Historical Society

Welcome to the Franklin County Historical Society, dedicated to preserving and presenting the vibrant history of our beloved region. Nestled in the heart of Ottawa, Kansas, our society stands as a guardian of the past, committed to the meticulous collection and upkeep of invaluable records and artifacts.

Mission Statement

At the Franklin County Historical Society, our mission is threefold:

1. Preservation and Research: We are devoted to safeguarding the rich tapestry of our local history through the meticulous curation of records and artifacts. Our commitment extends to encouraging preservation efforts and supporting local historical research.
2. Public Engagement: Through an array of museums, archives, dynamic educational programs, and insightful publications, we endeavor to vividly present Franklin County’s history to the public.
3. Cultural Tourism: We recognize the power of cultural tourism as a compelling conduit for imparting the lessons of history. By opening our doors to both visitors and citizens of Franklin County, we aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our shared heritage.

Vision Statement

The future envisioned by the Franklin County Historical Society is one of boundless opportunities to share knowledge and artifacts with the public. Guided by strategic planning goals, we are committed to the pursuit of excellence in various facets:

• Programs and Exhibits: We aspire to offer programs and exhibits of the highest quality, designed to captivate and educate audiences of all backgrounds.
• Collections Stewardship: Our dedication to the proper care and preservation of our collections remains unwavering.
• Promotions and Marketing: Through effective promotion and marketing strategies, we aim to reach a wider audience, ensuring that the story of Franklin County resonates far and wide.
• Facility Maintenance: We are devoted to maintaining the Old Depot Museum as a shining example of a small museum, renowned for its immaculate facilities and scenic grounds.
• Fundraising: Through strategic fundraising initiatives, we secure the resources necessary to further our mission and expand our offerings.
• Governance: We are committed to upholding the highest standards of governance, ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in all our endeavors.

Values

The Franklin County Historical Society is guided by a set of core values:

• Preservation: We hold a deep reverence for preservation in all its forms, recognizing the importance of safeguarding our heritage for future generations.
• Engagement: The Old Depot Museum is a place of engagement, where diverse audiences can connect with the stories and artifacts that form the bedrock of our shared history.
• Community: We value our staff and volunteers as vital contributors to our mission, and we actively seek to build a strong community through strategic partnerships.

With these principles as our compass, we invite you to join us on a journey through time, where the past comes alive, and history is cherished. Visit us at PO Box 145, Ottawa, KS 66067, and be a part of Franklin County's remarkable story.