Release Date 6/10/2005
For Immediate Release
Heather Brown 620-273-8494

Cultural Exhibits on Display at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve announced today that the cultural exhibit is on display again in the historic limestone barn. Visitors will have the opportunity to view reproduction maps and information on Chase County, Kansas from 1879 to 1900. The exhibit will contribute to understanding the development of the area cattle industry and the history of the Spring Hill Farm and Stock Ranch and Deer Park Farms. Preserve volunteers Julia and Edward Hobbs have generously donated their time and resources toward the creation and update of this exhibit.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to view the third floor of the preserve's historic limestone barn on Saturday, June 25 and Sunday, June 26, 2005 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The third floor houses historic farming equipment used on the property during the early 20th century. National Park Service rangers and volunteers will discuss the functions of the various pieces of farming equipment on display and the barn's adaptive uses over the last century.

In conjunction with the exhibit, the preserve invites visitors to share their stories of the Spring Hill/Z Bar Ranch. Staff will be available to conduct oral history interviews with visitors who have information and/or photos directly relating to the ranch. These events will coincide with Chase County High School alumni activities.

Located two miles north of Strong City on Kansas State Highway 177 (Flint Hills National Scenic Byway), Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. For more information or to make group arrangements,
e-mail: tapr_interpretation@nps.gov or call the preserve at (620) 273-8494.

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