Ellis County Historical Society
Whether you're a lifelong history enthusiast, a family looking for something new to do, or a visitor exploring western Kansas, the Ellis County Historical Society invites you to experience an exciting lineup of summer exhibits and activities at its downtown museum campus.
The museum is open throughout the summer:
· Monday–Thursday: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
· Friday & Saturday: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
· Sunday: 1:00–5:00 p.m.
This year's exhibits celebrate the people, places, and stories that have shaped Ellis County and the Great Plains.
One of the featured exhibits honors the life and work of Pete Felten, one of Ellis County's most celebrated artists. Visitors can explore the remarkable career of the master limestone sculptor whose work appears throughout Kansas, including the State Capitol, while enjoying a video highlighting Pete's life, artistic process, and lasting legacy.
Also on display is Building Life and Home on the Prairie, a traveling exhibit from the Germans from Russia Heritage Collection at North Dakota State University. The exhibit explores how German-Russian settlers built homes, churches, businesses, and thriving communities across the Great Plains.
History comes closer to home in the Bissing Bedroom Exhibit, which showcases the craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit of the Bissing family. Justus Bissing Jr. was a talented carpenter, furniture maker, and businessman whose influence helped shape early Hays.
His accomplishments included founding the Hays Planing Mill, helping establish the area's first electric and telephone companies, and constructing many historic buildings that still stand today, including the Bissing House Bed & Breakfast.
Future gallery rotations will also feature the family's famous Dolcette instrument and the remarkable Apostles Clock made by Peter Bissing.
Visitors can once again explore the museum's impressive Antique Firearms Exhibit, featuring more than 180 historic firearms, including many from the renowned Sternberg Collection.
The exhibit has returned after being temporarily closed during renovations of the museum's main building and marks the reopening of a collection that had spent more than a decade in storage before its original 2022 debut.
By the end of July, a brand-new exhibit highlighting the Volga German villages of Ellis County will open, telling the story of the immigrants who helped build many of the region's communities and preserve traditions that continue today.
Looking for something interactive? Reserve the Volga German Haus Escape Room, a unique experience based on the true story of the Haberkorn family, who immigrated to Ellis County in 1876.
Participants solve puzzles inspired by actual family letters and historical events while uncovering the family's story. Beginning July 1, multiple difficulty levels will be available.
Reservations are required and may be made online at www.echshays.org or by calling 785-628-2624. A $20 donation per group reserves your experience. Groups of 3–6 participants are recommended.
Summer excitement will conclude with Sesquicentennial celebrations during Coming Home Week, August 1–9, as we honor the 150th Anniversary of the arrival of the Volga Germans in Northwestern Kansas.
Visitors from across the country will gather for a week of tours, exhibits, cultural programs, music, food, reunions, and special events celebrating the remarkable legacy of Unsere Leute, Our People and Unsere Heimat, Our Home.
Complete schedules and event information are available at www.echshays.org.
The Ellis County Historical Society Museum is located at 100 W. 7th St. in Hays. Admission is free, making it the perfect summer destination for families, visitors, and anyone interested in the rich history of Ellis County and western Kansas.