El Quartelejo Museum and Jerry Thomas Gallery and Collection - El Quartelejo Museum and Jerry Thomas Gallery and Collection
Scott County Historical Society
The In-Between Winter and Spring
As winter has given us a hint of spring we are looking forward to longer days of sunshine. The promises of spring bring anticipation. Our calendar is filling up with programs, exhibits, and events. We are working to finalize times and dates but here is a rough draft:
We are full of anticipation as we finalize the exhibit panels for the Western K.S. Fossil Lab at El Quartelejo Museum. Kris Super has put together an incredible amount of information along with photos, historical drawings, relevant current events in order to tell his story and the story of the most complete elasmosaur found in Kansas (quite possibly in the world). The working lab will have beautiful exhibit and interpretive panels that are to arrive by the end of March. Our anticipated Grand Opening to the public will be in April. No Foolin'!
April showers bring - Annual Meeting and Program: Sunday, April 23 at 2:00 PM. This event includes a brief business meeting required for our organization and is open to all. You will hear updates on the museum and gallery and we also elect board members. If you are interested in serving as a board member, please contact us!
Our very special guest will be Marian Nolan. Marian serves as the Regent of the William Wilson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She will be presenting "Are you a Revolutionary?" You could find out! Join us and bring some family history. Marian and other William Wilson Members can show you how to trace your ancestors to 1776. We will have other special guests along with refreshments. It will be a wonderful and inspiring afternoon.
Marla Matkin will be returning to Scott City with her special story telling talent in May. Marla has written two historical fiction children's picture books that she will be sharing at Scott Count Library’s Storytime in May. Marla will have her books for sale as well as signing those at the library. That evening at 7:00 PM, she will present Women of the Santa Fe Trail at the museum and gallery. And, for those who have kids, grand kids, or are a kid at heart - Marla will have her children's books available as well. We will have the exact date soon - but free up your Tuesdays in May.
Kansas Archeology Training Program, June 2-18, 2023. June brings in the Summer Months and this year we are excited that it is bringing the Kansas Archeology Training Program, June 2- 18. This program is open to the public. Sign up today to dig a day or multiple days: https://kansashistoricalsociety.regfox.com/2023-katp-field-school
145th Commemoration of Battle of Punished Woman’s Fork, Saturday - Sunday, September 23-24, 2023; Join us and special guests for this commemortive weekend. Saturday will include new exhbits and paintings by Jerry Thomas at the museum and gallery. Sunday: Walk with the Spirits is our annual commemoration at Punished Woman's Fork and will include a hike with historians followed by a dinner at Camp Christy with special guests. More details, dinner ticket info coming soon. Save the Date!
Artifact of the month - Vietnam Remembrance Day-March 29, 2023. The United States became increasingly involved in the Vietnam conflict in the early 1960s. Perhaps one of the most volatile moments in our recently history, the "conflict" escalated to war. Becoming a hotly debated topic, Vietnam defined a generation of politics, protests, and people. We honor those who found themselves in the midst of an Era and a History that should be remembered. We would like to recognize our Vietnam Veterans with a special pin available at the museum and gallery. Stop in today.
Fall Newsletter
Fall 2022
Plans shaping up for Fossil Lab!
Something Super is coming to the museum!
Kris Super, local High School Science Teacher, has partnered with us to put together a Fossil Preparatory Lab. Kris has some amazing fossils to share with us including his recent HUGE find, a Plesiosaur. This large marine reptile once swam in the Western Interior Seaway that had covered Kansas.
We are most excited for this joint venture where we can experience, learn, study, and research the fossils from this seaway and others.
Special thanks to our supporters, donors, and to Kris! It is truly SUPER!
Walk with the Spirits; Hike with Historians, Sept. 25
Join us as we commemorate the Battle of Punished Woman’s Fork at the National Historic Site on Sunday, September 25th from 3—5 pm (at your own pace).
Experienced historians will be stationed around the site to visit with you and convey the stories of those who were caught up in this exodus. Hear, view, and engage in their accounts as you hike the Battle Site.
This will be our observance of the 144th Anniversary of the Battle of Punished Woman’s Fork which took place on September 27, 1878. It was the last Indian battle in Kansas between the Northern Cheyenne and U.S. Troops.
Water, hat, walking shoes, and sunscreen recommended. Weather can change this time of year, so be prepared with a jacket as well.
In Memory
Friends and Family said “Good-Bye” to
Marilyn Kendrick in July. Marilyn worked for several years at the museum and gallery. She was gifted at arranging displays and our gift shop.
"Heaven is a beautiful place to be, full of beautiful people having a beautiful time."
