Upcoming Event: Kansas Statehood Ball Scheduled for January 28, 2012

The Dickinson County Historical Society will celebrate the 151st birthday of the state of Kansas at the 17th annual Kansas Statehood Ball on Saturday, January 28 at Sterl Hall in Eisenhower Park from 7 pm to 10 pm.

This event will be for the whole family, and the public is invited to come in period clothing (Victorian era clothing is not mandatory). The cost of the dance will be $5.00 per adult, $3.00 for members of the Dickinson County Historical Society, and $2.00 for children (3 to 12 years of age). Mr. Robert Thomas from Fort Scott will be the preceptor (or dance instructor and social director) for the evening. He and his wife Anita will demonstrate the 1860 period dances.

The evening will begin with the traditional Grand March followed by a waltz. Mr. Thomas will also discuss 1860 ballroom etiquette. Everyone can join in and participate in each of the dances. Other dances that will be performed will include the Virginia Reel, the Jenny Lind Polka, and the flirtatious “Hat Dance."

Music will be provided by the Kansas Brigade Band and assisted by Peggy Meuli on the piano. This band is comprised of a number of musicians from the local area. Originally organized by the late Fred Schmidt, the Kansas Brigade Band has performed for nearly twenty years for Civil War events around the state of Kansas. Even if you are not much of a dancer, the 1860 period music is reason enough to attend.

The Kansas Statehood Ball is an educational program provided by the Dickinson County Historical Society. Refreshments will be provided throughout the evening. For more information on the Kansas Statehood Ball or about joining the Dickinson County Historical Society, please call 785-263-2681 or visit our website at www.heritagecenterdk.com.