Brief Description: This collection contains photographs and news clippings about Russell, Kansas, primarily from 1938-1952. Located in north-central Kansas, Russell is the biggest city in and county seat of Russell County. Originally named Fossil Station and just a small railroad stop, Russell was officially founded and renamed in April 1871 by the Northwest Colony from Ripon, Wisconsin. It is also the hometown of Senator Bob Dole.

The majority of news clippings are from The Russell County News and The Russell Record, and are primarily about the first Prairiesta, which was held in 1941. A celebration of Russell County history, heritage, and culture, Prairiesta is held every ten years. The first theme was “Wagons West” and events included a longest beard competition, parade, and dressing up in period attire. Other clippings depict scenes and changes around Russell, like Christmas lights downtown, the Russell Mill Office, opening a new high school building, and paving Main Street.

The photographs are largely undated and all black and white. They show scenes of Russell, Kansas: 4-H fairs and parades, a momentous hail storm, buildings and stores around town, and the Dream Theater.

Record Series Number: 03/036

Volume: 43.0 Items

Acquired: 06/16/2009.

Arrangement: Since no pre-existing arrangement was present, the collection has been arranged chronologically.

Access Restrictions: No restrictions.

Rights/Use Restrictions: Copyright restrictions apply in different ways to different kinds of materials. Many of the documents and other historical materials in the Archive are in the public domain and may be reproduced and used in any way. There are other materials in the library carrying a copyright interest that must be used according to the provisions of Title 17 of the U.S. Code. The Archive issues a warning concerning copyright restrictions to every researcher who requests copies of documents. Although the copyright law is under constant redefinition in the courts, it is ultimately the responsibility of the researcher to properly use copyrighted materials.

Finding Aid Revisions: Finding aid revised in May 2021.