Kansas State University has supported an active, regionally recognized archaeology program since the 1960s. Archaeology faculty have placed high importance on creating valuable opportunities for student learning. These include field and lab courses that provide hands-on experience in archaeological methods. Professional training in archaeology ensures that material evidence is responsibly uncovered and properly documented to assure essential data are available to research for today's and future generations. 

Down a country road near the South East Kansas town of Rago, one will find an old run down, seemingly unremarkable farm. On the land, there are the typical structures of a white farmhouse, a red barn, and a small chicken coop. However, there are two buildings on this farm that are not average whatsoever. There are two aircraft hangers, one is large and aluminum, the other older and still holding canvas for wings. This 40-acre farm was the residence of Clyde Cessna: aviator, inventor, and founder of Cessna Aircraft Co. 

History of Autograph Books

Autograph albums are important primary documents that give us insights into women’s history, social classes, and insights into social networks prior to more recent technological revolutions. Previous researchers have used autograph albums to examine social movements, and broader social structures such as class and race. Despite their popularity throughout the 19th century, the historical significance of autograph albums is commonly overlooked.

The Kansas Land Treaties Project is a public resource for educators, students, and the public to learn more about how Kansas went from the ancestral homeland of Indigenous nations to a state within the United States. This project is in process and will change over the next several years. Remember to keep checking back for updates and more resources.

This research collection is a digital archive featuring rural Kansas, history, and people conducted by undergraduate students at Kansas State University since 2010 exclusively for the Chapman Center for Rural Studies.