Allen County Historical Society, Inc.

Allen County Historical Society, Inc. This is the official page of the Allen County, Kansas Historical Society. The Society, founded in

Nestled in the heart of Iola, Kansas, the Allen County Historical Society offers a captivating journey through the region’s rich and diverse past. Its exhibits and archives trace the area’s history from its earliest Native American inhabitants—including tribes such as the Osage—to the arrival of early explorers and the determined settlers who established communities amidst the challenges of the fr

ontier. The museum delves into the county’s industrial boom, showcasing how railroads, agriculture, and manufacturing transformed the local economy and culture. Visitors can also explore the evolution of Allen County into modern times, gaining insights into the events and people that have shaped its identity. A cornerstone of the Historical Society is its extensive research library and photograph collection, which serves as a vital resource for a wide audience—from novice historians and enthusiastic history buffs to scholars and students conducting in-depth research. A highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to tour the boyhood home of Major General Funston. Originally constructed around 1860s on what would become the Funston family farm near Carlyle, the house was relocated to Iola in 1994 and meticulously restored to reflect its historical significance. Now part of the museum complex, the Funston Home provides an intimate glimpse into the early life of one of America’s notable military leaders, allowing guests to walk through the rooms where he spent his formative years. Step back in time with a visit to the Old Allen County Jail in Iola, Kansas—a formidable two-story limestone structure that has stood since 1869. Constructed at a cost of $8,400, it served as a detention facility for nearly 90 years, housing both men and women until its closure in 1958. The jail’s robust design features two-foot-thick stone walls and, on the ground floor, a steel cell cage installed in 1891, which was considered state-of-the-art at the time. Despite its sturdy construction, the jail witnessed several escapes over the years, adding to its storied past. Visitors today can explore the original cells, observe inmate graffiti etched into the walls, and experience the solitary confinement cell, offering a tangible connection to the lives once confined within. The second floor initially served as living quarters for the jailer and his family, reflecting the 19th-century practice of on-site law enforcement. Later on, this space was converted into additional cells, including a women’s detention area, to accommodate the growing needs of the county. After the jail’s closure, the Allen County Historical Society took stewardship of the building, opening it as a museum in 1962. In recognition of its historical significance, the jail was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. Today, the Old Allen County Jail stands as a preserved piece of history, inviting visitors to explore its cells and corridors and to reflect on the evolution of the American justice system.

40 years ago today, the work on the Iola Football Stadium began due to that "Inland hurricane" back in Aug. 1986. Yes, i...
09/03/2026

40 years ago today, the work on the Iola Football Stadium began due to that "Inland hurricane" back in Aug. 1986. Yes, it was 40 years ago that the microburst came through town.

The burn ban has been extended through Monday, 9/7. Again, please do your best and give the guys and gals of your local ...
09/02/2026

The burn ban has been extended through Monday, 9/7. Again, please do your best and give the guys and gals of your local fire dept. a break. Its already too hot to be outside.

Allen County commissioners have extended a countywide ban on open burning through Monday.

A Call, Text, or Email would be the best route today, but 97 years ago, the City of Baltimore planned on dropping a lett...
09/02/2026

A Call, Text, or Email would be the best route today, but 97 years ago, the City of Baltimore planned on dropping a letter saying "Hi" here in Iola by plane.
Newspapers like the Iola Register are a blessing to have. The report of big news and ones allows readers the chance to take in the fun, big, and interesting history.

Give the guys and gals at the local fire dept. a good few days of rest. A burn ban in the county has been issued.
09/01/2026

Give the guys and gals at the local fire dept. a good few days of rest. A burn ban in the county has been issued.

A burn ban been enacted for Allen County. The ban began at 1 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31, and will remain in effect until 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2. Under the burn ban, no outdoor burning is permitted in the affected areas. Residents are asked to […]

The historical society and museum will be closed today. We do apologize for this.
08/29/2026

The historical society and museum will be closed today. We do apologize for this.

We are in search for some washboards for a school hands on lesson coming up. Either a donation of them or a loan. Contac...
08/27/2026

We are in search for some washboards for a school hands on lesson coming up. Either a donation of them or a loan. Contact Kurtis here through Facebook, or by email/phone [email protected] or 620-365-3051

A follow up to yesterday's 100 years ago post. Who was the best shot?!?! Well Sheriff Davis isn't planning on saying. No...
08/27/2026

A follow up to yesterday's 100 years ago post. Who was the best shot?!?! Well Sheriff Davis isn't planning on saying. No need to spread the news of the best shot so that potential robbers knew which bank had the best sharpshooter at their disposal.

A difference 100 years makes. On this day 1926, the Iola Register wrote about a group of 'Special Deputies' who served t...
08/26/2026

A difference 100 years makes. On this day 1926, the Iola Register wrote about a group of 'Special Deputies' who served to protect local banks, would be conducting a shooting competition to see who will go to a statewide competition later in the year.

The historical Society will be closed this Saturday (8/29), but will reopen like normal on Tuesday 9/1.
08/25/2026

The historical Society will be closed this Saturday (8/29), but will reopen like normal on Tuesday 9/1.

On this day in 1863, General Ewing issued General Order No. 11 just days after the sacking and burning of Lawrence, KS b...
08/25/2026

On this day in 1863, General Ewing issued General Order No. 11 just days after the sacking and burning of Lawrence, KS by Quantrill and his raiders. The order was an attempt to control guerrilla activity along the border in the Missouri counties of Bates, Cass, Jackson and Vernon. The order called for the evacuation of the population with the hopes it would disrupt supply lines, shelter, and other goods and services used by raiders and Confederate forces. Homes, businesses, and crops were set a blazed, creating what is better known as the 'Burnt District' in western Missouri.

This photo and historical marker is located at the Bates County Courthouse in Butler, Missouri.

Address

20 S Washington Avenue
Iola, KS
66749

Opening Hours

Tuesday 2pm - 4pm
Wednesday 2pm - 4pm
Thursday 2pm - 4pm
Friday 2pm - 4pm
Saturday 2pm - 4pm

Telephone

(620) 365-3051

Website

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