Prairie Museum of Art and History

08/30/2026

We're back with another nostalgic comparison!

For more than 80 years, Colby’s health care story has continued to grow and change — from St. Thomas Hospital to today’s Citizens Health.

St. Thomas Hospital opened in 1941 through the Works Progress Administration (WPA). In 1948, it expanded to include emergency facilities, a polio ward and a two-story chapel.

A new hospital building was constructed in 1982, followed by additional expansions and renovations over the years.

And what happened to the original St. Thomas Hospital? After serving as a hospital, the historic building eventually became St. Thomas Historic Residences, an affordable apartment community preserving many of its historic features.

Today, another chapter is here. The newest Citizens Health facility was completed in 2025, bringing Citizens Medical Center and Family Center for Health Care together under one roof.

The buildings may have changed, but the commitment to caring for our community remains. ❤️

*Disclaimer some pictures were pulled from museum archives and others were pulled from Citizens Health page. For more pictures with the recent updates to Citizens Health, find them on their page.

08/26/2026

🌊 Last month, we took a nostalgic look back at Colby’s swimming pool—and you all had plenty of memories to share! ❤️

So, we’re doing it again…

This time, we’re taking a look back at two places that have brought the Colby community together for generations: the Colby Community Building and the Colby Event Center.

The Community Building opened in 1955 after the Chamber of Commerce helped launch the effort to create a space for the community. For nearly 70 years, it hosted dances, celebrations, graduations, athletic events and countless memories.

In 2021, the Colby Event Center opened a new chapter, providing a larger space for athletic events, tournaments and community gatherings. The Community Building was later demolished in 2024.

Were you part of the Colby Community Building’s story? Tell us what you remember! We want to hear your stories. ✨

08/24/2026

💙 Blue-tiful things are hiding in plain sight!

Take a trip through the Prairie Museum of Art & History and join us on the hunt for all things blue.

How many can you find? 👀 Add pictures of your blue finds from the Museum to the comments!

08/20/2026

Cooper Barn Jams will be starting at 7PM tonight, not 8PM! We look forward to seeing you for a night of music and fun! 🎶✨

08/18/2026

Cooper Barn Jams will be starting at 7PM this month, not 8PM! On August 20th, we look forward to seeing you for a night of music and fun! 🎶✨

08/18/2026

08/12/2026

⏳ TIME CAPSULE TUESDAY ⏳

Fast forward 100 years… what from today do you think belongs in the Prairie Museum? 👀

Tell us in the comments! 👇

08/01/2026

Meet the interns helping bring history to life this summer! 🏛️✨

Our Next-Generation interns, Jentry Schroeder and Alayna Hrnicek, have spent the summer researching exhibits, creating labels and signage, assisting with summer camps and events, and helping share the stories of our community.

Jentry, a Brewster High School graduate headed to Fort Hays State University to study psychology, has enjoyed exploring local history and even researching her own family’s connection to the area. Alayna, a Colby High School senior, plans to pursue history and political science as she works toward a future career in law.

From the upcoming Decades Exhibit (1920s–2000s) to the Sam White Family Harvest Exhibit, their curiosity and dedication have helped bring these stories to life.

We’re grateful for all Jentry and Alayna have contributed to the Prairie Museum this summer! ❤️

07/31/2026

Looking for a unique educational experience this school year?

The Prairie Museum of Art & History is proud to partner with schools, educators, youth organizations, and community groups to share the stories that shaped our region.

From hands-on classroom resources to guided museum tours and presentations, we offer flexible educational opportunities for learners of all ages.

📖 Let's work together to inspire curiosity, spark conversations, and bring local history to life.