Civil War on the Western Frontier

Lawrence, Kansas was founded in the 1850’s as the state’s center of resistance to the expansion of slavery. And it paid the price. Targeted, pillaged and burned to the ground during the Civil War, the community rebuilt with a commitment to education, civility and the future. It’s quite a legacy to live up to.

Discover the stories behind “Bleeding Kansas” at Civil War on the Western Frontier, a series of events and programs presented by Lawrence area historical agencies, Sunday, August 13 to Sunday, August 20.

Join an energetic 1850s town hall meeting where historic reenactors bring “Bleeding Kansas” to life at the Territorial Capital Museum in Historic Lecompton.

Take part in a special tour of Black Jack Battlefield led by John Brown and members of the 13^th Kansas Infantry Regiment reenactor group, and even a few pre-slavery men. Black Jack Battlefield is the place where John Brown led a Free-State militia in an attack on the camp of a pro-slavery militia.

Watkins Museum of History is hosting a series of programs, tours, and presentations about Quantrill’s Raid and the Civil War. A memorial service will honor Raid Victims, a special tour of Quantrill’s Raid artifacts and presentations by Living Historians will deepen your understanding of “Bleeding Kansas.”

Join a discussion at the Wakarusa River Valley Heritage Museum about the Underground Railroad and the abolitionists who risked their lives to help lead slaves to freedom.

To learn more and plan your trip to Lawrence visit UnmistakablyLawrence.com.