Jerry Thomas Named Artist of the Year; Custer Battlefield Historical & Museum Association for 2022 & 2023
Jerry Thomas was once again featured on the cover of the Greasy Grass Magazine as Artist of the Year. Greasy Grass is a publication of the Custer Battlefield Historical & Museum Association.
"Just Ahead" depicts Lt. Col. George A. Custer and Seventh U.S. Cavalry troopers as they pause, gazing upon the horizon, hoping to determine what lies ahead and what awaits them beyond.
"Just Ahead" is proudly featured on the cover of the 2022 "Greasy Grass" Magazine for the Custer Battlefield Historical and Museum Association! Thank you to Jerry’s good friends, Ted Heath (President) and Em Hurley (Editor), for the opportunity to create "Just Ahead" for the special new issue! It is a wonderful magazine with great authors, fascinating history and information.
“Big thanks to my good friends, amazing actors and Custer historians , Bill Rini and Steve Alexander, whose wonderful and expert knowledge helped in putting together the painting!” - Jerry Thomas
Honored to be the 2022 Artist of the Year for the Custer Battlefield Historical and Museum Association, Jerry presented and displayed his new artwork in Hardin, Montana June 22-25, 2022 for the CBHMA Convention.
Jerry’s artwork which shows not only his dedication and passion for keeping history alive, inspires others to know the stories of the past. Because of this, he has been selected to be the 2023 Artist of the Year! Congratulations, Jerry!
New Wildlife Painting Selected for 100th Anniversary of Western Assoc. of Fish & Wildlife Agencies: Watchful Eyes
Jerry was selected in a juried Kansas wildlife contest to unveil his beautiful new painting, Watchful Eyes, at the 100th Anniversary of WAFWA held in July at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. It was an honor to be selected to represent the beauty of the State of Kansas by the Association at the nationally acclaimed institution of Western art, heritage, and culture.
Watchful Eyes was inspired by scene on a winter day where Jerry captured a photo of a fox walking by. He added the cardinal after he had stepped outside on another day and was greeted by the striking red bird; a reminder of his dear dad, Clyde.
You can view both of Jerry’s newest works in the Gallery and Collection along with another Western painting he brought in recently, Lawman.
Special points of interest
· Sept. 17: Constitution Day with come-and-go activities hosted by Daughters of the American Revolution, 1—4 pm.
· Sept. 25: Walk with the Spirits; hike with historians at the Battle of Punished Woman’s Fork National Historic Site, 3—5 pm
· Sept. 27: 144th Anniversary of the Battle of Punished Woman’s Fork
· Sept. 28: Maria DeGeer Founders Day
· October Volunteer Work Day, TBA: give us a much needed Fall spruce up and winter prep.
· Oct. 23: Membership Appreciation Day @ 2 pm with guest speaker, Stephen Morefield author of But the Blood; a Novel based on the True Story of America’s Bloodiest County Seat Battle.
June 2022 Newsletter
Last Month for Life in the Trenches
A Special Exhibit in the Temporary Gallery, Life in the Trenches, from the Smoky Hill Museum is now on display from April 1,2022 – June 29, 2022. Hours to view the exhibit are Tuesday – Saturday, 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The exhibit explores the human face of World War I and the miserable nature of trench warfare. A very special thanks goes to Scott City Travel and Tourism for helping make this exhibit possible.
Welcome New Members
The support of our members through dues and donations is much appreciated. You are the reason we are here! Thank you and welcome to these new members: Bobby & Jolene Baker, Lynden & Cammie Landholm, Randy & Karma Huck, Ken Anderson, Derrick Kysar, and Pamela Stewart.
In Memory
We were sad to say “Good Bye” to member Dan Hutchins and long –time dear friend, Mershon Jones.
"Friendships formed in life are broken in death. The love we shared remains unbreakable."
Tour Guide Workshop Coming June 18th!
We are hosting our first Tour Guide Workshop which will focus on The Battle of Punished Woman’s Fork, June 18, 2022 from 9 AM to Noon.
9 AM, Meet at the museum and gallery for introduction to the story of the Battle of Punished Woman’s Fork , experience the history of the peoples who were part of the battle, and see/learn about the artifacts that tell their story.
10 AM, Travel to the National Historic Battle Site and explore where it all took place. We will walk the site and retell the story of what happened there, see the rifle pits, pack horse canyon, and sanctuary cave.
Experienced historians will train you to convey this account that has been chronicled and recorded in our archives and through our exhibits.
Call us today for more information or to register, (620) 872-5912 (reservations required)
Water, hat, walking shoes, and sunscreen recommended.
For more information, call or email Stephanie, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Family Fossil Field Trip
Saturday June 25th, 9 AM—Noon
Join us for this Family Fun Day with Science Teacher, Geologist and Paleontology enthusiast, Kris Super, as we hit the Kansas Chalk and hunt for fossils.
