Our Past Is Present January 17, 2018

January 17, 2018

            This is “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.

            Today’s story is titled “A Store Where the Number One Cook Stove May Be Purchased.”  This story comes from an article written by an unknown author in December of 1867.  Here is what was written about the stove.  “We visited the extensive stove and tin establishment of McKenzie and Smith on Washington Street and were pleased to see a stock worthy of our prosperous city.  The many different kinds of stoves now manufactured, the advantages some possess over others and the perfection to which some of them are brought require more than a passing observation to make a decision.  What every family ought to have is a No. 1 Cook Stove.  The years of experience and practical knowledge of this business which this firm possesses is in itself a sufficient guarantee of their fitness for selecting the best stoves in the country.  Their arrangements for manufacturing tin and sheet iron ware are complete and defy competition being themselves practical workmen and supplied with all the latest improved machinery. They are prepared to compete with any eastern market.  Their application to business and the reputation they enjoy for fair and liberal dealing has secured for them a prosperous and prominent business.              

            This is another reminder that our Museum is hosting a special Smithsonian display titled “Water Ways”.  It will be at our Museum at the corner of Sixth and Adams Streets beginning tomorrow, January 6, through February 18. Our Museum is one of only seven sites in Kansas where this display can be seen.  Please stop by and see the impact water has on our play, our celebrations, our work and where we live.  Learn where our community’s water comes from, what the future holds for water and what you can do for water in Junction City.  

            A special presentation is being held on January 20 at 3:00 PM at the C.L. Hoover Opera House titled “Water in Kansas: Past and Present”.  The presentation will be given by geologist Rex Buchanan about the importance of water to Native Americans, pioneers and Kansas today.