The Lansing Historical Society and Museum is on the lookout for passionate individuals eager to share their love of history! We are excited to announce that we have two enticing paid positions available:
Tour Guides – $40 per Tour Are you a history enthusiast who thrives on storytelling? If so, this role is tailor-made for you! As a Tour Guide, you will take guests on a captivating journey through the historic halls of the Kansas State Penitentiary. Your mission will be to unveil the intriguing stories of those who once walked its corridors, breathing life into the rich tapestry of the past.
Rounder-Uppers – Paid Position Join us as a Rounder-Upper, where your role will be vital in ensuring our tours run seamlessly. You’ll be the friendly face who gathers visitors, assists them on their adventure, and keeps everything on schedule. Your enthusiasm will help create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring every guest feels included and engaged.
Both positions promise not only a chance to stay active and meet fascinating people but also the opportunity to play a key role in preserving and sharing the vibrant history of our community.
Are you ready to embark on this exciting journey with us? Apply today and become an integral part of our team! Send your application via email to info@lansingkansashistory.com.preserving local history. Interested?
Rev up your engines and get ready for an exhilarating day at our second annual “Behind the Walls” car and motorcycle show, set against the unique backdrop of the historic Kansas State Penitentiary on Saturday, September 27, 2025! This year, we’re throwing open the gates wide to welcome everyone, so rally your friends and family for a spectacular day of automotive excitement!
Picture a sprawling venue filled with an incredible array of gleaming, jaw-dropping vehicles, each one vying for attention under the brilliant September sun. The ballfield is primed for action, ready to welcome all the high-octane thrills and creative displays. Shine up those wheels, because you’ll be immersed in a world of stunning cars, infectious energy, and unforgettable moments! We can’t wait for you to experience this lively celebration of all things automotive!
Join us in supporting the Lansing Historical Society and Museum as you dive into this vibrant community event!
For just $25, you can bring your car along (drivers included!), with the same fee for passengers and walk-ins. And guess what? This isn’t just about cars—it’s also a fantastic fundraiser for the Lansing Historical Society and Museum, so you’ll be supporting a great cause while having a blast!
We have tons of space for all the jaw-dropping vehicles, and the ballfield is ready for action too. So polish up those wheels and prepare for a day filled with spectacular cars, good vibes, and lots of excitement! We can’t wait to see you there!
The Lansing Historical Society and Museum is situated on the Kansas State Penitentiary grounds, serving as a vital center for the local community’s history. It focuses on preserving and sharing the unique heritage of Lansing and the surrounding Delaware Township, with significant emphasis on the roles of railroads, prisons, and coal mining in shaping the area.
The Museum Experience
Housed in a meticulously restored 1887 Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway depot, the museum is more than just a display of artifacts; it offers a rich, immersive experience through local history. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of photographs and historical documents, including school images dating back to 1908, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s past.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Lansing Historical Society is to safeguard and share the rich history of Delaware Township, including the City of Lansing and the town of Progress. Through our collections and exhibits, we aim to preserve authentic historical materials and broaden the public’s awareness of local stories.
Trains and Trolleys
The museum highlights the profound impact of the transcontinental railroad on the nation’s growth during the Civil War. Notable railroads, including the Kansas City-Western Railway Co., traversed through towns in Delaware Township, connecting communities and fueling economic development. The museum’s collection includes railroad maps, documents, timetables, and photographs that chronicle this important aspect of local history.
The Coal Mines
Established in 1859 by the Kansas Territorial Legislature, the Kansas State Penitentiary is one of the oldest correctional institutions in the U.S., designed by local architect Erasmus T. Carr. The facility significantly influenced the development of the area, fostering the growth of the nearby Town of Progress. From 1944 to 1965 it conducted hangings for capital punishment with notable cases including those of Lowell Andrews and the Clutter family murderers, Perry Smith and Richard Hickock, whose stories are immortalized in Truman Capote’s novel, “In Cold Blood.” Smith and Hickock were hung April 15, 1965 followed by George Lathrop and James York two months later on the 22 June.
The discovery of coal in Delaware Township led to the establishment of several coal mines, including Carr, Brighton, and the Kansas State Penitentiary. KSP not only utilized its coal resources to power its operations but also supplied fuel to numerous state buildings, highlighting the prison’s role in the states economy.
Kansas State Penitentiary
The The infamous gallows once occupied a corner of the warehouse before being dismantled and acquired by the Kansas State Historical Society.
Perry Edward Smith
October 27, 1928 – April 14, 1965
Richard Eugene Hickock
June 6, 1931 – April 14, 1965
History of Delaware Township
Two women dash before the camera at the intersection of Main and Richardson Road in Lansing. Richardson was later renamed Eisenhower Road.
Delaware Township is the historical heart of the Lansing region, encompassing several former towns, such as Progress, Brighton, and Wadsworth. The township’s history includes the development of the Brighton Mine and the flourishing agricultural sectors, like the Ryan Brothers Cattle Farm, highlighting the diverse economic landscape of the area from the late 19th century to today.
The Lansing Historical Society and Museum plays a crucial role in preserving this intricate tapestry of history, ensuring that future generations can learn about and appreciate the rich legacy of their community.
A gift certificate for a historic Kansas State Penitentiary tour is a unique and memorable option! Give the gift of an unforgettable experience, exploring the stories and history of this iconic site. Perfect for history buffs, true crime fans, or anyone who loves a good adventure! Please email us at: info@lansingkansashistory.com
Step into history with a guided tour of the historic Kansas State Penitentiary, where stories of notorious inmates, daring escapes, and a rich past come to life. Our tours are a unique opportunity to explore this iconic landmark, offering a glimpse into the architecture, culture, and justice system of its time.
These popular tours often sell out, so we strongly encourage you to book ahead to secure your preferred day and time. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a true crime fan, or simply curious about this one-of-a-kind site, you will want to take advantage of it!
Why Book Ahead?
Guaranteed access on your preferred date and time
Limited group sizes for a more personalized experience
Tours fill up quickly – don’t wait!
Reserve your spot today and make history part of your journey!
Hey there! We are giving you a heads-up that the photography tour follows the same route as the regular tour. We’ve made the photography tour three hours instead of two because we’ve noticed that people with cameras tend to take a bit longer at each stop. We want everyone to have a great time, so we want to ensure you know that before you book.
Our tourists have been a bit puzzled about where the tours start. The fun begins right here at the Museum, where we’ve been gathering Kansas State Penitentiary memorabilia since 1991. Join us for a fascinating journey through time and history!
