Submitted
New bronze plaques were recently installed in the Rotunda of the Kansas Statehouse to give credit to Hays sculptor Pete Felten for his sculptures displayed there.
The Kansas Capitol Building displays many works of art, including murals depicting prominent moments in Kansas’ history. Felten’s native limestone sculptures were commissioned to honor four notable Kansans: former U.S. Senator and Governor of Kansas Arthur Capper, aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and journalist and politician William Allen White. The finished pieces were installed in 1981.
During a tour of the Statehouse, Hays Convention & Visitors Bureau director Melissa Dixon noted there was no signage to let visitors know who created the sculptures.
“I felt that it was important for Hays’ most well-known artist to have recognition in such a prominent location in our state,” Dixon said.
With help from Kansas Representative Barb Wasinger and Kansas Senator Elaine Bowers, Dixon submitted a proposal to the Capitol Preservation Committee to add a bronze plaque next to each sculpture that gives Felten credit for his work. Representative Wasinger presented to the committee on April 4, 2024, and the committee voted to proceed.
“I was so honored to be able to help Melissa recognize Pete Felten and his amazing talent,” said Wasinger.
Over 40 years after the installation of the sculptures, the bronze plaques were added on June 28 with the assistance of AllSigns of Topeka. Wasinger, Bowers, and Dixon were present for the addition.
Ellis County is home to more than 25 of Felten’s limestone sculptures that are easily accessible to visitors. For a map of locations, visit the Hays Welcome Center at 2700 Vine St. or go to VisitHays.com.