Welcome to the Scott County Historical Society

Scott County Historical Society

Est. January 1931

The Mission and Purpose of the Scott County Historical Society is to assemble well-documented, representative collections of objects from nature, artifacts from prehistoric and historic periods, and historic records relating to Scott County and the High Plains of Western Kansas, as well as responsibly manage these, encourage research and study, increase knowledge and understanding in order to disseminate information to the general public through publication, exhibits, and complementary programming.

Our Vision: to engage people, no matter where they are, with county heritage to ignite their interest and catalyze their understanding of local history and the history of the High Plains of Western Kansas.

Western K.S. (Kris Super) Fossil Lab

Fossil Lab has Grand Opening

The Western K.S. Fossil Lab held its GRAND OPENING on Saturday, April 29, 2023.  Kris Super cut the ribbon on the exhibit and working lab featuring the Elasmosaur he found in 2021.  Two years in the making, Kris was able to free the near 1,000 lb. chalk and body of this rare fossil last summer and with some strong community help, it made its way to El Quartelejo Museum.

Making this specimen more rare is the skull of the animal.  Thanks to the Scott County Hospital and Mark Burnett, the skull block was placed in their state-of-the-art CT-scanner.  What was revealed is a stunning find!  Few skulls of an elasmosaur have been found and fewer with their body, but this one is in amazing condition inside the Smoky Hill Chalk making it one of the most complete finds of an elasmosaur in Kansas and possibly beyond.

The lab is under the direction of Kris Super, local SCHS Science Teacher whose degree specialty is in Geology and Paleontology from Kansas University and Fort Hays State University where he has worked and contributed to their natural history museums including the Sternberg Museum.  Kris has made many other unique and incredible fossil finds that have led to study and publication.  You can learn more about Kris by visiting the lab!

Kris will be in throughout the summer working on the fossil, hosting workshops, and educating guests about this enormous project.

Become a Member of SCHS!

The Scott County Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the history of the Scott County area and educating the community and visitors about the function of El Quartelejo Museum and the Jerry Thomas Gallery and Collection.

Throughout the almost 90 year existence of SCHS, individuals, families, and businesses have supported the Historical Society’s efforts. These generous people help to continue the work of the Historical Society and assist in maintaining the building and grounds, keeping the facility open to the public, guiding group tours, hosting programs for all ages, and raising funds for improvements.

There are three membership categories:

Individual    $10.00

Family         $20.00

Business     $50.00