· Learn about the Geology of Western Kansas
· Explore the chalk
· Find Fossils and learn how to identify them.
We will leave from the museum parking lot at 9:00 AM and return by noon. You will need provide your own transportation. Wear sturdy shoes, and bring water, sunscreen, hat, and maybe a snack.
RSVP by Wednesday, June 22nd by calling (620) 872-5912.
For more info, call us or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Artifacts of the Month
Our lobby case features WWI artifacts from our collection.
¨ Photo of WWI Home Guard featuring Paul Ruth and Chet Rhiley.
¨ Hat and Photo of Dr. Preston Palmer.
¨ Photo and medals of Earl Lindemuth
¨ Photo of Chester Beaumguard
¨ Photo of Carrie Epperson who served as a nurse
¨ Metal Helmet and Gas Mask issued to James Force
* The Banner bearing three stars was hung in a window and signifies that three young men were actively serving their country in harms way. (James Force/Ruby Force Rodenbeek Collection)
Quilts of Valor Presentation
The High Plains Quilts of Valor will be honoring local veterans with quilt presentations on Saturday, June 11th at 2:00 PM. This reverant program wraps veterans with patriotic quilts in recogniztion of their service in protection of our country. Join us as we honor these service members. Reception to follow presentation.
Museum Update
Welcome our new High School Summer Interns! We are excited to offer a new grant funded program to local High School students who are interested in history and the museum field. This summer we welcome Annie Talbert and Kairae Berry to our team. They will be helping with guest services, museum archiving, programs and more.
Thank you to the Scott Community Foundation and the anonymous donors who are supporting this wonderful new program. We hope to continue to fund this annually.
Gallery Update
Jerry Thomas has been honored by being named #1 Art Gallery in Kansas by Things to do KANSAS! It is not hard to see why the Gallery and Collection would be selected. Jerry’s amazing masterworks are paired with a unique and rare collection that cannot be seen anywhere else.
Congratulations, Jerry Thomas!
Dates and Special points of interest
· WWI Traveling Exhibit, Life in the Trenches, on display now through June 29, 2022. Sponsored by Scott City Travel & Tourism
· June 4: DeGeer Corner Intro to Scott City Historic Walking Tour, 6—8 PM at Legacy, Maria DeGeer Statue, 5th & Main St.
· June 5: Historic Bus Tour, Reservations required by June 4, 620-872-5912
· June 11, 2:00 PM, Quilts of Valor Presentation
· June 18: 9AM—Noon, PWF Tour Guide Workshop
· June 25: Family Fossil Field Trip, 9 AM—Noon. (page 2)
· July 1—30, 2022 : Artist, Linda Slack, Exhibit, A Sketch in Time.
March 2022 News
March 2022
Definitely have to start this newsletter with the weather – I suggested to the museum staff that we might just close up shop this afternoon and head outside, where, on this first afternoon of March, it is 75 degrees, with a bright blue, cloudless sky, and no wind! Too good to be true, and we know it won’t last. There are plenty of us around who remember the raging blizzard of 1957, that began on March 23rd, following days of perfect spring weather.
It’s been a quiet winter at El Quartelejo Museum; some days with no visitors at all. It will be interesting to see how many folks venture out of their comfort zone by summertime.
We were pleased with a good turn-out for the Custer program in January with Jim Vanek, and many were disappointed when the Lincoln presentation was cancelled in February. Hopefully, that one can be rescheduled at some point.
In the meantime, there are good things to look forward to, beginning with an art exhibit featuring local artists. Hosted by the Scott County Arts Council, this will run from April 6th-9th. For details and rules for entering, contact chairperson, Glenda Graham at 620 872 5728.
Also coming April 1st through June 30th is a special traveling WWI Exhibit, Life in the Trenches: This special exhibit brought from Smoky Hill Museum features the human face of WWI and the miserable nature of trench warfare. You will explore tales of Kansas soldiers and their harrowing accounts of life in the trench. We thank Scott City Travel and Tourism for sponsoring the cost of this exhibit!
The annual meeting will be Sunday, April 24th at 2:00 PM and will feature guest speaker, Kris Super, local high school science teacher, and avid fossil hunter, who recently uncovered a prehistoric plesiosaur northwest of Scott City. He will present a program and have some of his finds available for viewing.
The meeting will also include election of members to the Board of Trustees. If you are interested in running for a position on the board, please contact the office very soon.
We are so grateful to everyone who pays dues, but a special thanks goes out to those who bump up that dues check with a nice donation. And grateful appreciation to the families of some of our members who have designated the historical society/El Quartelejo Museum as the recipient of memorial funds. The most recent of those have been in memory of long-time members, Adele Christy and Margaret Snyder. These lovely ladies will long be remembered and missed.