We need more stories from Northeast Kansas! We can't pay you much ($100), but you'll get a byline and publication, if the story is accepted. We are also looking for audio histories and video documentaries.

Not sure your story fits? E-mail Tom Gould at thpgould@gmail.com and we'll let you know!

Douglas County:

An Historic Look at the Vinland United Methodist Church

Vinland is known to some as a “hamlet” or community that is smaller than a village. This rural destination, nestled north of Baldwin, is the home of a charming old structure, known as the Vinland United Methodist Church. Still standing in the same vicinity as its original structure, the church is located just off of county road DG 700.

Midland Junction Farm Store: A Nostalgic Look at an Agricultural Gathering Post

Just north of Lawrence and out into rural Douglas County, the early morning sun casts long shadows across the grain elevators of Midland Junction. Farmers from the countryside begin to congregate inside the historic farm and feed store that stands to the northwest and beside the railway. Inside this quaint and nostalgic locale conversations are accompanied by a free cup of black coffee. Grain prices are scratched on the blackboard that hangs behind the counter and the static filled radio plays the country and western sounds of Hank Williams. Midland Farm and Feed has been a gathering post for farmers and other rural residents living in the northeastern corner of Douglas County for many generations. Today it continues to be a reminder of life as it was generations ago and is a destination for individuals who want to continue to share in that experience.

Liberty Hall: A Cherished Piece of Lawrence Kansas History

By Barbara Higgins-Dover

Lighting and Technical Manager Rob Fitzgerald continuously works to prepare for the next function scheduled at Liberty Hall at 644 Massachusetts in Lawrence.  His efforts assist in bringing, film, live performance, and social gatherings to the historic theater. Fitzgerald acknowledges and shares the community’s appreciation for the building and understands it to be a cherished piece of Lawrence history. Just as it has always been, visitors enjoy the theater’s beauty while utilizing the space for a variety of functions as Fitzgerald acknowledges. “People have always rented the theater from the time of Bowersock on for dances, weddings and parties.”

Jefferson County:

The Oskaloosa Independent: An Historic Territorial Publication

The media world is moving further away from printed material forcing many publishers to make lasting changes. Today online newspapers, e-books, and digital magazines place the “ink to paper” method on a fast track to becoming obsolete. In towns where more than one news source is produced, some don’t survive. In rural Kansas, survival is based on adaptability, understanding of economy, changes to the target audience and acceptance of technological advancement.

McLouth Threshing Bee: Historical Farm Equipment on Parade

On a wide-open stretch of land situated in the small town of McLouth, Kansas people like to gather for what is known as the annual Threshing Bee. It is a time for celebrating farming as it was long ago and a time for bringing together the community for this summer celebration. It is a place where antique steam engines and gas-powered tractors bring a powerful presence to the countryside.  Individuals and families gather with lawn chairs, blankets and an excitement about seeing these rare and majestic beasts.

Leavenworth County:

Big Country Sounds from a Small Kansas Town

Nestled in "beautiful, tropical, downtown, Tonganoxie, Kansas," as the locals like to say, visitors will find the sounds of the Grand Ole Opry and the stage lights and excitement of a little "Branson" Missouri at Annie's Country Jubilee. This little, musical powerhouse provides visitors from all over Kansas and outside the state with a taste of country that you might otherwise have to travel quite a distance to enjoy.