fascinating look at the past.

DON’T MISS RCM EVENTS ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Arlington and Abbyville: Arlington Library 900 W. Main, Arlington limited time at the arlington library!

Mon/Wed: 1-5 pm; March 2012: Tues: 9-noon; Thur: 2-8 pm Nickerson and Partridge Buhler and Medora: Watch for details on Farmers National Bank Nickerson, Partridge and 200 N. Main, Buhler other upcoming exhibits!

Mon-Fri: 9 am-5 pm 620-543-2211

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April 9 This year’s meeting should be fascinating as the guest speaker is Marci Penner, author and Executive Director of the Kansas Sampler Foundation. Don’t miss it! Watch as more details become available.

CHALKFEST 2012 May 17 Time to get chalky! Bring the family to our fun, outdoor, signature event.

Check with the Reno County Museum for more details.

RENO COUNTY MUSEUM HOURS 9 am–5 pm tues-Fri 11-5 saturday closed sunday and monday free admission unless otherwise noted 100 S. Walnut 620-662-1184