By Andrew Stockmann

Lawrence – The Watkins Museum of History is proud to announce the opening of The Watkins at 50: Making History With Our Community, an exhibition celebrating the museum’s half-century of sharing local heritage. The exhibition displays photographs and documents from the museum’s institutional archive for the first time. Decade by decade, the exhibition shows the museum’s progress while honoring the many staff members, volunteers, and partners who set the foundation for current success. Visitors will also learn more about memorable artifacts like the Milburn Electric Car through an interactive activity. The exhibit will be on view in the museum’s third floor changing exhibit gallery from March 7-September 27.

On Thursday, March 13 museum members has the opportunity to attend an exclusive exhibit reception. Curator of Exhibitions Andrew Stockmann led members through the exhibition and explained its creative process. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Watkins Museum, please contact Outreach Manager Tiffany McIntosh at tmcintosh@watkinsmuseum.org or click here.

Stevens & Brand is the Watkins Museum of History’s 2025 Exhibitions Sponsor. The museum is grateful for the firm’s support of this and three other changing exhibits.

This exhibition is part of a special 50th anniversary series of programs for the Watkins, including a free 50th birthday community celebration on Saturday, April 26th from 1:00-4:30pm at the museum. “This anniversary allows the museum to not only celebrate 50 years of sharing our community’s heritage, but to highlight our numerous partners and collaborators,” says Executive Director Steve Nowak. “The occasion also allows us to chart the future of the Watkins. As we mark this milestone, we are expanding the stories we tell—embracing new voices and diverse perspectives to deepen our connection to the past.”

Since 1975, the Watkins Museum of History has been dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Douglas County. Through collaboration with our community partners, we continue to inspire civic engagement by showcasing how individuals have driven change throughout history. The museum is open 10am-4pm Tuesday through Saturday. Admission to the museum and this special exhibition is free.