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 Visitors can explore an extensive collection of photographs and historical documents, including school images dating back to 1908, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s past.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

History of
Delaware Township

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

Former Correctional Officers and Wardens

Your stories and insights are what make these tours unforgettable. Join us in preserving and sharing this important history!

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!

The Photography Tour

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.

https://indd.adobe.com/view/6f9cdded-b490-4f69-8428-92166af4d0e0

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!

From left to right in the picture: Jeff Conklin, Vice President of the Lansing Historical Society and Museum; Debra Bates-Lamborn, President; Gloria Geither, the Deputy Secretary of Facility Management for the Kansas Department of Corrections; Todd Thompson, Leavenworth County Attorney; and Senator Jeff Pittman. Senator Pittman played a crucial role in the Historical Society's acquisition of the prison for tours. of the prison for tours. 

On Monday, September 9, 2024, a historical moment unfolded in front of Tower One at the Kansas State Penitentiary. This institution, with a rich history dating back to 1859, has been a significant part of our community. In a gesture of utmost respect and honor, Gloria Geither, the Deputy Secretary of Facility Management for the Kansas Department of Corrections, who has been a guiding force since the beginning, handed over the keys to the institution.

On Friday the 13th, we are opening the doors of the Kansas State Penitentiary for a unique and unforgettable experience. You can secure your spot for this rare opportunity at Lansingkansashistory.com. The tours will be running throughout September, with the last one of the season on October 26th.

Don’t miss out on a truly historic event – the first annual “Behind the Walls” car show. This exclusive event, a rare opportunity to step inside KSP, will be held on Saturday, September 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Be sure to mark your calendars for this unique glimpse into the history of the Kansas State Penitentiary.

Lansing Historical Society Announces Exciting Developments for Kansas State
Penitentiary Site

Lansing, KS — The Lansing Historical Society is excited to provide updates on the development at the former Kansas State Penitentiary. First proposed to the Lansing Historical Society by Kansas Senator Jeff Pittman and his wife, Leavenworth Mayor Pro Tem Holly Pittman, the proposed development – inspired by the Missouri State Penitentiary’s work – has the potential to not only save the Penitentiary from demolition and reduce the financial burden on taxpayers, but also to transform it into a thriving hub for tourism, attracting visitors from all over.

“After a comprehensive tour of the prison and a thorough understanding of the potential it holds, we unanimously agreed that this was an opportunity not to be missed,” said the Lansing Historical Society, showing their full support for the project.

The Kansas Department of Corrections and the Lansing Historical Society recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Historic Kansas State Penitentiary Site.
Additionally, Senator Pittman secured state funding to stabilize the roof and walls while partners develop a comprehensive plan for the site.

“The former Penitentiary has so much history – Johnny Cash performed for prisoners there in 1970, it’s the site of some of the highest profile executions in Kansas history, and the stories from the guards and inmates from the prison’s founding during the Civil War provide a unique story that deserves to be told,” Senator Jeff Pittman said. “We’re working with stakeholders to develop branding and acquire historical artifacts to present this rich history in a compelling way to visitors.”

The project has already attracted national attention. The Discovery Channel is planning a 2-hour special at the Kansas State Penitentiary to air on Halloween. The first annual “Behind the Walls” car show is a unique event inside the prison wall of the old Penitentiary, which is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. And the Lansing Historical Society is developing a new website for ticket sales in the works, and a raffle for ten lucky winners, who will be the first to tour the prison, is on the horizon.