A Year of Historical Accomplishments
Since 1931
By Michael D. King
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable night of inspiration and history! Join us at the Ford County Historical Society’s grand kickoff event, “A New Year of Historical Accomplishments: A 2025 Kickoff Celebration,” on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Dive into an evening that promises to be filled with community spirit and captivating stories at the Ford County Legacy Center, located at 310 Gunsmoke Street in Dodge City. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate our past and look forward to what lies ahead!
The Ford County Historical Society kickstarts the festivities with a pivotal board meeting at 5:00 p.m., where new leadership will be elected to steer us into an exciting future. As the clock strikes 5:45 p.m., join us for light refreshments, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for mingling with fellow Ford County community members.
Prepare to be captivated as Kent Stehlik takes the stage at 6:00 p.m., sharing the remarkable accomplishments of the Historical Society and unveiling thrilling plans that lie ahead. But that’s not all! Kent will spotlight the essential work of the Landmark Conservancy, setting the stage for a truly inspiring presentation by Melissa McCoy. She will delve into the passionate preservation efforts surrounding the First National Bank and the iconic Stan Herd stagecoach mural, showcasing our collective dedication to safeguarding our rich heritage. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate our past and look forward to an exciting future together!
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Prepare to be captivated as Kathi Holt shares exhilarating details about the Junior Officers’ Quarters Landmark project at Fort Dodge. And to top it all off, the Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau will bring us up to speed on the latest innovative developments at the Ford County Legacy Center.
Hold on tight for a highlights presentation by local historian Brad Smalley, featuring “The Dodge City Saloon War and Its Significance to Modern Tourism.” You’ll be transported back to 1883 as he recounts the gripping showdown between gambler Luke Short and the determined political powers seeking to shut down the infamous Long Branch Saloon. Discover how this historic conflict continues to influence tourism today!
Join us for this extraordinary evening as we celebrate the rich tapestry of Ford County’s history and its vibrant connections to the present! Best of all, admission is free, and a fabulous door prize will be announced at the end of the event—don’t miss out! We can’t wait to see you there!
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2025
Ford County Community Gathering & Refreshments at 5:45 P.M.
Program at 6:00 P.M. Legacy Center 310 Gunsmoke, Dodge City Kansas
BUSINESS MEETING STARTS AT 5:00 P.M. (Community Gathering and Refreshments at 5:45 with Program Starting at 6:00 P.M.)
WELCOME: Kent Stehlik (FCHS Accomplishments & Future Goals)
LANDMARK CONSERVANCY: Kent Stehlik (To honor & Preserve Our Community’s Rich History)
RECOGNITION: Kent Stehlik (Dodge City for Preserving Historical First National Bank Building & Leadership in Preserving the Stan Herd’s mural.)
CITY OF DODGE CITY: Melissa McCoy (Preservation of First National Bank)
FORT DODGE PRESERVATION MEMBERS: Kent Stehlik (Introduction of Committee Members & Recognition of Representative Jason W. Goetz)
FORT DODGE PROJECT: Kathi Holt (Update on Preservation of Junior Officers’ Quarters)
THE FORD COUNTY LEGACY CENTER: Member of Convention & Visitors Bureau (Progress & Future Projects)
SPEAKER: Brad Smalley (The Dodge City Saloon War and its Significance to Modern Tourism)